HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance No. 258 � ° • ' ' .
ORDIN/�NCE N0. ��r�
CITY �F FRIENDSW�QD, TEXAS
ELECTRICAL ORDINAf�aCE
(Revision to Ord.99)
Date of Adoption: � — 7' ��
� ' ' r r � �
. ,
. ' �
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE PAGE
I. TITLE OF ORDINANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
II. PURPOSE, SCOPE AND DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
III. CREATION AND APPOINTMENT OF ELECTRICAL BOARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
IV. AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF THE ELECTRICAL BOARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
V. APPEALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
VI . CREATION OF OFFICE OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
VII. DUTIES OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
VIII. AUTHORITY OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
IX. INSPECTIONS AND NOTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
X. PERMITS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
XI. LICENSES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
XII. STANDARDS FOR ELECTRICAL WORK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
XIII. PENALTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
XIV. LIABILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
X11. SEVERABILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
XVI. REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
� , ' , � , ,
" y
ORDINANCE N0. � � `=�
(Supersedes Ordinance No. 99)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, FOR SAFEGUARDING
PERSONS AND PROPERTY AND PROMOTING THE WELFARE OF THE PUBLIC;
REGULATING ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS IN THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD;
ESTABLISHING STANDARDS FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT; REGULATING THE
SALE, REPAIR, USE AND REMOVAL OF ELECTRICAL WIRING EQUIPMENT AND
REQUIRING CONFORMITY THEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR FEES AND PENALTIES;
CONTAINING A SAVINGS CLAUSE, AND REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT THEREWITH.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, STATE
OF TEXAS:
ARTICLE I.
TITLE OF ORDINANCE
This ordinance shall be known as the "Electrical Ordinance of the
City of Friendswood, Texas. "
ARTICLE II .
PURPOSE, SCOPE, AND DEFINITIONS
Section 2.01 Purpose of Ordinance. The object of this ordinance
is to reduce personal hazards and fire azards from electrical causes. To
accomplish this, the requirements set forth herein are intended to provide
a minimum standard for electrical work in the City of Friendswood.
Section 2.02 Sco e of Ordinance. The provisions of this ordinance
shall apply to all insta lations, use or maintenance of or repair to all
electrical conductors, fittings, devices, signs, fixtures, motors , generators,
starters, controls, and raceways , hereafter referred to as "electrical work,"
within or on public and private buildings and premises, except that the
provisions of this ordinance shall not apply to such electrical work as
follows:
a. Installations in boats or to automotive equipment
b. Installations used by electricity supply agencies in the generation,
transmission, or distribution of electricity, and located within or
on buildings or premises used exclusively for that purpose by such
an agency or on public thoroughfares , nor to the employees making
said installations by or for such agencies, but the provisions of
this ordinance shall apply to installations and/or equipment used
for light, heat, power, decoration, amusement and for all other
purposes located within or on such buildings or premises.
c. Installations for or by communication agencies in connection with
the operation of signals or the transmission of intelligence, nor
to the employees making said installations by or for said agencies;
but the provisions of this ordinance shall apply to installations
for heat, decoration, amusement, elevators, ventilating equipment,
and general lighting not attached to and power not directly used
in connection with installations for communications , signals, and
the transmission of intelligence.
d. The provisions of this ordinance shall apply to all electrical
equipment used for power supply to radio transmitting equipment,
but shall not apply to special radio equipment used exclusively
for radio transmission by persons or organizations licensed to
operate by the Federal Communications Commission.
e. The replacement of lamps, sockets, fuses, drop cords, snap
switches, or other similar items, or the connection of portable
electrical equipment to suitable permanently installed
receptacles.
f. The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical equipment
for the operation of signals or the transmission of intelligence,
or to installations of communication facilities by or for
communications agencies.
g. Any work involved in the manufacturing or testing of electrical
equipment or apparatus, except that this exemption shall not
include any permanent wiring.
h. The replacement of a motor by another motor of the same horsepower
and rating, solenoid valves, low-pressure controls, or other
controls when the electrical suppl,y to same has been properly
installed by a licensed electrician.
i . A1l e7ectrical work under construction or formally contracted
for at the time of passage of this ordinance.
Section 2.03 Definitions The following words and phrases when used
in this ordinance sha�l , for the purposes of this ordinance, have the
meaning respective7y ascribed to them in this section.
a. Apartment House - A building or portion thereof used of intended
to be used as the home of three or more families or households
living independen�ly of each other, and equipped for the prepara-
tion of food.
b. Approved - Inspected and accepted by the Electrical Inspector
as having met the requirements of this ordinance.
c. Branch Circuit - The circuit conductors between the final over-
current device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s) .
d. City - Shall be construed to mean the Municipal Corporation,
the City of Friendswood, Texas.
e. Conductor - A wire or cable or other form of inetal suitable for
carrying electrical current or potential .
f. Conviction - A final determination of guilt or the forfeiture
o b�ail , recognizance, or appeal bond.
g. Dwelling - The abiding place of one or more persons in which the
use and management of sleeping quarters, all appliances for cooking,
ventilating, heating or lighting are under one control , including
attached or detached garaqes and accessory buildings for such use.
h. Electrical Ins�ector - The City Electrical Inspector, or his duly
authorized deputies.
� i . Electrical Work - A11 materials, devices, appliances, machinery,
and equipment used in connection with the production, transmission,
or consumption of electrical energy, together with installing,
maintaining, or repairing same.
j. Fire Limits - As referred to in the provisions of this ordinance,
"fire limits" shall be taken to mean and include the district
contained within the fire limits or distric�s as they exist at
the time of the insta7lation or performance of such electrical work.
k. Journeyman Electrician - A person licensed as a Journeyman Electri-
cian in compliance with the requirements of this ordinance, employed
by contractors, and working under the supervision of a licensed
Master Electrician to install , repaira alter and maintain electrical
-2-
appliances, wiring, apparatus, devices, fixtures or equipment,
for which a permit is required under the �erms and conditions
of this ordinance.
1 . Maintenance Electrician - A person who works for another person
in keeping in safe repair of any and all electrical equipment,
and keeping in safe repair or moving and relocating of electrical
equipment within a building in or on the premises where said
Maintenance Electrician is regularly employed on a permanent
basis, but a person who is not responsible for the installation
of new and additional electrical work and equipment.
m. Master Electrician - A person licensed as a Master Electrician
in compliance with the requirements of this ordinance, skilled
and engaged in the planning, supervision, installing or repairing,
or contracting to install or repair, wires, conductors and equipment
used within or on buildings for the transmission of electrical
current for electric liqht, heat, power, or signalling purposes,
together with the fittings for same necessary for the protection
of such equipment, and who has been licensed in the manner pro-
vided by this ordinance.
n. Meter Loop - The service entrance conductors, meter base, service
overcurrent units, service disconnect, and the system and equipment
grounding.
o. N.F.P.A. - The National Fire Protection Association.
p. N.E.C. - The latest edition of the National Electrical Code, as
compiled by the N.F.P.A. , a copy of which is attached hereto,
marked Exhibit A, and made a part hereof the same as if it were
copied herein verbatim.
q. Outlet - Any current-consuming opening or contact for lighting
units, or a regular receptacle, or any opening or connection for
a switch.
r. Person - Shall be construed to mean any individual , firm, associa-
tion or corporation.
s. Portable Fixture - One which can be moved from place to place, and
is not attached to ceiling or walls by chains, rods, hooks,
flanges, or any other means of attachment, and that does not
require any mechanical ability to instal7, or knowledge of electri-
city other than the insertion of the cap into a proper receptacle.
t. Portable Sign - A sign in which all wiring, transformers, and
live parts are fully enclosed and only the attachment cord extends
to the outside, and does not exceed two hundred (200) watts.
u. Safe Condition - "Safe Condition" as applied to electrical instal-
lations and equipment, means installations and/or equipment which
in the opinion of the Electrica7 Inspector, can be used in the
service for which the same is intended or likely to be used with
minimum hazard to 7ife, limb, or property; thus being installations
and equipment reasonably safe to persons and property.
ARTICLE III .
CREATION AND APPOINTMENT OF ELECTRICAL BOARD
Section 3.01 Creation and Membership of Board. There is hereby
created a Board for the regulation and examination of electricians within
the City of Friendswood, to be known as the "Electrical Board." Said
Board shall consist of five members. One member sha71 be a master electrician
of the City of Friendswood; two members shall be tax payers; one member shall
-3-
be from the local Electrical Supply Agency or his representative; and the
Electrical Inspector. The City Attorney of the City of Friendswood shall
be the Board's legal consultant. Three members of the Board shall constitute
a quorum. A member of the City Council shall act as liaison be�ween the
Board and the Council .
