No. 38151 (Amendment): Rule R156-55a. Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Rule

(Amendment)

DAR File No.: 38151
Filed: 11/19/2013 04:36:21 PM

RULE ANALYSIS

Purpose of the rule or reason for the change:

The Division and Construction Services Commission are proposing amendments to the rule as a result of changes made by S.B. 44, S.B. 102, and S.B. 208, which were passed during the 2013 General Legislative Session. The proposed rule amendments also update requirements for the S211 boiler installation contractor license, update continuing education requirements, and make other technical changes.

Summary of the rule or change:

In Subsection R156-55a-301(S202), amendments change the scope of practice for some contractors who held the solar photovoltaic contractor license between January 2009 and April 2011 to correspond with S.B. 208 (2013). In Subsection R156-55a-301(S211), amendments clarify the scope of practice for a boiler installation contractor and specify what related work must be performed by a licensed plumber. In Section R156-55a-302a, adds a requirement that an applicant for licensure as an S211 Boiler Installation Contractor must pass a trade examination. In Section R156-55a-302b, amendments change the experience requirement to two years for all contractor classifications as specified in S.B. 102 (2013). The following related technical changes are also made in this section: 1) moving the experience requirements from Subsections R156-55a-302b(2)(a)(i), (3)(a), and (5)(a) to Subsection R156-55a-302(1)(a)(i); 2) moving the provision allowing certain outdated experience to be acceptable upon the applicant's passing certain examinations from Subsections R156-55a-302b(2)(a)(ii), (3)(b), and (5)(b) to Subsection R156-55a-302b(1)(f); and 3) eliminating Subsections R156-55a-302b(3) and (5) which are no longer needed with the moves to other subsections and the reduction of experience required from four years to two years. In Subsection R156-55a-303b(2)(g), amendments require that the provider of certain home study continuing education courses prepare multiple versions of the end of the course exam. Subsection R156-55a-303b(9) is added to clarify that approval of a continuing education course may be revoked, suspended, restricted, or placed on probation. Section R156-55a-602 has been changed and rearranged to add requirements added by S.B. 44 (2013). Subsection R156-55a-602(2) clarifies the scope of the bond coverage. Subsection R156-55a-602(4) specifies the amount of the bond for certain contractor licensees.

State statutory or constitutional authorization for this rule:

• Subsection 58-1-106(1)(a)
• Subsection 58-1-202(1)(a)
• Section 58-55-101
• Subsection 58-55-308(1)(a)
• Subsection 58-55-102(39)(a)

Anticipated cost or savings to:

the state budget:

The Division will incur minimal costs of approximately $50 to print and distribute the rule once the proposed amendments are made effective. Any costs incurred will be absorbed in the Division's current budget. The Division does not anticipate any additional costs as a result of these proposed rule amendments beyond those considered by the Legislature in the passage of bills identified above during the 2013 General Legislative Session.

local governments:

The proposed amendments only apply to licensed contractors, applicants for licensure in various contractor classifications and contractor continuing education providers. As a result, the proposed amendments do not apply to local governments.

small businesses:

Persons applying for the S211 boiler installation contractor license will be required to take and pass a trade examination which will cost approximately $72 per exam. An applicant who fails the exam may have to take the exam more than one time. Small businesses engaged in selling home study continuing education courses for contractors may be required to make additional versions of examinations as part of the continuing education course material. It is impossible for the Division to estimate the cost to make these additional versions, but it is not anticipated that this change will significantly add to the cost of creating a continuing education course. Except for the cost of the examinations for the S211 boiler installation contractor and continuing education provider costs identified above, the proposed amendments should not affect small business beyond the effect that resulted from the passage of S.B. 44, S.B. 102, and S.B. 208 (2013).

persons other than small businesses, businesses, or local governmental entities:

Persons applying for the S211 boiler installation contractor license will be required to take and pass a trade examination which will cost approximately $72 per exam. An applicant who fails the exam may have to take the exam more than one time. Persons engaged in selling home study continuing education courses for contractors may be required to make additional versions of examinations as part of the continuing education course material. It is impossible for the Division to estimate the cost to make these additional versions, but it is not anticipated that this change will significantly add to the cost of creating a continuing education course. Except for the cost of the examinations for the S211 boiler installation contractor and continuing education provider costs identified above, the proposed amendments should not affect other persons beyond the effect that resulted from the passage of S.B. 44, S.B. 102, and S.B. 208 (2013).

Compliance costs for affected persons:

Persons applying for the S211 boiler installation contractor license will be required to take and pass a trade examination which will cost approximately $72 per exam. An applicant who fails the exam may have to take the exam more than one time. Persons engaged in selling home study continuing education courses for contractors may be required to make additional versions of examinations as part of the continuing education course material. It is impossible for the Division to estimate the cost to make these additional versions, but it is not anticipated that this change will significantly add to the cost of creating a continuing education course. Except for the cost of the examinations for the S211 boiler installation contractor and continuing education provider costs identified above, the proposed amendments should not affect persons beyond the effect that resulted from the passage of S.B. 44, S.B. 102, and S.B. 208 (2013).

Comments by the department head on the fiscal impact the rule may have on businesses:

Most of the amendments contained in this filing respond to legislative action taken during the 2013 General Legislative Session (S.B. 44, S.B. 102, and S.B. 208). As to those amendments, no fiscal impact to businesses is anticipated beyond that considered by the Legislature in determining to pass the bills. This filing also imposes an examination requirement on the boiler installation contractor license. The cost of the examination is currently $72; this cost is more likely to affect individual applicants than businesses. Finally, this filing requires that a business that provides home study continuing education courses to prepare multiple versions of each course's final examination. While it is possible that there will be attendant costs, they will vary and cannot be estimated. Any such costs are anticipated to be minimal.

