[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020[1]]
As used in this Subpart, the following words, terms, and phrases
shall have the following meanings, unless it is apparent from the
context that a different meaning is intended:
Any person who is self-employed in or employed by an alarm business,
either directly or indirectly, whose duties include any of the following:
selling, maintaining, leasing, servicing, repairing, altering, replacing,
moving, or installing on or in any building, structure or facility
any alarm system.
Exemption: This definition does not include a person who engages
in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location
and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be
installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation
of the alarm system in a specific location.
Any business operated by any individual, including a person
self-employed, partnership, corporation or other entity of selling,
leasing, maintaining, servicing, repairing, altering, replacing, moving
or installing any alarm system or causing to be sold, leased, maintained,
serviced, repaired, altered, replaced, moved or installed any alarm
system in or on any building, structure or facility or employing alarm
agent(s).
Exemption: This definition does not include a person who engages
in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location
and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be
installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation
of the alarm system in a specific location.
The person or persons designated by the Police Department
to administer the provisions of this Subpart. The alarm coordinator
establishes, implements, and oversees all procedures relating to alarms.
A class conducted for the purpose of educating alarm users
about the responsible use, operation, and maintenance of alarm systems
and the problems created by false alarms.
Any person, firm, or corporation who or which files an application
for an alarm registration as provided in this Subpart.
Any mechanical or electrically operated instrument composed
of sensory apparatus and related hardware which is designed or used
for the detection of an unauthorized entry into a building, structure
or facility or for alerting others of the commission of an unlawful
act within a building, structure or facility, or both, and which emits
a sound or transmits a signal or message when activated. Automatic
protection devices include, but are not limited to, audible alarms,
automatic dialing devices, alarms connected directly to communication
centers and proprietor alarms. Automatic protection devices may be
identified as "APDs."
Exemption: The following devices shall not be included under
the definition of APDs:
Devices which are not designed or used to register alarms that
are audible, visible, or perceptible outside of the protected building,
structure, or facility, such as those systems designed for the detection
of equipment malfunctions.
Devices which are designed for the notification of a condition
of fire and are provided for the evacuation of occupants of industries,
institutions and other similar premises or devices designed to signal
the flow of water in an automatic fire sprinkler system.
Devices which are designed for and installed upon motorized
vehicles or trailers.
Devices maintained and operated by the West Norriton Township
Police Department and used for the detection of unlawful acts.
Montgomery County Emergency Communications Division and/or
other rooms which house auxiliary communication equipment.
An activation of an automatic protection device (APD) signal,
necessitating a response by the West Norriton Township Police Department,
where an emergency situation does not exist. The term does not include
alarms caused by acts of nature or utility service interruptions.
A written notice, given by personal service upon the addressee,
or given by United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to the
person to be notified at his last known address, return receipt requested.
Service of such notice shall be effective upon the completion of personal
service or upon delivery by the United States Postal Service.
Any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation,
company, or organization of any kind.
The Chief of Police of the West Norriton Township Police
Department, or his designated representative.
The West Norriton Township Police Department.
Any alarm system which sounds within the protected premises
or control center under the supervision of the proprietor of the protected
building, structure, or facility. If police response is expected or
is a result of that proprietary alarm signal or message, it thereby
becomes an APD, as defined in the definition of "automatic protection
device" in this section.
A unique individual number assigned to an alarm user as part
of the alarm registration.
A person who has an APD installed on realty in which the
subscriber has an interest or who is applying for the installation
of an APD.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Part
2, Alarm Systems, adopted by Ord. 509, 3/12/1990, §§ 4-23.1
through 20, as amended by Ord. 524, 12/31/1991.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Business Registration Required. It is unlawful for any person to
engage in, conduct or carry on an alarm business at any time within
the limits of the Township of West Norriton without first applying
for and receiving an alarm business registration in accordance with
the provisions of this Subpart.
B.
Agent Identification Required. It is unlawful for any person to engage
in or conduct business or operate as an alarm agent at any time within
the limits of the Township of West Norriton, unless connected with
and carrying identification from a business that has been issued a
business registration in accordance with the provisions of this Subpart.
Agent identification must be carried at all times while engaged in
alarm business activities and must be displayed to any police officer
upon request.
C.
Alarm User Registration Required. It is unlawful for any person to
use an automatic protection device (alarm system) at any time within
the limits of the Township of West Norriton without first applying
for and receiving an alarm user registration in accordance with the
provisions of this Subpart.
D.
Suspension or Revocation. It is unlawful for any person to possess
and use an automatic protection device (alarm system) requiring a
registration under this Subpart or engage in, conduct or operate in
a manner requiring registration under this Subpart at any time within
the limits of the Township of West Norriton when their privilege to
do so has been suspended or revoked in accordance with the provisions
of this Subpart.
E.
Testing Prohibited Without Permission. It is unlawful for any person
to conduct any test or demonstration of any automatic protection device
designed to make direct connection to the police communications center
at any time within the limits of West Norriton Township without first
obtaining permission from the Police Department. Such permission is
not required where the equipment to be tested or demonstrated is connected
to an intermediary and the receipt of the alarm or signal is not relayed
to the Police Department by any means.
F.
Automatic-Dialing Device Prohibited. It is unlawful for any person
to install, program, use or interconnect an automatic dialing device
programmed to automatically transmit a request for emergency response
directly to the West Norriton Township Police Department's communications
center via any telephone trunk line.
G.
