Appeal 34978

Appeal Summary

Status: Decision Rendered

Appeal ID: 34978

Submission Date: 9/19/25 2:36 PM

Hearing Date: 10/1/25

Case #: B-2

Appeal Type: Building

Project Type: commercial

Building/Business Name: Pacwest Center

Appeal Involves: Erection of a new structure,Reconsideration of appeal

Proposed use: Emergency Generator Room

Project Address: 1211 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97204

Appellant Name: Phil Beatty

LUR or Permit Application #: Permit Permit 25-064042-FA

Stories: 30 Occupancy: B Construction Type: 1

Fire Sprinklers: Yes - Fully Sprinklered Level P1

Plans Examiner/Inspector: Brian Quattlebaum

Plan Submitted Option: pdf   [File 1]   [File 2]

Payment Option: electronic

Appeal Information Sheet

Appeal item 1

Code Section

BCG 99-10

Requires

Section II Specific Requirements, B. Location,1. Interior. Where installed inside a building, the equipment shall be located in an enclosure providing a two-hour occupancy separation from all other occupancies and uses, including mechanical equipment.

Code Modification or Alternate Requested

The intent is to get an approved alternative means and methods for BCG 99-10.

Proposed Design

We are proposing that we put fire sprinklers above the intake air grille on the outside of the north end of the new emergency generator room to provide fire protection in the event of a fire. The generator room will also have a new fire sprinkler system on the inside of the room.

"Reconsideration Text"
We are proposing to move the intake air from the north end of the generator room to the east side and as close to the garage opening as possible.

Reason for alternative

The new emergency generator room is inside of the existing building envelope and requires a two-hour rated room per BCG 99-10. However, the room needs intake air even in the event of a fire for the generator to run and provide emergency power to the fire pumps. With the location of the new generator room on level P1, we are not able to duct intake air from outside into the new room.

"Reconsideration Text"
By installing a fire smoke damper could result in the intake air being cut off to the room. We have been advised by a site walk with building officials to locate the air intake as close to the garage opening as possible. We have provided an updated drawing to show the air intake in relation to the garage opening.

Appeal Decision

Fire sprinkler protection of intake air grill in lieu of a fire damper: Granted provided the garage doors in the closed position provide at least 50% openness for free flow of exterior air.

The Administrative Appeal Board finds with the conditions noted, that the information submitted by the appellant demonstrates that the approved modifications or alternate methods are consistent with the intent of the code; do not lessen the health, safety, accessibility, life, fire safety or structural requirements; and that special conditions unique to this project make strict application of those code sections impractical.

Under City Code Chapter 24.10, you may appeal this decision to the Building Code Board of Appeal within 90 calendar days of the date this decision is published. For information on the appeals process, how to file a reconsideration, and how to appeal to the Building Code Board of Appeal, go to https://www.portland.gov/ppd/file-appeal/appeal-process or email PPDAppeals@portlandoregon.gov.