Francine A. Giani, Executive Director

The full text of this rule may be inspected, during regular business hours, at the Division of Administrative Rules, or at:

Commerce
Occupational and Professional Licensing
HEBER M WELLS BLDG
160 E 300 S
SALT LAKE CITY, UT 84111-2316

Direct questions regarding this rule to:

• Dan Jones at the above address, by phone at 801-530-6720, by FAX at 801-530-6511, or by Internet E-mail at [e-mail]

Interested persons may present their views on this rule by submitting written comments to the address above no later than 5:00 p.m. on:

01/14/2014

Interested persons may attend a public hearing regarding this rule:

• 12/18/2013 09:00 AM, Heber Wells Bldg, 160 E 300 S, Conference Room 474, Salt Lake City, UT

This rule may become effective on:

01/21/2014

Authorized by:

Mark Steinagel, Director

RULE TEXT

R156. Commerce, Occupational and Professional Licensing.

R156-55a. Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Rule.

R156-55a-301. License Classifications - Scope of Practice.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-55-301(2), the classifications of licensure are listed and described in this section. The construction trades or specialty contractor classifications listed are those determined to significantly impact the public health, safety, and welfare. A person who is engaged in work which is included in the items listed in Subsections R156-55a-301(4) and (5) is exempt from licensure in accordance with Subsection 58-55-305(1)(i).

(2) Licenses shall be issued in the following primary classifications and subclassifications:

E100 - General Engineering Contractor. A General Engineering contractor is a contractor licensed to perform work as defined in Subsection 58-55-102(22).

B100 - General Building Contractor. A General Building contractor is a contractor licensed to perform work as defined in Subsection 58-55-102(21) and pursuant to Subsection 58-55-102(21)(b) is clarified as follows:

(a) The General Building Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S202 - Solar Photovoltaic Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.

(b) The General Building Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S354-Radon Mitigation Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP).

B200 - Modular Unit Installation Contractor. Set up or installation of modular units as defined in Subsection 15A-1-302(8) and constructed in accordance with Section 15A-1-304. The scope of the work permitted under this classification includes construction of the permanent or temporary foundations, placement of the modular unit on a permanent or temporary foundation, securing the units together if required and securing the modular units to the foundations. Work excluded from this classification includes installation of factory built housing and connection of required utilities.

R100 - Residential and Small Commercial Contractor. A Residential and Small Commercial contractor is a contractor licensed to perform work as defined in Subsection 58-55-102(32) and pursuant to Subsection 58-55-102(32) is clarified as follows:

(a) The Residential and Small Commercial Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S202 - Solar Photovoltaic Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.

(b) The Residential and Small Commercial Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S354-Radon Mitigation Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP).

R101 - Residential and Small Commercial Non Structural Remodeling and Repair. Remodeling and repair to any existing structure built for support, shelter and enclosure of persons, animals, chattels or movable property of any kind with the restriction that no change is made to the bearing portions of the existing structure, including footings, foundation and weight bearing walls; and the entire project is less than $50,000 in total cost.

R200 - Factory Built Housing Contractor. Disconnection, setup, installation or removal of manufactured housing on a temporary or permanent basis. The scope of the work permitted under this classification includes placement of the manufactured housing on a permanent or temporary foundation, securing the units together if required, securing the manufactured housing to the foundation, and connection of the utilities from the near proximity, such as a meter, to the manufactured housing unit and construction of foundations of less than four feet six inches in height. Work excluded from this classification includes site preparation or finishing, excavation of the ground in the area where a foundation is to be constructed, back filling and grading around the foundation, construction of foundations of more than four feet six inches in height and construction of utility services from the utility source to and including the meter or meters if required or if not required to the near proximity of the manufactured housing unit from which they are connected to the unit.

I101 - General Engineering Trades Instruction Facility. A General Engineering Trades Instruction Facility is a construction trades instruction facility authorized to teach the construction trades and is subject to the scope of practice defined in Subsection 58-55-102(22).

I102 - General Building Trades Instruction Facility. A General Building Trades Instruction Facility is a construction trades instruction facility authorized to teach the construction trades and is subject to the scope of practice defined in Subsections 58-55-102(21) or 58-55-102(32).

I103 - Electrical Trades Instruction Facility. An Electrical Trades Instruction Facility is a construction trades instruction facility authorized to teach the electrical trades and subject to the scope of practice defined in Subsection R156-55a-301(S200).

I104 - Plumbing Trades Instruction Facility. A Plumbing Trades Instruction Facility is a construction trades instruction facility authorized to teach the plumbing trades and subject to the scope of practice defined in Subsection R156-55a-301(S210).

I105 - Mechanical Trades Instruction Facility. A Mechanical Trades Instruction Facility is a construction trades instruction facility authorized to teach the mechanical trades and subject to the scope of practice defined in Subsection R156-55a-301(S350).

S200 - General Electrical Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and/or installation of generators, transformers, conduits, raceways, panels, switch gear, electrical wires, fixtures, appliances, or apparatus which utilizes electrical energy. The General Electrical Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S354-Radon Mitigation Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP).

S201 - Residential Electrical Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and/or installation of services, disconnecting means, grounding devices, panels, conductors, load centers, lighting and plug circuits, appliances and fixtures in any residential unit, normally requiring non-metallic sheathed cable, including multiple units up to and including a four-plex, but excluding any work generally recognized in the industry as commercial or industrial.

S202 - Solar Photovoltaic Contractor. Fabrication, construction, installation, and replacement of photovoltaic cell panels and related components. Wiring, connections and wire methods as governed in the National Electrical Code and Subsection R156-55b-102(1) shall only be performed by an S200 General Electrical Contractor or S201 Residential Electrical Contractor. This classification is not required to install stand alone solar systems that do not tie into premises wiring or into the electrical utility, such as signage or street or parking lighting.