A battery-powered (9 volt, 11.2 volt, or similar voltage) audible
alarm system whose sole purpose is to notify the occupants of that
location of an emergency situation shall be exempt from the permit
requirements of this Subpart, if all of the following conditions exist:
(1)
The alarm is not connected to any mechanical or electrical device
that automatically notifies a person or agency outside that location
that the alarm system is activated.
(2)
The audible alarm does not sound outside the location (no external
speakers).
(3)
The internal signal emitted by the audible alarm does not exceed
90 decibels.
(4)
The internal alarm does not cause undue annoyance or alarm to
occupants of adjoining premises.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
An alarm user shall not operate, or cause to be operated, any alarm
system without a valid alarm registration. A separate registration
is required for each alarm site having a distinct address or business
name. A registration fee including a completed alarm registration
application shall be received and approved by the alarm coordinator
prior to any alarm system activation. A thirty-day grace period shall
be granted from the date of all new alarm installations or takeovers
between two alarm users, to accommodate the registration application
process. Residential alarm users who are age 65 or older and are the
primary resident of the property and if no business is conducted in
the residence may obtain an alarm registration from the Police Department
according to this Subpart without payment of a fee.
B.
An application for an alarm registration will be in a format as determined
by the Police Department. The information required on such forms shall
be determined by the alarm coordinator. Registration applicants acknowledge
that the police response may be influenced by factors, including,
but not limited to, the availability of officers, priority of calls,
traffic conditions, weather conditions, emergency conditions, prior
alarm history, administrative actions, and staffing levels.
C.
Owners of local alarm systems are required to adhere to all sections
of this Subpart and are subject to all fees, fines, suspensions, penalties,
or other requirements that are applicable.
D.
All fees shall be collected by the alarm coordinator.
E.
Existing Alarm Systems. Any alarm system that has been installed
before the effective date of this Subpart, that is not currently registered
with the Township, shall be registered and a registration fee collected
by the alarm coordinator.
F.
New Alarm Systems.
(1)
An alarm installation company shall not install an APD unless
or until the system has been registered.
(2)
In the case of a self-installed alarm system, it is the responsibility
of the property owner to register the alarm with the Township.
(3)
Failure of an alarm user to submit the registration fee within
30 days after an alarm has been installed shall result in the alarm
system being classified as nonregistered and late charges being assessed.
G.
The issuance of an alarm registration does not create a contract
between the Police Department and/or West Norriton Township and any
alarm user, alarm installation company, or monitoring company, nor
does it create a duty or obligation, either expressed or implied,
on the Police Department to respond to any alarm. Any and all liability
and consequential damage resulting from the failure of the Police
Department to respond to an alarm dispatch request is hereby disclaimed
and full governmental immunity as provided by law is retained. By
applying for an alarm registration, the alarm user acknowledges that
the Police Department response is influenced by the availability of
officers, priority of calls, traffic conditions, weather conditions,
emergency conditions, staffing levels, prior response history, and
administrative actions.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
An alarm registration for commercial and residential sites shall
expire one year from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually
by the alarm user. The alarm coordinator shall notify the alarm user
of the need to renew their registration 30 days prior to the expiration
of the registration. It is the responsibility of the alarm user to
submit the updated information and renewal fees prior to the registration
expiration date. Failure to renew shall be classified as use of a
nonregistered alarm system and subject the alarm site to a suspension
and late charge.
B.
Registration fees shall be collected based on the registration period.
The fee for registration permits, previously known as "alarm system
permits," shall be $50. The annual license fee shall also be $50.
The amount of the registration and renewal fees required may be established
by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
C.
Alarm users who fail to make payment for an alarm registration prior
to the registration's expiration date will be assessed a late
charge as established by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
D.
No refund of a registration or renewal fee will be made.
E.
Upon receipt of a completed alarm registration application form and
the alarm registration fee, the alarm coordinator shall issue a registration
number or registration renewal to the applicant unless:
(1)
The applicant has failed to pay any fee or fine assessed under
this Subpart; or
(2)
An alarm registration for the alarm site has been suspended,
and the condition for the suspension has not been corrected; or
(3)
Any false statement of a material fact made by an applicant
for the purpose of obtaining an alarm registration shall be sufficient
cause for refusal to issue an alarm registration.
F.
Exemptions From Fees.
(1)
Government entities, including but not necessarily limited to
the Township, county, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, federal, and school
districts, must obtain alarm permits for alarm systems on property
under their control within the boundaries of the Township, but are
exempt from payment of all fees under this Subpart.
(2)
Residential alarm users who are over 65 or older and are the
primary resident of the residence and if no business is conducted
in the residence may obtain an alarm registration without payment
of a fee. They are not exempted from the alarm response fee.
G.
The alarm coordinator may assess the alarm user a fine for a false
alarm occurring at the alarm user's alarm site. The amount of
the fine shall be established by the Board of Commissioners. Notice
of the right to appeal under this Subpart will be included with notice
of any fine.
H.
All alarm fees are due within 30 days of written notice unless otherwise
noted. A late charge in an amount established by resolution of the
Board of Commissioners shall be imposed for each fee or fine that
is not paid within 30 days.
I.
The alarm coordinator may waive the false alarm fine for the first
chargeable false alarm during each of a residential alarm user's
one-year registration period, pending the successful completion of
the online alarm user awareness class available through the alarm
coordinator. In order to have the fine waived, the alarm user shall
have successfully completed the class within 30 days of the fine notice.
Alarm users without online access may request the online school and
test be mailed to them. Commercial alarm users are not eligible for
the alarm user awareness class.
J.
Alarm users who have obtained a valid alarm registration prior to
a false alarm activation are granted a thirty-day grace period from
the initial date of registration for familiarization and/or adjustment
of a mechanical malfunction of the alarm system, during which time
the false alarm activation will not be conducted, nor a fine assessed.
This only applies to new alarm system installations or new alarm user
takeover conversions.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Any registration may be suspended by the Chief of Police for any
of the following reasons:
(1)
The violation of any of the provisions of this Subpart.
(2)
The failure to comply with rules and regulations adopted pursuant
to this Subpart.
(3)
There is a false statement of a material fact in the registration
application.
(4)
The alarm user has had four or more false alarms within the
one-year registration period, except that the alarm coordinator may
waive a suspension of a registration upon receipt of documentation
showing reasonable attempts to address the issue resulting in the
false alarms.
(5)
The alarm user fails or refuses to pay an alarm registration
or renewal fee, false alarm fine, late charge, or any other fee, fine
or charge assessed under this Subpart.
(6)
Where any alarm business official is convicted of a crime which
reflects unfavorably upon his/her fitness to be in the alarm business.
B.
It is a violation of this section for a person to operate an alarm
system during the period in which the alarm registration is suspended.
C.
In addition to the false alarm response fee, a supplemental fine
shall be imposed on a person operating a suspended alarm system. The
fee for a false alarm is $100 each for the first, second and third
false alarms in a calendar year and $200 for each additional false
alarm per calendar year. The amount of the false alarm response fee
and the supplemental fine may be established by resolution of the
Board of Commissioners.
D.
An alarm user whose registration has been suspended may obtain reinstatement
of the registration by the alarm coordinator if the user:
(1)
Pays a reinstatement fee as established by the Board of Commissioners;
(2)
Pays, or otherwise resolves, all outstanding fees, fines, and
other charges;
(3)
Submits a written notice from an alarm installation company
stating that the alarm system has been inspected and repaired (if
necessary) by the alarm installation company; and
(4)
The alarm user successfully completes an alarm user awareness
class and test.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
An alarm registration cannot be transferred to another person or
alarm site. An alarm user shall inform the alarm coordinator and their
alarm company of any change to the information listed on the alarm
registration application within the business days after such change.
B.
Exceptions may be made in the discretion of the alarm coordinator
when the transfer proposed is among members of the family of the original
registration holder or successors in interest to the property for
which the alarm registration has been issued.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
An alarm user shall:
(1)
Maintain the alarm site and the alarm system in a manner that
will minimize or eliminate false alarms.
(3)
Provide the monitoring company with the updated names and phone
numbers of at least two persons who are able and have agreed to:
(4)
Not activate the alarm system for any reason other than an occurrence
of an event that the alarm system was intended to report.
(5)
Notify their monitoring company of any suspension of police
response (as provided for under this Subpart) and request the monitoring
company not make a burglar alarm dispatch.
B.
No person shall operate or cause to be operated any automatic voice
dialer which, when activated, uses a telephone device or attachment
to automatically dial a telephone line leading into the Police Department
or the Township and then transmit any prerecorded signal.
C.
An alarm user shall keep a set of written operating instructions
for each alarm system at each alarm site.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
No alarm system shall emit a sound resembling an emergency vehicle
siren or civil defense warning. The Chief of Police shall make the
final determination regarding any question of an audible alarm within
this section.
B.
After the effective date of this Subpart, no one shall install, modify,
or repair an alarm system in West Norriton Township that has a siren,
bell, or other signal that is audible from any property adjacent to
the alarm site that sounds for longer than 15 consecutive minutes
after the alarm is activated, or that repeats the fifteen-minute audible
cycle more than two consecutive times during a single armed period.
C.
In the event that an audible alarm is activated and fails to reset
itself or continues to activate for more than 60 minutes and the responsible
person listed on the alarm registration or other responsible person
cannot or will not respond and silence the alarm, and the continued
activation of the alarm is creating a disturbance, the Police Department
may cause the alarm to be silenced in a manner determined appropriate
for the circumstances. The alarm user shall be held responsible for
the actual costs involved to abate the malfunctioning alarm up to
a maximum of $300. The Township, its employees or agents shall not
be responsible or liable for damage resulting from such disconnection.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
If the alarm coordinator assesses a fee or fine, suspends an alarm
registration or denies the issuance, renewal or reinstatement of a
registration, the alarm coordinator shall send notice of the action
and a statement of the right to appeal to the affected alarm user.
B.
The alarm user may appeal any action in Subpart A above to the Police
Chief or his designee by setting forth in writing the reasons for
the appeal and delivering the appeal to the Police Chief or his designee
within 20 days after receipt of notice of the action. Failure to deliver
the appeal within that time period is a waiver of the right to appeal.
C.
The procedure for an appeal to the Police Chief or his designee is
as follows:
(1)
The alarm user shall file a written request for appeal by paying
an appeal fee and setting forth the reasons for the appeal. The appeal
must be entitled "Appeal from Alarm Coordinator's Action." The
appeal fee shall be in an amount established by the Board of Commissioners
and will be returned to the appealing party if the appeal is successful.
(2)
The Police Chief or his designee shall conduct a hearing on
the appeal within 30 days after the receipt of the request for appeal
and appeal fee and shall consider the evidence submitted by the appealing
party and the alarm coordinator. The Police Chief or his designee
must base the decision on the preponderance of the evidence presented
at the hearing and must render a decision within 15 days after the
date of the hearing. The decision shall affirm or reverse the decision
or action taken by the alarm coordinator.
(3)
The filing of an appeal stays any action by the alarm coordinator
to suspend an alarm registration or require the payment of a fee or
fine until the appeal process has been exhausted. This provision applies
only to the action of the alarm coordinator that is the subject of
the appeal. This provision does not operate as a bar to enforcement
actions on violations of this section that occur thereafter.
(4)
The alarm coordinator or the Police Chief may adjust the count
of false alarms or assessed fees based on the occurrence of multiple
alarms within a twenty-four-hour period, which may be considered as
one false alarm if the alarm user has taken corrective action, unless
the false alarms are directly caused by the alarm user.
(5)
The alarm coordinator or the Police Chief may waive all or part
of a false alarm fine due to extenuating circumstances or to encourage
corrective action.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The information furnished and secured pursuant to this Subpart
shall be confidential in character and shall not be subject to public
inspections and shall be kept so that the contents thereof shall not
be known except to persons charged with the administration of this
Subpart.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
This Subpart shall be known as the "Fire Alarm Ordinance of
West Norriton Township."
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
This Subpart shall regulate all matters concerning the design,
installation, repair, testing, monitoring, maintenance and operation
of all fire alarm systems and related devices; fixing fees and regulations
pertaining to the licensing of fire alarm contractors; and prescribing
penalties for violations hereof.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The high incidence of false fire alarms and/or alarm malfunctions
causes a significant misuse of the manpower and resources of the Jefferson
Fire Company No. 1 (JFC) by causing the dispatch of units to the scene
of a false alarm or alarm malfunction which renders them out of service
and unavailable to respond to legitimate emergency situations. This
Subpart shall be construed to secure its expressed intent which is
to insure public safety, health, and welfare by controlling the design
of, testing of, repair of, installation of, and maintenance requirements
of fire alarm systems installed and operating within West Norriton
Township; thereby, reducing the service demands on the JFC and improving
the safety to the public.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The provisions of this Subpart shall apply to all matters affecting
or relating to fire alarm systems and fire alarm contractors and shall
apply equally to new and existing buildings and conditions. This includes
all required and nonrequired fire alarm systems.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The West Norriton Township Board of Commissioners hereby provides
for determination of matters not provided for herein by authorizing
certain actions by the Director of Code Compliance.
A.
Administrative orders may be issued by the Director of Code Compliance
to clarify ordinance questions and to establish departmental policy
where no specific criteria exists, or where administrative guidance
is needed to establish a methodology to resolve recurring problems.
B.
Standard design bulletins will be issued where Code criteria leave
a specific aspect of the design installation to the judgment of the
Director of Code Compliance or the authority having jurisdiction.
They will set specific design criteria where necessary.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The continuation of use of a fire alarm system or the designing,
installation, testing, repair and maintenance of fire alarm systems
by any person(s), firm, or corporation contrary to the provisions
of this Subpart shall be deemed a violation and subject to the fees
and penalties prescribed in this Subpart. Each day that an unlawful
use or practice continues shall be deemed to be a separate offense.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
When the provisions herein are more restrictive than other regulations,
this Subpart shall control, but, in any case, the most rigid requirements
of any other applicable code or regulation shall apply whenever a
conflict exists.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The standards referenced in this Subpart and those listed in
the appendixes of any building or fire codes as adopted or amended
by West Norriton Township shall be considered to be part of the requirements
of this Subpart. Where differences occur between provisions of this
Subpart and other standards, the provisions of this Subpart shall
apply.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
All newly installed required fire alarm systems shall be certificated
by UL or FM as required in the National Fire Alarm Code, also known
as "National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72," referenced herein.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and
terms shall, for the purposes of this Subpart, have the meanings in
this section.
B.
Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future;
words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the
singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
C.
Terms Defined in Other Codes. Where terms are not defined in this
Subpart and are defined in the building, fire, mechanical and electrical
codes or bound to other applicable codes, such terms shall have the
meanings ascribed to them as in those codes as adopted by West Norriton
Township. Definitions found in NFPA standards for fire protection
and electrical installations shall apply in this Subpart, when not
otherwise specifically defined.
D.
Terms Not Defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods
authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted
meanings such as the context implies.
E.
AGENT
ALARM
ALARM MALFUNCTION
ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE
ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE
APPROVED
AUTOMATIC
CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR
CENTRAL STATION
CENTRAL STATION SERVICE
CERTIFICATED SYSTEM
CODE OFFICIALS
DIRECTOR OF CODE COMPLIANCE
FALSE ALARM (UNWANTED ALARM)
FIRE ALARM AFFIDAVIT
FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL
FIRE ALARM SIGNAL
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
HEAT DETECTOR
INITIATING DEVICE
KNOX-BOX®
LISTED
MALICIOUS FIRE ALARM
NONREQUIRED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
REQUIRED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
SMOKE DETECTOR
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL
TROUBLE SIGNAL
WEST NORRITON TOWNSHIP FIRE RESCUE (JFC)
Specific Definitions. As used in this Subpart, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
Any person who shall have charge, care, or control of any
building as representative of the owner, including an executor, executrix,
coordinator, administratrix, trustee or guardian of the estate of
the owner. Any such person representing the actual owner shall comply
with the provisions of this code to the same extent as if that person
were the owner.
