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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 3701-25 | Camps

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 3701-25-01 | Definitions.
 

As used in this chapter:

(A) "Board of health" means the board of health of a city or general health district, or the authority having the duties of a board of health in any city, as authorized by section 3709.05 of the Revised Code, or the board of health's authorized representative.

(B) "Gray water recycling systems" has the meaning set forth in section 3718.01 of the Revised Code.

(C) "Human consumption" means ingestion or absorption of water or water vapor by humans as the result of drinking, cooking, dishwashing, handwashing, bathing, showering, or oral hygiene, or other domestic uses such as flushing toilets or doing laundry.

(D) "One hundred year flood" means a flood having a one per cent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.

(E) "One hundred year flood plain" means that area adjoining any river, stream, watercourse, or lake that has been or may be inundated by a one hundred year flood.

(F) "Operator" means the person having responsible charge of a resident camp.

(G) "Person" has the same meaning as in section 1.59 of the Revised Code and also includes this state, any political subdivision of this state, and any other state or local body of this state.

(H) "Primitive camp area" means any resident camp in which only sewage and solid waste disposal facilities are required.

(I) "Privy" means a self-contained waterless toilet used for disposal of non water-carried human excreta that consists of a shelter built above an approved tank installed in the ground into which human excreta is deposited.

(J) "Resident camp" means a tract of land and any tents, vehicles, buildings or other structures that may be pertinent to its use, any part of which may be occupied by any person for the purpose of supervised outdoor or indoor activities and on which provisions are made for overnight occupancy. A resident camp does not include the following:

(1) Any university, college, or other registered educational facility; or

(2) Any use of a tract of land, or property determined by the board of health as not being within the intent of this chapter.

(K) "Sewage" means liquid waste containing animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution that originates from humans and human activities. Sewage includes liquids containing household chemicals in solution commonly discharged from a residence or from commercial, institutional, or other similar facilities.

(L) "Sewerage system" has the same meaning as set forth in section 6111.01 of the Revised Code.

(M) "Sleeping quarters" means buildings or other structures provided by the operator for sleeping purposes.

(N) "Solid wastes" has the same meaning as set forth in section 3734.01 of the Revised Code.

(O) "Substantially alter" means a change in the layout or design of a resident camp, including, without limitation, the movement of utilities or changes in established roadways, camping areas, sleeping quarters, or other facilities.

Last updated January 3, 2022 at 9:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3701.13
Amplifies: 3701.03, 3701.13
Five Year Review Date: 9/16/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 9/6/1998
Rule 3701-25-02 | Responsibilities of the board of health.
 

(A) Pre-approval requirements. Prior to issuing a permit to operate a newly constructed, substantially altered or existing unlicensed resident camp, the board of health shall review and either accept or not accept plans that have been submitted in accordance with this chapter.

(B) Site evaluation. To determine its suitability, the board of health shall evaluate the location for a newly constructed, substantially altered or existing unlicensed resident camp and prepare and sign a written site evaluation report. The report shall include at a minimum, topography, soil conditions, previous uses, and available utilities for the resident camp.

(C) Plan review. The board of health shall, within thirty days of receiving a complete plan review package for review, either approve or disapprove the plans in writing or, in the case of incomplete plans, request additional information. If additional information is requested, the board of health shall approve or disapprove the plans within thirty days after receiving the additional requested information. If the board of health does not receive a response to the request for additional information within forty-five days, the board of health shall disapprove the package.

(1) Plan approval. Except as otherwise provided in this rule, a written plan approval issued for a resident camp shall be valid for two years after the date on which the approval was issued. One extension may be granted for a period of up to one year, if it is found that the applicant for plan approval has made a good faith effort to complete the construction or substantial alteration, but has failed to complete it for reasons beyond the applicant's control. A request for an extension shall be filed in writing before the plan approval has expired.

(2) Plan expiration. If the construction or substantial alteration has not been completed within the two-year period, or within the limit of any extension granted under this rule, the plans shall be resubmitted.

(3) Plan disapproval. The board of health may disapprove plans if the applicant for plan approval fails to comply with, or the proposed construction or substantial alteration fails to comply with any rule of this chapter.