A contractor who obtained this classification of licensure between January 1, 2009 and April 25, 2011 and who holds an active license may, in addition to the above, perform the following activities as part of the scope of practice under this subsection: fabrication, construction, installation, and repair of photovoltaic cell panels and related components including battery storage systems, distribution panels, switch gear, electrical wires, inverters, and other electrical apparatus for solar photovoltaic systems. Work excluded from this classification includes work on any alternating current system or system component.

S210 - General Plumbing Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of material and fixtures to create and maintain sanitary conditions in buildings, by providing a permanent means for a supply of safe and pure water, a means for the timely and complete removal from the premises of all used or contaminated water, fluid and semi-fluid organic wastes and other impurities incidental to life and the occupation of such premises, and provision of a safe and adequate supply of gases for lighting, heating, and industrial purposes. Work permitted under this classification shall include the furnishing of materials, fixtures and labor to extend service from a building out to the main water, sewer or gas pipeline. The General Plumbing Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S354-Radon Mitigation Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP).

S211 - Boiler Installation Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of fire-tube and water-tube power boilers and hot water heating boilers, including all fittings and piping, valves, gauges, pumps, radiators, converters, fuel oil tanks, fuel lines, chimney flues, heat insulation and all other devices, apparatus, and equipment related thereto in a closed system not connected to the culinary water system. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where water delivery for the closed system is connected to the culinary water system and separated from the culinary water system by a backflow prevention device, a contractor licensed under this subsection may connect the closed system to the backflow prevention device, which must be installed by an actively licensed plumber.

S212 - Irrigation Sprinkling Contractor. Layout, fabrication, and/or installation of water distribution system for artificial watering or irrigation.

S213 - Industrial Piping Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of pipes and piping for the conveyance or transmission of steam, gases, chemicals, and other substances including excavating, trenching, and back-filling related to such work. This classification includes the above work for geo thermal systems.

S214 - Water Conditioning Equipment Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of water conditioning equipment and only such pipe and fittings as are necessary for connecting the water conditioning equipment to the water supply system within the premises.

S215 - Solar Thermal Systems Contractor. Construction, repair and/or installation of solar thermal systems up to the system shut off valve or where the system interfaces with any other plumbing system.

S216 - Residential Sewer Connection and Septic Tank Contractor. Construction of residential sewer lines including connection to the public sewer line, and excavation and grading related thereto. Excavation, installation and grading of residential septic tanks and their drainage.

S217 - Residential Plumbing Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of material and fixtures to create and maintain sanitary conditions in residential building, including multiple units up to and including a four-plex by providing a permanent means for a supply of safe and pure water, a means for the timely and complete removal from the premises of all used or contaminated water, fluid and semi-fluid organic wastes and other impurities incidental to life and the occupation of such premises, and provision of a safe and adequate supply of gases for lighting and heating purposes. Work permitted under this classification shall include the furnishing of materials, fixtures and labor to extend service from a residential building out to the main water, sewer or gas pipeline. Excluded is any new construction and service work generally recognized in the industry as commercial or industrial.

S220 - Carpentry Contractor. Fabrication for structural and finish purposes in a structure or building using wood, wood products, metal studs, vinyl materials, or other wood/plastic/metal composites as is by custom and usage accepted in the building industry as carpentry. Incidental work includes the installation of tub liners and wall systems.

S221 - Cabinet, Millwork and Countertop Installation Contractor. On-site construction and/or installation of milled wood products or countertops.

S222 - Overhead and Garage Door Contractor. The installation of overhead and garage doors and door openers.

S230 - Siding Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and/or installation of siding.

S231 - Raingutter Installation Contractor. On-site fabrication and/or installation of raingutters and drains, roof flashings, gravel stops and metal ridges.

S240 - Glass and Glazing Contractor. Fabrication, construction, installation, and/or removal of all types and sizes of glass, mirrors, substitutes for glass, glass-holding members, frames, hardware, and other incidental related work.

S250 - Insulation Contractor. Installation of any insulating media in buildings and structures for the sole purpose of temperature control, sound control or fireproofing, but shall not include mechanical insulation of pipes, ducts or conduits.

S260 - General Concrete Contractor. Fabrication, construction, mixing, batching, and/or installation of concrete and related concrete products along with the placing and setting of screeds for pavement for flatwork, the construction of forms, placing and erection of steel bars for reinforcing and application of plaster and other cement-related products.

S261 - Concrete Form Setting and Shoring Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and/or installation of forms and shoring material; but, does not include the placement of concrete, finishing of concrete or embedded items such as metal reinforcement bars or mesh.

S262 - Gunnite and Pressure Grouting Contractor. Installation of a concrete product either injected or sprayed under pressure.

S263 - Cementatious Coating Systems Resurfacing and Sealing Contractor. Fabrication, construction, mixing, batching and installation of cementatious coating systems or sealants limited to the resurfacing or sealing of existing surfaces, including the preparation or patching of the surface to be covered or sealed.

S270 - General Drywall and Plastering Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and installation of drywall, gypsum, wallboard panels and assemblies. Preparation of drywall or plaster surfaces for suitable painting or finishing. Application to surfaces of coatings made of plaster, including the preparation of the surface and the provision of a base. This does not include applying stucco to lathe, plaster and other surfaces. Exempted is the plastering of foundations.

S272 - Ceiling Grid Systems, Ceiling Tile and Panel Systems Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of wood, mineral, fiber, and other types of ceiling tile and panels and the grid systems required for placement.

S273 - Light-weight Metal and Non-bearing Wall Partitions Contractor. Fabrication and/or installation of light-weight metal and other non-bearing wall partitions.

