It is hereby declared to be the intention of the Jackson County Board of Commissioners to enforce the latest edition of the following Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs:

(a)

International building code. The provisions of the International Building Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to the construction, alteration, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition, of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

(b)

International Fuel Gas Code. The provisions of the International Fuel Gas Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to the installation of consumer's gas piping, gas appliances, and related accessories as covered in this Code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.

(c)

International Mechanical Code. The provisions of the International Mechanical Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to the installation of mechanical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators, and other energy related systems.

(d)

International Plumbing Code. The provisions of the International Plumbing Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to every plumbing installation, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances, and when connected to a water or sewerage system.

(e)

National Electrical Code. The provisions of the National Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances thereto.

(f)

International Energy Conservation Code. The provisions of the International Energy Conservation Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall regulate the design of building envelopes for adequate thermal resistance and low air leakage and the design and selection of mechanical, electrical, service water heating, and illumination systems and equipment that will enable the effective use of energy in new building construction.

(g)

International Residential Code. In addition to those codes referenced herein, the provisions of the International Residential Code, as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, shall apply to the building, mechanical, and gas systems in new one-and two-family dwellings, including additions, alterations, renovations and general repairs of existing one- and two-family dwellings.

(h)

International Fire Code.

(i)

International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Any appendices to codes referenced in this article shall be considered adopted and an integral part of the minimum standard codes, unless specifically indicated otherwise.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The following codes, the latest editions as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, are hereby adopted by reference as though they were copied herein fully:

(a)

International Existing Building Code.

(b)

International Property Maintenance Code.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

General. These construction codes are hereby declared to be remedial, and shall be construed to secure the beneficial interests and purposes thereof—which are public safety, health, and general welfare—through structural strength, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment including alteration, repair, removal, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings, structures, or premises, and by regulating the installation and maintenance of all electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems, which may be referred to as service systems.

(b)

Quality control. Quality control of materials and workmanship is not within the purview of the construction codes except as it relates to the purposes stated therein.

(c)

Permitting and inspection. The inspection or permitting of any building, system, or plan, under the requirements of construction codes shall not be construed in any court as a warranty of the physical condition of such building, system or plan or their adequacy. Jackson County, nor any employee or contractor thereof, shall be liable in tort for damages for any defect or hazardous or illegal condition or inadequacy in such building, system or plan, nor for any failure of any component of such, which may occur subsequent to such inspection or permitting.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Where, in any specific case, different sections of the minimum standard codes specify different materials, methods of construction, or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

(b)

Standards referenced in the text of minimum standard codes shall be considered an integral part of the construction codes. If specific portions of a standard are denoted by code text, only those portions of the standard shall be enforced. Where code provisions conflict with a standard, the minimum standard code provisions shall be enforced. Permissive and advisory provisions in a standard shall not be construed as mandatory.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The provisions of the minimum standard codes shall not be held to deprive any federal or state agency, or any applicable governing authority having jurisdiction, of any power or authority which it had on the effective date of the adoption of the codes or of any remedy then existing for the enforcement of its orders, nor shall it deprive any individual or corporation of its legal rights as provided by law.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

All buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems, both existing and new, and all parts thereof, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. All devices or safeguards, which are required by the construction codes when constructed, altered, or repaired, shall be maintained in good working order. The owner, or his/her designated agent, shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

General. Alterations, repairs, or rehabilitation work may be made to any existing structure, building, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system without requiring the building, structure, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or gas system to comply with all the requirements of the construction codes, provided that the alteration, repair, or rehabilitation work conforms to the requirements of the construction codes for new construction. The building official shall determine the extent to which the existing system shall be made to conform to the requirements of the construction codes for new construction.

(b)

Change of occupancy. If the occupancy classification of any existing building or structure is changed, the building, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems shall be made to conform to the intent of the construction codes as required by the building official.

(c)

Special historic buildings. The provisions of the minimum standard codes relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation, or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings when such buildings or structures are judged by the building official to be safe and in the public interest of health, safety, and welfare regarding any proposed construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation, or moving of buildings within the fire districts.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The public development director is authorized to appoint a building official with the consent of the county manager. The county may contract with a third party to provide the duties of the building official. In the absence of an appointed building official the public development director shall assume the functions under the advice of a qualified building official.

(b)

The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of the minimum standard codes and other codes adopted per this article.

(c)

The building official is further authorized to render interpretations of adopted codes, which are consistent with its intent and purpose.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of the minimum standard codes, or whenever the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition or code violation which makes such building, structure, premises, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems unsafe, dangerous, or hazardous, the building official may enter such building, structure, or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty imposed upon the building official by these construction codes, provided that if such building or premises is occupied, he shall first present proper credentials and request entry.

(b)

If such building, structure, or premises is unoccupied, he shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of such and request entry. If entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

(c)

When the building official shall have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner or occupant or any other persons having charge, care or control of any building, structure, or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry therein by the building official for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to the minimum standard or other codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Upon notice from the building official, work on any building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system that is being done contrary to the provisions of the construction codes or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, shall immediately cease.

(b)

Such notice shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, or to his agent, or to the person doing the work, and shall state the conditions under which work may be resumed.

