New Construction

All new construction installations will require electronic supervision of valves controlling a sprinkler system water supply in accordance with 2019 Oregon Structural Specialty Code. Both a fire alarm application and electrical permit from Hillsboro Community Development Department shall be obtained for the installation. Please contact the Hillsboro's Development Services & Permitting Center at 503-681-6153 with any questions.

Inspection, Testing & Maintenance

• When a sprinkler control valve has been approved by the City of Hillsboro Community Development Department with electronic supervision, the electronic supervision shall be maintained. If the tamper switch has failed or there is a deficiency with the electronic supervision it shall be repaired. Do not add a chain and lock to the valve and abandon the electronic supervision.
• Where vault conditions prevent successful electronic supervision, the property owner may be granted an exception to electronic supervision and permitted to secure the valve with a lock and chain. These requests will be reviewed on a case by case basis and will be granted only after other solutions have been exhausted.
• Where a sprinkler control valve was approved by the City of Hillsboro Community Development Department at the time of installation with a chain and lock, the chain and lock can be maintained.
• Where facilities are unsuccessful in maintaining a lock and chain around the control valve, they will be referred to the City of Hillsboro Community Development Department for a permit to install electronic supervision.

Solutions For Failed Monitoring Switches

• Verify the electronic monitoring switch used is rated for outdoor use and water submersion. In addition, the device needs to be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain the rating for water submersion.
• Verify the valve pit is properly constructed to prevent the accumulation of water and drainage systems have not become obstructed.
• Verify sump pump is installed and working properly.

Securing Valves With A Chain And Padlock

A chain and lock shall not be used unless approved by the City of Hillsboro Community Development Department at the time of valve installation.

• Control valves shall be chained and locked securely so the valve cannot be turned with the chain and lock in place. Multiple valves shall not be locked together; they shall be individually locked.
• Where a chain and lock is used, valves shall be inspected monthly to verify the valve remains in the open position and it shall be noted on an appropriate record form. (NFPA 25 13.1.1.2).
• The distribution of keys for locked valves shall be restricted to only those directly responsible for the fire protection system.
• Property owners shall provide fire protection system and backflow assembly testing contractors with a key to the padlock for scheduled inspections to avoid circumstances where the chain is cut and not replaced upon completion of the inspection.
     

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