HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-11-14 Ordinance 55661
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Ordinance No. 5566
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Repealing
Chapter 16.06 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Adopting a
New Chapter 16.06, California Residential Code, 2022 Edition,
and Local Amendments and Related Findings, and Amending
Section Chapter 16.52, Flood Hazard Regulations, to Make
Conforming Changes
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 16.06 of Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended by repealing the
Chapter in its entirety and adopting a new Chapter 16.06 to read as follows:
CHAPTER 16.06
2022 California Residential Code,
CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PART 2.5
Sections
16.06.010 2022 California Residential Code adopted and amended.
16.06.015 Local Amendments.
16.06.020 2022 California Residential Code Appendix Chapters adopted.
16.06.030 Cross - References to California Residential Code.
16.06.040 Administration of California Residential Code.
16.06.050 Section R202 Definitions.
16.06.060 Table 301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria.
16.06.070 Section R301.2.2.6 Irregular buildings.
16.06.075 Section R304.4 Dwelling unit and congregate residence superficial floor area.
16.06.080 Section R310 Emergency escape and rescue openings.
16.06.090 Section R310.4.2.3 Window well fall protection.
16.06.100 Section R310.4.1 Security bars.
16.06.110 Section R313.1.1 Design and installation.
16.06.120 Section R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems.
16.04.130 Section R313.2.1 Design and installation.
16.04.140 Section R313.2.2 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems increase in design requirements.
16.04.150 Section R313.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems.
16.06.160 Section R314.1 Smoke detection and notification.
16.06.170 Section R314.1.1 Smoke alarms or detector end of life replacement
16.06.180 Section R315.7.5. Carbon Monoxide alarms
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16.06.190 Section R319.1 Address numbers.
16.06.200 Section R322.1 General (Palo Alto Flood Hazard Regulations).
16.06.210 Section R337.1.5 Vegetation management compliance
16.06.220 Section R401 GENERAL
16.06.225 Section R402.2.1 Materials for concrete
16.06.230 Section R403 FOUNDATION.
16.06.240 Section R404.1.3 Concrete foundation walls.
16.06.250 Section R504.3.1 Projections exposed to weather
16.06.260 Section R506.1 General
16.06.270 Section R602.10.4.5 Limits on methods GB and PCP
16.06.280 Table R602.10.3(3) Bracing requirements based on seismic design category
16.06.290 Section R608.5 Materials
16.06.300 Section R703.8.5.1 Locations.
16.06.310 Section R902.1.4 Roofing requirements in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area
16.06.320 Section R1003.9.2.1 Repairs, replacements, and alterations
16.06.330 Section AJ103 Preliminary Meeting
16.06.010 2022 California Residential Code adopted and amended.
The California Residential Code, 2022 Edition, Title 24, Part 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations,
together with those omissions, amendments, exceptions and additions thereto, is adopted and
hereby incorporated in this Chapter by reference and made a part hereof the same as if fully set
forth herein.
Unless superseded and expressly repealed, references in City of Palo Alto forms, documents and
regulations to the chapters and sections of the former California Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2019,
shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California Code of
Regulations, Title 24, 2022. Ordinance No. 5509 of the City of Palo Alto and all other ordinances or
parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby suspended and expressly repealed.
Wherever the phrases "California Residential Code" or "Residential Code" are used in this
code or any ordinance of the city, such phrases shall be deemed and construed to refer and
apply to the California Residential Code, 2022 Edition, Title 24, Part 2.5 of the California Code
of Regulations, as adopted by this Chapter.
One copy of the California Residential Code, 2022 Edition, has been filed for use and examination of
the public in the Office of the Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.
16.06.015 Local Amendments.
The provisions of this Chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced
provisions of the California Residential Code, 2022 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the
cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this Chapter.
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Where used in this Chapter 16.06, ellipses shall indicate text of the California Residential
Code, 2022 Edition, that has been adopted without amendment but is omitted for brevity.
16.06.020 2022 California Residential Code Appendix Chapters adopted.
The following Appendix Chapters of the California Residential Code, 2022 Edition, are adopted and
hereby incorporated in this Chapter by reference and made a part hereof the same as if fully set
forth herein:
A. Appendix AH Patio Covers
B. Appendix AJ Existing Building and Structures
C. Appendix AK Sound Transmission
D. Appendix AX Swimming Pool Safety Act
16.06.030 Cross - References to California Residential Code.
The provisions of this Chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California
Residential Code, 2022 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those provisions.
16.06.040 Administration of California Residential Code
Chapter 1, Division II of the 2022 California Residential Code is replaced in its entirety by
Chapter 1, Division II of the 2022 California Building Code as amended by Palo Alto Municipal
Code Chapter 16.04.