(c)

Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

(d)

Any person who shall continue any work in or about the structure after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe conditions, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed in article 22 of this UDC.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

All buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems which are unsafe, unsanitary, or do not provide adequate egress, or which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life, or which in relation to existing use, constitute a hazard to safety or health, are considered unsafe buildings or service systems.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Any requirements necessary for the strength, stability, or proper operation of an existing or proposed building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, or for the public safety, health, and general welfare, not specifically covered by or the construction codes, shall be determined by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The provisions of the minimum standard codes are not intended to prevent the use of any material or method of construction not specifically prescribed by them, provided any such alternate has been reviewed by the building official.

(b)

The building official shall approve any such alternate, provided the building official finds that the alternate for the purpose intended is at least the equivalent of that prescribed in the construction codes, in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and safety.

(c)

The building official shall require that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claim made regarding the alternate.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The building official may require tests or test reports as proof of compliance. Required tests are to be made at the expense of the owner, or his/her agent, by an approved testing laboratory or other approved agency.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the construction codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit for the work. A permit shall not be issued to an owner, who is neither a licensed contractor nor the occupant of a residential structure being altered. A permit shall be obtained for any structure greater than 200 square feet. Square footage is determined by measuring the total area beneath the roof, including any attached awnings or overhangs.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017; Ord. No. 24-001, § 1, 8-19-2024)

A building, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing permit shall carry with it the right to construct or install the work, provided the same are shown on the drawings and set forth in the specifications filed with the application for the permit. Where these are not shown on the drawings and covered by the specifications submitted with the application, separate permits shall be required.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Ordinary minor repairs, with a value of less than $2,500.00, may be made with the approval of the building official without a permit, provided that such repairs shall not violate any of the provisions of the minimum standard or other adopted codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Each application for a permit, with the required fee, shall be filed with the building official on a form furnished for that purpose, and shall contain a general description of the proposed work and its location.

(b)

The application shall be signed by the owner, or his/her authorized agent.

(c)

The permit application shall indicate the proposed occupancy of all parts of the building and of that portion of the site or lot, if any, not covered by the building or structure, and shall contain such other information as may be required by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned six months after the date of filing for the permit, unless before then a permit has been issued.

(b)

One or more extensions of time for periods of not more than 90 days each may be allowed by the building official for the application, provided the extension is requested in writing and justifiable cause is demonstrated.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

When required by the building official, two or more copies of specifications and of drawings drawn to scale with sufficient clarity and detail to indicate the nature and character of the work, shall accompany the application for a permit.

(b)

Such drawings and specifications shall contain information, in the form of notes or otherwise, as to the quality of materials, where quality is essential to conformity with the construction codes. Such information shall be specific, and the construction codes shall not be cited as a whole or in part, nor shall the term "legal" or its equivalent be used, as a substitute for specific information.

(c)

All information, drawings, specifications and accompanying data shall bear the name and signature of the person responsible for the design.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The building official may require details, computations, stress diagrams, and other data necessary to describe the construction or installation and the basis of calculations.

(b)

All drawings, specifications, and accompanying data required by the building official to be prepared by an architect or engineer shall be affixed with their official seal.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The design professional shall be an architect or engineer legally registered under the laws of this state regulating the practice of architecture or engineering and shall affix his official seal to said drawings, specifications, and accompanying data, for the following:

(a)

All group A, E, and I occupancies.

(b)

Buildings and structures three stories or more in height.

(c)

Buildings and structures 5,000 square feet (465 meters squared) or more in area.

For all other buildings and structures, the submittal shall bear the certification of the applicant that some specific state law exception permits its preparation by a person not so registered.

Exception: Single-family dwellings, regardless of size, shall require neither a registered architect nor engineer, nor a certification that an architect or engineer is not required.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Plans for all buildings shall indicate how required structural and fire resistance integrity will be maintained where a penetration of a required fire resistance wall, floor, or partition will be made for electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, signal and communication conduits, pipes, and systems and also indicate in sufficient detail how the fire integrity will be maintained where required fire resistance floors intersect the exterior walls.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Drawings shall show the location of the proposed building or structure and of every existing building or structure on the site or lot. The building official may require a boundary line survey prepared by a qualified surveyor.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Fee required. A permit shall not be issued until the fees prescribed by the board of commissioners have been paid. Nor shall an amendment to a permit be released until the additional fee, if any, due to an increase in the estimated cost of the building, structure, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or gas systems, etc. has been paid. On all buildings, structures, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas systems or alterations requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required at the time of filing application, in accordance with the fee schedules as set by the governing body.

(b)

Building permit valuations. If, in the opinion of the building official, the valuation of building, alteration, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems appears to be underestimated on the application, the permit shall be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval of the building official. Permit valuations shall include total cost, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment, and other systems, including materials and labor.

(c)

Accounting. The building official shall keep a permanent and accurate accounting of all permit fees and other money collected, the names of all persons upon whose account the same was paid, along with the date and amount thereof.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Any person who commences any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing, etc. system before obtaining the necessary permits, shall be subject to a penalty of 100 percent of the usual permit fee in addition to the required permit fees.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The building official may require the following:

(a)

General site plan. A general site plan drawn at a legible scale which shall include, but not be limited to, the location of all buildings, exterior storage facilities, permanent access ways, evacuation routes, parking lots, internal roads, chemical loading areas, equipment cleaning areas, storm and sanitary sewer accesses, emergency equipment, and adjacent property uses. The exterior storage areas shall be identified with the hazard classes and the maximum quantities per hazard class of hazardous materials stored.

