HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-10-24 Ordinance 53951
160830 sh 016/Dev Services/2016 Code Cycle/Final Codes/2016-08-25 (2016 Code Cyle) ORD Amending Ch 15.04 Fire Code
Ordinance No. 5395
Adoption of an Ordinance Repealing Chapters 15.04 and 15.05 and
Reenacting Chapter 15.04 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Adopt the
2016 Edition of the California Fire Code, With Local Amendments and
Related Findings
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Title 15 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended by repealing
in their entirety Chapters 15.04 and 15.05 and enacting a new Chapter 15.04 to read as follows:
15.04 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
15.04.010 Adoption of the California Fire Code.
The California Fire Code, 2016 Edition, as adopted by the California Code of Regulations Title
24, Part 9, and Appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and K is adopted as herein amended. One copy
of the California Fire Code is on file and open to public inspection in the Office of the City
Clerk. Additional copies of the secondary codes set forth within the California Fire Code, and
the amendments set forth in this chapter, are on file and open to public inspection in the fire
department administrative office.
Whenever the phrase appears in this code or in any ordinance of the
Code, 2016 as
adopted and amended by this chapter.
15.04.015 Section 102.5 amended Application of residential code.
Section 102.5 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and
constructed in accordance with the California Residential Code, the provisions
of this code shall apply as follows:
1. Construction and design provisions: Provisions of this code pertaining to
the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to,
premises identification, fire apparatus access and water
supplies. Provisions of this code pertaining to the interior of the structure
shall apply when specifically required by this code including, but not limited
to, Sections 903.2 through 903.3.7 and Section 907.2.10. Where interior or
exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by
Section 105.7 of this code shall also apply.
2. Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions: all such
provisions of this code shall apply.
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TYPE OF GAS AMOUNT (cubic feet)2
X 0.0283 for m3
Corrosive
Flammable (except cryogenic and liquefied petroleum gases)
Highly toxic Any amount
Inert and simple asphyxiant
Irritant
Moderately toxic 20
Other health hazards
Oxidizing (including oxygen)
Pyrophoric Any amount
Radioactive Any amount
Sensitizer
Toxic Any Amount
Unstable (reactive) Any amount
15.04.017 Section 103.2 deleted.
Section 103.2 of the California Fire Code is deleted.
15.04.020 Sections 105.3.9 and 105.3.10 added Permits/Permit fees.
Sections 105.3.9 and 105.3.10 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
105.3.9 Permits/Permit fees. All permit fees shall be established by the City
Council as set forth in the municipal fee schedule.
105.3.10 Operational Permits. Operational permits are valid for one year at
which time they must be renewed by paying a fee specified in the municipal
fee schedule.
15.04.030 Table 105.6.8 amended Permit amounts for compressed gases.
Table 105.6.8 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 105.6.8
PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR COMPRESSED GASES1
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832m3.
1 Refer to Chapters 27, 30, 32, 35, 37, 40 and 41 for additional requirements and
exceptions.
2 Cubic feet measured at normal Temperature and pressure.
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15.04.040 Table 105.6.20 amended Permit amounts for hazardous materials.
Table 105.6.20 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 105.6.20
PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS1
TYPE OF MATERIAL
AMOUNT
Carcinogens 10 pounds
Combustible liquids See Section 105.6.16
Corrosive materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
See Section 105.6.8
55 gallons
500 pounds
Cryogens See Section 105.6.10
Explosive materials See Section 105.6.14
Flammable materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
See Section 105.6.8
See Section 105.6.16
10 pounds
Highly toxic materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
Moderately toxic gas 20 cubic feet
Organic peroxides:
Liquids: Class IIV
Liquids: Class V
Solids: Class IIV
Solids: Class V
Any Amount
No Permit Required
Any Amount
No Permit Required
Oxidizing materials:
Gases Liquids
Solids:
504 Cubic Feet
Any amount
Any amount
Other health
Hazards:
Liquids
55 gallons
500 pounds
Pyrophoric materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
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Radioactive materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any Amount
See Section 105.6.47
See Section 105.6.47
Toxic materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
Unstable (reactive) materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
Water reactive materials:
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound = 0.454kg.
a. 20 gallons when Table 2703.1.1(1) Note k applies and hazard identification signs
in accordance with Section 2703.5 are provided for quantities of 20 gallons or
less.
b. 200 pounds when Table 2703.1.1(1) Note k applies and hazard identification
signs in accordance with Section 2703.5 are provided for quantities of 200
pounds or less.
15.04.050 Sections 105.6.48 and 105.6.49 added Permits required.
Sections 105.6.48 and 105.6.49 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
105.6.48 Radioactive materials. To store or handle at any installation more
than one microcurie (37,000 becquerel) of radioactive material not contained
in a sealed source or more than 1 millicurie (37,000,000 becquerel) of
radioactive material in a sealed source or sources, or any amount of
radioactive material for which a specific licenses from the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission is required.
105.6.49 Day Care Permit. To operate a day care facility for more than six
children or adults.
15.04.060 Sections 105.7.19 and 105.7.20 added.
Sections 105.7.19 and 105.7.20 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
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105.7.19 Cryogenic fluids. Except where federal or state regulations apply and
except for fuel systems of the vehicle, to produce, store or handle cryogens in
excess of the amounts listed in Table 105.6.10, to install a cryogenic vessel or
piping system for the storage or distribution of cryogens. See Chapter 32.
105.7.20 Underground Fire Service Lines, installation or modification.A
construction permit is required for the installation, modification or removal
from service of underground fire service lines. Maintenance performed in
accordance with this code that does not affect the pipe restraints nor have the
potential of introducing debris into the piping system is not considered to be a
modification and does not require a permit.
15.04.070 Sections 105.8.1 and 105.8.2 added Fire and life safety.
Subsections 105.8.1 and 105.8.2 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
105.8.1 Fire and lifesafety plan review. Fire and lifesafety plan review of all
new construction, all remodels, and all additions shall be performed by the
Fire Chief or his designee.
105.8.2 Site Map and Floor plans. The Fire Chief or fire code official may
require as a condition of final permit approval, a site map including the use of
standard or approved Palo Alto Fire Department symbols. Features would
include interior floor plans, onsite hydrant locations, FDC locations, key safe
locations, alarm panel locations, electrical panel locations, stairwell and
elevator locations, water shut off locations, hazardous materials locations, and
other significant design elements or fire service features. The site map is to be
(GIS) at time of construction. This requirement applies to newly constructed
buildings, facilities where hazardous materials are used or stored in quantities
exceeding permit amounts in Section 105, additions or permitted remodels
when in the opinion of the fire code official a site map is warranted.
15.04.080 Section 105.9 added Certified Unified Program Agency Fees.
Section 105.9 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
105.9 Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) Fees. Pursuant to the
Participating Agency Agreement between the County of Santa Clara and the
City of Palo Alto dated July 1, 1997, or as amended, the Fire Department is
authorized to collect fees associated with the CUPA programs. The CUPA fees
will be collected on an annual basis or as specified in the Palo Alto Fire
Department Fee Schedule.
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15.04.090 Section 106.1 amended Inspection authority.
Section 106.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
106.1 Inspection authority. The fire code official is authorized to inspect, as
often as necessary, buildings and premises, including such other hazards or
appliances designated by the fire code official for the purposes of ascertaining
and causing to be corrected any conditions which would reasonably tend to
cause fire or contribute to its spread, result in an unauthorized discharge of
hazardous materials, or any violation of this code or any other law or standard
affecting fire and life safety.
15.04.100 Section 109.1.2 added Enforcement/citation authority.
Section 109.1.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
109.1.2 Enforcement/citation authority. The following designated employee
positions may enforce the provisions of this chapter by the issuance of citations.
Persons employed in such positions are authorized to exercise the authority
provided in Penal Code Section 836.5 and are authorized to issue citations for
violations of this chapter. The designated employee positions are: Fire Chief,
Deputy Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, Fire Inspector, Hazardous Materials Specialist
and Hazardous Materials Inspector.
15.04.110 Section 109.3 amended violations and penalties.
Section 109.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this Title 15 shall be
deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be
punished as provided in subsection (a) of Section 1.08.010 of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any
violation of the fire code occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a
separate offense, and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as herein
provided.
15.04.120 Definitions added to section 202
The following definitions are added to Section 202 of the California Fire Code to read as
follows:
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DEVICE.
equipment that plays an active part in the proper functioning of the regulated
systems. Examples include, but are not limited to the following: smoke
detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, manual pull stations, horns, alarms,
bells, warning lights, hydrants, risers, FDCs, standpipes, strobes, control
panels, transponders, and other such equipment used to detect, transmit,
initiate, annunciate, alarm, or respond according to the system design criteria.
DUAL SENSOR CARBON MONOXIDE AND SMOKE ALARM. A combination
carbon monoxide and smoke alarm or detector that senses both smoke and CO
in a single device.
CARCINOGEN. A carcinogen is a substance that causes the development of
cancerous growths in living tissue. A chemical is considered a carcinogen if:
1. It has been evaluated by the International Agency for Research on
Cancer and found to be a carcinogen or potential carcinogen, or
2. It is listed a s a carcinogen or potential carcinogen in the latest edition
of the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National
Toxicology program, or
3. It is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen.
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM. A continuous gas detection system is
a gas detection system where the analytical instrument is maintained in
continuous operation and sampling is performed without interruption. Analysis
is allowed to be performed on a cyclical basis at intervals not to exceed 30
minutes. In occupied areas where air is recirculated and not exhausted to a
treatment system (e.g. breathing zone), the fire code official may require a
cyclical basis at intervals not to exceed 5 minutes. The gas detection system
shall be able to detect the presence of a gas at or below the permissible
exposure limit in occupiable areas and at or below ½ IDLH (or 0.05 LC 50 if no
established IDLH) in unoccupiable areas.
CORROSIVE LIQUID. A corrosive liquid is:
1. any liquid which, when in contact with living tissue, will cause
destruction or irreversible alteration of such tissue by chemical action;
2. any liquid having a pH of 2 or less or 12.5 or more;
3. any liquid classified as corrosive by the U.S. Department of
Transportation; or
4. any material exhibiting the characteristics of corrosivity in accordance
with Title 22, California Code of Regulations §66261.22.
FALSE ALARM. The willful, knowing, or negligent initiation or transmission of a
signal, message, or other notification of an event of fire when no such danger
exists.
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MODERATELY TOXIC GAS. A moderately toxic gas is a chemical or substance
that has a median lethal concentration (LC50) in air more than 2000 parts per
million but not more than 5000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor,
when administered by continuous inhalation for an hour, or less if death occurs
within one hour, to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
MAXIMUM THRESHOLD QUANTITY (MAX TQ). Maximum threshold quantity is
the maximum quantity of a moderately toxic or toxic gas, which may be stored
in a single vessel before a more stringent category of regulation is applied. The
following equation shall be used to calculate the Max TQ:
Max TQ (pounds) = LC50 (ppm) x 2 lb.
MODERATELY TOXIC GAS. Moderately toxic gas is a chemical or substance that
has a median lethal concentration (LC50) in air more than 2000 parts per million
but not more than 5000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor, when
administered by continuous inhalation for an hour, or less if death occurs within
one hour, to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
OTHER HEALTH HAZARD MATERIAL. Other health hazard material is a
hazardous material which affects target organs of the body, including but not
limited to, those materials which produce liver damage, kidney damage,
damage to the nervous system, act on the blood to decrease hemoglobin
function, deprive the body tissue of oxygen or affect reproductive capabilities,
including mutations (chromosomal damage), sensitizers or teratogens (effect on
fetuses).
PHOTOELECTRIC SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector
that uses a lightsource to detect the presence of smoke.
SECONDARY CONTAINMENT. Secondary containment is that level of
containment that is external to and separate from primary containment and is
capable of safely and securely containing the material, without discharge, for a
period of time reasonably necessary to ensure detection and remedy of the
primary containment failure.
SENSITIZER. A sensitizer is a chemical that causes a substantial proportion of
exposed people or animals to develop an allergic reaction in normal tissue after
repeated exposure to the chemical.
SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector that uses a light
source to detect the presence of smoke.
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SPILL CONTROL. Spill control is that level of containment that is external to and
separate from the primary containment and is capable of safely and securely
containing the contents of the largest container and preventions the materials
from spreading to other parts of the room.
WILDLANDURBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA. Wildlandurban interface fire area is
a
accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and
Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, or other areas designated by
the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires. See Article 86B for
the applicable referenced sections of the Government Code and the Public
Resources Code. The WildlandUrban Interface Fire Area shall be defined as all
areas within the City of Palo Alto as set forth and delineated on the map
entitled "Wildland
references, data and other information shown thereon are hereby adopted and
made a part of this chapter. The map properly attested, shall be on file in the
Office of the City Clerk of the City of Palo Alto.
WORKSTATION. A workstation is a defined space or independent principal
piece of equipment using hazardous materials with a hazard rating of 3 or
higher as ranked by NFPA 704 where a specific function, laboratory procedure,
or research activity occurs. Approved or listed hazardous materials storage
cabinets, flammable liquid storage cabinets or gas cabinets serving a
workstation are included as part of the workstation. A workstation is allowed
to contain ventilation equipment, fire protection devices, electrical devices,
and other processing and scientific equipment.
15.04.200 Section 316.7 added Roof guiderails at interior courts.
Section 316.7 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
316.7 Roof Guardrails at Interior Courts. Roof openings into interior courts that are
bounded on all sides by building walls shall be protected with guardrails. The top of the
guardrail shall not be less than 42 inches in height above the adjacent roof surface that
can be walked on. Intermediate rails shall be designed and spaced such that a 12inch
diameter sphere cannot pass through.
Exception: Where the roof opening is greater than 600 square feet in area.
15.04.205 Section 401.5 amended Making false report.
Section 401.5 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
401.5 Making false report. A person shall not give, signal, or transmit a false
alarm. Initiation or transmission in a twelvemonth period of three or more
signals, messages, or other notifications of an event of fire when no such
danger exists shall be presumed negligent.
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15.04.210 Section 605.13 added Immersion Heaters.
Section 605.13 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
605.13 Immersion Heaters. All electrical immersion heaters used in dip tanks,
sinks, vats and similar operations shall be provided with approved over
temperature controls and low liquid level electrical disconnects. Manual reset
of required protection devices shall be provided.
15.04.220 Definitions added to section 902.1.
The following definitions are added to Section 902.1 of the California Fire Code to read as
follows:
DUAL SENSOR CARBON MONOXIDE AND SMOKE ALARM.
PHOTOELECTRIC SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM.
SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM.
15.04.230 Section 903.2 amended Automatic Sprinkler Systems, Where Required.
Section 903.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
903.2 Automatic sprinkler systems, where required. Approved automatic
sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures and in existing modified
buildings and structures, shall be provided in the locations described in this
section. Automatic fire sprinklers shall be installed per the requirements set
forth in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18 and as follows, whichever is the
more restrictive:
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new
buildings and structures.
Exception: New nonresidential occupancies, buildings or structures that do
not exceed 350 square feet of building area.
2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for all existing buildings or
structures where modifications have been determined by the Building
Official to trigger requirements for seismic retrofit.
3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing
buildings when modifications are made that create conditions described in
Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18, or that create an increase in fire area to
more than 3,600 square feet or when the addition is equal or greater than
50% of the existing building square footage whichever is more restrictive.
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4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new
basements regardless of size and throughout existing basements that are
expanded by more than 50%. If the addition is only the basement, then only
the basement is required to be sprinklered.
5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when either the
roof structure or exterior wall structure have been removed and/or
replaced in at least 50% of the existing structure.
6. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when any
change in use or occupancy creating a more hazardous fire/life safety
condition, as determined by the Fire Chief.
15.04.240 903.1.1.1 amended NFPA 13 sprinkler systems.
Section 903.1.1.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
903.1.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require
that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and State and local requirements except
as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.
1. For new buildings having no designated use or tenant, the minimum
sprinkler design density shall be Ordinary Hazard Group II / 1500 square
feet.
2. Where future use or tenant is determined to require a higher density, the
sprinkler system shall be augmented to meet the higher density.
15.04.250 Section 903.3.1.2 amended NFPA 13R sprinkler systems.
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where allowed in buildings of Group R,
up to and including four stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be
installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and State and local standards.
15.04.260 Section 903.3.1.3 amended NFPA 13D sprinkler systems.
Section 903.3.1.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler
systems installed in oneand twofamily dwellings and townhouses shall be
installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and State and local
standards.
15.04.270 Section 903.4.3 amended Floor control valves.
Section 903.4.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
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903.4.3 Floor control valves. Automatic sprinkler systems serving buildings two
(2) or more stories in height shall have valves installed so as to control the
system independently on each floor including basements.
15.04.275 Section 907.2.11 amended Single and multiplestation smoke alarms.
Section 907.2.11 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
907.2.11 Single and multiplestation smoke alarms. Listed single and multiple
station smoke alarms complying with UL217 shall be installed in accordance with
instructions.
Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be in compliance with this code or
subject to the provisions of the Health and Safety Code, they shall also be listed
and approved for rapid response to smoldering synthetic materials. All smoke
alarms or detectors shall be of the photoelectric type or shall have equivalent
detection capabilities in compliance with UL 217.
Exception: A combination photoelectric/ionization smoke alarm or detector may
be used if located no closer than 20 feet to a kitchen, bathroom, fireplace or
wood burning appliance.
15.04.280 Section 3304.8 added Fire Walls.
Section 3304.8 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
3304.8 Fire Walls. When firewalls are required, the wall construction shall be
completed (with all openings protected) immediately after the building is
sufficiently weatherprotected at the location of the wall(s).