16.06.050 Section R202 Definitions.
Section R202 of the California Residential Code is amended to include the following definitions:
SUPERFICIAL FLOOR AREA. "Superficial floor area" is the net floor area within the
enclosing walls of the room in which the ceiling height is not less than seven feet
six inches, excluding built-in equipment such as wardrobes, cabinets, kitchen
units, or fixtures which are not readily removable.
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA is a geographical area identified by the
Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4202 and Government Code Sections 51175
through 51189, or other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a
-
Urban Fire Interface shall also include all areas west of Interstate 280, and all
other areas recommended as a High Fire Hazard Severity
of the California Department of Forestry.
16.06.060 Table 301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria.
Table 301.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
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TABLE R301.2
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND WIND DESIGN SEISMIC SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM
SNOW LOAD Speed
(mph)
Topographic
effects
DESIGN
CATEGORY
Weathering Frost
line
depth
Termite
0 92 No D0 thru E Negligible Very High
WINTER
DESIGN
TEMP.
(OF)
ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYEMENT
REQUIRED
FLOOD
HAZARDS
AIR
FREEZING
INDEX
MEAN
ANNUAL
TEMP.
(OF)
40 No See
Footnotes
p thru r
0 55
p The City of Palo Alto entered National Flood Insurance Program in 1979.
q The effective date of the current Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate
Map is May 18, 2009.
r The panel numbers and dates of all currently effective FIRMs and FBFMs:
06085CIND0A, 06085C0010H, 06085C0015H through 06085C0019H, 06085C0030H,
06085C0036H , 06085C0038H , 06085C0180H ,06085C0185H (May 18, 2009 for all)
16.06.070 Section R301.2.2.6 Irregular buildings.
Section R301.2.2.6 of the California Residential Code is amended as follows:
The seismic provisions of this code shall not be used for structures, or portions thereof, located
in Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1 and D2 and considered to be irregular in accordance
with this section. A building or portion of a building shall be considered to be irregular where
one or more of the conditions defined in Items 1 through 8 occur. Irregular structures, or
irregular portions of structures, shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering
practice to the extent the irregular features affect the performance of the remaining structural
system. Where the forces associated with the irregularity are resisted by a structural system
designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice, the remainder of the building shall
be permitted to be designed using the provisions of this code.
1. Shear wall or braced wall offsets out of plane. Conditions where exterior shear wall
lines or braced wall panels are not in one plane vertically from the foundation to the
uppermost story in which they are required.
2. Lateral Support of roofs and floors. Conditions where a section of floor or roof is not
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laterally supported by shear walls or braced wall lines on all edges.
Exception: Portions of floors that do not support shear walls, braced wall panels
above, or roofs shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 feet (1829 mm)
beyond a shear wall or braced wall line.
3. Shear wall or braced wall offsets in plane. Conditions where the end of a braced wall
panel occurs over an opening in the wall below.
4. Floor and roof opening. Conditions where an opening in a floor or roof exceeds the
lesser of 12 feet (3658 mm) or 50 percent of the least floor or roof dimension.
5. Floor level offset. Conditions where portions of a floor level are vertically offset.
6. Perpendicular shear wall and wall bracing. Conditions where shear walls and braced
wall lines do not occur in two perpendicular directions.
7. Wall bracing in stories containing masonry or concrete construction. Conditions
where stories above grade plane are partially or completely braced by wood wall
framing in accordance with Section R602 or cold-formed steel wall framing in
accordance with Section R603 include masonry or concrete construction. Where this
irregularity applies, the entire story shall be designed in accordance with accepted
engineering practice.
Exceptions: Fireplaces, chimneys and masonry veneer in accordance with this code.
8. Hillside light-frame construction. Conditions in which all of the following apply:
8.1 The grade slope exceeds 1 unit vertical in 5 units horizontal where averaged
across the full length of any side of the dwelling.
8.2 The tallest cripple wall clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 mm), or where a post
and beam system occurs at the dwelling perimeter, the post and beam system
tallest post clear height exceeds 7 feet (2134 mm).
8.3 Of the total plan area below the lowest framed floor, whether open or enclosed,
less than 50 percent is living space having interior wall finishes conforming to
Section R702.
Where Item 8 is applicable, design in accordance with accepted engineering practice
shall be provided for the floor immediately above the cripple walls or post and beam
system and all structural elements and connections from this diaphragm down to and
including connections to the foundation and design of the foundation to transfer lateral
loads from the framing above.