S280 - General Roofing Contractor. Application and/or installation of asphalt, pitch, tar, felt, flax, shakes, shingles, roof tile, slate, and any other material or materials, or any combination of any thereof which use and custom has established as usable for, or which are now used as, water-proof, weatherproof, or watertight seal or membranes for roofs and surfaces; and roof conversion. Incidental work includes the installation of roof clamp ring to the roof drain.

S290 - General Masonry Contractor. Construction by cutting, and/or laying of all of the following brick, block, or forms: architectural, industrial, and refractory brick, all brick substitutes, clay and concrete blocks, terra-cotta, thin set or structural quarry tile, glazed structural tile, gypsum tile, glass block, clay tile, copings, natural stone, plastic refractories, and castables and any incidental works, including the installation of shower pans, as required in construction of the masonry work.

S291 - Stone Masonry Contractor. Construction using natural or artificial stone, either rough or cut and dressed, laid at random, with or without mortar. Incidental work includes the installation of shower pans.

S292 - Terrazzo Contractor. Construction by fabrication, grinding, and polishing of terrazzo by the setting of chips of marble, stone, or other material in an irregular pattern with the use of cement, polyester, epoxy or other common binders. Incidental work includes the installation of shower pans.

S293 - Marble, Tile and Ceramic Contractor. Preparation, fabrication, construction, and installation of artificial marble, burned clay tile, ceramic, encaustic, falence, quarry, semi-vitreous, and other tile, excluding hollow or structural partition tile. Incidental work includes the installation of shower pans.

S294 - Cultured Marble Contractor. Preparation, fabrication and installation of slab and sheet manmade synthetic products including cultured marble, onyx, granite, onice, corian, and corian type products. Incidental work includes the installation of shower pans.

S300 - General Painting Contractor. Preparation of surface and/or the application of all paints, varnishes, shellacs, stains, waxes and other coatings or pigments.

S310 - Excavation and Grading Contractor. Moving of the earth's surface or placing earthen materials on the earth's surface, by use of hand or power machinery and tools, including explosives, in any operation of cut, fill, excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, or combination thereof as they are generally practiced in the construction trade.

S320 - Steel Erection Contractor. Construction by fabrication, placing, and tying or welding of steel reinforcing bars or erecting structural steel shapes, plates of any profile, perimeter or cross-section that are used to reinforce concrete or as structural members, including riveting, welding, and rigging.

S321 - Steel Reinforcing Contractor. Fabricating, placing, tying, or mechanically welding of reinforcing bars of any profile that are used to reinforce concrete buildings or structures.

S322 - Metal Building Erection Contractor. Erection of pre-fabricated metal structures including concrete foundation and footings, grading, and surface preparation.

S323 - Structural Stud Erection Contractor. Fabrication and installation of metal structural studs and bearing walls.

S330 - Landscaping Contractor.

(a) grading and preparing land for architectural, horticultural, or decorative treatment;

(b) arrangement, and planting of gardens, lawns, shrubs, vines, bushes, trees, or other decorative vegetation;

(c) construction of small decorative pools, tanks, fountains, hothouses, greenhouses, fences, walks, garden lighting of 50 volts or less, or sprinkler systems;

(d) construction of retaining walls except retaining walls which are intended to hold vehicles, structures, equipment or other non natural fill materials within the area located within a 45 degree angle from the base of the retaining wall to the level of where the additional weight bearing vehicles, structures, equipment or other non natural fill materials are located; or

(e) patio areas except that:

(i) no decking designed to support humans or structures shall be included; and

(ii) no concrete work designed to support structures to be placed upon the patio shall be included.

(f) This classification does not include running electrical or gas lines to any appliance.

S340 - Sheet Metal Contractor. Layout, fabrication, and installation of air handling and ventilating systems. All architectural sheet metal such as cornices, marquees, metal soffits, gutters, flashings, and skylights and skydomes including both plastic and fiberglass.

S350 - HVAC Contractor. Fabrication and installation of complete warm air heating and air conditioning systems, and complete ventilating systems. The HVAC Contractor scope of practice does not include activities described in this Subsection under specialty classification S354-Radon Mitigation Contractor unless the work is performed under the immediate supervision of an employee who holds a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP).

S351 - Refrigerated Air Conditioning Contractor. Fabrication and installation of air conditioning ventilating systems to control air temperatures below 50 degrees.

S352 - Evaporative Cooling Contractor. Fabrication and installation of devices, machinery, and units to cool the air temperature employing evaporation of liquid.

S353 - Warm Air Heating Contractor. Layout, fabrication, and installation of such sheet metal, gas piping, and furnace equipment as necessary for a complete warm air heating and ventilating system.

S354 - Radon Mitigation Contractor. Layout, fabrication, and installation of a radon mitigation system. This classification does not include work on heat recovery ventilation or makeup air components which must be performed by an HVAC Contractor and does not include electrical wiring which must be performed by an Electrical Contractor.

S360 - Refrigeration Contractor. Construction and/or installation of refrigeration equipment including, but not limited to, built-in refrigerators, refrigerated rooms, insulated refrigerated spaces and equipment related thereto; but, the scope of permitted work does not include the installation of gas fuel or electric power services other than connection of electrical devices to a junction box provided for that device and electrical control circuitry not exceeding 50 volts.

S370 - Fire Suppression Systems Contractor. Layout, fabrication, and installation of fire protection systems using water, steam, gas, or chemicals. When a potable sanitary water supply system is used as the source of supply, connection to the water system must be accomplished by a licensed journeyman plumber. Excluded from this classification are persons engaged in the installation of fire suppression systems in hoods above cooking appliances.

S380 - Swimming Pool and Spa Contractor. On-site fabrication, construction and installation of swimming pools, prefabricated pools, spas, and tubs.

