Friday, December 12, 2008
Codes Restrict Hearth Installers and Chimney Sweeps in the Kansas City Area
Codes Restrict Hearth Installers and Chimney Sweeps in the Kansas City Area
December 12, 2008
Midwest Chimney Safety Council KC Chapter
Changes made by code officials in Johnson County, Kansas and Jackson County, Missouri affect hearth retailers and chimney sweeps in the area. This change was made 6 years ago in Johnson County, and now most cities in the greater Kansas City area have adopted the policy. The requirement is that any company who installs, maintains, or repairs hearth appliances, flues, fireplaces, or chimneys must have a Class DM Master Mechanical License, otherwise known as a Craftsman or HVAC license. Permits are necessary in most juridictions, and inspections by code officials are also required. Several other cities have already adopted or plan to adopt similar plans in the Midwest.
This issue is being addressed by the MCSC, who is seeking support of local area chimney sweeps and retailers. The MCSC plans to approach code officals with alternative requirements, which would include CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep or National Fireplace Institute Certification(s) instead of the HVAC license.
The code changes will be discussed fully at the annual MCSC meeting in Kansas City on March 20, 2009. Please visit http://www.mcsc-net.org for more informantion about the meeting.
All interested parties should contact Marge Padgitt, MCSC Licensing Chair at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 816-461-3665.