Any audible or visible signal indicating existence of a fire
or emergency that requires response on the part of the JFC. Included
in this are the alarm devices by which fire and emergency signals
are received.
The activation of any alarm which results in the response
of the JFC caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation,
or lack of proper maintenance or any other response for which the
JFC personnel are unable to gain access to the premises for any reason,
or are unable to determine the apparent cause of the alarm activation.
A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker,
light, or text display that provides audible, tactile, or visible
outputs or any combination thereof.
A feature of automatic fire detection and alarm systems to
reduce unwanted alarms wherein smoke detectors report alarm conditions
for a minimum period of time, or confirm alarm conditions within a
given time period, after being automatically reset, in order to be
accepted as a valid alarm initiation signal.
Approved by the Director of Code Compliance or his subordinates
or designees (code officials).
A device or system providing an emergency function without
the necessity for human intervention and activated as a result of
a predetermined temperature rise, rate of temperature rise, or combustion
particles.
An approved, listed device which is intended to detect invisible
particles of carbon monoxide. This device is not classified as a fire-alarm-initiating
device. If carbon monoxide detectors are supervised by a central station,
then such alarm shall transmit as a distinct carbon monoxide alarm.
A supervising station that is listed, such as Underwriters
Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) for central station service
and is approved by the Director of Code Compliance.
A system or group of systems in which the operations of circuits
and devices at a protected property are signaled to, recorded in,
and supervised from a listed central station (such as UL or FM) having
competent and experienced operators who, upon receipt of a signal,
take such action as required by NFPA 72 currently in effect or as
subsequently amended. Related activities at the protected property
such as equipment installation, inspection, maintenance, and runner
service are also the responsibility of the central station or a fire
alarm contractor. Central station service is controlled and operated
by a person, firm, or corporation whose business is the furnishing
of such contracted services or whose properties are the protected
premises.
A fire alarm system certified by UL or FM. A system installed
under such a program is identified by the issuance of a certificate
by UL or FM and is designated as a certificated system.
The subordinates or designees of the Director of Code Compliance.
The West Norriton Township official charged with the duty
of administration and enforcement of codes as adopted by West Norriton
Township.
An alarm malfunction or malicious fire alarm as defined herein.
A form for completion by a fire officer when responding to
an alarm. Where an alarm malfunction occurs, the fire alarm affidavit
of service/repair shall also be completed by a licensed fire alarm
company and by the owner/occupant.
A manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal.
A signal initiated by a fire-alarm-initiating device such
as a manual fire alarm box, automatic fire detector, sprinkler water
flow switch or other device whose activation is indicative of the
presence of a fire or fire signal.
A system or portion of a combination system consisting of
components and circuits arranged to monitor and annunciate the status
of the fire alarm or supervisory signal-initiating devices and to
initiate the appropriate response to those signals.
A fire detector that detects either abnormally high temperature
or rate of rise, or both.
A system component that originates transmission of a change-of-state
condition, such as in the smoke detector, manual fire alarm box, or
supervisory switch.
A secure, tamperproof device with a lock operable only by
the Fire Department master key; and containing entry keys and other
keys that may be required for access in an emergency.
Equipment, materials, products or services included in a
list published by an organization acceptable to a code official or
the fire code official and concerned with the evaluation of products
or services that maintains periodic inspection of products of listed
equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose
listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service
meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for
a specific purpose.
The activation of any alarm which results in the response
of the JFC caused by the negligence or intentional misuse of the system
by the owner or his employees, servants or agents; or any other activation
not caused by heat, smoke or fire, exclusive of an alarm malfunction.
An alarm is not considered a malicious fire alarm if the alarm is
activated due to causes beyond the control of the owner.
Any fire alarm system not required by this Subpart or by
building or fire codes in effect in West Norriton Township.
A fire alarm system required by this Subpart and any building
or fire codes in effect in West Norriton Township.
An approved, listed device that senses visible and invisible
particles of combustion.
A signal indicating the need of action in connection with
the supervision of guard tours, the fire suppression systems or equipment,
or the maintenance features of related systems.
A signal initiated by the fire alarm system or device indicative
of a fault in a monitored circuit or component.
A combination career and volunteer fire rescue system, which
provides the primary fire and rescue services within West Norriton
Township.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
Fire alarm systems for new buildings or other structures shall
be installed as provided in the building, fire, and other applicable
codes in effect in West Norriton Township. Permits shall be applied
for and obtained as provided in this Subpart.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Additions or Alterations to or Rehabilitation of Structures. Enclosed
additions or interior alterations to, change in use of, or major rehabilitation
of any building shall require that existing fire alarm systems shall
conform to the requirements for new fire alarm systems as described
herein.
B.
Existing, Nonconforming Systems. Any fire alarm system installed
prior to the adoption of this Subpart should be upgraded or improved
to provide a minimum level of protection as directed by a code official.
C.
Existing, Nonrequired Systems. All nonrequired fire alarm systems
should provide a minimum level of protection as directed by a code
official. All nonrequired fire alarm systems shall be maintained and
remain in service unless approval to discontinue the system(s) is
received in writing from the Director of Code Compliance. Any approved
discontinued systems and related equipment shall be completely removed
from the structure so as not to give a false indication that the building,
area, or space is protected by a fire alarm system.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
General.
(1)
All fire alarm systems, devices, and service equipment installed
in or on any structure in West Norriton Township shall be maintained
in an operative condition at all times. It shall be unlawful for any
person(s) to reduce or interfere with the operational effectiveness
of a fire alarm system.