S390 - Sewer and Waste Water Pipeline Contractor. Construction of sewer lines, sewage disposal and sewage drain facilities including excavation and grading with respect thereto, and the construction of sewage disposal plants and appurtenances thereto.

S400 - Asphalt Paving Contractor. Construction of asphalt highways, roadways, driveways, parking lots or other asphalt surfaces, which will include but will not be limited to, asphalt overlay, chip seal, fog seal and rejuvenation, micro surfacing, plant mix sealcoat, slurry seal, and the removal of asphalt surfaces by milling. Also included is the excavation, grading, compacting and laying of fill or base-related thereto. Also included in painting on asphalt surfaces including striping, directional and other types of symbols or words.

S410 - Pipeline and Conduit Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and installation of pipes, conduit or cables for the conveyance and transmission from one station to another of such products as water, steam, gases, chemicals, slurries, data or communications. Included are the excavation, cabling, horizontal boring, grading, and backfilling necessary for construction of the system.

S420 - General Fencing, Ornamental Iron and Guardrail Contractor. Fabrication, construction, and installation of fences, guardrails, handrails, and barriers.

S421 - Residential Fencing Contractor. Fabrication and installation of residential fencing up to and including a height of six feet.

S430 - Metal Firebox and Fuel Burning Stove Installer. Fabrication, construction, and installation of metal fireboxes, fireplaces, and wood or coal-burning stoves, including the installation of venting and exhaust systems, provided the individual performing the installation is RMGA certified.

S440 - Sign Installation Contractor. Installation of signs and graphic displays which require installation permits or permission as issued by state or local governmental jurisdictions. Signs and graphic displays shall include signs of all types, both lighted and unlighted, permanent highway marker signs, illuminated awnings, electronic message centers, sculptures or graphic representations including logos and trademarks intended to identify or advertise the user or his product, building trim or lighting with neon or decorative fixtures, or any other animated, moving or stationary device used for advertising or identification purposes. Signs and graphic displays must be fabricated, installed and erected in accordance with professionally engineered specifications and wiring in accordance with the National Electrical Code.

S441 - Non Electrical Outdoor Advertising Sign Contractor. Installation of signs and graphic displays which require installation permits or permission as issued by state and local governmental jurisdictions. Signs and graphics shall include outdoor advertising signs which do not have electrical lighting or other electrical requirements, and in accordance with professionally engineered specifications.

S450 - Mechanical Insulation Contractor. Fabrication, application and installation of insulation materials to pipes, ducts and conduits.

S460 - Wrecking and Demolition Contractor. The raising, cribbing, underpinning, moving, and removal of building and structures.

S470 - Petroleum Systems Contractor. Installation of above and below ground petroleum and petro-chemical storage tanks, piping, dispensing equipment, monitoring equipment and associated petroleum and petro-chemical equipment including excavation, backfilling, concrete and asphalt.

S480 - Piers and Foundations Contractor. The excavation, drilling, compacting, pumping, sealing and other work necessary to construct, alter or repair piers, piles, footings and foundations placed in the earth's subsurface to prevent structural settling and to provide an adequate capacity to sustain or transmit the structural load to the soil or rock below.

S490 - Wood Flooring Contractor. Installation of wood flooring including prefinished and unfinished material, sanding, staining and finishing of new and existing wood flooring. Underlayments, non-structural subfloors and other incidental related work.

S491 - Laminate Floor Installation Contractor. Installation of laminate floors including underlayments, non-structural subfloors and other incidental related work, but does not include the installation of sold wood flooring.

S500 - Sports and Athletic Courts, Running Tracks, and Playground Installation Contractor. Installation of sports and athletic courts including but not limited to tennis courts, racquetball courts, handball courts, basketball courts, running tracks, playgrounds, or any combination. Includes nonstructural floor subsurfaces, nonstructural wall surfaces, perimeter walls and perimeter fencing. Includes the installation and attachment of equipment such as poles, basketball standards or other equipment.

S510 - Elevator Contractor. Erecting, constructing, installing, altering, servicing, repairing or maintaining an elevator.

S600 - General Stucco Contractor. Applying stucco to lathe, plaster and other surfaces.

S700 - Specialty License Contractor.

(a) A specialty license is a license that confines the scope of the allowable contracting work to a specialized area of construction which the Division grants on a case-by-case basis.

(b) When applying for a specialty license, an applicant, if requested, shall submit to the Division the following:

(i) a detailed statement of the type and scope of contracting work that the applicant proposes to perform; and

(ii) any brochures, catalogs, photographs, diagrams, or other material to further clarify the scope of the work that the applicant proposes to perform.

(c) A contractor issued a specialty license shall confine the contractor's activities to the field and scope of operations as outlined by the Division.

(3) The scope of practice for the following primary classifications includes the scope of practice stated in the descriptions for the following subsclassifications:

 

. . . . . . .

 

(4) The following activities are determined to not significantly impact the public health, safety and welfare and therefore do not require a contractors license:

(a) sandblasting;

(b) pumping services;

(c) tree stump or tree removal;

(d) installation within a building of communication cables including phone and cable television;

(e) installation of low voltage electrical as described in R156-55b-102(1);

(f) construction of utility sheds, gazebos or other similar items which are personal property and not attached;

(g) building and window washing, including power washing;

(h) central vacuum systems installation;

(i) concrete cutting;

(j) interior decorating;

(k) wall paper hanging;

(l) drapery and blind installation;

(m) welding on personal property which is not attached;

(n) chimney sweepers other than repairing masonry;

(o) carpet and vinyl floor installation; and

(p) artificial turf installation.

(5) The following activities are those determined to not significantly impact the public health, safety and welfare beyond the regulations by other agencies and therefore do not require a contractors license:

(a) lead removal regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality;

(b) asbestos removal regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality; and

(c) fire alarm installation regulated by the Fire Marshal.

 

R156-55a-302a. Qualifications for Licensure - Examinations.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-55-302(1)(c), the qualifier for an applicant for licensure as a contractor or the qualifier for an applicant for licensure as a construction trades instruction facility shall pass the following examinations:

(a) the Utah Contractor Business - Law Examination; and

(b) an approved trade classification specific examination, where required in Subsection (2).

(2) An approved trade classification specific examination is required for the following contractor license classifications:

E100 - General Engineering Contractor

B100 - General Building Contractor

B200 - Modular Unit Installation Contractor

R100 - Residential and Small Commercial Contractor

R101 - Residential and Small Commercial Non Structural Remodeling and Repair Contractor

R200 - Factory Built Housing Contractor

I101 - General Engineering Trades Instruction Facility

I102 - General Building Trades Instruction Facility

I105 - Mechanical Trades Instruction Facility

S211 - Boiler Installation Contractor

S212 - Irrigation Sprinkling Contractor

S213 - Industrial Piping Contractor

S215 - Solar Thermal Systems Contractor

S216 - Residential Sewer Connection and Septic Tank Contractor

S220 - Carpentry Contractor

S222 - Overhead and Garage Door Contractor

S230 - Siding Contractor

S240 - Glass and Glazing Contractor

S250 - Insulation Contractor

S260 - General Concrete Contractor

S270 - General Drywall and Plastering Contractor

S280 - General Roofing Contractor

S290 - General Masonry Contractor

S293 - Marble, Tile and Ceramic Contractor

S300 - General Painting Contractor

S310 - Excavation and Grading Contractor

S320 - Steel Erection Contractor

S321 - Steel Reinforcing Contractor

S330 - Landscaping Contractor

S340 - Sheet Metal Contractor

S350 - HVAC Contractor

S351 - Refrigerated Air Conditioning Contractor

S353 - Warm Air Heating Contractor

S360 - Refrigeration Contractor

S370 - Fire Suppression Systems Contractor

S380 - Swimming Pool and Spa Contractor

S390 - Sewer and Waste Water Pipeline Contractor

S410 - Pipeline and Conduit Contractor

S440 - Sign Installation Contractor

S450 - Mechanical Insulation Contractor

S490 - Wood Flooring Contractor

S600 - General Stucco Contractor

(3) The passing score for each examination is 70%.

(4) Qualifications to sit for examination.

(a) An applicant applying to take any examination specified in this Section must sign an affidavit verifying that an applicant has completed the experience required under Subsection R156-55a-302b.

(5) "Approved trade classification specific examination" means a trade classification specific examination:

(a) given, currently or in the past, by the Division's contractor examination provider; or

(b) given by another state if the Division has determined the examination to be substantially equivalent.

(6) An applicant for licensure who fails an examination may retake the failed examination as follows:

(a) no sooner than 30 days following any failure up to three failures; and

(b) no sooner than six months following any failure thereafter.

 

R156-55a-302b. Qualifications for Licensure - Experience Requirements.

In accordance with Subsection 58-55-302(1)(e)(ii), the minimum experience requirements are established as follows:

(1) Requirements for all license classifications:

(a) Unless otherwise provided in this rule, [all]two years of experience shall be lawfully performed within the 10-year period preceding the date of application under the general supervision of a contractor licensed in the classification applied for or a substantially equivalent classification, and shall be subject to the following:

(i) If the experience was completed in Utah, it shall be:

(A) completed while a W-2 employee of a licensed contractor; or

(B) completed while working as an owner of a licensed contractor, which has for all periods of experience claimed, employed a qualifier who performed the duties and served in the capacities specified in Subsection 58-55-304(4) and in Subsection R156-55a-304.

(ii) If the experience was completed outside of the state of Utah, it shall be:

(A) completed in compliance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which the experience is completed; and

(B) completed with supervision that is substantially equivalent to the supervision that is required in Utah.

(iii) Experience may be determined to be substantially equivalent if lawfully obtained in a setting which has supervision of qualified persons and an equivalent scope of work, such as performing construction activities in the military where licensure is not required.

(b) [A]Unless otherwise provided in this rule, all experience shall be directly related to the scope of practice set forth in Section R156-55a-301 of the classification the applicant is applying for, as determined by the Division.

(c) One year of work experience means 2000 hours.

(d) No more than 2000 hours of experience during any 12 month period may be claimed.

(e) Except as described in Subsection (2)[(c)]b, experience obtained under the supervision of a construction trades instructor as a part of an educational program is not qualifying experience for a contractors license.

(f) If the applicant's qualifying experience is outdated but has previously been approved in the state of Utah, a passing score on the trade examination and the laws and rules examination obtained within the one-year period preceding the date of application will requalify the applicant's experience.

(2) Requirements for E100 General Engineering, B100 General Building, R100 Residential and Small Commercial Building license classifications:

(a) [In addition to the requirements of paragraph (1), the qualifier for an applicant for an R100, B100 or E100 license shall demonstrate the following experience:

(i) a minimum of four years experience within the past 10 years; or

(ii) if the applicant's qualifier has previously been approved as a qualifier in the state of Utah, a passing score on the trade examination and the laws and rules examination taken within one year of the date of application to requalify the qualifier's experience.

(b) Two]One of the required [four]two years of experience shall be in a supervisory or managerial position.

([c]b) A person holding a four year bachelors degree or a two year associates degree in Construction Management may have one year of experience credited towards the supervisory or managerial experience requirement.

([d]c) A person holding a Utah professional engineer license may be credited with satisfying one year toward the supervisory or managerial experience required for E100 contractor license.

