All-Weather Surface. An approved, improved surface that is constructed of asphalt, concrete, chip seal, graded and compacted gravel, CTB (concrete treated base), other stabilized system, or a similar dust-free impermeable or permeable material designed to withstand all-weather conditions and capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds. (Grasscrete or similar grass paver systems are not allowed.)

Area Separation. Each portion of a building separated by one or more UL Listed fire-rated assemblies without openings or with automatic, self-closing, rated openings are considered as separate fire-flow calculation areas. Fire-rated assemblies are permitted to be utilized to "separate" an attached garage from a residence and reduce, by compartmentalization, the fire area of accessory buildings.

Facility. A building or use in a fixed location, including exterior storage area, for combustible materials or equipment storage, flammable and combustible substances, hazardous materials, piers, wharves, tank farms, and similar uses. The term includes campgrounds, recreational vehicles, mobile home and manufactured housing parks, vehicle and container sales and storage lots.

Fire-Rated Assembly. An approved, UL listed, rated assembly made of fire-resistant materials, used to prevent the spread of a fire from one part of a building to another and to also compartmentalize a building to reduce the fire flow calculation area. The minimum rating for fire-rated assemblies that are used for compartmentalization to achieve separation/reduction of fire area to reduce fire flow will be two hours.

Fire Code Official. Wherever the words "fire code official" appear in the International Fire Code or this Chapter, they shall mean the Fire Marshal of the Pierce County Fire Prevention Bureau or their duly authorized representatives.

"Fire flow" means the quantity of water in gallons per minute (GPM) needed to control an anticipated fire in a building or group of buildings or at a facility.

"Fire Marshal" means the Manager of the Pierce County Fire Prevention Bureau and their duly authorized representatives.

"G.P.M." means gallons per minute.

Jurisdiction. Wherever the word "jurisdiction" is used in the International Fire Code, it shall mean unincorporated Pierce County and contract cities and towns.

"New additions to existing water systems" means all additions to existing water systems except the addition of one hydrant that will meet the flow requirement, with no line extension. New additions shall include, but not be limited to, water main extensions, additional storage facilities, and replacement of existing water mains.

"P.S.I." means pounds per square inch.

"Permit, construction" means a permit required by Section 105.7 of the International Fire Code for installation, modification or removal of systems and equipment.

"Permit, prescribed" means a permit required by Section 105.6 of the International Fire Code allowing an activity, operation, practice or function within specified beginning and ending dates not to exceed one year in duration.

"Permit, renewable" means a permit required by Section 105.6 of the International Fire Code allowing a continual activity, operation, practice or function.

"Rural area" means those areas not designated as urban by the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan.

"Special events" includes, but is not limited to, any events, functions, displays, fairs, carnivals, shows, or gatherings.

"Unprotected parcel" means a parcel that is not included in a fire protection tax district.

"Urban area" means those areas so designated as urban on the "Generalized Proposed Land Use Map" of the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan.