Deadwood to revise utility construction standards, enact plumbing code | Local News

DEADWOOD – The Deadwood City Commission on October 18 heard the first reading of two ordinances: one moving towards adoption of an updated code of standards for utility construction; and on the other hand, the development of an installation code to address grease traps.

“Our current code references a utility building standard that was developed in 1994. It probably hasn’t been updated in the last 10, 15 years. We have referred ourselves to Rapid City building codes every time we undertake a project, both for utility and for road use, ”said Bob Nelson, Jr., director of Deadwood Public Works City of Rapid City by resolution. “

Nelson said he had a copy of the code and followed it.

“After the 20 days after the second reading, we will take a decision to actually pass your utility building codes,” said Nelson.

If the Rapid City code changes, the City of Deadwood will also change its code by resolution.

Quentin Riggins, Deadwood’s legal advisor, said he had reviewed the code.

“And I agree with him,” he said.

The updated code for the utility building standards states:

“The City of Deadwood has a copy of the Rapid City Standard on file

Specifications for the construction of public works and has taken over the city of Rapid City

Standard specifications for public buildings by regulation and resolution

Control of any person, company, contractor, public or private utility undertaking construction, repair or demolition work within the city of Deadwood affecting utility companies, including but not limited to the impact on curbs, roads, sidewalks, sewers, water pipes, and storm sewers. “

In other areas, the Commission heard the first reading of a regulation creating a sanitation law.

“We don’t have an adopted installation code, but I named it that because it relates to grease traps,” Nelson said. “State plumbing laws point to local authorities having the power to require them in facilities, and we had a couple of buildings recently where we wanted to tell them, ‘Yes, you should put one in,’ but we can’t . And that will enable us to do this to protect the sewer system. “

The ordinance regulates when interceptors are required.

“Traps, including grease, oil and sand traps, must be provided when the Public Works Director deems it necessary for the proper handling of liquid waste containing grease, combustible waste, sand, solids and other harmful components to the building drainage, the public sewage system or sewage treatment plant or the process, ”says the ordinance.

The ordinance goes on to say that the public works director or his agent is responsible for determining whether a grease trap is required in Deadwood. The construction officer approves the design, dimensioning and installation. All kitchen drain that collects grease must go through the separator and it must be easily accessible for cleaning and inspection. The responsibility for cleaning and maintaining the interception device rests with the owner and / or renter. Single-family houses are exempt from the requirements. Existing interior fittings can be approved if the correct dimensioning and installation can be achieved. An in-line grease trap can be approved by the city if a full-size grease trap outside the building proves impractical or unnecessary due to the nature or size of a food establishment. The expense is not seen as a sufficient reason to forego the full size grease trap requirements.

The second reading of both ordinances is scheduled for the meeting of the city commission on November 1st.

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