(b)

Building floor plan. A building floor plan drawn to a legible scale, which shall include, but not be limited to, all hazardous materials storage facilities within the building and shall indicate rooms, doorways, corridors, exits, fire rated assemblies with their hourly rating, location of liquid tight rooms, and evacuation routes. Each hazardous materials storage facility shall be identified on the plan with the hazard classes and quantity range per hazard class or the hazardous materials stored.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The building official shall examine or cause to be examined each application for a permit and the accompanying documents, consisting of drawings, specifications, computations, and additional data, and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of the minimum standard or other codes and all other pertinent laws or ordinances.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Time frame for action. The building official shall act upon an application for a permit without unreasonable or unnecessary delay.

(b)

Inspection prior to issuance. Before issuing a permit the building official may examine or cause to be examined any building, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems for which an application has been received for a permit to enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, install, or change the occupancy.

(c)

Issuance if satisfactory. If the building official is satisfied that the work described in an application for a permit and the contract documents filed therewith conform to the requirements of the construction codes and other pertinent laws and ordinances, he shall issue a permit to the applicant.

(d)

Stamping of plans. When the building official issues a permit, he/she shall indicate, in writing or by stamp, on both sets of plans "reviewed for code compliance." One set of drawings so reviewed shall be retained by the building official and the other set shall be returned to the applicant. The permitted drawings shall be kept at the site of work and shall be open to inspection by the building official or his/her authorized representative.

(e)

Posting of permit. Work requiring a permit shall not commence until the permit holder or his/her agent posts the permit card in a conspicuous place on the premises. The permit shall be protected from the weather and located in such position as to permit the building official or representative to conveniently make the required entries thereon. This permit card shall be maintained in such position by the permit holder until the certificate of occupancy or completion is issued by the building official.

(f)

Refusal to issue permit. If the application for a permit and the accompanying contract documents describing the work do not conform to the requirements of the construction codes or other pertinent laws or ordinances, the building official shall not issue a permit, but shall return the contract documents to the applicant with his refusal to issue such permit. Such refusal shall, when requested, be in writing and shall contain the reason for refusal.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

When an application for permit to erect or enlarge a building has been filed and pending issuance of such permit, the building official may, at his discretion, issue a special permit for the foundation only. The holder of such a special permit is proceeding at his own risk and without assurance that a permit for the remainder of the work will be granted nor that corrections will not be required in order to meet provisions of the minimum standard or other codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

A permit shall not be given by the building official for the construction of any building, or for the alteration of any building where said building is to be changed and such change will affect the exterior walls, bays, balconies, or other appendages or projections fronting on any street, alley, or public lane, or for the placing on any lot or premises of any building or structure removed from another lot or premises, unless the applicant has made application at the office of the public development director for the lines of the public street on which he/she proposes to build, erect, or locate said building; and it shall be the duty of the building official to see that the street lines are not encroached upon.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

It shall be the duty of every contractor who shall make contracts for the installation or repairs of buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, sprinkler, or plumbing systems, for which a permit is required, to comply with state or local rules and regulations concerning licensing which the applicable governing authority may have adopted.

(b)

In such case that the state requires a contractor to have obtained a state license before they are permitted to perform work, the contractor shall supply the local government with their license number before receiving a permit for work to be performed.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

A permit issued shall be construed to be a license to proceed with the work and not as authority to violate, cancel, alter, or set aside any of the provisions of the construction codes, nor shall issuance of a permit prevent the building official from thereafter requiring a correction of errors in plans, construction, or violations of the construction codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Whenever a permit is issued in reliance upon an affidavit or whenever the work to be covered by a permit involves installation under conditions which, in the opinion of the building official, are hazardous or complex, the building official shall require that the architect or engineer who signed the affidavit or prepared the drawings or computations shall supervise such work. In addition, they shall be responsible for conformity with the permit, provide copies of inspection reports as inspections are performed, and upon completion make and file with the building official written affidavit that the work has been done in conformity with the reviewed plans and with the structural provisions of the minimum standard codes.

(b)

In the event such architect or engineer is not available, the owner shall employ in his place, a competent person or agency whose qualifications are reviewed by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within six months after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time the worked is commenced.

(b)

One or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 90 days each, may be allowed for the permit. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. Extensions shall be in writing by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Misrepresentation of application. The building official may revoke a permit or approval, issued under the provisions of the construction codes, in case there has been any false statement or misrepresentation as to the material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or approval was based.

(b)

Violation of code provisions. The building official may revoke a permit upon determination by the building official that the construction erection, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, installation or replacement of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems for which the permit was issued is in violation of, or not in conformity with, the provisions of the minimum standard codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The building official shall inspect all buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems, from time to time, during and upon completion of the work for which a permit was issued.

(b)

The building official upon notification from the permit holder or his agent shall make the inspections specified in this article and such other inspections as necessary, and shall either release that portion of the construction or shall notify the permit holder or his agent of any violations which must be corrected in order to comply with the minimum standard code.

(c)

The building official shall make a record of every such examination and inspection and of all violations of the minimum standard codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

When deemed necessary by the building official he shall make, or cause to be made, an inspection of materials or assemblies at the point of manufacture or fabrication. A record shall be made of every such examination and inspection and of all violations of the minimum standard codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The building official may make, or cause to be made, the inspections required by this chapter. He/she may accept reports of inspectors of recognized inspection services, provided that after investigation he/she is satisfied as to their qualifications and reliability.