(4) Hearing request. Any applicant may appeal the disapproval of their plans in accordance with fair hearing procedures adopted by the board of health.

(D) Inspections. The board of health shall have the right of entry and access to resident camps at any reasonable time for the purpose of inspecting and investigating conditions relating to the administration and enforcement of this chapter.

(1) Before a permit is initially issued and annually thereafter, or more often if necessary, the board of health shall cause each resident camp to be inspected relative to compliance with this chapter.

(2) A record shall be made of each inspection.

(E) Permitting. The board of health shall process complete applications to operate a resident campground, within thirty days of receipt. The board of health shall either issue a permit or respond to the applicant regarding the application.

(1) Applications for permit renewal shall be received in April of each year.

(2) Each permit issued shall be effective from the date of issuance until the last day of April each year.

Last updated January 3, 2022 at 9:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3701.13
Amplifies: 3701.03, 3701.13
Five Year Review Date: 9/16/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2015
Rule 3701-25-03 | Responsibility of the operator.
 

(A) Permission to operate. No person shall operate or maintain a resident camp without a permit issued by the board of health having jurisdiction.

(B) Submission of plans. Any person who intends to construct, substantially alter or operate an existing, unpermitted resident camp shall comply with rule 3701-25-04 of the Administrative Code.

(C) Persons seeking approval to operate a resident camp shall apply to the board of health in which the business is located, on forms the board shall prescribe and provide.

(1) Initial permit to operate. Any person who intends to open a new resident camp shall apply for a permit at any time after receiving written approval of the plans for the resident camp from the board of health under paragraph (C)(1) of rule 3701-25-02 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Permit renewal. Every operator who intends to renew an approval to operate or maintain a resident camp shall apply to the board of health on or after April first of each year.

(D) The operator shall post the current permit approval in a conspicuous manner on the resident camp premises.

(E) In accordance with paragraph (D) of rule 3701-25-02 of the Administrative Code, the operator shall give the board of health access to the resident camp premises and to all records relevant to an inspection.

(F) The operator of a resident camp shall:

(1) Establish rules governing the operation and maintenance of the resident camp. The rules shall be given to the patrons upon arrival or be conspicuously posted. The rules shall include, but not be limited to:

(a) Safety requirements;

(b) Traffic control and vehicle use;

(c) Noise control;

(d) Use of hazardous materials and fire safety;

(e) Registration of all visitors; and

(f) Aquatic recreation area safety requirements, if applicable.

(2) Prevent and remove any nuisances within the resident camp;

(3) Maintain vehicular access, as appropriate, throughout the resident camp. Roads and walkways shall be maintained to provide all-weather access at all times the resident camp is in use;

(4) Designate at least one responsible adult to be on site and available at all times the resident camp is in operation;

(5) Ensure the resident camp is kept free of trash and debris;

(6) Implement insect and rodent control measures when an insect or rodent nuisance exists;

(7) Reasonably control noxious plants such as poison ivy, poison sumac and other plants that could constitute a hazard to patrons in public use areas;

(8) Require the registration of all pets and service animals that are permitted within the resident camp prior to entry. All dogs must have proof of current rabies vaccination;

(9) Promptly report cases of either domestic or wild animal bites inflicted upon any person in the resident camp to the board of health where the resident camp is located; and

(10) Promptly notify the board of health of any known cases of communicable or infectious disease and, in the event of an outbreak, comply with the orders given by the board of health.

(G) Sleeping quarters. The operator shall ensure:

(1) All sleeping quarters are:

(a) Maintained in a safe condition; and

(b) Maintained as to provide easy, unobstructed exit in case of fire or other emergency.

(2) In sleeping quarters, beds shall be arranged as follows:

(a) To allow for adequate cross ventilation;

(b) Maintain a minimum horizontal distance of five feet between the heads of the campers;

(c) Every bed shall maintain at least:

(i) Twelve inches from the floor to the bottom of the mattress;

(ii) Twenty-seven inches between the top of the lower mattress of a bunk bed and bottom of the upper bunk;

(iii) Thirty-six inches from the top of the upper mattress to the ceiling; and

(iv) Thirty inches between the sides of the beds. In instances where the thirty inch separation distance cannot be achieved, the operator may provide a permanent partition or other acceptable barrier between beds.