(2)
This requirement shall not prohibit a licensed fire alarm company
technician from temporarily reducing or discontinuing the protection
where necessary to make tests, repairs, alterations, extensions, or
additions. Alterations, extensions, or additions to fire alarm systems
require written approval from a code official. The Director of Code
Compliance or a code official shall be notified in writing, including
facsimile or email, prior to when disconnection and interruption of
protection caused by tests, repairs, alterations, extensions or additions
are started and upon completion of such work and shall be advised
of the extent of and reason for such work. The restoration of the
protection shall be accomplished within four hours in sleeping occupancies
and within 72 hours in all other occupancies.
B.
Maintenance.
(1)
It shall be the duty of the building owner(s) to install, test,
repair and maintain the following systems in accordance with the applicable
NFPA standard in effect: automatic fire-detection devices (including
smoke and heat detectors); fire alarm systems; automatic fire sprinkler
systems, including fire pumps and standpipes; automatic fire-suppression
systems; central station monitoring, when such systems and/or devices
are required by West Norriton Township ordinances.
(2)
It shall be the duty of a tenant or lessee to maintain all required
fire alarm systems and/or related components noted above when so required
as part of a written lease agreement or a written maintenance agreement.
C.
Alarms out of Service (O.O.S.). When the building alarm is out of
service while the building is occupied, a fire watch is required to
be posted every hour on each floor and one fire guard on the perimeter
of the building. The fire watch activity must be logged in and is
subject to inspection.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
General. The Director of Code Compliance and the code officials shall
enforce all of the provisions of this Subpart and shall act on any
question relative to the manner of design, installation, testing,
repair, maintenance, materials, equipment, and devices, or any related
issues pertaining to fire alarm systems, except as otherwise specifically
provided for by statutory requirements or by this Subpart. The Fire
Officer is the authorized representative of the JFC in charge at the
fire or incident scene.
B.
Application and Permits. The Department of Code Compliance shall
receive applications, plans, specifications, monitoring/supervisory
information, permit fees and shall issue permits for the installation
of, additions, extensions, or alterations to fire alarm systems. A
code official shall inspect the premises for which such permits have
been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this Subpart.
C.
Affidavits and Notice of Violations. The Fire Officer in charge of
any incident involving a fire alarm system shall be responsible for
executing the fire alarm affidavit form and forwarding a copy of all
responses to automatic fire alarms to the Department of Code Compliance.
Code officials shall issue all necessary notices or orders to correct
improper conditions with fire alarm systems to ensure compliance with
all code requirements for the health, safety, and general welfare
of the public.
D.
Inspections. The Director of Code Compliance or a code official shall
make all required inspections of premises to enforce compliance with
the provisions of this Subpart. Inspections shall include, but are
not limited to, a final acceptance test.
E.
Rule-Making Authority. The Director of Code Compliance shall have
power as necessary in the interest of public health, safety, and general
welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to interpret
and implement the provisions of this Subpart as authorized by the
Board of Commissioners of West Norriton Township to secure the intent
thereof and to designate requirements applicable because of local
climatic or other conditions. Such rules shall not have the effect
of waiving structural or fire performance requirements specifically
provided for in this Subpart or in building and fire codes as adopted
and amended by West Norriton Township.
F.
Department Records. The Department of Code Compliance shall keep
official records of applications received, permits, approvals, and
certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and notices
and orders issued, including affidavits issued and received.
G.
Annual Report. The Director of Code Compliance shall submit an annual
report to the West Norriton Township Fire Service Council, regarding
automatic fire alarm responses and corrective actions taken by the
Department of Code Compliance regarding noncompliant systems.
H.
Multiple-Tenant Buildings Central Station Service. New and existing
multiple-tenant buildings, as determined by the Director of Code Compliance,
shall be monitored, and have inspections, testing, maintenance, and
runner service provided by one central station service company, which
is UL or FM listed.
I.
Exception. Buildings with an anchor store from which other stores
are separated by a code-compliant fire wall or fire barrier may contract
with a different central station service company.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
When Permit Is Required. It shall be unlawful to alter or add to
existing fire alarm systems or to install a fire alarm system or related
components of a fire alarm system for which provision is made or the
installation of which is regulated by this Subpart, without first
filing the appropriate application, paying the applicable fee, and
submitting the required design information with the Department of
Code Compliance in writing and obtaining the required permit. Repairs
as defined by § 160-26 of this Subpart, which do not involve
any violation of this Subpart, shall not require a permit.
B.
Form of Application. The application for a permit shall be submitted
in such form as the Director of Code Compliance prescribes and shall
be accompanied by the required fee as prescribed by a resolution of
the West Norriton Township Board of Commissioners.
C.
By Whom Application Is Made. Application for a permit shall be made
by an owner or an authorized agent of a fire alarm contractor properly
licensed by West Norriton Township to install, extend, repair, and
maintain fire alarm systems in West Norriton Township.
D.
Plans and Specifications.
(1)
Residential. Plans and specifications are not required to be
submitted for one- and two-family dwellings; however, after the application
for a permit and fee are submitted, a preliminary inspection shall
be scheduled with a code official and the permit applicant for the
purpose of determining the locations of smoke detectors, notification
appliances, and related equipment devices in the building prior to
their installation.
(2)
Commercial/Industrial/Nonresidential. The permit application,
permit fee, and completed fire alarm submittal guide for commercial
fire alarm systems (including multiple-family dwellings) shall be
submitted. Two copies of plans and specifications shall be submitted.