Exception: Light-frame construction in which the lowest framed floor is supported
directly on concrete or masonry walls over the full length of all sides except the
downhill side of the dwelling need not be considered an irregular dwelling under
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Item 8.
16.06.75 Section R304.4 Dwelling unit and congregate residence superficial floor area.
Section R304.4 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R304.4 Dwelling unit and congregate residence superficial floor area. Every dwelling
unit and congregate residence shall have at least one room which shall have not less
than 120 square feet of superficial floor area. Every room which is used for both
cooking and living or both living and sleeping purposes shall have not less than 144
square feet of superficial floor area. Every room used for sleeping purposes shall have
not less than 70 square feet of superficial floor area. When more than two persons
occupy a room used for sleeping purposes the required superficial floor area shall be
increased at the rate of 50 square feet for each occupant in excess of two. Guest
rooms with cooking shall contain the combined required superficial areas of a sleeping
and a kitchen, but not less than 144 square feet. Other habitable rooms shall be not
less than 70 square feet.
Notwithstanding any provision of this Section, children under the age of six shall not
be counted for purposes of determining whether a family with minor children
complies with the provisions of this Code.
For the purposes of this section, "superficial floor area" means the net floor area
within the enclosing walls of the room in which the ceiling height is not less than seven
feet six inches, excluding built-in equipment such as wardrobes, cabinets, kitchen
units, or fixtures which are not readily removable.
16.06.080 Section R310 Emergency escape and rescue openings.
Section R310 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required. Basements, habitable attics
and every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and
rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency
escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room. Emergency escape
and rescue openings shall open directly into a public way, or to a yard or court that
opens to a public way.
Exceptions:
1. Storm shelters and basements used only to house mechanical
equipment not exceeding a total floor area of 200 square feet (18.58 m2)
16.06.090 Section R310.4.2.3 Window well fall protection.
Section R310.4.2.3 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
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R310.4.2.3 Window well fall protection. Window wells with a vertical depth greater
than 30 inches shall have guards on all sides. The guards shall be provided in accordance
with Section R312.1. Openings shall comply with Section R312.1.3. Access ladder shall
comply with Section R310.4.2.1 and shall extend from the bottom of the well to the top
of the guard. Grates or similar barriers shall not be installed over the window well.
16.06.100 Section R310.4.1 Security bars.
Section R310.4.1 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R310.4.1 Security bars. Fire Department plan check review and approval of all security
bar submittals shall be required prior to the issuance of a Building Permit.
16.06.110 Section R313.1.1 Design and installation.
Section 313.1.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R313.1.1 Design and installation. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems installed
in townhouses shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and State and
local standards.
16.06.120 Section R313.2 One and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems.
Section R313.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R313.2 One and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. 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 of the California Building Code and as follows, whichever is
the more restrictive:
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings
and structures.
Exception: New residential occupancies, buildings or structures that do
not exceed 350 square feet of building area and contain no interior
plumbing fixtures.
2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing
buildings when modifications are made that create an increase in fire area to
more than 3600 square feet or when the addition is equal or greater than 50%
of the existing building square footage whichever is more restrictive.
3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new or altered
basements used for storage/utility/occupancy or habitable space regardless of
size and throughout existing basements that are expanded by more than 50%.
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If the addition or alteration is only the basement, then only the basement is
required to be fire sprinkler protected
4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when either the
roof structure and/or exterior wall structure have been removed, altered and/or
replaced by at least 50% of the existing structure.
5. 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.
16.04.130 Section R313.2.1 Design and installation.
Section R313.2.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:
R313.2.1 Design and installation. R313.2.1 Design and installation. Where allowed,
automatic sprinkler systems installed in one-and two-family detached dwellings shall
be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and State and local standards.
Fire sprinkler protection is required under rear covered patios extending over 4 feet
perpendicular from the exterior of the structure.
16.04.140 Section R313.2.2 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems increase in design
requirements.
Section R313.2.2 of the California Residential Code is added to read as follows:
R313.2.2 Section R313.2.2 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems increase in design
requirements. In a higher fire fighting hazardous conditions a four head fire sprinkler
calculation and coverage in all closets, bathrooms and attics will be required in
Residential and Group U Occupancies as determined by the Fire Code Official in the
following conditions:
1. Structures located in the High Hazardous Fire Areas.
2. Structures where the combined fire area is 3600 sq ft or larger.
3. Structures located 150 ft or greater from the Fire Department access roadways.
4. Basements and below grade structures.
16.04.150 Section R313.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems.
Section R313.3 of the California Residential Code is deleted in its entirety and amended as
follows:
R313.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems. Fire sprinkler systems shall be designed
and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D, State and local standards.