(b)

A certificate called for by any provision of the minimum standard codes shall not be based on such reports unless the same are in writing and certified by a responsible officer of such service.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The building official shall inspect or cause to be inspected at various intervals all construction or work for which a permit is required, and a final inspection shall be made of every building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system upon completion, prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy or completion.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Foundation and foundation wall inspection: To be made after trenches are excavated, the reinforcement is in place, and the forms erected, prior to the placing of concrete.

(b)

Slab inspection: To be made prior to the placing of concrete.

(c)

Frame inspection: To be made after the roof, all framing, fireblocking, bracing and fasteners are in place, all concealed wiring, all pipes, chimneys, ducts, and vents are complete.

(d)

Moisture barrier inspection: To be made prior to the installation of the exterior finishing materials.

(e)

Final inspection: To be made after the building is completed and ready for immediate occupancy.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Underground inspection: To be made after trenches or ditches are excavated, conduit or cable installed, and before any backfill is put in place.

(b)

Rough-in inspection: To be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking, and bracing is in place and prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.

(c)

Final inspection: To be made after the building is complete, all required electrical fixtures are in place and properly connected or protected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Underground inspection: To be made after trenches or ditches are excavated, piping installed, and before any backfill is put in place.

(b)

Rough-in inspection: To be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking, and bracing is in place and all soil, waste, and vent piping is complete, and prior to this installation of wall or ceiling membranes.

(c)

Final inspection: To be made after the building is complete, all plumbing fixtures are in place and properly connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.

(d)

Note: See section 312 of the International Plumbing Code for required tests.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Underground inspection: To be made after trenches or ditches are excavated, underground duct and fuel piping installed, and before any backfill is put in place.

(b)

Rough-in inspection: To be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking, and bracing are in place and all ducting, and other concealed components are complete, and prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.

(c)

Final inspection: To be made after the building is complete, the mechanical system is in place and properly connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Rough piping inspection: To be made after all new piping authorized by the permit has been installed, and before any such piping has been covered or concealed or any fixtures or gas appliances have been connected.

(b)

Final piping inspection: To be made after all piping authorized by the permit has been installed and after all portions which are to be concealed by plastering or otherwise have been so concealed, and before any fixtures or gas appliances have been connected. This inspection shall include a pressure test.

(c)

Final inspection: To be made on all new gas work authorized by the permit and such portions of existing systems as may be affected by new work or any changes in order to insure compliance with all the requirements of the construction codes and to assure that the installation and construction of the gas system is in accordance with reviewed plans.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Foundation inspection: To be made before slab concrete is poured in place. To verify that perimeter insulation has been installed correctly on any slab on grade foundations, if required.

(b)

Frame inspection: To be made before exterior wall insulation is concealed by wall board to check installation of exterior walls insulation and to inspect that all holes and cracks through the structure envelope have been sealed in an appropriate manner as to restrict air passage.

(c)

Final inspection: To be made after the building is completed and ready for occupancy, to verify installation and R-value of ceiling and floor insulation, to verify correct SEER ratings on appliances, and to verify the building envelope tightness has been demonstrated and documented on the Georgia Residential Energy Code Compliance Checklist.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Work shall not be done on any part of a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining a written release from the building official. Such written release shall be given only after an inspection has been made of each successive step in the construction or installation as indicated by each of the foregoing three inspections.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Reinforcing steel, structural frame, insulation, plumbing, work of any part of any building or structure shall not be covered or concealed without first obtaining a release from the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

In all buildings where plaster is used for fire protection purposes, the permit holder or his agent shall notify the building official after all lathing and backing is in place. Plaster shall not be applied until the release from the building official has been received.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

For purposes of and in regard to third party inspections, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

Approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list: A list maintained by the department comprised of the names of approved third party inspectors and plans reviewers that have complied with the application and renewal requirements of the Jackson County Third Party Inspection and Plans Review Program and have been approved to perform third party inspections and plans review pursuant to this article of the Jackson County Unified Development Code in unincorporated Jackson County.

Approved third party inspector: A registered professional engineer or registered professional architect that has complied with the application and renewal requirements of the Jackson County Third Party Inspection and Plans Review Program and has been approved to perform third party inspections pursuant to this article of the Jackson County Unified Development Code in unincorporated Jackson County. An approved third party inspector is intended to constitute a "private professional provider" for the purposes of performing inspections as described in the State Act.

Approved third party plans reviewer: A registered professional engineer or registered professional architect that has complied with the application and renewal requirements of the Jackson County Third Party Inspection and Plans Review Program and has been approved to perform third party plans review pursuant to this article of the Jackson County Unified Development Code in unincorporated Jackson County. An approved third party plans reviewer is intended to constitute a "private professional provider" for the review of reviewing building construction plans as described in the State Act.

County: The unincorporated areas of Jackson County, a political subdivision of the State of Georgia.

Convenience fees: Fees established by the department to be paid to the county upon the election by an applicant to use a third party inspector or third party plans reviewer or despite the department otherwise being able to provide inspection and plan review services within the time frames required by the State Act. Such fees shall be the same as any regulatory fees assessed by the department for inspections and plan review services performed by the department.