15.04.290 Section 3311.1 amended Stairways Required.
Section 3311.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
3311.1 Stairways Required. Each level above the first story in new multistory
buildings shall be provided with at least two usable exit stairways after the
floor decking is installed. The stairways shall be continuous and discharge to
grade level. Stairways serving more than two floor levels shall be enclosed
(with openings adequately protected) after exterior walls/windows are in
place. Exit stairs in new and in existing, occupied buildings shall be lighted and
maintained clear of debris and construction materials at all times.
Exception: For new multistory buildings, one of the required exit stairs may be
obstructed on not more than two contiguous floor levels for the purposes of
stairway construction (i.e., installation of gypsum board, painting, flooring,
etc.).
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15.04.295 Section 3311.1.1 added Required Means Of Egress.
Section 3311.1.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
3311.1.1 Required Means Of Egress. All new buildings under construction shall
have a least one unobstructed means of egress. All means of egress shall be
identified in the Fire Protection Plan.
15.04.300 Section 4902.1 amended Definition of wildlandurban interface area.
follows:
WILDLANDURBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA is a geographical area identified by
Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4202 and Government Code Sections
51175 through 51189. In addition, within the limits of the City of Palo Alto,
wildlandurban fire interface area shall include all areas west of Highway 280
and all other areas recommended as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by
the director of Cal Fire.
15.04.305 Sections 4903.1 through 4903.4 added General Requirements for wildland
urban interface fire areas.
Sections 4903.1 through 4903.4 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4903.1 General. When required by the fire code official, a fire protection plan
shall be prepared.
4903.2 Content. The plan shall be based upon a sitespecific wildfire risk
assessment that includes considerations of location, topography, aspect,
flammable vegetation, climatic conditions and fire history. The plan shall
address water supply, access, building ignition and fireresistance factors, fire
protection systems and equipment, defensible space and vegetation
management.
4903.3 Cost. The cost of fire protection plan preparation and review shall be
the responsibility of the applicant.
4903.4 Plan retention. The fire protection plan shall be retained by the fire
code official.
15.04.307 Sections 4907.1 through 4907.2 amended Defensible space.
Sections 4070.1 through 4907.2 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
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4907.1 General. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining
buildings or structures in, upon or adjoining the WildlandUrban Interface Fire
Area and persons owning, leasing or controlling land adjacent to such
buildings or structures, shall at all times:
1. Maintain an effective defensible space by removing and clearing away
flammable vegetation and combustible growth from areas within 30 feet
(9144 mm) of such buildings or structures.
Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or similar
plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of
rapidly transmitting fire from the native growth to any structure.
2. Maintain additional effective defensible space by removing brush,
flammable vegetation and combustible growth located 30 feet to 100 feet
(9144 mm to 30480 mm) from such buildings or structures, when required
by the fire code official due to steepness of terrain or other conditions that
would cause a defensible space of only 30 feet (9144 mm) to be
insufficient.
Exception: Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet (9144
mm) from buildings or structures and less than 18 inches (457 mm) in
height above the ground need not be removed where necessary to
stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
3. Remove portions of trees, which extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the
outlet of a chimney.
4. Maintain trees adjacent to or overhanging a building free of deadwood.
5. Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles or other dead
vegetative growth.
6. Remove flammable vegetation a minimum of 10 feet around liquefied petroleum
gas tanks/containers.
7. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces
beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under eaves, canopies or other
projections or overhangs. The storage of firewood and combustible material within
the defensible space shall be located a minimum of 30 feet (6096 mm) from
structures and separated from the crown of trees by a minimum horizontal
distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).
Exception: Firewood and combustible materials not for consumption on the
premises shall be stored as approved by the fire code official.
8. Clear areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) of fire apparatus access roads and driveways
to of nonfireresistive vegetation growth.
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Exception: Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from
buildings or structures and less than 18 inches (457 mm) in height above the
ground need not be removed where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent
erosion.
4907.2 Corrective Actions.The executive body is authorized to instruct the fire
code official to give notice to the owner of the property upon which conditions
regulated by Section 4907.1 exist to correct such conditions. If the owner fails
to correct such conditions, the executive body is authorized to cause the same
to be done and make the expense of such correction a lien upon the property
where such condition exists.
15.04.310 Section 5001.1.2 added Lithium ion battery storage and handling.
Section 5001.2.12 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5001.1.2 Lithium ion battery storage and handling. Rooms or areas where lithium ion
batteries are stored or handled shall comply with the following:
1. Rooms or areas where lithium ion batteries are stored or handled shall be protected
throughout with an approved smoke detection system.
2. Indoor storage of lithium ion batteries in excess of 6,000 pounds shall be confined to
a Group H Division 2 Occupancy designed and constructed in accordance with the
Building Code.
15.04.320 Section 5001.2.1.1 added Gas mixtures.
Section 5001.2.1.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
Section 5001.2.1.1 Gas mixtures. For gas mixtures containing one or more
toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic components, LC50 shall be calculated
using CGA Standards P20 and P23.
15.04.330 Section 5001.2.2.2 amended Health Hazards.
Section 5001.2.2.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5001.2.2.2 Health Hazards. The material categories listed in this section are
classified as health hazards. A material with a primary classification as a health
hazard can also pose a physical hazard.
1. Highly toxic, toxic and moderately toxic.
2. Corrosive materials
3. Moderately toxic gas.
4. Other health hazards
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15.04.335 Section 5001.5.2.1 added HMIS Exemptions.
Section 2701.5.2.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
Section 5001.5.2.1 HMIS Exemptions. The following hazardous materials uses
are found to not represent a sufficient degree of hazard in of themselves to
justify the filing of a HMMP or HMIS.
SMALL COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDER EXEMPTION
A facility using compressed gas cylinders containing any of the following
hazardous materials used for the purpose specified and stored at each facility
in quantities not exceeding the thresholds specified below shall be exempted
from the requirements of Chapter 6.95 Section 25501 (p) of the California
Health and Safety Code:
(a) Non refrigerated or noncryogenic helium compressed gas in quantities
of not more than 1000 cubic feet at standard temperature and pressure
for the purpose of filling party balloons.
(b) Nonrefrigerated or noncryogenic carbon dioxide and nitrogen
compressed gases used for carbonation of beverages and stored in
quantities of not more than 6000 cubic feet at standard temperature
and pressure.
(c) Refrigerated or cryogenic carbon dioxide compressed gas used for
carbonation of beverages and stored in quantities of not more than
6000 cubic feet (116 gallons) at standard temperature and pressure.
SMALL PROPANE GAS TANK EXEMPTION
Commercial facilities, restaurants and RV hookup stations that handle 300
gallons or less of propane gas in stationary tanks outside of buildings used
exclusively for heating, cooling, or cooking shall be exempted from the
requirements of Chapter 6.95 Section 25501 (p) of the California Health and
Safety Code. This exception does not include sites that dispense propane.
CLOSED COOLING SYSTEM EXEMPTION
Closed cooling systems containing group A1 refrigerants, including
fluorocarbons, chlorocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons used for air
conditioning and refrigeration shall be exempted from the requirements of
chapter 6.95 Section 25501 (p) of the California Health and Safety Code.
CLOSED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM EXEMPTION
Closed fire suppression systems shall be exempted from the requirements of
Chapter 6.95 Section 25501 (p) of the California Health and Safety Code.
COMPRESSED AIR EXEMPTION
Compressed air in cylinders and bottles shall be exempted from Chapter 6.95
Section 25501 (p) of the California Health and Safety Code.
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15.04.340 Section 5003.1.3.1 added Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic gases and
similarly used or handled materials.
Section 5003.1.3.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.1.3.1 Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic gases and similarly used or
handled materials. The storage, use and handling of toxic, highly toxic and
moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding Table 60004.2 or 60004.3 shall
be in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 60. Any toxic, highly toxic or
moderately toxic material that is used or handled as a gas or vapor shall be in
accordance with the requirements for toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic
gases.
15.04.350 Section 5003.1.5 added Other Health Hazards Including Carcinogens, Irritants
and Sensitizers.
Section 5003.1.5 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.1.5 Other Health Hazards Including Carcinogens, Irritants and
Sensitizers. The storage, use and handling of materials classified as other
health hazards including carcinogens, irritants and sensitizers in amounts
exceeding 810 cubic feet for gases, 55 gallons for liquids and 5,000 pounds for
solids shall be in accordance with this Section 5003.
15.04.355 Section 5003.1.6 added Additional Secondary Containment Requirements.
Section 5003.1.6 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.1.6 Additional Secondary Containment Requirements. In addition to the
requirements set forth in Section 5004.2, an approved containment system is required
for any quantity of hazardous materials that are liquids or solids at normal
temperature and pressure (NTP) where a spill is determined to be a plausible event and
where such an event would endanger, people, property or the environment. The
approved containment system may be required to include a combination of spill
control and secondary containment meeting the design and construction requirements
set forth in section 5004.2.
15.04.357 Section 5003.1.7 added Other health hazards.
Section 5003.1.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.1.7 Other Health Hazards Including Carcinogens, Irritants and
Sensitizers. The storage, use and handling of materials classified as other
health hazards including carcinogens, irritants and sensitizers in amounts
exceeding 810 cubic feet for gases, 55 gallons for liquids and 5,000 pounds for
solids shall be in accordance with this chapter.
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15.04.360 Section 5003.2.2.1 amended Design and Construction.
Section 5003.2.2.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5003.2.2.1 Design and Construction. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related
components used for hazardous materials shall be in accordance with the
following:
1. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related components shall be designed
and fabricated from materials compatible with the material to be contained
and shall be of adequate strength and durability to withstand the pressure,
structural and seismic stress, and exposure to which they are subject.
2. Piping and tubing shall be identified in accordance with ASME A13.1 and
the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Marking Requirements and Guidelines
for Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste to indicate the material
conveyed.
3. Readily accessible manual valves or automatic remotely activated failsafe
emergency shutoff valves shall be installed on supply piping and tubing at
the following locations:
a. The point of use.
b. The tank, cylinder or bulk use.
4. Manual emergency shutoff valves and controls for remotely activated
emergency shutoff valves shall be identified and the location shall be
clearly visible accessible and indicated by means of a sign.
5. Backflow prevention or check valves shall be provided when the backflow
of hazardous materials could create a hazardous condition or cause the
unauthorized discharge of hazardous materials.
6. Where gases or liquids having a hazard ranking of: Health hazard Class 3 or
4, Flammability Class 3 or 4, or Reactivity Class 4 in accordance with NFPA
704 are carried in pressurized piping above 15 pounds per square inch
gauge (psig)(103 Kpa), an approved means of leak detection, emergency
shutoff and excess flow control shall be provided. Where the piping
originates from within a hazardous material storage room or area, the
excess flow control shall be located within the storage room or area.
Where the piping originates from a bulk source, the excess flow control
shall be located as close to the bulk source as practical.
Exceptions:
a. Piping for inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
b. Piping for pressure relief devices.
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7. Secondary containment or equivalent protection from spills or leaks shall
be provided for piping for liquid hazardous materials and for highly toxic
and toxic corrosive gases above threshold quantities listed in Tables 6004.2
and 6004.3. Secondary containment includes, but is not limited to double
walled piping.
Exceptions:
a. Secondary containment is not required for toxic corrosive gases if
the piping is constructed of inert materials.
b. Piping under subatmospheric conditions if the piping is equipped
with an alarm and failsafetoclose valve activated by a loss of
vacuum.
8. Expansion chambers shall be provided between valves whenever the
regulated gas may be subjected to thermal expansion. Chambers shall be
sized to provide protection for piping and instrumentation and to
accommodate the expansion of regulated materials.
15.04.365 Section 5003.2.2.2 amended Additional Regulation for Supply Piping for
Health Hazard Materials.
Section 5003.2.2.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5003.2.2.2 Additional Regulation for Supply Piping for Health Hazard
Materials. Supply piping and tubing for gases and liquids having a health
hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with ASME B31.3 and the following:
1. Piping and tubing utilized for the transmission of toxic, highly toxic, or
highly volatile corrosive liquids and gases shall have welded or brazed
connections throughout except for connections within an exhausted
enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or
containment is provided for connections if the material is a liquid.
2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corridors, within any portion
of a means of egress required to be enclosed in fireresistancerated
construction or in concealed spaces in areas not classified as Group H
Occupancies.
Exception: Piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of
corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed space above other
occupancies when installed in accordance with Section 415.8.6.3 of the
California Building Code as required for Group H, Division 5 Occupancies.
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3. All primary piping for toxic, highly toxic and moderately toxic gases shall
pass a helium leak test of 1x109 cubic centimeters/second where practical,
or shall pass testing in accordance with an approved, nationally recognized
with the construction of the piping and control systems.
15.04.370 Section 5003.3.1 amended Unauthorized Discharges.
Section 5003.3.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5003.3.1 Unauthorized Discharges. When hazardous materials are released in
quantities reportable under state, federal or local regulations or when there is
a threatened release that presents a threat to health, property or the
environment, the fire code official shall be notified immediately in an approved
manner and the following procedures required in accordance with Sections
5003.3.1.1 through 5003.3.1.4.
15.04.380 Section 5003.5.2 added Ventilation Ducting.
Section 5003.5.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.5.2 Ventilation Ducting. Product conveying ducts for venting hazardous
materials operations shall be labeled with the hazard class of the material
being vented and the direction of flow.
15.04.385 Section 5003.5.3 added
Section 5003.5.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003
required to be identified when there is any possibility of confusion with
hazardous materials transport tubing or piping. Flow direction indicators are
required.
15.04.390 Section 5003.9.11 added Fire Extinguishing Systems for Workstations
Dispensing, Handling or Using Hazardous Materials.
Section 5003.9.11 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.9.11 Fire Extinguishing Systems for Workstations Dispensing, Handling
or Using Hazardous Materials. Combustible and noncombustible work
stations which dispense, handle or use hazardous materials shall be protected
by an approved automatic fire extinguishing system in accordance with Section
1803.10.
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Exception: Internal fire protection is not required for Biological Safety Cabinets
that carry NSF/ANSI certification where quantities of flammable liquids in use
or storage within the cabinet do not exceed 500 ml.
15.04.395 Section 5003.10.4 amended Elevators utilized to transport hazardous materials.
Section 5003.10.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5003.10.4 Elevators utilized to transport hazardous materials.
5003.10.4.1 When transporting hazardous materials, elevators shall have no
other passengers other than in the individual(s) handling the chemical transport
cart.
5003.10.4.2 Hazardous materials liquid containers shall have a maximum
capacity of 20 liters (5.26 gal).
5003.10.4.3 Toxic, highly toxic, and asphyxiant gases shall be limited to a
container of a maximum water capacity of 1 lb.
5003.10.4.4 Means shall be provided to prevent the elevator from being
summoned to other floors.
15.04.400 Section 5004.2.1 amended Spill Control for Hazardous Material Liquids.
Section 5004.2.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5004.2.1 Spill Control for Hazardous Material Liquids. Rooms, buildings or
areas used for storage of hazardous material liquids shall be provided with spill
control to prevent the flow of liquids to adjoining areas. Floors in indoor
locations and similar surfaces in outdoor locations shall be constructed to
contain a spill from the largest single vessel by one of the following methods:
1. Liquidtight sloped or recessed floors in indoor locations or similar areas in outdoor
locations.
2. Liquidtight floors in indoor locations or similar areas provided with liquidtight
raised or recessed sills or dikes.
3. Sumps and collection systems, including containment pallets in accordance with
Section 5004.2.3.
4. Other approved engineered systems.
Except for surfacing, the floors, sills, dikes, sumps and collection systems shall
be constructed of noncombustible material, and the liquidtight seal shall be
compatible with the material stored. When liquidtight sills or dikes are
provided, they are not required at perimeter openings having an opengrate
trench across the opening that connects to an approved collection system.
15.04.405 Sections 5004.2.2 and 5004.2.2.2 amended and Table 5004.2.2 deleted
Secondary Containment for Hazardous Material Liquids and Solids.
Table 5004.2.2 is deleted in its entirety.
Section 5004.2.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
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5004.2.2 Secondary Containment for Hazardous Material Liquids and Solids.
Buildings, rooms or areas used for the storage of hazardous materials liquids or
solids shall be provided with secondary containment in accordance with this
section.
Section 5004.2.2.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5004.2.2.2 Incompatible Materials. Incompatible materials shall be separated from
each other in independent secondary containment systems.
15.04.410 Section 5004.3 amended Containment pallets.
Section 5004.2.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5004.2.3 Containment pallets. Combustible containment pallets shall not be used
inside buildings to comply with Section 5004.2 where the individual container capacity
exceeds 55 gallons (208 L) or an aggregate capacity of multiple containers exceeds
1,000 gallons (3785 L) for liquids or where the individual container capacity exceeds
550 pounds (250 kg) or an aggregate of multiple containers exceeds 10,000 pounds
(4540 kg) for solids.
Where used as an alternative to spill control and secondary containment for outdoor
storage in accordance with the exception in Section 5004.2, containment pallets shall
comply with all of the following:
1. A liquidtight sump accessible for visual inspection shall be provided;
2. The sump shall be designed to contain not less than 66 gallons (250L);
3. Exposed surfaces shall be compatible with material stored;
Containment pallets shall be protected to prevent collection of rainwater within the
sump of the containment pallet.
15.04.420 Section 5005.4.4 amended Emergency Alarm.
Section 5005.4.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5005.4.4 Emergency Alarm. When hazardous materials having a hazard
ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704, or toxic gases exceeding 10 cu.
ft. and any amount of highly toxic compressed gases are transported through
corridors or exit enclosures, there shall be an emergency telephone system, a
local manual alarm station or an approved alarminitiating device at not more
than 150foot (45,720 mm) intervals and at each exit and exitaccess doorway
throughout the transport route. The signal shall be relayed to an approved
central, proprietary or remote station service or constantly attended onsite
location and shall also initiate a local audible alarm.
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15.04.430 Section 5704.2.7.5.8 amended Overfill Prevention.
Section 5704.2.7.5.8 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5704.2.7.5.8 Overfill Prevention. An approved means or method in
accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent overfill of all
Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage tanks in refineries, bulk plants
or terminals regulated by Sections 5706.4 or 5706.7 shall have overfill
protection in accordance with API 2350.
An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.6 shall
be provided to prevent the overfilling of Class IIIB liquid storage tanks
connected to fuelburning equipment inside buildings.
Exception: Outside aboveground tanks with a capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L)
or less shall comply with Section 5704.2.9.7.5.1 (1.1)
15.04.440 Section 5704.2.7.5.9 added Automatic Filling of Tanks.
Section 5704.2.7.5.9 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5704.2.7.5.9 Automatic Filling of Tanks. Systems that automatically fill
flammable or combustible liquid tanks shall be equipped with an approved
overfill protection system that sends an alarm signal to a constantly attended
location and immediately stops the filling of the tank. The alarm signal and
automatic shutoff shall be tested on an annual basis and records of such
Albtesting shall be maintained onsite for a period of five (5) years.
15.04.445 Section 5803.3 added Mobile fueling of hydrogen vehicles.
Section 5803.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5803.3 Mobile fueling of hydrogen vehicles. Mobile fueling of hydrogen vehicles is
prohibited except as approved by the fire code official.
15.04.450 Section 6001.3 added Moderately Toxic Gases with a LC50 Equal to or Less
Than 3000 Parts Per Million.
Section 6001.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
6001.3 Moderately Toxic Gases With A LC50 Equal To Or Less Than 3000 Parts
Per Million. Moderately toxic gases with an LC50 less than 3000 parts per
million shall additionally comply with the requirements for toxic gases in
Section 6004 of this code.
15.04.460 Section 6002.1 amended add definitions
The following definition is added to section 6002.1 of the California Fire Code as defined in
Chapter 2 of the California Fire Code and local amendments:
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MODERATELY TOXIC GAS.
15.04.470 Section 6004 amended Toxic gases including refrigerants.
Section 3704 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 6004 HIGHLY TOXIC, TOXIC AND MODERATELY TOXIC GASES
INCLUDING THOSE USED AS REFRIGERANTS.
15.04.480 Sections 6004.1.4 through 6004.1.17 added Controls for toxic gases.
Sections 6004.1.4 through 6004.1.17 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
6004.1.4 Automatic ShutOff Valve. An automatic shutoff valve, which is of a
failsafe to close design, shall be provided to shut off the supply of highly toxic
gases for any of the following:
1. Activation of a manual fire alarm system.
2. Activation of the gas detection system.
3. Failure of emergency power.
4. Failure of primary containment.
5. Seismic activity.
6. Failure of required ventilation.
7. Manual activation at an approved remote location.
6004.1.5 Emergency Control Station. Signals from emergency equipment used
for highly toxic gases shall be transmitted to an emergency control station or
other approved monitoring station, which is continually staffed by trained
personnel.
6004.1.6 Maximum Threshold Quantity. Toxic gases stored or used in
quantities exceeding the maximum threshold quantity in a single vessel per
control area or outdoor control area shall comply with the additional
requirements for highly toxic gases of Section 6004 of this code.
Moderately toxic gases stored or used in quantities exceeding the maximum
threshold quantity in a single vessel per control area or outdoor control area
shall comply with the additional requirements for toxic gases of Section 3704
of this code
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6004.1.7 Reduced Flow Valve. All containers of materials other than lecture
bottles containing Highly Toxic material and having a vapor pressure exceeding
29 psia shall be equipped with a reduced flow valve when available. If a
reduced flow valve is not available, the container shall be used with a flow
limiting device. All flow limiting devices shall be part of the valve assembly and
visible to the eye when possible; otherwise, they shall be installed as close as
possible to the cylinder source.
6004.1.8 Annual Maintenance. All safety control systems at a facility shall be
maintained in good working condition and tested not less frequently than
annually. Maintenance and testing shall be performed by persons qualified to
perform the maintenance and tests. Maintenance records and certifications
shall be available to any representative of the Fire Department for inspection
upon request.
6004.1.9 Fire Extinguishing Systems. Buildings and covered exterior areas for
storage and use areas of materials regulated by this Chapter shall be protected
by an automatic fire sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 13. The design
of the sprinkler system for any room or area where highly toxic, toxic and
moderately toxic gases are stored, handled or used shall be in accordance with
Section 2704.5.
6004.1.10 Local Gas Shut Off. Manual activation controls shall be provided at
locations near the point of use and near the source, as approved by the fire
code official. The fire code official may require additional controls at other
places, including, but not limited to, the entry to the building, storage or use
areas, and emergency control stations. Manual activated shutoff valves shall
be of a failsafe toclose design.
6004.1.11 Exhaust Ventilation Monitoring.For highly toxic gases and toxic
gases exceeding threshold quantities, a continuous monitoring system shall be
provided to assure that the required exhaust ventilation rate is maintained.
The monitoring system shall initiate a local alarm. The alarm shall be both
visual and audible and shall be designed to provide warning both inside and
outside of the interior storage, use, or handling area.
6004.1.12 Emergency Response Plan.If the preparation of an emergency
response plan for the facility is not required by any other law, responsible
persons shall prepare, or cause to be prepared, and filed with the fire code
official, a written emergency response plan. If the preparation of an
emergency response plan is required by other law, a responsible person shall
file a copy of the plan with the Fire Chief.
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6004.1.13 Emergency Response Team. Responsible persons shall be
designated the onsite emergency response team and trained to be liaison
personnel for the Fire Department. These persons shall aid the Fire
Department in preplanning emergency responses, identifying locations where
regulated materials are stored, handled and used, and be familiar with the
chemical nature of such material. An adequate number of personnel for each
work shift shall be designated.
6004.1.14 Emergency Drills. Emergency drills of the onsite emergency
response team shall be conducted on a regular basis but not less than once
every three months. Records of drills conducted shall be maintained.
6004.1.15 Cylinder Leak Testing. Cylinders shall be tested for leaks
immediately upon delivery and again immediately prior to departure. Testing
shall be approved by the fire code official in accordance with appropriate
nationally recognized industry standards and practices, if any. Appropriate
remedial action shall be immediately undertaken when leaks are detected
6004.1.16 Inert Gas Purge System. Gas systems shall be provided with
dedicated inert gas purge systems. A dedicated inert gas purge system may be
used to purge more than one gas, provided the gases are compatible. Purge
gas systems inside buildings shall be located in an approved gas cabinet unless
the system operates by vacuum demand.
6004.1.17 Seismic Shutoff Valve.An automatic seismic shutoff valve, which
is of a failsafe to close design, shall be provided to shutoff the supply of
highly toxic, toxic and moderately toxic gases with an LC50 less than 3000
parts per million upon a seismic event within 5 seconds of a horizontal
sinusoidal oscillation having a peak acceleration of 0.3G (1.47m/sec2) and a
period of 0.4 seconds.
15.04.490 Section 6004.2 amended Indoor storage and use of toxic gases.
Section 6004.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.2 Indoor Storage and Use. The indoor storage or use of highly toxic,
toxic and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with
Sections 6004.1 through 3704.2.2.10.3.3. The threshold quantity for highly
toxic, toxic and moderately toxic gases for indoor storage and use are set
forth in Table 6004.2.
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Table 6004.2
Threshold Quantities for Highly Toxic, Toxic and Moderately
Toxic Gases for Indoor Storage and Use
Highly Toxic 0
Toxic 10 cubic feet
Moderately Toxic 20 cubic feet
15.04.492 Sections 6004.2.1 through 6004.2.1.1 amended Applicability of toxic gas
regulations.
Sections 6004.2.1 through 6004.2.1.1 of the California Fire Code are amended to read as
follows:
6004.2.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations governing the indoor
storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases
shall be as set forth in Sections 6004.2.1.1 through 6004.2.1.3.
6004.2.1.1 Quantities Not Exceeding the Maximum Allowable Quantity per
Control Area. The indoor storage or use of highly toxic, and toxic and
moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding the threshold quantity per
control area set forth in Table 6004.2 shall be in accordance with Sections
5001, 5003, 6001, 6004.1 and 6004.2.
15.04.494 Section 6004.2.2 amended General requirements for use and storage of toxic
gases.
Section 6004.2.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.2.2 General indoor requirements. The general requirements applicable
to the indoor storage and use of highly toxic and toxic compressed gases shall
be in accordance with Sections 6004.2.2.1 through 6004.2.2.10.3.
Moderately toxic gases with an LC50 less than 3000 parts per million shall
comply with the requirements for toxic gases in Sections 6004.2.2.1 through
6004.2.2.10.3.
All other moderately toxic gases exceeding the threshold quantity shall comply
with the requirements for toxic gases in Sections 6004.2.2.1 through
6004.2.2.7.
15.04.496 Section 6004.2.2.7 amended Treatment systems.
Section 6004.2.2.7 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
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6004.2.2.7 Treatment Systems. The exhaust ventilation from gas cabinets,
exhausted enclosures, gas rooms and local exhaust systems required in Section
6004.2.2.4 and 6004.2.2.5 shall be directed to a treatment system. The
treatment system shall be utilized to handle the accidental release of gas and
to process exhaust ventilation. The treatment system shall be designed in
accordance with Sections 6004.2.2.7.1 through 6004.2.2.7.5 and Section 505 of
the California Mechanical Code.
Exceptions:
1.1 Highly toxic, toxic and moderately toxic gases storage. A treatment system
is not required for cylinders, containers and tanks in storage when all of
the following are provided:
1.2 Valve outlets are equipped with gastight outlet plug or
caps.
1.3 Hand wheeloperated valves have handles secured to prevent
movement.
1.4 Approved containment vessels or containment systems are provided in
accordance with Section 6004.2.2.3.
15.04.498 Section 6004.2.2.10.2 amended Alarms.
Section 6004.2.2.10.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.2.2.10.2 Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and
transmit a signal to a constantly attended control station when a shortterm
hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visual and audible and
shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where the gas is
detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.
15.04.500 Section 6004.3 amended Outdoor storage and use.
Section 6004.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.3 Outdoor Storage and Use. The outdoor storage or use of highly toxic,
toxic and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with
Sections 6004.3.1 through 6004.3.4. The threshold quantity for highly toxic,
toxic and moderately toxic gases for outdoor storage and use are set forth in
Table 6004.3.
Table
6004.3
Threshold Quantities for Highly Toxic, Toxic and Moderately Toxic Gases for
Outdoor Storage and Use
Highly Toxic 0
Toxic 10 cubic feet
Moderately Toxic 20 cubic feet
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15.04.503 Sections 6004.3.1 and 6004.3.1.1 amended Applicability of toxic gas
regulations.
Sections 6004.3.1 and 6004.3.1.1 of the California Fire Code are amended to read as follows:
6004.3.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations governing the outdoor
storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases
shall be as set forth in Sections 6004.3.1.1 through 6004.3.1.3.
6004.3.1.1 Quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per
control area. The outdoor storage or use of highly toxic and toxic gases in
amounts exceeding the threshold quantity per control area set forth in Table
6004.3 shall be in accordance with Sections 5001, 5003, 6001, 6004.1, and
6004.3.
Moderately toxic gases with an LC50 less than 3000 parts per million in
amounts exceeding the threshold quantity in Table 6004.3 shall comply with
the requirements for toxic gases in Sections 5001, 5003, 6001, 6004.1 and
6004.3.
Moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding the threshold quantity in Table
6004.3 shall comply with the requirements for toxic gases in Sections 5001,
5003, 6001, 6004.1 and 6004.3.2.1 through 6004.3.2.5.
15.04.505 Section 6004.3.3 amended Outdoor storage of tanks and cylinders.
Section 6004.3.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.3.3 Outdoor storage weather protection for portable tanks and
cylinders. Weather protection in accordance with Section 5004.13 and this
section shall be provided for portable tanks and cylinders located outdoors and
not within gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. The storage area shall be
equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 5004.5.
15.04.510 Section 6101.4 added Storage and use of liquefied petroleum gas.
Section 6101.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
6101.4 Storage and use of liquefied petroleum gas. Storage and use of
liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is prohibited within the City limits of Palo Alto
where natural gas mains exist.
Exception: The Fire Chief may permit the use of LPG for the following purposes
and in the following manner:
(1) A single tank of no more than 500gallon (1892 L) water capacity in
connection with portable equipment or devices which are approved for
use with LPG.
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(2) As an emergency standby fuel supply for critical industrial, medical or
research equipment.
(3) A single tank of no more than 2000gallon (7570 L) water capacity used in
vehicle servicing operations installed in accordance with applicable safety
standards.
The storage of LPG shall conform to the provisions of applicable state and local
Codes and ordinances.
15.04.515 Section 6405.3.1 added Silane distribution systems automatic shutdown.
Section 6405.3.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
6405.3.1 Silane distribution systems automatic shutdown. Silane distribution
systems shall automatically shut down at the source upon activation of the gas
detection system at levels above the alarm level and/or failure of the
ventilation system for the silane distribution system.
15.04.520 Addition of Chapter 19 Life safety requirements for existing high rise buildings.
Chapter 19 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
CHAPTER 19
LIFE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING HIGHRISE BUILDINGS
SECTION 1901 GENERAL
1901.1 Purpose. The purpose of this appendix is to provide a reasonable
degree of safety to persons occupying existing highrise buildings by requiring
minimum standards for exit corridors, exit stairways and elevator shafts,
monitored alarm systems and emergency plans.
1901.2 Scope. The requirements shall apply to all highrise buildings
constructed prior to January 1, 1994 which have floors used for human
occupancy located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of approved fire
department vehicle access or other physical configuration that qualifies a
building as high rise by local ordinance.
1901.3 Permits Required.
1. Building permits shall be obtained as required by the Building Code.
2. Not less than 30 days prior to submitting plans for a building permit, a
preplan review
building official and the chief, to determine the adequacy of the lifesafety
emergency systems concept for the building. The lifesafety emergency
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systems shall be reflected on the plans for the building and become a
permanent part of the building
the chief may require sufficient documentation, based upon engineering
analysis, that the concept meets the intent of nationally recognized good
practices and such guidelines as the building official and chief have published.
1901.4 Enforcement. The provisions of this appendix shall be enforced by the
chief.
1901.5 Compliance. All buildings shall be made to conform with the
requirements of Section 1902 within the following time periods:
1. Subsections 1902.11, 1902.12 and 1902.13 shall be completed within six
months of the adoption date of this Chapter.
2. The owners of buildings affected by this appendix or their representatives
shall submit plans to the building official showing intended methods of
compliance with subsections 1902.1 through 1902.10 on or before June 30,
1990.
3. Subsections 1902.5, 1902.8, and 1902.9 shall be completed on or before January 1,
1991.
4. Subsections 1902.1, 1902.2, 1902.3, 1902.4, 1902.5, 1902.6 and 1902.8
shall be completed on or before April l, 1994.
Note: Regardless of any specific compliance date stipulated above, a building
shall not be deemed in violation of this Chapter until such date has expired
1901.6 Exceptions. The Fire Chief may grant certain exceptions to the
requirements of this Chapter, under the following circumstances:
1. The Fire Chief may allow the use of alternate materials or methods of
compliance upon a finding that the use of such alternate materials or
methods of compliance will provide levels of fire and life safety equal to or
greater than those otherwise required in this Chapter.
2. The Fire Chief may waive individual requirements of this Chapter or grant
reasonable extensions of time in which to comply with said requirements
upon a finding that such requirements are not practical or possible, or pose
an unreasonable hardship. The determination of whether compliance is not
practical or possible, or an unreasonable hardship, shall be based upon an
overall evaluation of the following factors:
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(i) The amount of fire and life safety that would be lost if the requirements
were waived or deferred;
(ii) The cost of complying with the requirements;
(iii) The financial hardship and disruption to occupants and users of the
building in question;
(iv) The type and nature of the use of the building in question; and
(v) Such other factors as in the judgment of Fire Chief will result in providing a
reasonable degree of safety as required by this Uniform Fire Code, to
persons occupying or using the building.
3. The Fire Chief may grant reasonable extensions of time, up to two additional
years, within which to comply with the requirements of subsections
1902.1, 1902.2, 1902.3, 1902.4, 1902.6, 1902.7 and 1902.9 of this Chapter,
upon making a finding of hardship based upon the factors set forth in
subsection (2) of this subsection 1901.6(f), or upon the agreement of the
building owner that within said time, the building will be 100% sprinklered,
in accordance with NFPA 13.
4. The Fire Chief shall prepare written notice of determination to grant or not
to grant exceptions pursuant to this paragraph. The Fire Chief shall
distribute the notice of determination in the next available council packet;
shall mail notice, postage prepaid, to the affected building owner; and shall
publish such notice once in a newspaper of general circulation not later
than five (5) days after the distribution of the notice on the city council
packet. The notice shall state the address and general description of the
subject property and the nature of the determination. The notice shall also
state that the details regarding the decision will be available in the Fire
aken within ten (10) days after
the date of publication of the notice.
1901.7 Appeals.
1. Any person aggrieved or affected by any determination made by the Fire
Chief pursuant to subsection 1901.6 of this Chapter may appeal that
determination in accordance with this subsection 1901.7.
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2. An appeal from the decision of the Fire Chief shall be initiated within ten
(10) days after the publication of notice, as provided in Paragraph 1901.6,
by the filing at the office of the City Manager of a written, dated appeal,
signed by all parties named as appellants, stating the names and official
mailing addresses of all appellant(s) participating in the appeal and their
relationship to the matter being appealed.
3. The appeal shall contain a statement of all facts supporting the contention
of the appellant(s) and all reasons why the decision of the Fire Chief should
be reversed, modified or set aside.
4. The appeal shall be accompanied by a fee, as set forth in the Municipal Fee
Schedule for Fire Department appeals.
5. Upon receipt of any appeal, the City Manager or designee shall set a date
for a hearing. Such hearing shall be held within fifteen (15) days of receipt
of the appeal. A notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given
to the appellant(s) by the City Manager or designee in writing. The notice
shall be mailed, postage prepaid, addressed to the appellant(s) at the
address(es) listed on the appeal, or it shall be delivered to the appellant(s)
personally, at least ten (10) days prior to the hearing date. If the appellant
is other than the building owner, the building owner shall also be notified
of the hearing.
6. The City Manager or designee (other than any personnel from the
Fire Department), shall hear the appeal. At the time and place set for the
hearing, the City Manager or designee shall receive all testimonial,
documentary and tangible evidence bearing on the issues. The City
Manager or designee may continue the hearing from time to time. The City
Manager or designee may approve, modify or disapprove the
determination of the Fire Chief. Within three (3) working days of the close
of the hearing, the City Manager or designee shall render a decision in
writing. The decision shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the appellant(s)
at the address(es) listed on the appeal or delivered to the appellant(s)
personally. If the appellant is other than the building owner, the building
owner shall also be notified of the decision.
7. The decision of the City Manager or designee shall be final.
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1901.8 Penalty. Failure to comply with subsection (e) above is unlawful and
any person, firm or corporation, whether as principal, agent, employee or
otherwise, violating any provisions of the above requirements shall be guilty of
a misdemeanor. Such person, firm or corporation is guilty of a separate offense
for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of these
requirements is committed, continued or permitted by such person, firm or
corporation.
1901.9 Severability. Should any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence,
clause or phrase of this appendix be declared unconstitutional or invalid for
any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
of these requirements.
SECTION 1902 LIFE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
1902.1 Automatic Sprinklers. All required exit corridors, stairwells, elevator
lobbies, public assembly areas occupied by 100 or more persons and
commercial kitchens shall be protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
system meeting the design criteria of NFPA 13. One sprinkler head shall be
provided on the room side of every corridor opening.
Exception: Sprinkler heads may be omitted in stairwells of noncombustible
construction.
1902.2 Corridor Doors. All doors opening into required exit corridors shall be
in conformance with the Building Code.
Exception: Existing 13/8 inch bonded, solidcore wood doors, if equipped with
selfclosures, need not be replaced.
1902.3 Corridor Openings. All openings into required exit corridor, other than
doors, shall be in conformance with the Building Code.
1902.4 Exit Stairways. All highrise buildings shall have a minimum of two
approved exit stairways. The Fire Chief may allow a minimum of one approved
stairway upon a finding that additional automatic sprinkler protection is
provided that meets the spirit of this Appendix and provides at least the
equivalent protection of that prescribed in this Appendix.
1902.5 Exit Stairwell Doors. All stairwell doors which are to be locked from the
stairwell side shall automatically unlock, without unlatching, when the alarm
system activates.
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1902.6 Elevator Lobby Separation. All elevators on all floors shall open into
elevator lobbies which are separated from the remainder of the building as is
required for corridor construction in the Building Code. The Fire Chief may
waive this requirement upon a finding that additional automatic sprinkler
protection is provided that meets the spirit of this Appendix and provides at
least the equivalent protection of that prescribed in this Appendix.
1902.7 Elevator Recall. All automatic elevators shall be equipped for
emergency operation in conformance with the Building Code.
1902.8 Fire Alarm Systems. All highrise buildings shall have an alarm system
meeting the requirements of this section. All required fire alarm systems shall
be designed to be heard clearly by all occupants within the building but in no
case shall it be less than 60 dB, or 15 dB above ambient noise levels, as
measured in the A scale, within all habitable areas of the building. All required
alarm systems shall operate automatically by smoke or products of
combustion detectors and by manual pull stations as approved by the chief.
1902.9 Fire Alarm Supervision. All fire alarm systems shall be connected to an
approved central station or the local fire department dispatch office in
conformance with the Fire Code as approved by the chief.
1902.10 Exit Illumination. Exits shall be illuminated at any time the building is
occupied with lights having an intensity of not less than 1 footcandle at floor
level. Such lighting shall have an independent alternate source of supply such
as an emergency battery pack.
1902.11 Emergency Plan. The management for all buildings shall establish and
maintain a written fire and life safety emergency plan which has been
approved by the chief. The chief shall develop written criteria and guidelines
upon which all plans shall be based.
1902.12 Posting of Emergency Plan and Exit Plans. Copies of the emergency
plan and exiting plans (including elevator and stairway placarding) shall be
posted in locations approved by the chief.
1902.13 Fire Drills. The management of all buildings shall conduct fire drills for
their staff and employees at least every 120 days. The fire department must be
advised of such drills at least 24 hours in advance. A written record of each
drill shall be maintained in the building management office and made available
to the fire department for review.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the California
Fire Code, 2016 Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference.
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SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of the
California
Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the
amendments herein adopted will have a significant effect on the environment.
SECTION 4. This Ordinance shall become effective on the commencement of the
thirtyfirst day after the day of its adoption.
INTRODUCED: October 4, 2016
PASSED: October 24, 2016
AYES: BERMAN, BURT, FILSETH, HOLMAN, KNISS, SCHARFF, SCHMID
NOES:
ABSENT: DUBOIS, WOLBACH
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
Senior Deputy City Attorney City Manager
Director of Development Services
Director of Administrative Services
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EXHIBIT A
Findings for Local Amendments to the
2016 California Fire Code
The following local amendments to the 2016 California Fire Code make modifications as
authorized by the California Health and Safety Code. In accordance with Section 18941.5 of said
Code, Findings are hereby made to show that such modifications or changes are reasonably
necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions.
PREAMBLE I.
Findings of fact:
A. Pursuant to Section 17958.5 of the California Health and Safety Code, the report
contained herein is submit
of the California Fire Code, 2016 Edition, and amendments. Under this adopting ordinance,
specific amendments have been established which are more restrictive in nature than those
adopted by the State of California (State Building Code Standards, State Housing and
Community Development Codes) commonly referred to as California Code of Regulations, Titles
19, 24 and 25.
B. These amendments to the California Fire Code, 2016 Edition, have been recognized by
the City of Palo Alto as tools for addressing the fire problems, concerns and future
direction by which the authority can establish and maintain an environment which will afford a
level of fire and life safety to
C. Under the provisions of Section 17958.5 of the Health and Safety Code, local
amendments shall be based upon the following: climatic, geological/geographical, and
topographical conditions. The findings of fact contained herein shall address each of these
situations and shall present the local situation which, either singularly or in combination, caused
the established amendments to be adopted.
1. Climactic Conditions:
The City, on an average, experiences an annual rainfall of 16" 18". This rainfall can be expected
between October and April of each year. However, during the summer months there is little, if
any, measurable precipitation. During this dry period the temperatures are usually between
7090 degrees with light to gusty westerly winds. These drying winds, combined with the
natural vegetation which is dominant throughout the area, create a hazardous fuel condition
which can cause, and has caused in the past, extensive grass and brush land fires. With more
and more development encroaching into these wooded and grass covered areas, winddriven
fires could have severe consequences, as has been demonstrated on several occasions in Palo
Alto and other areas of the state. Fires in structures can easily spread to the wildland as well as
a fire in the wildland into a structure.
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Because of the weather patterns, a normal rainfall cannot always be relied upon. This can result
in water rationing and water allocation systems, as demonstrated by the drought years of 1986
1991. Water shortages can also be expected in the future due to the current water storage
capacities and increased consumption. The water supply for the Palo Alto fire department makes
use of automatic fire sprinkler systems feasible as a means to reduce our dependency on large
volumes of water for fire suppression.
2. Geological & Geographical Conditions
Geographical Location. Palo Alto is located at the northern most part of Santa Clara County.
Palo Alto is a ma
electronics industry, as well as pharmaceutical, biomedical, and genetic research.
Seismic Location. Palo Alto is situated on alluvial solids between San Francisco Bay and the San
older structures caused by seismic events. The relatively young geological processes that have
created the San Francisco Bay Area are still active today. Seismically, the city sits between two
active earthquake faults (San Andreas and the Hayward/Calaveras), and numerous potentially
tomoderate seismic
hazard zones.
Seismic and Fire Hazards. Fire following an earthquake has the potential of causing greater loss
of life and damage than the earthquake itself.
rise structures are located in seismic risk zones. Should a
significant seismic event occur, Public Safety resources would have to be prioritized to mitigate
the greatest threat, and may not be available for every structural fire. In such event, individual
structures, including highrise buildings, should be equipped to help in mitigating the risk of
damage.
Other variables may tend to intensify the situation:
a. The extent of damage to the water system;
b. The extent of isolation due to bridge and/or freeway overpass collapse;
c. The extent of roadway damage and/or amount of debris blocking the roadways;
d. Climatical conditions (hot, dry weather with high winds);
e. Time of day will influence the amount of traffic on roadways and could intensify the risk
to life during normal business hours;
f. The availability of timely mutual aid or military assistance;
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g. Many highrise structures are located near areas of high fire danger necessitating special
precautions.
Transportation. Palo Alto is dissected by a major state highway (El Camino Real) and two major
freeways (I280 and U.S. 101), which potentially could negatively affect response times of fire
suppression equipment.
Soil Conditions. Palo Alto lies at the southern end of San Francisco Bay and is built atop the
alluvial deposits that surround the margins of the Bay. The alluvium was created by the flooding
of many streams emptying into the San Francisco Bay depression, and from intermittent sea
water inundation that has occurred over the last 2 or 3 million years. The areas closest to the
Bay are overlain by unconsolidated fine silty clay, known as Bay Mud which varies in thickness
from a few feet to as much as 30 feet. Generally, the older more stable alluvium is to the south
and the younger less stable material is to the north. Bedrock lies beneath the area at depths of
generally 300' or more.
3. Topographical Conditions:
The findings of fact for the topographical element, as would be expected, are closely associated
with the geological/geographical element. With the elevation changes within the district,
development is of course following the path of least resistance, creating a meandering pattern.
This then does not lend itself to a good systematic street and road layout, which would promote
easy traffic flow. It has, in fact, resulted in few major crosstown thoroughfares which tend to be
heavily congested, primarily during commute hours and seasonal periods of the year. This
creates barriers which reduce the response time of fire equipment and other emergency
services. The topography of the district is being burdened by major structures. Employment
areas are throughout the district. The people who work in these complexes have added to the
capabilities.
Inherent delays caused by the traffic patterns to many of these types of projects, make it
necessary to mitigate this problem by requiring additional builtin automatic fire protection
systems to provide early detection and initial control until the arrival of the fire department.
The topography of the district in much of the commercial and residential zones lies within or
near a flood plane. Periodically, heavy rains and high tides cause regionwide flooding which
not only delays response but also increases demands on fire personnel. The fire code
amendments increase safeguards and initialize early response to help compensate for these
physical delays.
As a result of the findings of facts which identify the various climatic, geological/geographical
and topographical elements, those additional requirements as specified in the amendments to
adopting ordinance for the California Fire Code 2013 Edition, by the City of Palo Alto area are
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considered reasonable and necessary modifications. The experience of several disastrous fires
within the city in addition to Santa Clara, Monterey, San Mateo, Alameda and Contra
Costa counties have demonstrated the need for other fire protection features, the most
significant of which was located in the Oakland/Berkeley Hills in which over 3,000 homes were
destroyed and 25 human lives were lost. While it is clearly understood that the adoption of
such regulations may not prevent the incidence of fire, the implementation of these various
amendments to the Code may reduce the severity and potential of loss of life and property.
II. Specific Findings for Local Amendments
The majority of local amendments (those not specifically listed below) are made strictly to
conform to other parts of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) and for similar administrative
purposes.
Based upon the findings of fact described in section I, the City Council also makes the following
specific findings regarding local climatic, geological, and topographic conditions related to local
amendments to the California and International Fire Codes found in Chapters 15.04 and 15.05
1. The local amendments contained in PAMC sections 15.04.030 through 15.04.070 and
sections 15.04.325 through 15.04.441 relating to general conditions for hazardous materials
are necessary modifications to the California Fire Code flammable and hazardous materials
sections because they maintain consistency with the Hazardous Materials Storage Ordinance
which has been adopted countywide since 1983. Requirements include safeguards such as
monitoring, secondary containment, separation of non compatibles which prevent incidents
should a seismic event, unauthorized release or accident occur.
2. The local amendment contained in PAMC section 15.05.015 Weed removal is
necessary to require weeds to be removed from properties when determined to be a hazard at
the expense of the responsible party. Weeds can be a fire hazard that may also contribute to
the uncontrolled spread of fire as a result of the climatic, geographical, and topographical
conditions described in Findings 1, 2, and 3 above.
3. The local amendments contained in PAMC section 15.05.140 through 15.05.170 set
forth measures to limit delays in response time and reduce hazards to firefighters. These
measures are necessary to prevent exacerbation of response delays associated with the
Climatic, Geographical and Topographical conditions listed in Findings 1, 2 and 3 above.
4. The local amendment contained in PAMC section 15.04.210 Immersion Heaters is
necessary as a fire control measure because it requires additional controls on process
heating devices which are often activated when unattended. See Geological Findings 2.
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5. The local amendments contained in PAMC 15.04.230 through 15.04.260 relating to fire
sprinkler systems are necessary for faster control of fires in the dense populated area of our
community to confine a fire to the area of origin rather than spread to neighboring structures.
The modifications contained in these amendments provide additional fire extinguishing
systems in new construction, major remodels, additions, and occupancy classification changes
to help mitigate the problems identified in Findings 1, 2, and 3, above Climatic, Geographical
and Topographical.
6. The local amendment contained in PAMC section 15.04.270 Floor control valves is
necessary to provide fire extinguishing control devices that allow systems to remain partially
in service while repairs or maintenance are ongoing. See Findings 1 and 2 above Climatic and
Geographical.
7. The local amendment contained in Section 15.04.275 Single and multiplestation smoke
alarms is necessary to alert occupants at the earliest possible stage of smoldering residential
fires.
This modification requires smoke detection provided in new construction, remodels, additions,
rental housing and newly purchased homes to be photoelectric or dual sensor technology to
allow greater likelihood of occupants safely escaping residential fires and notifying the fire
department during the earliest possible stage of fire growth. This will help mitigate the problems
identified in Findings 1, 2, and 3, above Climatic, Geographical and Topographical.
8. The local amendments contained in PAMC sections 15.04.280 through 15.04.295
provide for additional fire and life safety measures during construction and demolition. See
Findings 2 and 3, above Geographical and Topographical.
9. The local amendments contained in PAMC 15.04.300
15.04.325, 15.04.352 and 15.04.450 through 15.04.502
regarding toxic gases incorporate requirements established by the Model Toxic Gas Ordinance
and California Fire Code. Administrative and restrictive measures include changes in
definitions, quantities regulated, and utilizes County consensus guidelines established by other
regional agencies which share similar climatic, geological/geographical, and topographical
conditions. See Findings 1, 2 and 3, above Climatic, Geographical and Topographical.
10. The local amendment contained in PAMC sections 15.04.310 and 15.04.320 Fire
Protection Water Supply System, requires an adequate water supply in areas used for storage of
highly combustible organic waste materials. This requirement mitigates the added hazards and
limited access conditions described in Findings 1 and 3, above Climatic and Topographical.
(SGY7MKR)RZIPSTI-( &)& * % '( %'% %
42
160830 sh 016/Dev Services/2016 Code Cycle/Final Codes/2016-08-25 (2016 Code Cyle) ORD Amending Ch 15.04 Fire Code
11. The local amendments contained in PAMC section 15.04.510 Storage and use of
liquefied petroleum gas place restrictions on liquid petroleum gas where natural gas is
conditions because they will reduce portable container releases in the event of seismic
activity and mitigate the geological risk described in Finding 2, above Geographical.
12. The local amendments contained in PAMC section 15.04.515 Silane distribution
systems automatic shutdown place restrictions on silane distribution systems. These
mically active local geological conditions
because they will reduce release volume in the event of seismic activity or unauthorized release
and mitigate the geological risk described in Finding 2, above Geographical.
13. The local amendments contained in PAMC sections 15.04.520 through 15.04.588 set
forth protections for urbanwildland interface areas that are necessary to mitigate the
additional fire risks in the Palo Alto foothills hazardous fire zone. The modifications contained
in these amendments provide for additional precautions against fire risks and additional fire
extinguishing systems necessitated by the conditions listed in Findings 1, 2, and 3, above
Climatic, Geographical and Topographical.
14. The local amendments contained in PAMC section 15.04.590 Life safety requirements
for existing high rise buildings are designed to provide additional fire and life safety features in
existing highrise buildings given the seismically sensitive geological conditions described in
Findings 2 and 3, above Geographical and Topographical.
15. The local amendments contained in PAMC section 15.05.035 Roofguards at interior
courts provides for additional fire and life safety measures for firefighters on buildings with
unconventional lightwells. See Findings 2 and 3, above Geographical and Topographical.
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