(d) Triple deck or higher bunks shall be prohibited.

(3) Articles of bedding and furniture when provided by the operator shall be kept clean, free of insects, pests, and rodents, and in good repair.

(a) Beds shall have mattresses or mattress covers that are impervious to moisture and easily cleanable.

(b) Bunk beds shall be equipped with guardrails attached to the upper bunks to prevent campers from accidentally rolling out of bed.

(c) Bedding shall be changed between campers, when soiled, and at least weekly, if sheets and pillowcases are supplied by the operator.

(4) Outside openings shall be protected with tight-fitting screens and kept in good repair. Screen doors shall be equipped with self-closing devices and installed to open outward.

(H) Hygiene facilities. All hygiene facilities shall be constructed in accordance with section 1210 of the Ohio building code, found in rule 4101:1-12-01 of the Administrative Code. The operator shall ensure:

(1) All toilet facilities are:

(a) Properly located in accordance with the approved plans;

(b) Maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

(c) Provided with adequate toilet tissue at each toilet fixture;

(d) Provided with handwashing facilities;

(e) Provided with self-closing doors or modesty shields at the entrance and exits;

(f) Provided with floors that are easily cleanable, slip resistant, impervious to moisture, and self-draining; and

(g) Plainly designated and the location of toilets shall be indicated by suitable signs. During night hours all toilet facilities shall be lighted by artificial lighting.

(2) All handwashing facilities are:

(a) Equipped with water that is safe for human consumption, soap, and a sanitary hand drying method shall be provided in each camp except primitive camp areas, which shall have hand sanitizer when water is not readily accessible;

(b) Maintained in a clean and sanitary condition; and

(c) The location of handwashing facilities shall be indicated by suitable signs. The interior of these facilities shall be illuminated by artificial lighting during night hours.

(3) When shower facilities are provided they are:

(a) Equipped with water that is safe for human consumption;

(b) Maintained in a clean and sanitary condition;

(c) Provided with floors that are easily cleanable, slip resistant, impervious to moisture, and self-draining; and

(d) The location of shower facilities shall be indicated by suitable signs. The interior of these facilities shall be illuminated by artificial lighting when in use during night hours.

(I) Water supply systems. The operator shall ensure:

(1) Water of adequate quantity for human consumption is provided from:

(a) A public water system that meets the requirements of Chapter 6109. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder; or

(b) A private water system that meets the requirements of section 3701.344 of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder.

(2) The water supply system and equipment is maintained in a safe and sanitary manner so as not to create a health hazard to the occupants of the camp;

(3) Adequate drainage is provided at all water service outlets; and

(4) All water hoses used for human consumption are rated for potable water use.

(J) Sewerage systems. The operator shall ensure:

(1) All sewerage systems meet the standards of Chapter 3718. or 6111. of the Revised Code;

(2) All sewerage systems are maintained in a safe and sanitary manner so as not to create a health hazard;

(3) No individual within the resident camp creates a sewage nuisance; and

(4) When the services of a registered septage hauler are utilized by the resident camp for the ultimate disposal of sewage pumped from holding tanks, a current service agreement shall be kept on file on the premises by the operator and shall include the dates of any services performed for a period of three years.

(K) Gray water recycling systems. The operator shall ensure:

(1) The gray water recycling system meets the standards of section 3718.02 of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder, or Chapter 6111. of the Revised Code, as appropriate, and the following:

(a) Maintained to keep the system and the area around the system in a safe and sanitary manner and free from any nuisances or health hazards; and

(b) Easily accessible and provided with a sign indicating that the system is for gray water only and that no sewage is permitted.

(2) A resident camp that was in existence on or before September 6, 1998 is not required to comply with paragraph (F)(3)(b) of rule 3701-25-04 of the Administrative Code unless:

(a) The resident camp is substantially altered or expanded in such a manner that an approval is required under rule 3701-25-02 of the Administrative Code; or

(b) The board of health determines that the existing gray water recycling system is causing a nuisance because its location, installation, or design is not in compliance with this rule.