Section 3.02 Ap�ointment of Board. The members of the Electrical
Board sha71 be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the
City Council of the City, said appointments to be made within ten (10) days
after this ordinance takes effect.
Section 3.03 Terms of Board Members. Merrabers of the Electrical
Board shall serve in the term o two 2 years. Two (2) members of the
Board shall be appointed each year to serve terms beginning January 1 and
terroinating December 31 of each odd number year and two (2) each even number
year. The Electrical Inspector shall be a constant member of the Board.
Section 3.04 Removal and Vacancies. Any member of the Electrical
Board may be removed by the ity Council for good cause, and, if for any
reason any of the merr�ers of the Board shall be vnable to act, or shall resign
from their respective pasitions, or shall be removed from office for any good
cause, then the Mayor shall appoint a successor or successors who shall
fi71 out the unexpired term, or until respective successors shall be
appointed.
Section 3.05 Compensation of Board Merobers. Members of the Electrical
Board shall receive no compensation for conducting examinations for licenses
or for performing such other duties as are herein prescribed, other than
fees and such other allowances as may be advanced them by the City Council
of the City of Friendswood.
Section 3.06 Secretaryo uf the Board. The Electrica7 Inspector shall
serve as Secretary to the Board and shall keep a camplete record of all
proceedings of the Board, inc7uding a record of all examinations held and
applicants examined, and the results thereof together with any such other
records as the Board may direct. A record of the name of each applicant and
the number, date and result of the examinations taken by each applicant
shall be kept permanent7y; otherwise no records or examination papers need
to be kept for a period greater than two (2) ca7endar years.
ARTICLE IV
AUTHORITY AND DUTIES OF THE ELECTRICAL BOARD
Section 4,01 �eeti'n�s_of the Board. The Electrical Board shall meet
as soon as possible after appointment. The Board sha17 make and promulgate
its own ru7es governing its meetings and proceed�ngs including selection of
a chairman.
Section �.02 When No Board Meetin is Required. No meeting of the
Electrical Board sha77 be required to pass upon applications for licenses
or registration; however, special meetings shall be ca7led by the Mayor or
any person du7y designated by him, upon written request of �Lwo members of
the Electrical Board.
Section 4.03 Reports. The Electrica7 Board shall prepare and cause
to be submitted annua7 reports to the City Counci7 of the C�ty, indicating
therein the official actions of the Board. Said reports are to be submitted
to the Counci7 in January.
Section 4.04 Investi�ation. The Electrical Board shall make such
investigations regarding electrical work as are deemed necessary by a
majority of Board merrd�ers, or as directed by the City Council of the City.
Section 4.05 Authority to Waive Requirements. The Electrlca7 Board
is hereby empowered to modify or waive tfie requirements of this ordinance
by a majority vote of all members in particular cases:
-4-
a. Wherever any ru7es are shown to involve expense not justified by
the protection secured, or for any other reason shown to be �m-
practical; or
b. Whenever it is shown that equivalent or safer construction can be
more readily accomplished in other ways.
Section 4.06 Res onsibilit to Reco�unend Im rovements. The Electrical
Board sha71 submit to the City Counci of the City written suggestions and
recommendations for the improvement, enforcement and administration of this
ordinance.
Section 4.07 ReSponsibili� for Examinations. The Electrical Board
shall examine every applicant for an electrician's license except as other-
wise provided in this ordinance; and the Board shall adopt such rules and
regulations as are �equired for the examination and re-examination of
applicants for e7ectrician's licenses, including the fixing of reasonable
times and p7aces for examination and re-examinatian of applicants; and shall
prepare or cause to be prepared uniform and reasonab7e qualification
examinations for appl�cants for licenses as Master Electricians and Journeymen
Electricians, except as otherwise provided in this ordinance.
Section 4.08 Examination - Master Electrician. An examination for
a Master Electrician's 7icense sha17 be of such a nature as to show the
app7icant's satisfactory knowledge of the National Electrical Code, this
ordinance, such State statutes as are applicable, and other �ecognized
requirements pertaining to electrical work, and his ability to correctly
diagram and to instruct other persons in the making of practica7 electrical
installations with correct sizes and values of required materials and
devices.
Section 4.09 Examination - Journeyman Electrician. An examination
for a Journeyman Electri'cian s 7icense shall be of such a nature as to show
the app7icant's satisfactory ability to fo7low written and verbal instruc-
tions and satisfactory and thorough know7edge of the N.E.C., this ordinance,
such State statutes as are applicable and other recognized requirements
pertaining to electrica7 work.
Sect�on 4.10 Examination - Restricted Licenses. If the applicant ,
desires to do electrica wor only in a restricted field as provided for
in this Ordinance, he shall only be required to pass a special examination
applicable to that restricted fie7d.
Section 4.17 Passing Grades. A grade of seventy-fi�e percent (75%)
sha17 be the 7owest passing grade for any examination provided for in this
ordinance.
Section 4.12 Examination Dates and Results. The Electrical Board
shal7 set the examination ate, t e place where t e examination shall be
held, and the examination sha71 be given within ten (10) days after an
application is fi7ed; and the result of such examination shall be announced
to the applicant within five (5) days after such examination.
Section 4.13 AuthoritY to Waive Examination. The Electrica7 Board
shall have the au�hority to waive the requirements of an examination upon
presentation to said Board of evidence of �perience and education which
clearly indicates the applicant's qualification for the type of 7icense
requested, and otherwise as provided by this ordinance. The Board shall
have complete contro7 in establishing qualifications which will exempt
applicants from taking examinations otherwise requ�red for the type of
license required.
Section 4.14 Examination Fees. Applications for examinations shall
be accompanied by an examination fee as herein provided:
a. The fee for e�amination as a Master E7ectri�ian sha17 be Ten
($10.00) Do77ars.
-5-
b. The fee for examination as a Jolirneyman Electrician shall be
Ten ($10.00) Dollars.
All monies paid by app7icants in connection with examinations shall become
the property of the City of Friendswood and shall not be subject to refund.
Section 4.75 App7ications for Examination. Every applicatiion for
examination as a Master or Journeyman Electrician shall be made upon a form
furnished by the Electrica7 Inspector. Every application shall state the
name, date of birth, race, sex, residence and business address of the
applicant, a statement of his act�ve and practical experience, and shall
state whether the app7icant has previously been licensed as a Master or
Journeyman Electrician or other classificat�on of Electrician, and if so,
when and by what state, county, or city, and whether any such license has
ever been suspended or revoked, and, if so, the date of and the reason for
s�ch suspension, revocation or refusal .
Section 4.16 Re-Examination - Generally. No applicant who fails to
pass his first examination sha 1 be examined again prior to the expiration
of one calendar month from the date of said first examination. No applicant
who fails to pass his second e�camination shall be examined again prior to
the expiration of seven calendar months from the date of said first examina-
tion. No applicant who fails to pass his third examination shall be
exarained prior to the expiration of one year from the date of said first
examination. Any app7icant who fails to pass three examinations for any
7icense sha17 be entitled to an exaroination for such 7icense once each year
as long as he shall so desire.
Section 4. 17 Certificate of Qualification. The Electrical Board
sha17 issue to each successfu applicant a Certificate of Qualification
certifying that the applicant has been found competent as a Master or
Journeyman Electrician, which Certificate shall entitle him to a license
to carry on specified electrical work in the City of Friendswood.
Section 4.79 Certificates Not Transferrable. Certificates of Quali-
fication are personal on y to the examinee and are not in any manner
transferrable. All such Certificates are revokable for sufficient cause
upon the fi7ing of written charges by the E7ectrica7 Inspector or Electrical
Board.
ARTICLE V.
APPEALS
Section S,OI Appeals - Generally. Any person denied a license or
whose 7icense has been suspended or revoked by the Board, except where such
suspension or revocation is automatic under the provisions of Section 11 .22
of this ordinance, or any person who is otherwise aggrieved by a decision
of the Electrica7 Board may appeal to the City Council of the City of
Friendswood and the aggrieved shall have the right to file a petition within
ten days thereafter for a hearing before the City Council . The City Council
shall set the roatter for hearing upon fourteen days written not�ce to the
aggrie�ed person, and thereupon take test�mony and examine into the facts
of the case, and determine whether the petitioner is entitled to a license
or is subject to suspens�on or revocation of his license under the provisions
of this ordinance.
