Permit For Access Control Installation?

[LGreene]

I looked to see if we had talked about this before and I couldn't find anything. The question came from an access control integrator, regarding the installation of card readers and electrified hardware on an existing building. He wanted to know whether a building permit was required. I checked the 2009 IBC and also the Massachusetts State Building Code modifications. The IBC would require a permit for this work. There are some exceptions where a permit would not be required, but they do not exempt this installation. Massachusetts removes almost all of the exceptions in the state modifications, but it's a moot point. In talking to some other integrators, cities and towns seem to have additional requirements for permits and inspections for this type of work.

So my question is this...if someone wants to install a card reader and electrified hardware in your jurisdiction, what do you require for permits and inspections? Does it vary depending on what type of hardware is installed (I've heard of some jurisdictions requiring special permits for mag-locks)? One local town requires a PE's stamp stating that the hardware was code-compliant. That seems unusual to me. If it's something that's covered in the code with no variance needed, shouldn't the code official know whether it's code-compliant without the PE's blessing?

What say you?

Here's the language from the 2009 IBC:

Section 105 Permits

105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends 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 this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

The exceptions related to electrical:

105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

Electrical:

Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for a power supply and the installations of towers and antennas.

Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

 

[cda]

we have a local admendment requireing plans and permit for certain hardware that is put on a door, list is to long and complicated.

I would say 105.1 would apply to exit doors

and also from the fire code

105.7.5 Fire alarm and detection systems and related

equipment. A construction permit is required for installation

of or modification to fire alarm and detection systems

and related equipment. Maintenance performed in accordance

with this code is not considered a modification and

does not require a permit.

 

[steveray]

Agree that a permit would be required here as the work is not one of the listed exceptions.....CT has State Statute that all "plans" for work in buildings 5000sqft or larger be stamped by a design professional.....If we "need" plans to permit the work, they shall be stamped....but the PE signoff sounds made up unless it is required per "controlled construction" or whatever that law states in MA.....We get statements of proffesional opinion, but only on new construction and only the "critical" uses (A,E,I,H)....and sometimes Y

 

[FM William Burns]

Section 105 Permits105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends 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 this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

Code Change - 105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends 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 means of egress, fire protection system, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit

KISS....the codes don't have to be so complicated

 

[LGreene]

Code Change - 105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends 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 means of egress, fire protection system, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permitKISS....the codes don't have to be so complicated

Is this a code change you'd like to see, or one that's in the works?

 

[Frank]

Required in Virginia

 

[FM William Burns]

Is this a code change you'd like to see, or one that's in the works?

Lori,

This is one I would like to see. Another code that I'm familiar with keeps it pretty simple. A change in the IBC as noted would pretty much cover the gambit and maintains my mission of making the code simpler for users and common folks

1.12 Permits and Approvals 1.12.1 The AHJ shall be authorized to establish and issue permits, certificates, and approvals pertaining to conditions, operations, or materials hazardous to life or property pursuant to Section 1.12