(3) When the services of a registered septage hauler are utilized by the resident camp for the ultimate disposal of gray water pumped from holding tanks, a current service agreement shall be kept on file on the premises by the operator and shall include the dates of any services performed for a period of three years; and

(4) All gray water recycling systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the approved plans.

(L) Solid waste storage and disposal. The operator shall ensure:

(1) The storage, collection, and disposal of solid waste is conducted so as to avoid the creation of health hazards, rodent harborages, insect breeding areas, and accidents;

(2) Solid waste stored within the resident camp is stored in durable, rust resistant, watertight, non-absorbent, and easily cleanable containers with tight fitting covers. Containers and covers are maintained in a clean condition and in good repair. Solid waste containers shall be sufficient in number and size to accommodate all solid waste generated between collections;

(3) All solid waste containers are easily accessible and emptied at least weekly unless otherwise authorized by the board of health; and

(4) A written policy for the disposal of infectious waste is kept on file at the resident camp.

(M) Electric. The operator shall ensure:

(1) All electrical work within a resident camp must be completed in accordance with section 2701 of the Ohio building code, found in rule 4101:1-27-01 of the Administrative Code or the local code, whichever is more stringent, with written certification by a licensed contractor;

(2) Written verification of the most recent permits, and any documents from a licensed contractor certifying work performed within the resident camp, are maintained on file for review by the board of health;

(3) Whenever electrical service is available to the resident camp, all public service buildings are provided with external lighting sufficient to provide illumination and visibility; and

(4) When, in the opinion of the board of health, an electrical hazard exists, the board may:

(a) Allow the operator to remove the hazard;

(b) Require written verification by a licensed contractor that a hazard does not exist; or

(c) Require written verification by a licensed contractor that proper repairs have been made to remove the hazard. Repairs that are necessary will apply only towards removing the hazard and will not be cause to renovate the entire electrical system due to other nonconforming issues with rule 4101:1-27-01 of the Administrative Code unless the licensed contractor verifies such renovation is necessary to remove the hazard.

(N) Safety. The operator shall ensure:

(1) Fire fighting equipment of the type and quantity acceptable to the state fire marshal or local fire department is readily available for use in fighting fires. All fire fighting equipment shall be maintained in good operating condition;

(2) Water recreation areas are supervised while in use and maintained when the resident camp is in operation;

(3) All programs are identified that require specialized supervision, including firearms, archery equipment, hazardous substances, and potentially hazardous equipment. All equipment for those programs shall be maintained and stored in a safe manner and in a location protected from unauthorized access and use;

(4) A designated place is provided for the care and first aid treatment of sick or injured campers. First aid equipment consisting of unused disposable gloves and a sufficient supply of materials to stop bleeding and to clean and cover minor cuts and abrasions shall be provided. Additionally, first aid kits shall be provided in the following locations where applicable:

(a) Aquatic areas;

(b) Specialized activity areas; and

(c) Food service areas.

(5) A telephone designated for emergency use and its location are available at the resident camp. A list of emergency numbers along with the address of the resident camp shall be posted at each designated phone;

(6) Hazardous substances are labeled, stored, and handled as required by applicable laws and rules, and as directed by the board of health in instances not covered by such laws and rules;

(7) All playgrounds and playground equipment are installed and maintained in a safe condition;

(8) All heating and cooling devices are installed, operated, and maintained in such a manner as to avoid fire hazards, accidents, electrical hazards, and a dangerous concentration of fumes or gases;

(9) The handling and storage of fuel oil or other flammable liquids is in compliance with the applicable standards of the current edition of the national fire protection association (NFPA) standard number thirty (NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, 2018 edition, which became effective on February 27, 2018);

(10) Natural hazards to life and safety are identified and controlled, whenever possible, within the resident camp; and

(11) A record is maintained of all injuries occurring within the resident camp area that require the attention of medical personnel licensed under Chapters 4723., 4730., and 4731. of the Revised Code.

Last updated January 3, 2022 at 9:46 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3701.13
Amplifies: 3701.03, 3701.13
Five Year Review Date: 9/16/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 9/6/1998
Rule 3701-25-04 | Resident camp plan review package submission and design requirements.
 

(A) No person shall construct, substantially alter or operate an existing unpermitted resident camp until both of the following have occurred:

(1) The proposed location of the resident camp has been evaluated by the board of health under paragraph (B) of this rule; and

(2) The plans for construction or alteration have been submitted to the board of health for review, in accordance with paragraph (C) of this rule, and have been approved by the board of health, in accordance with rule 3701-25-02 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Site evaluation. Before submitting a plan review package under paragraph (C) of this rule, any person who wishes to construct, substantially alter, or operate an existing unpermitted resident camp shall request a site evaluation of the proposed location, to determine its suitability, by the board of health.

(C) Plan review package. The operator shall submit a plan review package for any newly constructed, substantially altered or existing unpermitted resident camp. The plan review package shall include:

(1) The name, address, telephone number, and e-mail (if available) of the resident camp owner, operator, and a person to contact with regard to the plans; and

(2) A site plan of the entire resident camp layout and specifications shall be legible, drawn reasonably to scale, and shall include:

(a) The area, dimensions, and elevations of the tract of land;

(b) Entrance and exit roads, access roads, and trails;

(c) All existing buildings and any proposed structures within the resident camp;

(d) Swimming facilities, including swimming pools and other bathing places, if applicable;

(e) Design and design plans for drainage of surface and storm waters, if applicable;

(f) Details and specifications of the water system;

(g) Details and specifications of the sewage collection and treatment system, if applicable;

(h) Details and specifications of the gray water recycling system, if applicable;

(i) Location and method of storage, collection, and disposal of solid waste; and

(j) The location and details of the lighting and electrical systems, if applicable.

(D) The board of health, upon request of the person submitting the plans and specifications for approval, may waive submission of any of the items required by this rule if it is determined that they are not necessary. The board of health may request additional information and may return incomplete plans to the applicant without review. The plans shall be acted upon within thirty days after the date of receipt of the information required of this rule.

(E) The plans shall be accompanied by all of the following documents:

(1) A copy of the completed site evaluation form issued by the board of health under paragraph (B) of this rule;

(2) Written verification from the local zoning authority that the land use has been zoned and approved for the development of a resident camp, if applicable;

(3) Written verification that all proposed buildings in the resident camp meet applicable state or local building requirements;

(4) Written verification by the fire protection authority that has jurisdiction in the area, that the resident camp has adequate fire protection;

(5) Written verification by the municipal corporation, or board of county commissioners for unincorporated areas, that the proposed new construction or substantial alteration will comply with the municipal or county flood plain ordinances or resolutions and local flood plain requirements; and

(6) Written verification that the plans for the sewerage system and the water supply system have been approved by the Ohio environmental protection agency (OEPA) or the board of health depending on which entity has jurisdiction.

(F) All resident camps shall be designed to meet the following criteria:

(1) Water supply requirements:

(a) Water of adequate quantity for human consumption shall be provided from:

(i) A public water system that meets the requirements of Chapter 6109. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder; or

(ii) A private water system that meets the requirements of section 3701.344 of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder.

(b) Water used for the flushing of holding tanks or toilets may be from a supply that does not meet the requirements of paragraph (F)(1)(a) of this rule if all outlets from the supply are clearly and indelibly labeled to the effect that the water is "unsafe for human consumption."

(2) Sewerage system requirements:

(a) All sewerage systems shall meet the standards of Chapter 3718. or 6111. of the Revised Code; and

(b) When the services of a registered septage hauler are utilized by the resident camp for the ultimate disposal of sewage pumped from holding tanks, a current service agreement shall be kept on file on the premises by the operator and shall include the dates of any services performed for a period of three years.

(3) Gray water recycling system requirements:

(a) The gray water recycling system shall meet the standards of section 3718.02 of the Revised Code and the rules adopted thereunder, or Chapter 6111. of the Revised Code, as appropriate, and the following:

(i) Located no farther than two hundred feet walking distance; and

(ii) Direct or indirect connection of any pipe, hose or direct discharge from any portable camping unit or other source to a gray water recycling system is prohibited.