Section 5.02 Appeals - From Examination. If an app7icant for licensing
feels that he has not been fairly dea7t with by the Electrica7 Board in the
process of examinat�on, he may appeal to the City Council from the Board' s
decision. If and when he has been able to es�ablish to the satisfaction of
the City Council that he shall have a further re-examination test�ng his
fitness as Master or Journeyman Electrician, the City Council shall request
that the Electrical Board re-examine the app7icant and the Board shall,
within a reasonab7e time, comply with said request, not to exceed thirty
days from the receipt of said request.
-6-
Section 5.03 A eals - From Decisions b Electrical Ins ector.
Any person aggrieved by a ecision or ruling of the Electrical Inspector
shall have the right of appeal to the Electrical Board for its review. Such
appeal sha17 be perfected by a request in writing to the Chairman of the'
Board for a hearing in which the following information shall be contained:
a. Name and address of person making appeal .
b. Facts surrounding the particular ruling or refusal to make ruling,
c. The ru7ing, if any, of the Electrical Inspector.
d. Reasons why such ruling should be set aside, or if a ruling was
refused, why such ruling should be made.
During the pendancy of any appeal to the Electrical Board, the ru7ing of
the Electrical Inspector shall be in full force and effect.
Section 5.04 Appeal� s � Board Members. A member of the Electrical
Board sha71 have no vote on his own appeal before the Board.
ARTICLE VI.
CREATION OF OFFICE OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR
Section 6.07 Qualifications and Creation of Offi_ce. There is hereby
created the Office of Electrical Inspector of the City of Friendswood. The
person chosen to fi77 the Office of Electrical Inspector shall be of good
roora7 character, sha17 be competent and well versed in the rules and
regulations of the N.E.C. , of such statutes of the State of Texas as are
applicable, and the terms of th�s ordinance; sha17 be possessed of such
executive ability as is requisite for the performance of his duties; and
shall have a thorough knowledge of the standard material and methods used
in the instal7ation of electr�cal equipment; shall be we17 versed in
approved methods of construction for safety to persons and property; and
shall have had at least five years experience as an E7ectrica7 Inspector or
Assistant Electrical Inspector and/or as a Journeyman or Master Electrician
in the installation of electrical equipment; or in lieu of such experience,
sha17 be a graduate in e7ectrical or mechanical engineering of a recognized
college or university and shall have had at least two years practical
experience.
Section 6.02 Appointment of Electrical Inspector. The Of�ice of
E7ectrical Inspector in and for the City of Friendswood sha71 be appointed
by the City Manager, and the salary for the Inspector shall be set by the
City Manager. However, before assuming the au�hority conferred by this
ordinance, the person so appointed shall successfu7ly pass an examination
submi�ted to h�m by the Electrical Board of the City of Friendswood.
Section 6.03 Oath and Bond of Electrical Insp,ector. Before assuming
the authority conferred by this ordinance, the Electrica7 Inspector shall
take an oath usual7y administered to other city officials and shall give a
bond to the City of Friendswood, Texas, in the penal sum of $7,000.00
conditi�nal upon the faithful performance of his duties. Assistants to
Electrical Inspector shall execute a similar bond in the sw�n of $1,000.00.
Said bonds ar.e to be issued by a reputable bonding company licensed to do
business in the State of Texas. The City shall pay fd� saia.bonds.
ARTICLE VII.
DUTIES OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR
Section 7.01 Responsi6ility for Inspection and Fees. It shall be
the duty of the Electrical Inspector to enforce the provisions of this
ordinance. He shall, upon application by an e7ectrician licensed by the
City of Friendswood, collect and account for the fees and deposits herein
fixed and provided for, and shall make inspections of e7ectrical installa-
tions and perform such other acts and duties as are provided for in this
ordinance.
-7=
Section 7.02 Records to 6e �ept. The Electr�ca7 Inspector shall
keep comp7ete records of a�l permits issued, inspections and re-inspections
made, and o�her official work perfornaed in accordance with the pravisions
of this ordinance; and sha71 keep a record of all condemnations of electri-
cal installations. The Electrical Inspector shall file every application
for a license received by him, and shall maintain suitable indices contain-
ing, in alphabetical or numerical order:
a. A71 applications denied and on each thereof note the reason
for such denial .
b. All applications granted.
c. The name of every licensee whose 7icanse has been suspended or
revoked, and after each name note the reason for such action.
The Electrical Inspector shall also file the abstracts of court records
of convictions and in connection therewith maintain convenient records
or make suitable notations in order that an individual record of such
licensee, showing the convictions or other records of such licensee, shall
be readily ascertainable and available for the consideration of the
Electrica7 Board upon any application for renewa7 of 7icense and at other
suitable time. The Electrical Inspector shall, furthermore, keep on file
a 7ist of e1ectrical equipment inspected and certified by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. , which list shall be accessible for public reference
during office hours.
Section 7.03 Reports. The Electrical Inspector shall submit a
written quarterly report of t�e activities of his office to the City Council .
Section 7.04 _App_oin.�t.ment of Assistants. The Electrical Inspector is
empowered to appoint sTuc�i assistants as are necessary for the proper conduct
of his office and the inspection of electrical work as provided for in this
ordinance. Salaries of any such assistants sha17 be determined by the
City Manager.
Section 7.05 Outside Interests Prohibited. It shall be unlawful for
the Electrica7 Inspector or for any of his assistants to engage in the
business of the sale, instal7ation or maintenance of electrical equipment,
either direct7y or indirectly, and they sha71 have no financial interest
in any concern engaged in such business in the City of Friendswood at any
time while ho7ding such office as herein provided.
Section 7.06 Removal . The City Manager may remove from office the
Electrical Inspector or any of his assistants for incompetency, neglect of
duty or other due cause.
Section 7,07 Liabi]ity_of Inspector. Neither the E7ectrica7 Znspector
nor any of his assistan�s shall, when acting in good faith and without malice,
be liable for damages ar�sinq by reason of duties performed under the
provisions of this ordinance.
ARTICLE VIII ,
AUTHORITY OF ELECTRICAL INSPEGTOR
Section 8.07 Authority to Insp�ect. The Electrical Inspector shall
have the right during reasonable hours to enter any building or premises in
the d�scharge of his official duties, or for the purpose of making any
inspection, re-inspection, or test of e7ectrical equipment contained therein,
or its instal7ation.
Section 8.02 Interference Unlawful . It shall be unlawful for any
person to interfere with the Electrical Inspector in the discharge of his
duties, or to preven� or in any manner attempt to prevent him from carrying
ovt the provisions of this ordinance.
-8-
Section 8.03 Right to Remove 06structions. The Electr�cal Inspector
shall have the right to remove or compe7 the removal of any obstruction
such as lath, plastering, ce�7ing or �7ooring which may h�nder a full and
complete investigation of such wires or apparatus as the Inspector may deem
it necessary to inspect.
Section 8.04 Authorit to Condemn Conductors. The E7ectrical
Inspector may remave or compe the remova of any conductors which are
enclosed in conduit or are otherw�se inaccessible for complete inspection.
When said conductors are not in accordance with the requirements of this
ordinance or are found to be otherwise unsafe to life or property, the
Electrical Inspector sha71 have the right to condemn, disconnect and cause
the owner of such conductor or material to immediately correct same or have
it removed.
Section 8.05 Notice to Comply. Where any electrical work is found
by the Electrica7 Inspector to be dangerous to persons or property, the
person owning, using, or operating such electrical work sha17 be notified
in writing to make any changes or repairs which are required to make such
e7ectrica7 work in safe condition and if svch required work is not comp7eted
within twenty-four hours, or within any such longer period as may be
specified by the Electrical Inspector in said notice, th�°Elec�rical y
Inspector shall have the authority to disconnect or cause to be disconnected
all electrical service to said electrical equipment or installation and/or
the premises in or upon which the same is located. Any person failing or
refusing to repair or remove the same within twenty-four hours or within
such further time as the Electrica7 Inspector shall determine is necessary,
after the receipt of such notice, sha17 be subject to the pena7ty herein-
after provided.
Section 8.06 Po7ice Powers. The Electrical Inspector sha17 have full
police powers, inclu inT g the �power to arrest or cause the arrest of any
person vio7ating any of the provisions of this ordinance.
Section 8.07 Stop-Work Notice. The E7ectrical Inspector shall cause
the cessation of any electrical wo�Trcrbeing done in a manner which violates
the provisions of this ordinance, and he shall cause the discontinuance of
ma�ntenance or operations, or the use of materials which violate the pro-
visions of this ordinance; and upon determining that particular work should
cease, the Inspector shall post a notice to that effect on the premises and
thereafter no person shall proceed with electrica7 work until the Inspector
has cance7led the stop-work notice. The Electrical Inspector may attach to
e7ectrical work or electrical meters any notice or seal to prevent the use
of e7ectricity; and it shall be unlawful for any person to use any such
sea7 or break, change, destroy, tear, muti7ate, cover, or otherwise deface
or injure any such official notice or sea7 posted by the Electrical Inspector.
Section 8.08 Authority to Disconnect. In case of emergency, where
necessary for safety to persons or property, or where e7ectrical equipment
may interfere wi�h the work of the Fire Department, the Electrical Inspector
shall have the authority to immediate7y disconnect or cause the i�nediate
disconnection of any e7ectrical equiproent, and without notice to anyone.
Section 8.09 Change of Occupancy, Comp.liance Required. The Electrical
Inspector sha71 be empowered to order compliance with the provisions of this
ord�nance where a change of occupancy occurs within a building which requires
changes or alterations to existing wiring.
Section 8.10 Special Ru7inqs. The Elect�ica] Inspector sha17 decide
a7l disputed questions pertaining to the instal7ation, repair or other
alteration of a71 e7ectrical wiring, devices and equipment hereinafter pro-
vided for in this ordinance, such decisions to be made after taking into
consideration the N.E,C. , such statutes of the S�ate of Texas as are applicable
to svch qvestions, the provisions of this ordinance, and in the 7ight of
the standards general7y recognized 6y the e7ectr�cal trade concerning the
safe and proper insta7lation of electrical work. All special rulings shall
be reduced to writing and kept on file in the office of the Inspector.
-9-
Section 8.11 A��,eals. Any person ag�rieved by the Electr�cal Inspector
sha17 have such right of appeal as is provided in Article Y of this ordinance.
Sect�on 8.12 Non-com 7iance. Any person fai7ing, neglecting or
refusing within twenty-�our hours or su�h other period as is prescribed by
the Electrical Inspector, to make requ�red repairs or changes, and have
the necessary repairs or changes completed within the prescribed time after
the receipt of such notice as hereinabove provided, shall be considered a
violator of this ordinance, and each day that said electrical work sha17
remain not repaired, removed or chan�ed as required by the Electrical Inspec-
tor, sha17 be considered a separate offense within the intent and meaning
of this ordinance.
ARTICLE Ix
INSPECTIONS AND NOTIGES
Section 9.01 Inspector to be Notified. Upon comp7etion of any
installation of e7ectrical equipment which has been made under a permit,
it shall be �he duty of the 7icensed Master Electrician making the installa-
tion to notify the E7ectrical Inspector, who shall inspect the installation
within forty-eight hours, exc7usive of Saturday, Sundays, and �
ho7idays of the time such notice is given or as soon therearLer as
practicab7e.
Section 9.02 Certificate of Conformance. Where the Electrical
Inspector finds the installation s to be in conformity with the provisions
of this ordinance, he shall issue to the licensed Master Electrician making
the installation a notice of conformance, which shall be p7aced on the
equipment or premises, authorizing the use of the installation and sha17
send written notice of such authorization for connection to �he supply of
electricity to �he agency supplying the electric service. This certificate
shall not re1ieve the Master Electrician of his responsibi7ity for any
defective work that may have been concealed or escaped the notice of the
Inspector.
Section 9.03 Temporary. Certification. The Electrical Inspector may
give temporary permission to connect and furnish electricity to any wiring,
apparatus or fixtures for a period not to exceed thirty days if, in his
opinion, such wiring, apparatus or fixtures are in such condition that
current may be safely connected therew�th and there exists an urgent necessity
for suc� use, when written application is filed with him requesting such
permission. When a certificate of approval is �ssued au�horizing the
connection and use of a temporary instal7ation, such certificate sha17 be
issued to expire at a time to be stated therein and shall be revocab7e by
the Electrical Inspector for good cause.
Section 9.04 Emergency Wirinq. Emergency wiring may be permitted by
the Electrica] Inspector for a period not to exceed thirty days, at which
time said emergency wiring or service must be rerooved. If servi�e is
required for a longer period on large construction jobs only, said service
or emergency wiring sha17 be re-inspected and a $10.00 fee ��all. be�charged
for re-inspection each ninety days thereafter. Emergency wiring permit
app7ications must be accompanied by a letter to the Electrical Inspector
signed both by the Master Electrician contracting to perform the electrical
work and by the owner or occupant of the building or premises on which they
are installed, stating the period for which emergency wiring is desired and
signifying that emergency work will be promptly removed after expiration
of the emergency permit issued.
Section 9.05 Concealed Electrical Work. When any electrical equipment
is to be hidden from view by the pe►�nanent p7aceroent of parts of the bui7ding
and/or equipxnent, the 7icensed Mater Electrician installing �he equipment
sha7l notify the Electrical Inspector, and s�ch equipment shall not be
� concealed un�i7 it has been inspected and approved by the Elec�rical Inspector
or until forty-eight hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and ho7idays,
shall have elapsed from the time of such notification; provided, however,
that on large ins�allations where the concealment of equipment proceeds
-10-
contin�ously, the 7��ensed Master E7ectric�an insta77ing the e7ectr�ca7
equipment sha77 �ive the E7ectrica7 Znspector due not�ce, and inspection
shall be made per�odica77y during the pro�res� of the work. Tt shall be
unlawful for any person to conceal or place in operation any e7ectrical
equipment which has been disapproved or aond�mned by the E7ectrical Inspec-
tor unless and until the same has been so repaired or altered that it
comp7ies with all provisions of this ordinance and has �hereafter been
approved by the Electrica7 Inspector.
Section 9.06 Uncoverinq_ Concealed E�uipment. The Electrical
Inspector shall have the authority to requ�re any person to uncover any
wiring or electrical equipment which has been concealed without his know-
7edge or permission.
Section 9.07 Inspection with each Chanqe of Occupants. The electrical
supp7y agency shall disconnect the e7ectrical service to any building and/or
premises except private residences and duplex apartments each time such
�uilding or premises changes occupants, and it shall not again supply
electricity to such bui7ding(s) or premises until authorized to do so by
the E7ectrical Inspector. The owner and/or the new occupants of such
buildings and/or premises shall make application to the Electrical Inspector
for an inspection.
Section 9.08 Partial Inspections. When a Master Electrician does not
have the contract for finishing of electrical work covered by his permit,
he shall deliver his final inspection request in wri�ing when his part of
the e7ectrical work is completed and must state in writing the part of
the electrical work instal7ed by him.
Section 9.09 When Supp,ly of Electric Current Unlawfu7 . It sha17 be
unlawful for any electrica7 supply agency operating in the City of Friends-
wood to furnish current to any new building, tent, structure or outdoor
wiring of any kind, nature, or description without first obtaining a
c7earance from the Electrica7 Inspector stating that such wiring is approved
and a permit has been issued for the use of current. Whenever any service
is discontinued to any building or structure for any cause whatever (excepting
non-payment of bi17s), a c7earance will be necessary before such bui�lding
or structure can be reconnected. Any time a building is vacated, the
Electrical Inspector must make certain that there has not been any unauthorized
addition made to wiring of such building that might create a fire hazard,
or that wiring has not become in such a condition as to be hazardous.
Section 9.70 When Restoration of Electric Service Unlawful . Whenever
any e7ectrical service has been disconnected by orders of the Electrical
Inspector for reasons of being unsafe to persons or property, said service
shall not be restored unti7 a certificate of approva7 from the Electrical
Inspector has been received b,y the electrical supply agency.
Section 9.77 Certificate of Non-Gonformance. If, upon inspection,
an electrical instal7ation is not found to be fully in conformity with the
provisions of this Ordinance, the Electrical Inspector shal7 issue a notice
of non-conformance and shall notify the licensed Master Electrician making
the installation of the defects which have been found to exist. A71
defective work shall be corrected and brought in conformity with the pro-
visions of this ordinance before any further e7ectrica7 work will be
permitted within or on the building or premises and before the licensed
Master Electrician making the installation shall be issued any other permits
to perform any other electrical work.
Section 9.12 IpSpection and Re-I__ nspection Fees. No fee shall be
charged against perm����er for initialinspections; how�ver, wk�en
work is found to be incomplete or unsatisfactory after the inspection
is requested, a charge of $70.00 shall be made for the first re-inspection;
$72.50 for the second re-inspection; and $15.00 for each of three or more
required re-inspections.