Plans shall be drawn to scale or clearly dimensioned, with sufficient
clarity and detail to show the nature and character of work to be
performed. When the quality of materials, equipment, or devices is
essential for conformity to this Subpart, specific information shall
be given to establish such quality. This Subpart shall not be cited,
or the terms "legal" or "approved" or their equivalent be used as
a substitute for specific information. A code official is permitted
to waive the requirement for filing plans when repair work of a minor
nature is involved.
E.
Action on Application. A code official shall examine or cause to
be examined all applications and plans for permits within a reasonable
time after filing. If the application or plans and specifications
do not conform to the requirements of all pertinent laws, the code
official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons
therefor. If the code official is satisfied that the proposed work
conforms to the requirements of this Subpart and all laws applicable
thereto, the code official shall issue a fire alarm permit.
F.
Compliance With Code. The fire alarm permit shall be a license to
proceed with the work as approved by a code official and shall not
be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the
provisions of this Subpart except as specifically stipulated by modification
approved in writing by the Director of Code Compliance.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
License Required to Install, Test, Inspect, Repair, Monitor and Maintain
Fire Alarm Systems. All individuals, partnerships, corporations, or
other entities engaged in the selling, leasing, maintaining, servicing,
repairing, monitoring, altering, replacing, moving or installing any
fire alarm system, or causing to be sold, leased, maintained, serviced,
repaired, altered, extended, replaced, moved or installed any fire
alarm system in or on any building or structure shall make application
on a designated form(s) and obtain a valid fire alarm contractor's
license from the Department of Code Compliance of West Norriton Township.
(1)
Exception 1. This does not include a person or firm who engages
in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location
and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be
installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation
of the alarm system in a specific location. This exception only applies
to one-and two-family dwellings.
(2)
Exception 2. Homeowners of one- or two-family dwellings who
perform their own installation of a low-voltage fire alarm system
which does not transmit to a central station, or 110-volt fire alarm
systems within their dwelling unit, are exempt from the licensing
requirements; however, residential fire alarm permits and inspections
are required from West Norriton Township.
(3)
Exception 3. Electrical contractors installing 110-volt smoke
detection systems in residential dwellings are exempt from the licensing
requirements; however, residential fire alarm permits and inspections
are required from West Norriton Township.
B.
License Fee. Any person making application for a fire alarm contractor
license shall pay an annual fee of $80 or by the amount determined
by the Board of Commissioners via resolution and included in the West
Norriton Township fee schedule. Fees shall be effective from January
1 through the following December 31. Licensing fees shall not be prorated
throughout the year. Fees are not refundable should the license be
revoked.
C.
Qualifications of Fire Alarm Contractors for Central Station Service.
(1)
Any person(s) making application for a fire alarm contractor's
license shall demonstrate to the Director of Code Compliance:
(a)
A knowledge of and proficiency in fire alarm systems, devices
and code standards which govern the application, design, installation,
testing, repair, maintenance, and operation of fire alarm systems;
and
(b)
Other than fire alarm contractors who install fire alarm systems
exclusively in one-family and two-family dwelling occupancies, that
they are a fire alarm contractor listed by an established and nationally
recognized organization (such as UL or FM), which approves the qualifications
of fire alarm service contractors for central station service.
(2)
Upon successful demonstration of all of the above and payment
of applicable fees, a license shall be issued by the Director of Code
Compliance.
(3)
Exception. Fire alarm companies or individuals who install fire
alarm systems exclusively in one- and two-family dwellings and which
transmit fire alarm signals off-site are not required to be listed
for central station service. Such fire alarm systems shall be monitored
by a UL- or FM-listed central station. An installing fire alarm company
or individual shall complete and sign the West Norriton Township affidavit
stating that it or he installs systems only in one- or two-family
dwellings.
D.
Township Right to Suspend or Revoke License. The Director of Code
Compliance shall have the right to suspend or revoke a fire alarm
contractor's license for cause. Cause for revocation shall include
but not be limited to selling and/or installing or maintaining fire
alarm systems or devices without obtaining permits, approvals/inspections
as required; installing unapproved materials or devices; repeated
violations of West Norriton Township codes and ordinances.
E.
Right to Appeal. Any person(s) having a license suspended, revoked,
or denied by the Director of Code Compliance shall have the right
to file an appeal to the West Norriton Township Board of Appeals.
Any appeal must be based on a claim that the Director of Code Compliance
did not use factual information to show cause for revoking or denying
the fire alarm contractor's license. Any person who desires to
file an appeal shall do so on a form supplied by the Department of
Code Compliance within 30 days of receipt of a notice of violation
or of any decision by the Director of Code Compliance or a code official.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
When Required. All occupancies, other than single- or two-family
dwellings, installing a fire alarm system, having an electronic or
radio connection to a central station, shall install an approved Knox-Box® for the premises being protected. Knox-Boxes® shall be approved by the Director of Code Compliance
and the West Norriton Township Fire Marshal.
B.
Existing Installations. Existing facilities with a fire alarm system
shall install a Knox-Box®.
D.
Premises Keys. Keys that provide immediate access to the premises
and to fire-protection-related equipment shall be identified as to
the door they operate and secured in the Knox-Box® within two days of new Knox-Box® installations.
