DEPARTMENT: Development Services
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Michael Shannon
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
Discussion and possible action on amending Chapter 10 of the City Code of San Antonio, Texas, by adopting the 2018 Edition of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) with amendments.
SUMMARY:
In 2019, the Texas State Legislature passed HB 2858, which sets a model code for the construction of swimming pools and spas for the state and all municipalities, with an allowance for local governments to adopt amendments. This requirement is effective on September 1, 2020. In order to comply with the new state law, Development Services Department (DSD) reviewed the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and determined what impact it would have on the regulation of the construction of swimming pools and spas by DSD through the plan review and inspections processes. The 2018 ISPSC was reviewed by the Building-Related and Fire Codes Appeals and Advisory Board (BRFCAAB) and amendments to the code were proposed. Multiple stakeholder organizations were made aware of the code adoption, invited to attend all meetings, and updated throughout the process.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The ISPSC has not previously been adopted by the City of San Antonio, and the regulation of the construction of swimming pools and spas has focused on the safety features around the pool and not the safety features of the pool itself. DSD reviewed the 2018 ISPSC, discussed the additional regulations with stakeholders, and researched amendments adopted by other municipalities in Texas. Based on this research, staff developed proposed amendments to the code based on those adopted by the Cities of Ft. Worth, South Lake, Carrollton, and other cities that have adopted the code in response to the Texas HB. The amendments focus on language that will guarantee the adoption of the 2018 ISPSC will not reduce the safety requirements currently enforced by ot...
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