-71-
I
Section 9.13 Respons�bi7ity. Every pers�n 7i�ensed in conformance
with this ord�nance sha77 be responsib7e for any defect in electr�ca7 work,
insofar as correction thereof is concerned, insta77ed by hi�a unti7 such
tiroe as a certificate of conformance and approval has been issued by the
Electrical Inspector, and any and all defects that may have been concealed
by such person and d�scovered by the Electrical Inspector after a Certificate
of Conformance has been issued approving such work. After the issuance of
the Certificate of Conformance, the person in whose name the electrical work
is contracted shall be responsible for a11 defects caused by such person.
ARTICLE X
PERMITS
Section 10.01 Permits Required - General7y. No person sha71 undertake
or complete any electrical installation or install, erect or alter any
electrica7 work in or on any building or premises in the City of Friendswood
�ithout first securing a permit therefor from the office of the Electrical
Inspector; also any person desiring to place any pipe, sheet meta7 or other
�aterial within six inches of any elec�ric wire or wires installed for use
in connection with electric light, heat or power sha17, before proceeding
with the execution of the work, obtain from the Electrical Inspector a
permit therefor.
Section 10.02 No Permit Required. No permit shall be reqvired for
such electrica7 work as is described in Section 2.02 of this ordinance; but
in cases where no licenses, permits, fees and bonds are required for the
insta7lation or repair of e7ectrical work for any purpose, said electrica7
work shall be installed or repaired in conformity with such provisions of
this ordinance as are app7icable.
Section 10.03 Permits - Who May �btain. Except as otherwise specifi-
ca7ly provided in this ordinance, no per�it sha71 be issued to any person
who is not the ho7der of a valid, unexpired Master Electrician's license;
and if the Master Electrician holds a restricted 7icense, no permit sha17
be issued for e7ectrical work except that which is authorized under such
license.
a. Master's Agent. Each �aster E7ectrician may appoint not more than
five of his ful7-time employees to act as his agents in obtaining
permits by fi7ing with the Electrical Inspector an affidavit sworn
to before an officer authorized to administer oaths, stating the
name and address of each such agent, that each agent is a regu7ar
and fu71-time emp7oyee under the personal supervision of such
Master Electrician, and that such Master Electrician assumes all
and full responsibility for any permit taken out or app7ied for by
any such agent. Such affidavit sha71 be permanently filed by the
E7ectrical Inspector, but this provision is intended only as a
convenience to Master E7ectricians in hand7ing ordinary electrica7
work and sha17 never be cons�rued as making the de7ivery of a
permit to any agent mandatory upon the Electrical Inspector.
b. Homestead Owners. A person performing electrical work with his
own hands in a dwelling owned by him and registered in the State
tax rolls as his homestead may be issued a permit to do e7ectrical
work on his homestead.
Section 10.04 App7�cations for Permits. App7ications for permits
required by this ordinance must be made in writing by the person employed
to do the work, or his authorized agent as provided in Section 10.03 of
this ordinance, and wi71 be submitted upon forms provided by the Electrical
Inspector for that purpose. Such app7ication sha17 contain:
a. Date app7ication is submitted.
b. Name of the owner and name of person emp7oyed to do the work.
-12-
c. Name of person actua77y present�ng app7ication to the E7ectrical
Inspector.
d. Exact 7ocation of the property �rhere work is to be done.
e. A fee, appropriate to the n:umber and kinds of installations to
be made in the amount specified �n the schedule contained in
Section 10.05.
f. A description of the work �o be performed. Where deemed necessary
by the E7ectrica7 Inspector to accomp7ish the objectives of this
ordinance, appl�cations shall be accompanied by as many copies of
specifications, plans, and a comp7ete feeder layout drawn to
scale and in detail to show the nature and character of the work
to be performed as the Inspector may deem necessary. The plan or
diagram shall show the manner in which the e7ectrical installation
is to be made or the character of any of the repairs to existing
e7ectrical instal7ations. And, when such plans, specifications
and layout are demanded, it shall be a violation of this ordinance
for any person to install any part of the electrical work concerned
until the E7ectrical Inspector approves said installations.
g. Signature of the person in the Electrical Department receiving
the app7ication.
h. Time and date that such application is actual7y received by the
Electrical Department.
i. Other such pertinent infor�ation as may be required by the
Electrical Inspector.
Section 10.05 Schedule of Fees for Permits. Before any permit will
be �ranted for the instal7ation or al�eration of electrical work, the
7icensed electrician making application for such permit sha71 pay to the
Electrica7 Inspector the fees in such amount as specified be7o�:
PY1eter Loop, Service, and 4 outlets . . . . . . . $2,00
O�t7ets (over 20) . . ... . . . . .. . .. . . .. ... . .. . . . .l5
Lighting Fixtures. . . . . . .. .. . .. .. . . .... . .. . . . .25
Rangereceptacle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . . . . 1 .00
C7othes drier. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 1 .00
WaterHeater... . . . . . . . .. . . .... . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 1 .00
CookingTops. . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Ovens. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Garbage�Disposals. . . . . . .. . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .50
Dishwashers. . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Electric Heaters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . .25
Window Air Conditioner Receptac7e. . . . . . . . . . . .50
TemporarySaw Pole. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 4.00
Temporary Cut In. .. . . . . . . . .. . . 4.00
. . . . . . .. . . . . . .
Motors: Up to but not including 7/2 HP. . .. . . .50
" 7/2 HP and ]ess than 2 HP. . . . . . . . . . . 2.00
" 2 HP and less than 10 HP. . . .. . . . .. . . 3.00
" 10 HP and less than 25 HP. . . .. .. . . . . 4.00
" 25 HP and less than 100 HP. . .. . . . . . . 8.00
" 100 HP and over.. . . . . . . . . .. . ... . . . . . .08/HP
x-Ray Machines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 2.00
Signs: Shop Inspection, per�KVA.. . . .. . . . 2.00
Incandescent & vacuum tube si�ns per KYA.. . . 2.00
Si�n Installation Inspection, per KVA. . . . . . . 7.50
Festoon lighting & streamers, per circuit. . . .50
Permit.. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. .. . . . .. . . 7.00
Swimming�Pools.. . . .. . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . 70.00
Mini��m I�spection�Fees. . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . 5.00
Re-inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70.00/12.50/15.00
Electric Furnance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.00
-13-
�ection 10.06 Hours for Submitting Applications. Applications
�or permits will only be accepted when presented during normal working
hours of the electrical Department, and then they must be presented in
person.
Section 10.07 Issuance of Permits. When the Electrical Inspector
finds the application to be correct, and the plans and diagram or specifi-
cat�ons are approved, and when the required fees have been paid, he shall
cause the permit to be issued. Upon receipt of such permit, the electrician
may start the proposed job and make the installation described in his
application, requesting inspection by the Inspector in the proper sequence
as the work progresses.
Section 10.08 Unspecified Work Not Authorized. No permit shall be
deemed to authorize anything not stated in the application, and for any
misrepresentation in such application the permit shall be suspended; and
if such misrepresentation appears to be willful , the permit shall be revoked.
Section 10.09 Term of Permit. If the work authorized by a permit is
not begun within thirty days from the date thereof, such permit shall there-
upon and thereafter be null and void; and before doing any further work at
the location designated in such permit, a new permit must be obtained in
like manner as the first, and only upon payment of such fees and deposits
as are specified in this ordinance. The permit shall be valid for a
period of 12 months. However, the Electrical Inspector may extend the
initiation or expiration date where he finds that extra�rdinarv circumstances
beyond the control of the permit holder have made it impossi�le'-�to initiate
or complete the work before the original dates.
Section 10. 10 Temporary Work. When a permit to install work of a
temporary character for a time to be specified in such permit, and not in
any case to exceed sixty days, shall have been issued by the Electrical
Inspector, a strict compliance with the foregoing rules of permanent work
will not be exacted, provided the character of the work is entirely safe
for the period design�ted in the permit. No temporary work or alterations
shall be allowed in live circuits unless protected by proper switch and fuse.
Section 10.11 Emergency Work. In case of emergency necessitating
the immediate new wiring or repairs to electrical wiring at a time when the
office of the Electrical Inspector is closed so that a permit cannot be
obtained, such permit shall thereafter be issued by the Inspector if written
application shall be made therefor during the next succeeding day that said
office shall be open.
Section 10.12. Permits for Part Jobs. When one electrician completes
the rough work, in whole or in part, on any electrical wiring or installation
of fixtures or equipment and a second electrician is called upon to complete
the work in whole or in part, t�en in that event, a separate permit is
required, for which regular fees shall be paid for the work to be done. Each
electrician shall be held responsible only for the work installed by him.