Department: The Jackson County Public Development Department, or such other department as may be assigned by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners the responsibility of performing inspections and overseeing the third party inspection and plans review system described herein.

Inspection: The observance of work and the performance of test for certain components and elements to establish conformance with Jackson County approved construction documents, building codes and ordinances adopted by Jackson County, and the requirements of the state minimum standards as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

Inspection certification: A written statement signed by an approved third party inspector or his/her approved technician, which shall indicate that the item(s) being inspected, in the approved third party inspector's professional opinion and to the best of their knowledge, complies with Jackson County approved construction documents, building codes and ordinances adopted by Jackson County, the requirements of the state minimum standards as adopted and amended by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and any other applicable inspections that are typically performed by inspectors employed by Jackson County.

;p0;Inspection field report: A written report prepared by an approved third party inspector or a technician working under the direct supervision of an approved third party inspector describing the work conducted and findings of an inspection.

Plans review affidavit: A written affidavit on a form adopted by the department of community affairs that is completed and signed under oath by an approved third party plans reviewer, which shall indicate the plans which have been reviewed for the purpose of a building permit for the application in question, in the approved third party plans reviewer's professional opinion and to the best of their knowledge, complies with the regulatory requirements as designated by Jackson County, including the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes most recently adopted by the department of community affairs and any locally adopted ordinances and amendments to such codes, applicable zoning ordinances and conditions, design standards, and any other applicable laws and regulations that would otherwise be required of staff employed by the department.

Registered professional architect: An individual that holds a certificate of registration issued under O.C.G.A. tit. 43, Ch. 4.

Registered professional engineer: An individual that holds a certificate of registration issued under O.C.G.A. tit. 43, ch. 15.

Regulatory fees: All fees established by the department to be paid to the Department for any regulatory action, inspection services, or plan review services as provided by the State Act and this article.

State act: O.C.G.A. § 8-2-26.

Technician: An individual that performs inspections under the direct supervision of an approved third party inspector.

Third party plans review: Building construction plans review performed in conformance with this program by approved third party plans reviewers.

Third party inspection: Inspection performed in conformance with this program by approved third party inspectors.

Third party inspection and plans review program: The rules and procedures described in this third party inspection and plans review ordinance.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

The Department will establish and maintain an approved third party inspectors and plans reviewers list from whom the department will accept third party inspections and third party plans reviews in accordance with this third party inspection and plans review ordinance.

(b)

In full compliance with the requirements of the State Act, Jackson County shall allow owners, developers, and contractors to submit inspection certifications by approved third party inspectors and plans review affidavits by approved third party plans reviewers in order to satisfy certain inspection and plans review requirements.

(c)

The department will only consider inspection certifications and plans review affidavits from individuals listed on the approved third party inspector and plans reviewer list. Jackson County makes no representation concerning the approved third party inspectors and approved third party plans reviewers other than that they have submitted evidence showing that they have met the minimum criteria necessary to qualify for the third party inspection and plans review program described herein.

(d)

In order for an inspection certification or plans review affidavit to be accepted by the department for a particular project, an approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer must be independent of, and must not be an employee of or otherwise affiliated with or financially interested in the person, firm or corporation engaged in the construction project to be inspected.

(e)

The person, firm or corporation retaining an approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer to conduct an inspection or plans review shall be required to pay to the county the same regulatory fees and charges which would have been required had the inspection or plans review been conducted by a county inspector or county plan reviewer. Should the department determine that it cannot conduct a particular inspection or plans review in a time as determined by the State Act, the applicable regulatory fees shall be reduced by 50 percent. Should the department determine that it can conduct a particular inspection or plans review in a time as determined by the State Act, a convenience fee shall be paid to the county. Upon paying in full of the convenience fees associated with the complete application, the applicant may nevertheless choose to retain, at its own expense, an approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer to provide the required inspection or plan review, subject to the requirements set forth in this article. Any regulatory fees or convenience fees paid to the county are nonrefundable.

(f)

All other fees and costs related to the performance of the third party inspections or third party plans review are matters solely between the approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer and the person, firm, or corporation engaging the approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer.

(g)

Notwithstanding the submission of an inspection certification or plans review affidavit, the department retains the authority to make all code interpretations and to monitor the quality of all third party inspections and third party plans reviews and nothing in this article shall be construed as authorizing any approved third party inspector or approved third party plans reviewer to issue a certificate of occupancy.

(h)

The department will continue to provide full support to customers that choose not to utilize the services of approved third party inspectors or approved third party plans reviewers.

(i)

The department will follow all applicable procedures set forth in the State Act for all inspections and plans reviews. For purposes of processing applications in compliance with the State Act, an application submitted to the department shall not be considered complete until all applicable fees have been paid, and all applicable county departments have previously received the application and provided any required approvals.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

The department will, at a minimum, accept third party inspections in compliance with the State Act for any construction inspections required by the unified development code. A comprehensive list of the various inspections types, their allowed timing and other related details are established by department policy. This document is available from the department and is published on the department's website.

(b)

Approved third party inspectors shall be authorized to conduct any inspection required by the county necessary or required to determine compliance with all regulatory requirements and for the issuance of a building permit or certificate of occupancy, provided that the inspection being performed is within the scope of the approved third party inspector's area of competency. However, nothing in this article shall be construed as authorizing third party inspections for compliance with state or local fire safety standards or erosion control standards.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

Individuals wishing to be placed on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list as an approved third party inspector must submit an initial application along with an application fee as established by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners to the public development department.