(3) [Requirements for S220 Carpentry, S280 General Roofing, S290 General Masonry, S320 Steel Erection, S350 Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning, S360 Refrigeration and S370 Fire Suppression Systems license classifications:

In addition to the requirements of paragraph (1), the qualifier for an applicant for an S220, S280, S290, S320, S350, S360 and S370 license shall demonstrate the following experience:

(a) a minimum of four years experience within the past 10 years; or

(b) if the applicant's qualifier has previously been approved as a qualifier in the state of Utah, a passing score on the trade examination and the laws and rules examination taken within one year of the date of application to requalify the qualifier's experience.

(4)] Requirements for I101 General Engineering Trades Instruction Facility, I102 General Building Trades Instruction Facility, I103 Electrical Trades Instruction Facility, I104 Plumbing Trades Instruction Facility, I105 Mechanical Trades Instruction Facility license classifications:

An applicant for construction trades instruction facility license shall have the same experience that is required for the license classifications for the construction trade they will instruct.[

(5) Requirements for other license classifications:

Except as set forth in Subsections (6) and (7), in addition to the requirements of paragraph (1), an applicant for contractor license classification not listed above shall demonstrate the following experience:

(a) a minimum of two years experience within the past 10 years; or

(b) if the applicant's qualifier has previously been approved as a qualifier in the state of Utah, a passing score on the trade examination and the laws and rules examination taken within one year of the date of application to requalify the qualifier's experience.]

([6]4) Requirements for S202 Solar Photovoltaic Contractor. In addition to the requirements of Subsection[s] (1)[ and (5)], an applicant shall hold a current certificate by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.

([7]5) Requirements for S354 Radon Mitigation Contractor. In addition to the requirements of Subsection[s] (1)[ and (5)], an applicant shall hold a current certificate issued by the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NEHA-NRPP). Experience completed prior to the effective date of this rule does not need to be performed under the supervision of a licensed contractor. Experience completed after the effective date of this rule must be performed under the supervision of a licensed contractor who has authority to practice radon mitigation.

 

R156-55a-303b. Continuing Education - Standards.

(1) Required Hours. Pursuant to Subsection 58-55-302.5, each licensee shall complete a total of six hours of continuing education during each two year license term except that for the renewal term[ ending November 30, 2009, the continuing education must be completed between July 1, 2007 and November 30, 2009]. A minimum of three hours shall be core education. The remaining three hours are to be professional education. Additional core education hours beyond the required amount may be substituted for professional education hours.

(a) "Core continuing education" is defined as construction codes, construction laws, OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety training, governmental regulations pertaining to the construction trades and employee verification and payment practices.

(b) "Professional continuing education" is defined as substantive subjects dealing with the practice of the construction trades, including land development, land use, planning and zoning, energy conservation, professional development, arbitration practices, estimating, finance and bookkeeping, marketing techniques, servicing clients, personal and property protection for the licensee and the licensee's clients and similar topics.

(c) The following course subject matter is not acceptable as core education or professional education hours: mechanical office and business skills, such as typing, speed reading, memory improvement and report writing; physical well-being or personal development, such as personal motivation, stress management, time management, dress for success, or similar subjects; presentations by a supplier or a supplier representative to promote a particular product or line of products; and meetings held in conjunction with the general business of the licensee or employer.

(d) The Division may defer or waive the continuing education requirements as provided in Section R156-1-308d.

(2) A continuing education course shall meet the following standards:

(a) Time. Each hour of continuing education course credit shall consist of 50 minutes of education in the form of seminars, lectures, conferences, training sessions or distance learning modules. The remaining ten minutes is to allow for breaks.

(b) Provider. The course provider shall meet the requirements of this Section and shall be one of the following:

(i) a recognized accredited college or university;

(ii) a state or federal agency;

(iii) a professional association or organization involved in the construction trades; or

(iv) a commercial continuing education provider providing a program related to the construction trades.

(c) Content. The content of the course shall be relevant to the practice of the construction trades and consistent with the laws and rules of this state.

(d) Objectives. The learning objectives of the course shall be reasonably and clearly stated.

(e) Teaching Methods. The course shall be presented in a competent, well organized and sequential manner consistent with the stated purpose and objective of the program.

(f) Faculty. The course shall be prepared and presented by individuals who are qualified by education, training and experience.

(g) Distance learning. A course that is provided through Internet or home study may be recognized for continuing education if the course verifies registration and participation in the course by means of a test demonstrating that the participant has learned the material presented. Test questions shall be randomized for each participant.  A home study course shall include no fewer than five variations of the final examination, distributed randomly to participants. Home study courses, including the five exam variations, shall be submitted in their entirety to the Division for review.

(h) Documentation. The course provider shall have a competent method of registration of individuals who actually completed the course, shall maintain records of attendance that are available for review by the Division and shall provide individuals completing the course a certificate that contains the following information:

(i) the date of the course;

(ii) the name of the course provider;

(iii) the name of the instructor;

(iv) the course title;

(v) the hours of continuing education credit and type of credit (core or professional);

(vi) the attendee's name; and

(v) the signature of the course provider.

(3) On a random basis, the Division may assign monitors at no charge to attend a course for the purpose of evaluating the course and the instructor.

(4) Each licensee shall maintain adequate documentation as proof of compliance with this section, such as certificates of completion, course handouts and materials. The licensee shall retain this proof for a period of three years from the end of the renewal period for which the continuing education is due. Each licensee shall assure that the course provider has submitted the verification of attendance to the continuing education registry on behalf of the licensee as specified in Subsection (8). Alternatively, the licensee may submit the course for approval and pay any course approval fees and attendance recording fees.

(5) Licensees who lecture in continuing education courses meeting these requirements shall receive two hours of continuing education for each hour spent lecturing. However, no lecturing or teaching credit is available for participation in a panel discussion.