Before the second �lectrician is issued a permit for the completion of
electrical work on the job, the Electrical Inspector shall first give three
days notice to the electrician holding the original or first permit, if he
can be found to show good cause within three days why the second permit shall
not be issued.
Section 10. 13 Separate Permit Required. A separate permit shall be
required for each separate building, store space or apartment, whether such
unit is metered separately or conjunctively, and a service permit shall be
taken on all such units whether supplied from a central metering station or
directly from the electrical supply agency; except that in trailer courts,
the individual trailer disconnect switches shall not be deemed services.
And, if the permittee does not complete electrical work for which the permit
has been issued, then the contractor who finished such work shall apply for
a new permit on such work, provided, however, that there shall be only one
permit issued or outstanding at the same time for any one installation of
electrical equipment,
-14
I
� _ __�
Sect�on 70.74 Pe��it to 6e Dis la ed. On al7 ne� insta7lations, the
permit for e7ectrica7 work shal e disp7ayed in a readi7y access�b.le 7ocation,
as directed by �he E7ectrica7 Znspector, throu�ho.ut the �ime �hat such
instal7ation, as �s covered by the permit, is 6eing ins�alled.
Section 10.75 Permit Not Transferrd6le. Each perm�� i�sued under the
ter�s of this ordinance sha77 6e personal to the permi�tee and shall not be
assigned or transferred to any other person; and, �cept as otherwise
specifica77y prov�deu in this ordinance, it sha17 be unlawful:
a. For one person to obtain a permit in the name of another person.
b. For one person to suffer, allow or permit another person to obtain
a permit in such other person's name.
c. For one person to do or perform any electrical work under the
permit issued to another person.
d. For one person to suffer, allow or permi�t another person to do
or perform any electrica7 work under the permit under such other
person's name,
ARTICLE XI
LICENSES
Section 71 .01 Licenses Required. Except as otherwise provided in
this ordinance, no person shall engage in the business of contracting for,
insta7ling, altering or repairing any electrical work within �he City of
Friendswood which is regulated by this ordinance unless said person sha71
hold a valid, unexpired Master Electrician license as herein specified.
Section 17 .02 Who Ma.v Not Be Licensed. The E7ectrical Inspector shall
not issue a license to any person:
a. As a Journeyman Electrician who is under the age of eighteen years.
b. As a Master E7ectrician who is under the age of twenty-one years.
c. As an E7ectrical Contractor who is under the age of twenty-one years.
d. As a Sign Contractor who is under the age of twenty-one years.
e. As a Journe,yman or Master Electrician who does not file with the
E7ectrica7 Inspector the proper app7ication for such 7icense.
f. As a Journeyman or Master Electrician, Electrical Contractor or
Sign Contractor whose license has been suspended dliring the period
of such suspension.
Section 17.03 � A Business Required. An Electrica7 Contractor's license,
a Sign Contractor's 7icense, and a �laster Electrician's 7icense shall not be
effective unless the holder maintains a p7ace of business with a mailing
address, a te7ephone wi�h a competent attendant durinp business hours, and
complies with a71 other provisions of this ordinance.
Section 11.04 _Ap�li_c_a_tion for Licenses. Applications for licenses
shall be made upon a for— m�rnishe y t e Electrical Inspector. Applications
shall contain such information as is specified in Section 4.15 of this ordinance
and sha77 be accompanied by �the 7icense fee prescribed by this ordinance.
Section 71 .05 License Fees. Before app7icants for l�censes as Electrical
Contractors, Sign Contractors, or Master or Journeyman Electricians in the
City of Friendswood shall be issued a l�cense 6y the E7ectrical Inspector,
said applicants shall pay to the City of Friendswood a license fee in the
sums specified below:
-75-
a. Electrical Contractor... .. . ... . . .. . . ... ...$30.00
b. Electrical Sign Contractor. . . .. . . . ... .. . .. 20.00
c. Master Electrician. , .. . . .. .�... ...... .. .. 25.00
d. Journeyman Electrician... . .. . ... . . .. . .. . . . 5.00
Section 11 .06 Term and Renewa7 of Licenses. No license shall be
issued for more than one year, and such license may be renewed from year '
to year upon application by the holder of such license. All licenses
shall expire on the thirty-first day of December of each year unless sooner
revoked. Licenses sha71 be renewed before January firs� each year there-
after, upon paymen� of such fees as are herein specified, to the Electrical
Inspector, along with evidence that such required bond and insurance so
filed are still in force and effect; provided, of course, that such license
has not been cancelled prior thereto, in the manner herein set forth.
a. Electrical Contractor.. ... . . . . . .. ... . ... . .$20.00
b. Sign Contractor.. . . .. . .. . . . . . . .. .. . . .. . . . . 10.00
c. Master Electrician. . .. . ....... .. . .. . . . .. . . 15.00
d, Journeyman Electrician. . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . 3.00
If the holder of an electrician's license shall fail to make application for
renewal of same before its expiration, he shall be required to pay the full
initia7 license fee specified in Section 10.15 of this ordinance and take
such examination as is provided for persons originally deciding to do
electrical work in the City of Friendswood.
Section 11 .07 Forfeiture of Licenses. Any holder of any renewable
license of any grade w o s a fai to renew such license within one year,
that license shall become null and void.
Section 11,08 Insurance Re uirements for License. No Master Electri-
cian's license, no Electrica Contractor s icense or ign Contractor's
license shal7 be issued until the applicant for same shall have arranged to
carry the fol7owing insurance:
a. Workmen's Compensation Insurance on each and every one of his
employees, and this insurance shall be in accordance with the
provisions of the Workmen's Compensation Act of the State of Texas.
b. Public Liability Insurance to the extent of $50,000 for any one
accident, and $25.000 for any one person.
c. Property Damage Insurance to the extent of $10,000 for any one
accident, and $1,000 for any one piece of property.
S�ch hereinabove named insurance shall be written by an accredited company
under the supervision of the Board of Insurance Commissioners of the State
of Texas. Evidence of the compliance with the above insurance required
shall be considered as having been met when the policv, a copy thereof, or
a certificate of insurance has been filed with the Electrical Inspector.
Such policy shall include an endorsement thereon that the Inspector will be
notified at least ten davs in advance in the event the polic,y or policies
are cancelled or expire before the expiration date of the electrician's
license invo7ved.
Section 11 .09 Bond Required. No person shall be issued an Electrical
Contractor's 7icense, Sign Contractor's license, or Master Electrician's
license under this ordinance until such person shall have made, executed and
de7ivered to the Electrical Inspector such surety in the amount of $1 ,000
payable to the City of Friendswood. Said surety bond shall be with a
recognized and reliable surety company authorized to do business in the State
of Texas and shall cover compliance with all provisions and requirements of
this ordinance and the applicable laws bf the State of Texas and the City
of Friendswood. Said bond shall hold the City of Friendswood free of damage
or loss of every nature for acts or neglect of the principa7 of said bond,
its agents or employees; and said bond shall be held for the benefit and
use of the City of Friendswood, or any person injured or damaged by any act
-16-
or neglect of the principal or his agents or employees, or by reason or
failure to repair any defective work, device or installation, or for
failure to pay any and all fees or other charges due the City of Friends-
wood or for failure to remedy any faults or defective workmanship or material
without additional cost to the person for whom the work was done within the
time prescribed by the Electrical Inspector for the comp7etion of such
remedial work, and guaranteeing comp7iance with the requirements of this
ordinance of all work insta7led by the pr�ncipal, his agents or employees.
All bonds sha17 be for a period ending the next ensuing December 31st. Suft
upon such bond may be maintained by any person injured or damaged by reason
of the principal 's fai7ure to perform his obliga�ions under said bond,
Suspension or revocation of the license of the principal shall not by itself
affect the liabili�y of either the principal or the surety on such bond,
Section 71 .10 Reduction of Coveraqe. Shou7d the coverage of the bond
required by Section 17 ,08 be reduced by recovery or for any other reason,
the surety on such bond shall immediately notify the Electrical Inspector,
and the principal shall be suspended from all rights and privileges under
this ordinance until the full amount and coverage are restored.