The Knox-Box® must contain two sets
of keys for every door. Keys shall be inspected periodically by the
owner/occupant of the premises to ensure that keys operate all doors
necessary for JFC access to the building. The property owner or authorized
agent shall be responsible for maintaining two sets of keys in the
Knox-Box® which are capable of unlocking
entrance, exterior and interior doors in the building(s) and/or tenant
space(s).
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Fire Alarm Activation. The responsibility for a fire alarm activation
shall be that of the owner/occupant for whom a fire alarm system is
installed. A response to an alarm activation shall result when any
Fire Officer or member of the JFC shall be dispatched to the premises
where the alarm has been activated or learns of the activation of
the alarm system(s), by any means whatsoever, and responds thereto
by traveling to that premises. After responding to an alarm activation,
the Fire Officer shall notify the responsible party through the Montgomery
County Communications Center regarding the activation of the alarm
system, and such person shall thereupon travel to the premises to
ascertain the status thereof. Failure of the responsible person(s)
to appear at said premises within 30 minutes, after being notified
to do so, shall constitute a violation, and may result in forcible
entry by the JFC and West Norriton Township Police Department personnel.
The owner shall bear the cost of repair for any damage incurred during
entry and any costs associated with securing the premises to prevent
unauthorized entry. The Fire Officer shall serve the owner, authorized
representative, or occupant a fire alarm activation report. In a no-response
situation by the responsible party, the Fire Officer shall forward
the report to the Department of Code Compliance for action.
B.
Fire Alarm Activation Report. In the event of a fire alarm activation
the owner, authorized representative or occupant shall be served a
fire alarm activation report by the Fire Officer describing the probable
cause of the alarm. The owner, authorized agent or occupant shall
sign and return the completed affidavit of service/repair within 15
business days of the said fire alarm activation which can verify to
the satisfaction of the Director of Code Compliance that the fire
alarm system in question has actually been inspected by a licensed
fire alarm service company and that a good faith attempt has been
made to identify and correct any defect of design, installation or
operation of the fire alarm system which was described as the cause
of the fire alarm malfunction. Failure to return an affidavit of service/repair
within the said fifteen-day period that is satisfactory to the Director
of Code Compliance shall constitute a violation.
C.
Service of Fire Alarm Activation Report and Affidavit of Service/Repair.
Service of written notice of fire alarm activation report and affidavit
of service/repair shall be accomplished by delivering a copy in person
to the responsible party or any agent of the owner or responsible
party at the premises or by posting a copy in a conspicuous place
at the main entrance door.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A.
Notice of Violation. Whenever a code official observes an apparent
or actual violation of a provision of this Subpart, the code official
shall prepare a written notice of violation describing the condition
which requires corrective action. The notice shall specify the violation
and time limitations for the required repairs or improvements to be
made to the fire alarm system. Failure to comply with the provisions
of the notice of violation shall subject the violator to the penalties
herein.
B.
Service of Notice. The written notice of violation of this Subpart
shall be served upon the owner, the occupant, an agent of the owner
or occupant or any other person responsible for the conditions under
violation. Such notice of violation shall be served either by certified
mail to the last known post office address, delivered in person, or
by delivering it to and leaving it in the possession of any person
in charge of or responding to the premises on behalf of the responsible
party. Posting a copy in a conspicuous place at the main entrance
door shall be deemed the equivalent of personal delivery.
C.
Legal Action. Nothing herein shall prevent the Director of Code Compliance
from filing a civil complaint or a nontraffic citation against a party
without issuing a notice of violation where circumstances require
prompt action because of a threat to health, safety and welfare or
where a fire alarm system is taken out of service or offline without
notice to the applicable central station.
D.
Tampering With Systems. Any person(s) who tampers with or interferes
with the effectiveness of any fire alarm system or related component
shall be in violation of this Subpart.
E.
Penalty for Violations.
(1)
Any person(s), firm or corporation violating any of the provisions
of this Subpart or failing to comply with any order issued pursuant
to any section thereof shall, upon being found guilty of a civil offense,
be liable for a fine of not less than $100 or not more than $1,000.
Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed to be a separate
offense.
(2)
A false alarm shall not be a violation of this Subpart, but
the owner shall be responsible for paying a response fee as set forth
below. No response fee shall be assessed for the first three false
fire alarms at the same premises responded to by the JFC during each
calendar year. Thereafter, the following fees shall be paid by the
owner for each false fire alarm responded to by the JFC at the same
premises during the calendar year:
|
Number of False Fire Alarm
|
Residential
|
Nonresidential
|
|---|---|---|
|
3rd
|
$100
|
$200
|
|
4th
|
$150
|
$300
|
|
5th
|
$200
|
$400
|
|
6th and above
|
$300
|
$500
|
(3)
Failure to pay any fee as prescribed herein shall constitute
a violation.
F.
Dispatch Prior to Verification. It shall be a violation of this Subpart
for any central station monitoring company or its employees to verify
any fire alarm signal received prior to dispatching JFC through Lancaster
County Wide Communications. This provision does not apply to one and
two-family dwellings.
G.
Alarm Reset. Once an automatic fire alarm has initiated and caused
the response by JFC, it shall be unlawful for any person(s) to reset
the alarm panel until the authorization of the Fire Officer has been
obtained.
H.
Fines Collected. All fines and fees collected under this Subpart
shall be deposited into the West Norriton Township General Fund.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
Should any fee assessed pursuant to this Subpart remain unpaid
in excess of 90 days from the date the charge is billed, the owner
shall also be responsible for any collection costs, including attorneys'
fees, incurred by West Norriton Township.