(b)

In order to qualify as an approved third party inspector, an individual must:

1.

Be, or be a partner in or employed by, an engineering or architect firm, in full compliance with chapter 12 of the Jackson County Code, including timely payment of the occupational tax and registration required thereunder.

2.

Be a registered professional engineer or a registered professional architect as defined in this article.

3.

Otherwise be in good standing with all pertinent certification and professional accreditation boards.

4.

Possess and maintain minimum insurance as described herein.

5.

Demonstrate relevant experience of at least one year.

(c)

An individual shall not be qualified to be placed on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list if he/she has had his/her authority to issue third party inspection certifications in any other jurisdictions revoked. If an individual previously qualified to be on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list and subsequently has his/her authority to issue third party inspection certifications revoked, the individual shall be removed from the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list.

(d)

An approved third party inspector may not submit an inspection certification if the approved third party inspector is an officer or employee of the owner, developer, contractor or other party or if the approved third party inspector is employed by or a partner in a firm that is affiliated with or financially interested in the owner, developer, contractor or other party on whose behalf the inspection certification is submitted.

(e)

Technicians may perform inspections under the supervision of an approved third party inspector provided that the technician has satisfied any specific requirements as may be designated by the building official.

(f)

Technicians performing inspections under the supervision of an approved third party inspector shall possess ICC certifications relevant to the types of inspections performed. For zoning inspections, technicians shall provide documentation demonstrating three years previous experience and/or training that includes general building construction, construction trades, and code enforcement/interpretation, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience to be determined in the discretion of the building official.

(g)

Approved third party inspectors shall obtain and maintain the following minimum insurance coverages and provisions, evidence of which shall be submitted to the department with the initial application:

1.

Comprehensive general liability insurance for liability and property damage in an amount of not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence.

2.

Professional liability insurance for errors and omissions in an amount of not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence and $1,000,000.00 in aggregate coverage for any project with a construction cost of $5,000,000.00 or less. For any project with a construction cost of more than $5,000,000.00, the amount of professional liability insurance for errors and omissions shall not be less than $2,000,000.00 per claim and $2,000,000.00 in aggregate coverage.

3.

Such insurance may be a practice policy or may be project-specific coverage. If the insurance is a practice policy, it shall contain prior acts coverage for the private professional provider. If the insurance is project-specific, it shall continue in effect for two years following the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy or certification of completion for the project.

4.

The cancellation provision shall provide for 30 days' notice of cancellation.

5.

Jackson County, Georgia, its officers, officials, employees and representatives shall be named as additional insureds on the required insurance policies.

6.

The required insurance coverages shall be provided by an insurance company licensed to do business by and in good standing with the Georgia Department of Insurance at all times.

7.

Approved third party inspectors shall maintain the minimum insurance coverage as required above at all times during which they are listed as approved third party inspectors. Approved third party inspectors shall provide the department with evidence of minimum insurance coverages and provisions on an annual basis prior to the expiration of any policy or coverage and upon request by the department. Should any insurance coverage or information change, the approved third party inspector shall provide written notice of any such change to the county within ten business days. If at any time an approved third party inspector fails to maintain the required insurance coverage, the department may remove them from the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list.

(h)

Suspension of technicians and approved third party inspectors:

1.

An individual who performs inspections under this article, whether a Technician or an individual approved third party inspector, shall be subject to suspension from the approved third party inspector and plans reviewer list, and from submitting inspection field reports and inspection certifications for the following infractions:

i.

Providing inspections without appropriate license or certification.

ii.

Providing inspection services prior to issuance of a valid building permit.

iii.

Failing to identify any noncompliance with any applicable code, as amended, governing individual and public safety and welfare (including, but not limited to, sections 308, 310-312, 314, and 315 of the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code, section 607 of the 2012 edition of the International Plumbing Code, sections 406, 502, and 503 of the 2012 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code, and sections 210, 240, and 250 of the 2017 National Electric Code, etc.) as determined in the sole good faith discretion of the chief building official of the county. However, it is the express intent of the county not to impose sanctions on an individual under this article for failing to identify multiple instances of noncompliance in one inspection such as that each such failure constitutes an individual and separate infraction. Rather, multiple failures contained in a single inspection under this paragraph shall be treated as a single infraction.

iv.

Authorizing any deviation from the approved permit.

v.

Falsifying reports.

vi.

Unauthorized employee performing inspections.

vii.

Performing unauthorized types of inspections.

viii.

Inspections passed with hold on project or under stop work.

ix.

Failure to identify noncompliance with any applicable code not captured in subsection (c) above, upon identification of such failure by the county on multiple occasions, as determined in the sole good faith discretion of the chief building official of the county.

2.

Suspension for submitting inspection field reports and inspection certifications for infractions by a technician or individual approved third party inspector shall be progressive based on the number of infractions in the previous 12-month period. For any combination of infractions within a 12-month period, the following actions and suspensions against a technician or individual approved third party inspector shall be assessed:

3.

An approved third party inspector shall be subject to progressive action based on the number of infractions in the previous 24-month period by individuals performing inspections, including the individual approved third party inspector or any one or more technicians acting under the supervision of the approved third party inspector (which shall include technicians serving as employees, independent contractors, agents, etc.). Violations under this paragraph shall accrue upon every third infraction by an individual contemplated in paragraph (2) above, and shall subject approved third party inspectors to the following actions and suspensions for any combination of infractions within a 24-month period:

4.