Section 11 .11 Cancellation of Bond. Upon five days written notice
to the principa7 of said bon and to � e Electrica7 Inspector, the surety on
said bond shal7 have the privilege of cancelling any such bond. Cancellation
of any such bond sha17 no� cancel or reduce the surety's liability on any
transaction begun before 12:00 o'clock noon on �he effective date of a
cancellation,
Section 11 .12 Grades of Licenses. There shall be issued licenses of
the fol7owing classes:
a. "E7ectrica7 Contractor" Licenses which shal7 entitle the holder
thereof to contract for, and engage in the business of installing,
erecting or repairing electrical wires, conductors, molding ducts,
raceways or conduit, electrical machinery, apparatus, devices,
systems or instrumentation and construction under the requirements
of the National Electrical Code and provisions of this ordinance.
b. "Electrica7 Signs Contractor" license sha77 entit7e the holder
thereof to engage in the business of ins�alling, repairing and
maintenance of all kinds of electrical signs, including gas tube
sians, qas tube decorative or gas tube illuminating systems under
the requirements af the National Electrical Code and the provisions
of this ordinance.
c. "Master Electrician" license which sha17 entit7e the holder thereof
to supexintend all electrical installations under the holder of an
"Electrical Contractor" or "Electrical Sign Contrac�or" license
according to the provisions of this ordinance.
d. "Journeyman Electrician" license shall entitle the holder to do
work as an electrician for and under the holder of an "Electrical
Contractor" or "Electrical Sign Contractor" license and under the
direct supervision of the holder of a Master Electrician license,
according �o �he provisions of this ordinance.
Section 11. 13 Classes of Work Permitted b.y Licenses.
a. Each holder of an E7ectrica7 Contractor License sha17 qualify as
a Mas�er E7ectrician, or employ at a�l times a holder of a Master
E7ectrician License who shall be in direct charge of all electrical
wiring or construction.
b. Each holder of an Electric Sign Contractor license shall qualify
as a Master E7ectrician or employ at a17 times a holder of a Master
E7ec�rician's license, who shall be in direct charge of all electri-
ca7 sign wiring and instal7ations.
-17-
!
c. The holding of a Master Electrician license shall entitle the
holder thereof to be in general charge and supervision of the
business of installing, erecting or repairing electrical machinery,
apparatus, devices, systems or instrumentations, as the manager
or superintendent of a licensed contractor.
(1 ) He shall be a person of not less than twenty-one years of age,
and a person of good moral character.
(2) He must be a Journeyman Electrical Worker with at least five
years actual experience directly preceding date of application,
such experience to be practica7 experience in installing wires,
conductors and electrical equipment used inside of buildings
for the transmission of electrical current for light, heat or
power purposes, and must satisfy �he Board of Electrical Code
as to his qualifications for a Master Electrician's license,
or,
(3) He must be a qraduate electrical engineer of a recognized
university or college with at least two years actual experience
direct7y preceding date of application, such experience to be
prac�ical experience in installing wires, conductors and
electrical equipment used inside of buildings for the transmission
of e7ectrical current for light, heat or power purposes,
or,
(4) Be licensed by another city as a Master Electrician, and approved
by investigation by the Electrieal Bo�rd�
d. The holder of a Journeyman Electrician license shall be entitled
to engage himself in the employ of any holder of an Electrical Con-
tractor, or Electric Sign Contractor license; under supervision of
a Master Electrician and be required to register and receive his
license from �he City Inspector's office. Such license may be
issued to holder of a Journeyman Electrician license from any other
city upon investigation and approval by the Electrical Board. Any
holder of a license of any class sha71 furnish the Electrical
Inspector with his permanent post office address.
e. A temporary workinq permit shall entitle an unlicensed electrical ,
worker wi�h at least one year's experience in the installation of
e7ectrical equipment to perform work in the capacity of a Journeyman
Electrician unti7 the next regular examination date, at which time
such worker must appear before the Electrical Board and be examined
in the manner required herein for a Journeyman Electrician's
license. If such worker fails to pass the Journeyman Electrician's
examination, he shall not be permitted to work in the capacity of
a Journeyman Electrician until such later time as he is able to
pass such e�camination. No temporary working permits shall be renewed.
Section 17 .14 Restricted Licenses - �enerally. The Electrical Board,
upon issuing certificates for �9aster or Journeyman Electrician's licenses,
sha71 have the authority, wherever good cause appears, to impose restrictions
suitable to the licensee's e7ectrical working ability with resp�ct to the type
of examination passed or type of experience listed when applying for a license,
and the Board may set forth such restrictions on the usual 7icense form.
Section 17.15 Restrictions on Work Be.yond Scope of License. It shall
be unlawfu7 for the holder of any 7�cense or temporar.y working permit issued
under the provisions of this ordinance to engage in any phase of the electri-
cal business or perform any work at the e7ectrical trade other than such
business or work authorize�,by the c7ass of 7icense or permit held by him,
except that a helper or a Journeyman E7ectrician may perform work laid out
for him by a ho7der of a license enab7ing said holder to do wuch work, and
then on7y whi7e he is in the presence of and being supervised by the holder
of a 7icense.
Section 17.76 Issuance of Licenses. Upon notification by the Electrical
Board that an app7icant has successfully completed the e�camination as a
Master or Journeyman Electrician as provided in Article IV of this ordinance
-18-
�
the Electrical Inspector shall issue to each applicant the class of
license which such person is qualified to receive under the provisions
of this ordinance, upon payment of such fees and upon fulfillment of such
other requirements as are specified in this ordinance.
Section 11 .17 Licenses - Contents. A certificate and identity card
will be carried in person by the licensed electrician while performing
electrical work, and the person shall display same upon demand by any peace
officer, the Electrical Inspector, or by the owner of the premises or
property upon which the licensee is working. Each license shall bear a
distinguishing number assigned to the licensee, the full name, sex, date
of birth, residence address, business address, and a space upon which the
licnesee shall write his usual signature with pen and ink immediately upon
receipt of the license. No license shall be valid until it has been so
signed by the licensee.
Section 11 .18 Licenses Not Transferrable. It shall be unlawful for
any person holding a license as an electrician to transfer same or allow
the use of same directly or indirectly by any other person for the purpose
of obtaining a permit to do electrical work as herein specified.
Section 11 .19 Notice of Change in Status. Whenever any person, after
applying for and/or receiving an electrician's license shall move from the
address named in such application or in the license issued to him, or when
the name of the licensee is changed, or when the employment of such person
is changed, he shall immediately notify the Electrical Inspector in writing
of his former name, address and employment, his present name, address, and
employment, and shall give his license number.
Section 11 .20 Duplicate Licenses. In the event that an electrician's
license issued under the provisions of this ordinance is lost or destroyed,
the person to whom the same was issued may obtain a duplicate or substitute
thereof upon furnishing satisfactory proof to the Electrical Inspector that
such license was lost or destroyed and upon payment of a fee of $1 .00.
Section 11 .21 Suspension of Licenses - General�. The Electrical
Board may suspend the license of any licensed contractor or electrician
within the City of Friendswood for a period not to exceed one year after
determining at a proper hearing as hereafter set out that the licnesee:
a. Has committed an offense of which he has not been convicted,. but
for which automatic suspension of licensee, upon conviction,
would follow under the provisions of Section 11 .22 of this
ordinance; or
b. Has permitted an unlawful or fraudulent use of such license; or
c. Has committed an offense in another state, county, or city, which
if committed in this City would be grounds for suspension or
revocation; or
d. Is an habitual violator of this ordinance; or
e. Has performed electrical work that is in violation of this ordinance
or the N.E.C. , and such work is found to be the cause or the contri-
buting cause of a fire, whether or not there is any actual damage
or loss; or
f. Has performed electrical work that is in violation of this ordinance
and then failed or refused to make corrections necessary for the
work to conform to this ordinance; or
g. Is a habitual drunkard or narcotics addict; or
h. Has been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude; or
i . Has defruded any person for whom he has rendered or contracted
to render service; or
j . Nas failed to use approved materials.
-19-
l
Section 11 .22 Automatic Suspension of Licenses. The license of any
person shall be automatically suspended upon final conviction of any of
the following offenses:
a. Taking out a permit in the name of a person authorized to do the
electrical work and thereafter per�itting a person not authorized
by this ordinance to do the �lectrical work;
b. Tampering with, diverting from, or in any way interfering with
the proper action or registration of any electric meter, as that
offense is defined in Article 1056�r of the Penal Code of the State
of Texas;
c. Employing as a Master, Journeyman or other electrician any person
not then licensed as provided by this ordinance;
d. Lending or knowingly permitting the use of any license for the
doing of any electrical work to any person not entitled thereto
under the provisions of this ordinance;
e. Displaying or representing as one's own any license for the doing
of any electrical work when said license has not been lawfully
issued to the person so displaying same;
f. Failin� or refusing to surrender to the Electrical Inspector on
demand any licnese which has been suspended, cancelled or revoked
as provided by law;
g. Applying for or having in one's possession more than one current
license of the same type provided for in this ordinance;
h. Displaying or causing or permitting to be displayed or having in
one's possession any instrument purporting to be any license for
the doing of any electrical work knowing said instrument to be
fictitious or to have been cancelled, revoked, suspended or
altered;
i . Using a false or fictitious name, or giving a false or fictitious
address in any application for any license provided for in this
ordinance or any renewal or duplicate therefor, or knowingly making
a false statement or knowingly concealing a material fact, or
otherwise committing fraud in making such application;
j . Performing any character of electrical work, for which a license
is required, without the license required by this ordinance or
while such license is suspended, cancelled, or revoked.