(b) A gray water recycling system shall consist of one of the following, except as provided in paragraph (K)(2) of rule 3701-25-03 of the Administrative Code:

(i) An individual connection to an approved sewage collection system; or

(ii) A gray water recycling system approved by the board of health.

(4) All toilet facilities shall be:

(a) Constructed in accordance with section 1210 of the Ohio building code, found in rule 4101:1-12-01 of the Administrative Code;

(b) Provided to the general resident camp population in an adequate number, in accordance with rule 4101:1-29-01 of the Administrative Code;

(c) Properly located in accordance with the approved plans;

(d) Provided with self-closing doors or modesty shields at the entrances and exits;

(e) Provided with floors that are easily cleanable, slip resistant, impervious to moisture, and self-draining;

(f) In designated locations with appropriate signage in accordance with paragraph (F)(4)(d) of this rule. During night hours all toilet facilities shall be lighted by artificial lighting;

(g) Constructed in accordance with Chapter 3718. of the Revised Code for the following:

(i) Vault privies shall be constructed of a water-tight holding tank capable of holding a minimum volume of one thousand gallons;

(ii) Pit latrines are not permitted. Pit latrines in existence on or before January 1, 2015, are permitted in primitive camp areas unless either of the following is the case:

(a) The camp is substantially altered or expanded in such a manner that plan approval is required under rule 3701-25-02 of the Administrative Code; or

(b) The board of health determines that a nuisance exists.

(5) All handwashing facilities shall be:

(a) Equipped with water that is safe for human consumption;

(b) Constructed in accordance with section 1210 of the Ohio building code, found in rule 4101:1-12-01 of the Administrative Code;

(c) Provided to the general resident camp population in an adequate number, in accordance with rule 4101:1-29-01 of the Administrative Code; and

(d) Illuminated by artificial lighting during night hours and the location indicated by suitable signs.

(6) When shower facilities are provided they shall be:

(a) Equipped with water that is safe for human consumption;

(b) Constructed in accordance with section 1210 of the Ohio building code, found in rule 4101:1-12-01 of the Administrative Code;

(c) Provided to the general resident camp population in an adequate number, in accordance with rule 4101:1-29-01 of the Administrative Code;

(d) When used by more than one family at one time or by non-family groups, separate facilities shall be provided for each sex. If shower facilities for each sex are in the same building, they shall be separated by solid walls or partitions extending from the floor to the ceiling. Shower building entrances and exits shall be provided with self-closing doors or modesty shields;

(e) Provided with floors that are easily cleanable, slip resistant, impervious to moisture, and self-draining; and

(f) Illuminated by artificial lighting when in use during night hours and the location indicated by suitable signs.

(7) Containers for the collection and storage of solid wastes shall be provided and be durable, watertight, non-absorbent, easily cleanable, and shall have tight-fitting covers.

(8) Electrical requirements:

(a) All electrical work within a resident camp shall be installed in accordance with rule 4101:1-27-01 of the Administrative Code or the local code, whichever is more stringent, with written certification by a licensed contractor; and

(b) Whenever electrical service is available to the resident camp, all public service buildings shall be provided with external lighting sufficient to provide illumination and visibility.

(9) Other items shall be provided as follows:

(a) The operator shall have fire fighting equipment of the type and quantity acceptable to the state fire marshal or local fire department readily available for use in fighting fires. All fire fighting equipment shall be maintained in good operating condition;

(b) A designated telephone for emergency use and its location shall be made available at the resident camp. A list of emergency numbers along with the address of the resident camp shall be posted at each designated phone;

(c) A designated place is provided for the care and first aid treatment of sick or injured campers. First aid equipment consisting of unused disposable gloves and a sufficient supply of materials to stop bleeding and to clean and cover minor cuts and abrasions shall be provided. Additionally, first aid kits shall be provided in the following locations where applicable:

(i) Aquatic areas;

(ii) Specialized activity areas; and

(iii) Food service areas.

(d) Rules established for the resident camp shall be conspicuously posted and/or provided to campers.

Last updated January 3, 2022 at 9:46 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3701.13
Amplifies: 3701.03, 3701.13
Five Year Review Date: 9/16/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1972, 1/1/2015