(6) The continuing education requirement for electricians, plumbers and elevator mechanics as established in Subsections 58-55-302.7 and 58-55-303(6), which is completed by an employee or owner of a contractor, shall satisfy the continuing education requirement for contractors as established in Subsection 58-55-302.5 and implemented herein. The contractor licensee shall assure that the course provider has submitted the verification of the electrician's attendance on behalf of the licensee to the continuing education registry as specified in Subsection (8).

(7) A course provider shall submit continuing education courses for approval to the continuing education registry and shall submit verification of attendance and completion on behalf of licensees attending and completing the program directly to the continuing education registry in the format required by the continuing education registry.

(8) The Division shall review continuing education courses which have been submitted through the continuing education registry and approve only those courses which meet the standards set forth under this Section.

(9) As provided in Section 58-1-401 and Subsections 58-55-302.5(2) and 58-55-302.7(4)(a), the Division may refuse to renew or may revoke, suspend, restrict, place on probation, issue a public reprimand to, or otherwise act upon the approval of any course or provider, if the course or provider fails to meet any of the requirements of this section or the provider has engaged in unlawful or unprofessional conduct.

([9]10) Continuing Education Registry.

(a) The Division shall designate an entity to act as the Continuing Education Registry under this rule.

(b) The Continuing Education Registry, in consultation with the Division and the Commission, shall:

(i) through its internet site electronically receive applications from continuing education course providers and shall submit the application for course approval to the Division for review and approval of only those programs that meet the standards set forth under this Section;

(ii) publish on their website listings of continuing education programs that have been approved by the Division, and which meet the standards for continuing education credit under this rule;

(iii) maintain accurate records of qualified continuing education approved;

(iv) maintain accurate records of verification of attendance and completion, by individual licensee, which the licensee may review for compliance with this rule; and

(v) make records of approved continuing education programs and attendance and completion available for audit by representatives of the Division.

(c) Fees. A continuing education registry may charge a reasonable fee to continuing education providers or licensees for services provided for review and approval of continuing education programs.

 

R156-55a-602. Contractor License Bonds.

[(1)] Pursuant to the provisions of Subsections 58-55-306(1)(b),[ and] 58-55-306(4)(c) and 58-55-306(5)(b)(iii),[except as provided in Subsection R156-55a-602(4),] a contractor shall provide a license bond issued by a surety acceptable to the Division in the amount, form, and coverage as follows:[ of $50,000 for the E100 or B100 classification of licensure, $25,000 for the R100 classification of licensure, or $15,000 for other classifications or such higher amount as may be determined by the Division and the Commission as provided for in Subsection R156-55a-602(3).]

(1)  An acceptable surety is one that is listed in the Department of Treasury, Fiscal Service, Circular 570, entitled "Companies Holding Certificates of Authority as Acceptable Sureties on Federal Bonds and as Acceptable Reinsuring Companies" at the date of the bond.

(2) The coverage of the license bond shall include losses that may occur as the result of the contractor's violation of the unprofessional or unlawful provisions contained in Title 58, Chapters 1 and 55 and rules R156-1 and R156-55a including the failure to maintain financial responsibility, the failure of the licensee to pay its obligations, and the failure of the owners or a licensed unincorporated entity to pay income taxes or self employment taxes on the gross distributions from the unincorporated entity to its owners.

(3) The financial history of the applicant, licensee, or any owner, as outlined in Section R156-55a-306, may be reviewed in determining the bond amount required under this section.

(4) If the licensee is submitting a bond under Subsection 58-55-306(5)(b)(iii)(B), the amount of the bond shall be 20% of the annual gross distributions from the unincorporated entity to its owners. As provided in Subsection 58-55-302(10)(c), the Division, in determining if financial responsibility has been demonstrated, may consider the total number of owners, including new owners added as reported under the provisions of Subsection 58-55-302(10)(a)(i), in setting the amount of the bond required under this subsection.

(5) If the licensee is submitting a bond under any subsection other than Subsection 58-55-306(5)(b)(iii)(B), the minimum amount of the bond shall be $50,000 for the E100 or B100 classification of licensure; $25,000 for the R100 classification of licensure; or $15,000 for other classifications. A higher amount may be determined by the Division and the Commission as provided in Subsection R156-55a-602(6).

([3]6) The amount of the bond specified under Subsection R156-55a-602([1]5) may be increased by an amount determined by the Commission and Division when the financial history of the applicant, licensee or any owner indicates the bond amount specified in Subsection R156-55a-602(1) is insufficient to reasonably cover risks to the public health, safety and welfare. The financial history of the applicant, licensee or any owner, as outlined in Section R156-55a-306 may be reviewed in determining the bond amount required.

([4]7) A contractor may provide a license bond issued by a surety acceptable to the Division in an amount less than the bond amount specified in Subsection R156-55a-602([1]5) if:

(a) the contractor demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that:

(i) the financial history of the applicant, licensee or any owner indicates the bond amount specified in Subsection R156-55a-602(1) is in excess of what is reasonably necessary to cover risks to the public health, safety and welfare;

(ii) the contractor's lack of financial responsibility is due to extraordinary circumstances that the contractor could not control as opposed to general financial challenges that all contractors experience; and

(iii) the contractor's scope of practice will be restricted commensurate with the degree of risk the contract presents to the public health, safety, and welfare; and

(b) the Commission and Division approve the amount.

 

KEY: contractors, occupational licensing, licensing

Date of Enactment or Last Substantive Amendment: [April 22, 2013]2014

Notice of Continuation: October 4, 2011

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 58-1-106(1)(a); 58-1-202(1)(a); 58-55-101; 58-55-308(1)(a); 58-55-102(39)(a)

 

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