The suspension hereinabove provided shall in the first instance be for a
period of six months. In the event any license shall be suspended under
the provisions of this ordinance for a second time, such second suspension
shall be for a period of one year. The suspension or any licnese shall be
automatically extended upon licensee's being convicted of performing electri-
cal work while the license of such person is suspended, with such extended
period of suspension being for a like period as the original suspension,
and in additon to any other penalty as provided in this ordinance.
Section 11 .23 Revocation of Licenses. If, within any three-year
period, the holder of any license issue under the terms of this ordinance
shall have been finally convicted three times or more for a violation of
any provisions of this ordinance, the Electrical Board of the City of
Friendswood may revoke and cancel such license, and upon such revocation
and cancellation, said license shall be and become null and void and cannot
be renewed thereafter.
Section 11 .24 Surrender and Return of Licenses. Any l�cense which has
been suspended or revoked shall be surrendered to and retained by the
Electrical Inspector, except that at the end of the period of suspension of
such license, the license so surrendered shall be returned to the licensee.
-20-
. y � � , � -. � . .
Section 11 .25 Cicenses Reci rocal . An electrician holding a currently
valid license in anot�ier city may app y for and receive a similar license
in the City of Friendswood without taking an examination under the following
conditions:
a. He shall :submit satisfactory evidence to a majority of the Electri-
cal Board that his license was issued under conditions not less
restricting than required by this ordinance for such a license,
and that an electrician holding a license issued by the City of
Friendswood would be permitted to apply for and receive a similar
license in such other city under reciprocal conditions;
b. He shall furnish a bond, pay the license fee, and comply with
all other requirements of this ordinance.
ARTICLE XII
STANDARDS FOR ELECTRICAL WORK
Section 12.01 Standards - Generally. All electrical work as covered
by this ordinance shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner with
materials of such kind, quality and capacity as will maintain satisfactory
and economical service to both the serving and consuming parties. Any and
all electrical work for light, heat, power or other purpose placed in or
on any building or structure in the city limits of the City of Friendswood
shall be installed in conformity with the rules and regu�ations as laid
down in the National Electrical Code as amended and approved by the American
National Standards Institute and in conformity with the additional rules
and regulations as set forth in this ordinance, the Statutes of the State
of Texas, and the rules and regulations issued under the authority of the
State Statutes. Where local rules and regulations are set forth in this
ordinance, they shall take preference over any rules conflicting therewith.
Minimum service requirements shall be as required by the serving utility company.
Section 12.02 Fire-Fighting Hazards. No wire or other electrical
apparatus shall be installed, operated or maintained over any street, alley,
sidewalk or building which may be reasonably calculated to interfere
seriously with the work of the Fire Department in the use of ladders or
other apparatus, or which shall obstruct or render hazardous the use of fire
escapes. On complaint of the City Fire Chief, the interfering obstruction
or hazardous wires shall be removed or properly rearranged.
Section 12.03 Circuits.
a. Not less than two twenty-amp branch circuits for the small appliance
load shall be installed in a kitchen. Each circuit shall supply
no more than three duplex recepticals. A receptical outlet shall
be installed at each counter top or space wider than twelve inches.
Counter top spaces separated by range tops, refrigerators or sinks
shall be considered as separate counter top spaces. Receptical
spacing on kitchen countertops shall not exceed six feet. These
circuits shall not extend beyond the kitchen or be used for any
fixed appliance.
b. Not less than one twenty-amp branch circuit shall be provided to
serve a minimum of two duplex outlets in the garage of a dwelling.
c. All conductors #4 AWG and smaller must be copper.
d. Pancake type outlet boxes shall not be used except by special
authorization by the City Electri�al Inspector.- - �
e. The ground electrode conductor shall be copper and enclosed in
armor cover or steel conduit.
f. The ground connector used to connect the ground electrode conductor
to the ground rod shall be made of solid copper or silicon bronze
and the connector shall have no ferrous metal parts.
-21-
, , . ' , . , . , . ,
,
Section 12.04 Signs•
a. All lighting classified as signs, and which is installed outside
the main walls of any building, shall be on approved circuits
supplying no load within the building.
b. No neon or similar tubing and no electrical work regulated by
this ordinance shall be fastened to any sign structure which
does not comply with the N.E.C.
c. Signs may extend to within 14' from the curb line to allow clear-
ance for city street signs, providing the saign is a safe distance
from utility wires. No sign shall at its lowest point be less
than eight feet above the sidewalk.
d. It shall be unlawful for any person to attach any sign, device
or representation used in the nature of advertisements, or
direction on any electrical sign which would bring the bottom below
the minimum set forth in this ordinance.
e. Lighting reflectors for the illumination of a building or sign board
shall �not project more than eight feet beyond the building line.
f. Unless a complete sign circuit is installed at the time of roughing
in wiring, each store shall be provided with a raceway run from the
panel board through the front wall of the building. There shall be
provided one spare circuit in panel board for each sign raceway.
g. All signs erected before an inspection is called for must be open,
and means of access shall be supplied by the person erecting the
sign.
Section 12.05 Special Requirements.
a. Control wiring for heating units installed in buildings other than
dwellings, regardless of voltaqe, shall be in metal raceway, and
conductors approved for the conditions shall be installed. In
dwellings, such wiring need not be in metal raceway, provided the
same is protected from mechanical damage;
b. No telephone, telegraph, bell wire or other signal wire shall be
run so as to come into contact with, or nearer than five inches
to any light or power wire, unless such light or power wires are
protected by porcelain tubes, romax, metal armor, or conduit.
Thermostat or other low voltage control wiring shall be well
strapped or supported with insulated staples, supports not to
exceed four feet;
c. Wherever new wiring is replacing old wiring, the old wiring must
be completely removed where possible, and where said old wiring
cannot be removed, it must be rendered impossible for future use
before final approval shall be given to the new wiring.
Section 12.06 Exceptions.
a. Section 210-8b of the National Electric Code may be omitted.
. ARTICLE XIII� � -
� PE(dALTY
Any person who �iolates any°part of this ordinance shall , uporr conviction,
be guilty of a misdemeanor, and sha11 be fined not more than two hundred dollars
($2Q0:00) for each violation. Each and every _�day's co���nuance of any'violati.on
Qf this ordinance shall constitute and�6e deemed a separate �offense. .
-22-
� i , i
. . '�� �� ` . ,
• � � ^ a ' . � �' a
ARTICLE XIV
LIABILITY
This ordinance shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the
responsibilit,y of any person installing, operatinq or controlling any
electric wiring or electrical apparatus for damages to anyone thereby, or
for full and faithful performance of the contract, nor shall the City of
Friendswood be held as assuming any liability by reason of the inspection
or re-inspection authorized herein or certificate or permit issued pursuant
to the provi�io�s of this ordinance, nor shall either the Electrical
Inspector of the City of Friendswood be held as assuming any liability by
reason of the inspection or re-inspection authorized herein or the certifi-
cates of conformance or nonconformance issued as herein provided or by
reason of the approval or disapproval of any equipment authorized herein.
ARTICLE XV
SEVERABI�IT�
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of
this ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any
court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate,
distinct and independent provision, and such holding shall not affect the
validity of the remaining portions thereof.
ARTICLE XVI
REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINA�NCES
This ordinance shall be and is hereby declared to be cumulative of
all other ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, and shall not operate
to repeal or affect any such ordinance or ordinances except :irasofar as the
provisions of such ordinance or ordinances are inconsi�tent or in conflict
with the provisions of this ordinance, in which instance or instances such
conflicting provisions in said other ordinance or ordinances shall be and
are hereby repeal�d.
PASSED ON FIRST READING this �� day of J7 , 1976
r =Z�L�
PASSED ON SECOND READING this l /�- day of � ,)7�ct--- , 1976
PASSED, APPROVED AND FINALLY ADOPT�D ON THIRD READING this � f,�
day of .� � ��.� _. , 1976
r
��' � ��
� ayor
ATTEST:
% `
�'�-�� � c � (/ ;�f�'<� �,
City Secretary
APPRQVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney
-23-