The county shall send written notice to the approved third party inspector for each infraction as contemplated in paragraph 2., above, the purpose of which shall be to inform the approved third party inspector of the number of infractions accruing under paragraph 2., to put the approved third party inspector on notice of possible violations under this paragraph 4., and so the approved third party inspector has the opportunity to take any remedial action necessary to prevent future infractions and/or violations.

5.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, in the event a technician or individual approved third party inspector is found to have violated subsection [(h)1.v.], falsifying reports, the progressive actions and suspensions of this article may, in the discretion of the county, be bypassed with an immediate suspension and/or disqualification imposed.

6.

Appeal of suspensions and/or disqualifications shall be processed through the board of adjustments at its next scheduled meeting as appeals of administrative decisions.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

An approved third party inspector shall not suggest, direct, or authorize any deviation from approved construction documents without first obtaining approval from the department.

(b)

The following procedures shall apply to all third party inspections:

1.

To ensure quality control of the third party inspection and plans review program, a copy of all inspection field reports shall be provided to the department within one business day from the date the inspection is performed.

2.

All inspection field reports shall note the type of inspection and any deficiencies observed.

3.

Inspection certifications shall be submitted one business day from the date the inspection is performed. Once the inspection certification is received, the department will either accept or deny the inspection certification within two business day following the day of submittal and the inspection status will be updated by the department in the normal course of business.

4.

Final inspections will not be scheduled until all outstanding reinspection fees have been paid.

5.

When performing reinspections for violations initially noted by Department staff, each corrected item shall be addressed individually.

(c)

The department shall have a right of entry to any premises inspected by an approved third party inspector or technician to ensure compliance with this article and the State Act.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

Individuals wishing to be placed on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list as an approved plans reviewer must submit an initial application along with an application fee as established by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners to the department.

(b)

In order to qualify as an approved third party plans reviewer, an individual must:

1.

Be, or be a partner in or employed by, an engineering or architect firm, in full compliance with chapter 12 of the Jackson County Code, including timely payment of the occupational tax and registration required thereunder.

2.

Be a registered professional engineer or registered professional architect as defined in this article.

3.

Otherwise be in good standing with all pertinent certification and professional accreditation boards.

4.

Possess and maintain minimum insurance as described herein.

5.

Demonstrate relevant experience of at least one year.

(c)

An individual shall not be qualified to be placed on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list if he/she has had his/her authority to issue third party plans review affidavits in any other jurisdictions revoked. If an individual previously qualified to be on the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list and subsequently has his/her authority to issue third party plans review affidavits revoked, the individual shall be removed from the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list.

(d)

An approved third party plans reviewer may not submit a plans review affidavit if the approved third party plans reviewer is an officer or employee of the owner, developer, contractor or other party or if the approved third party plans reviewer is employed by or a partner in a firm that is affiliated with or financially interested in the owner, developer, contractor or other party on whose behalf the plans review affidavit is submitted.

(e)

Approved third party plans reviewers shall obtain and maintain the following minimum insurance coverages and provisions, evidence of which shall be submitted to the department with the initial application:

1.

Comprehensive general liability insurance for liability and property damage in an amount of not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence.

2.

Professional liability insurance for errors and omissions in an amount of not less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence and $1,000,000.00 in aggregate coverage for any project with a construction cost of $5,000,000.00 or less. For any project with a construction cost of more than $5,000,000.00, the amount of professional liability insurance for errors and omissions shall not be less than $2,000,000.00 per claim and $2,000,000.00 in aggregate coverage.

3.

Such insurance may be a practice policy or may be project-specific coverage. If the insurance is a practice policy, it shall contain prior acts coverage for the private professional provider. If the insurance is project-specific, it shall continue in effect for two years following the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy or certification of completion for the project.

4.

The cancellation provision shall provide for 30 days' notice of cancellation.

5.

Jackson County, Georgia, its officers, officials, employees and representatives shall be named as additional insureds on the required insurance policies.

6.

The required insurance coverages shall be provided by an insurance company licensed to do business by and in good standing with the Georgia Department of Insurance at all times.

7.

Approved third party plans reviewers shall maintain the minimum insurance coverage as required above at all times during which they are listed as approved third party plans reviewers. Approved third party plans reviewers shall provide the department with evidence of minimum insurance coverages and provisions on an annual basis prior to the expiration of any policy or coverage and upon request by the department. Should any insurance coverage or information change, the Approved Third party plans reviewer shall provide written notice of any such change to the county within ten business days. If at any time an approved third party plans reviewer fails to maintain the required insurance coverage, the department may remove them from the approved third party inspectors and plans reviewer list.

(f)

Suspension of approved third party plans reviewers:

1.

An individual who performs plans review under this article shall be subject to suspension from the approved third party inspector and plans reviewer list, and from submitting plans review affidavits for the following infractions:

i.

Providing plans reviews without appropriate license or certification.

ii.

Failing to identify any noncompliance with any applicable code, as amended, governing individual and public safety and welfare (including, but not limited to, sections 308, 310-312, 314, and 315 of the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code, section 607 of the 2012 edition of the International Plumbing Code, sections 406, 502, and 503 of the 2012 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code, and sections 210, 240, and 250 of the 2017 National Electric Code, etc.) as determined in the sole good faith discretion of the chief building official of the county. However, it is the express intent of the county not to impose sanctions on an individual under this article for failing to identify multiple instances of noncompliance in one inspection such as that each such failure constitutes an individual and separate infraction. Rather, multiple failures contained in a single inspection under this paragraph shall be treated as a single infraction.

iii.

Falsifying plans review affidavits.

iv.

Performing unauthorized types of plan reviews.

2.

Suspension for submitting plans review affidavits for infractions by an approved third party plans reviewer shall be progressive based on the number of infractions in the previous 12-month period. For any combination of infractions within a 12-month period, the following actions and suspensions against an approved third party plans reviewer shall be assessed:

3.

The county shall send written notice to the approved third party plans reviewer for each infraction as contemplated in paragraph 2., above, the purpose of which shall be to inform the approved third party plans reviewer of the number of infractions accruing under paragraph 2. and so the approved third party plans reviewer has the opportunity to take any corrective action necessary to prevent future infractions.

4.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, in the event an approved third party plans reviewer is found to have violated subsection [(f)1.iii.], falsifying plans review affidavits, the progressive actions and suspensions of this article may, in the discretion of the county, be bypassed with an immediate suspension and/or disqualification imposed.

5.

Appeal of suspensions and/or disqualifications shall be processed through the board of adjustments at its next scheduled meeting as appeals of administrative decisions.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

Any plan review conducted by an approved third party plans reviewer shall be no less extensive than plan reviews conducted by county personnel.

(b)

The following procedures shall apply to all third party plans review:

1.

To ensure quality control of the third party inspection program, a copy of all plans review affidavits shall be provided to the department within five business days of its completion.

2.

All plans review affidavits shall certify that:

i.

The plans were reviewed by the affiant who is duly authorized to perform plan review pursuant to the third party inspection and plans review program; and

ii.

The plans comply with all applicable regulatory requirements; and

iii.

The plans submitted for plan review are in conformity with plans previously submitted to obtain county approvals required in the plan submittal process and do not make a change to the project reviewed for such approvals.

(Ord. No. 19-004, § 1, 10-21-2019)

(a)

A new building shall not be occupied or a change made in the occupancy, nature, or use of a building or part of a building until after the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy.

(b)

Said certificate shall not be issued until all required electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems have been inspected for compliance with the construction codes and other applicable laws and ordinances and released by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

Upon satisfactory completion of construction of a building or structure and installation of electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems in accordance with the construction codes, reviewed plans and specifications, and after the final inspection, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy stating the nature of the occupancy permitted, the number of persons for each floor when limited by law, and the allowable load per square foot for each floor in accordance with the provisions of the construction codes.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

A temporary/partial certificate of occupancy may be issued for a portion of a commercial building, which in the opinion of the building official, may safely be occupied prior to final completion of the building. The temporary/partial certificate of occupancy shall be forfeited if the certificate of occupancy is not issued within 90 days.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

A certificate of occupancy for any existing building may be obtained by applying to the building official and supplying the information and data necessary to determine compliance with the minimum standard codes for the occupancy intended.

(b)

Where necessary, in the opinion of the building official, two sets of detailed drawings, or a general inspection, or both, may be required.

(c)

When, upon examination and inspection, it is found that the building conforms to the provisions of the minimum standard codes and other applicable laws and ordinances for such occupancy, a certificate of occupancy shall be issued.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

Upon satisfactory completion of a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, a certificate of completion may be issued.

(b)

This certificate is proof that a structure or system is complete and for certain types of permits is released for use and may be connected to a utility system.

(c)

This certificate does not grant authority to occupy or connect a building, such as a shell building, prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

No person shall make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel, or power to any building or system which is regulated by the construction codes for which a permit is required, until released by the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

The building official may authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility source of energy, fuel, or power for the purpose of testing building service systems or for use under a temporary certificate of occupancy.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

The building official shall have the power to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure, or system regulated by the construction codes, in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property.

(b)

The building official shall notify the serving utility, and whenever possible the owner and occupant of the building, structure, or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnecting, the owner or occupant of the building, structure, or service system shall be notified in writing, as soon as practical thereafter.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

An existing or new building shall not be occupied for any purpose, which will cause the floors thereof to be loaded beyond their safe capacity. The building official may permit occupancy of a building for mercantile, commercial, or industrial purposes, by a specific business, when he is satisfied that such capacity will not thereby be exceeded.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

It shall be the responsibility of the owner, agent, proprietor, or occupant of group S and group F occupancies, or any occupancy where excessive floor loading is likely to occur, to employ a competent architect or engineer in computing the safe load capacity.

(b)

All such computations shall be accompanied by an affidavit from the architect or engineer stating the safe allowable floor load on each floor in pounds per square foot uniformly distributed. The computations and affidavit shall be filed as a permanent record with the building official.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)

(a)

In every building or part of a building used for storage, industrial, or hazardous purposes, the safe floor loads, as reviewed by the building official on the plan, shall be marked on plates or approved design which shall be supplied and securely affixed by the owner of the building in a conspicuous place in each story to which they relate.

(b)

Such plates shall not be removed or defaced, and if lost, removed or defaced, shall be replaced by the owner of the building.

(Ord. No. 17-003, § 1, 10-2-2017)