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16.06.160 Section R314.1 Smoke detection and notification.
Section R314.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R314.1 Smoke detection and notification. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke
alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with the California Fire
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 photoelectric smoke alarm or detector shall be installed if located
within 20 feet to a kitchen, fireplace or woodburning stove or within 5 feet of a
bathroom.
16.06.170 Section R314.1.1 Smoke alarms or detector end of life replacement.
Section R314.2 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R314.1.1 Smoke alarms or detector end of life replacement. Smoke alarms or
detectors shall be replaced every 10 years or according to the manufacture
guidelines, whichever is more restrictive.
16.06.180 Section R315.7.5. Carbon Monoxide alarms.
Section R315.7.5 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R315.7.5 Carbon Monoxide alarms or detectors end of life replacement. Carbon
monoxide alarms or detectors shall be replaced every 10 years or according to the
manufacture guidelines, whichever is more restrictive.
16.06.190 Section R319.1 Address numbers.
The following subsections are added to Section R319.1 of the California Residential Code:
R319.1.1 Address illumination. Address identification required by Section
R319.1 shall be illuminated.
R319.1.2 Address identification size. Address numbers and letters shall be
sized as follows:
1. When the structure is between thirty-six (36) and fifty (50) feet from
the road or other emergency means of access, a minimum of one-half
required.
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2. When the structure is fifty (50) or more feet from the road or other
emergency means of access, a minimum of one
inches (12 required.
16.06.200 Section R322.1 General (Palo Alto Floor Hazard Regulations).
The following paragraph is added to Section R322.1 of the California Residential Code:
Palo Alto Flood Hazard Regulations. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section
R322, all construction or development within a flood hazard area (areas depicted as
a Special Flood Hazard Area on Flood Insurance Rate Maps published by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency) shall comply with the City of Palo Alto Flood Hazard
Regulations (Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.52). Where discrepancies exist
between the requirements of this code and said regulations, the more stringent
requirements shall apply.
16.06.210 Section R337.1.5 Vegetation management compliance.
Section R337.1.5 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R337.1.5 Vegetation management compliance. Prior to building permit final
approval, the property shall be in compliance with the vegetation management
requirements prescribed in California Fire Code section 4906, including California
Public Resources Code 4291 or California Government Code Section 51182.
Acceptable methods of compliance inspection and documentation shall be
determined by the enforcing agency and may include any of the following:
1. Local, state, or federal fire authority or designee authorized to enforce vegetation
management requirements.
2. Enforcing agency - City of Palo Alto Fire Inspection shall inspect the
aforementioned requirements and indicate compliance prior to building division
final inspection sign- off.
3. Third party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation
management requirements.
4. Property owner certification authorized by the enforcing agency.
16.06.220 Section R401 GENERAL.
Section 401 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R401.1 R401.3 {CRC text not modified}
R401.4 Soils tests. Exception is added at end of the CRC text as follows:
Exception: Refer to PAMC 16.04.295
R401.4.1 Geotechnical evaluation. When permitted by the building official or designee,
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in lieu of a complete geotechnical evaluation, the load bearing values in T401.4.1 shall
be assumed.
R401.4.1.1 R401.4.2 {CRC text not modified}
16.06.225 Section R402.2.1 Materials for concrete.
Section 402.2.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R402.2.1 Materials for concrete. Materials for concrete shall comply with the
requirements of Section R608.5.1, as amended by PAMC 16.14.250.
16.06.230 Section R403 FOUNDATION.
Section R403 of the California Residential Code is amended as follows:
R403.1 R403.1.1 {CRC text not modified}
R403.1.2 Continuous footing in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1, and D2. Exterior
walls of buildings located in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 shall be supported
by continuous solid or fully grouted masonry or concrete footings. All required interior
braced wall panels in buildings located in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 shall
be supported on continuous foundations.
R403.1.3 Footing and stem wall reinforcing in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1, and
D2. Concrete footings located in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2, as
established in Table R301.2(1), shall have not fewer than three No. 4 horizontal bars.
One No. 4 horizontal bar shall be installed within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of the
stem wall and two No. 4 horizontal bars shall be located 3 to 4 inches (76 mm to 102
mm) from the bottom of the footing.
R403.1.3.1 Concrete stem walls with concrete footings. In Seismic Design Categories
D0, D1 and D2 where a construction joint is created between a concrete footing and a
stem wall, not fewer than one No. 4 vertical bar shall be installed at not more than 4
feet (1219 mm) on center. The vertical bar shall have a standard hook and extend to
the bottom of the footing and shall have support and cover as specified in Section
R403.1.3.5.3 and extend not less than 14 inches (357 mm) into the stem wall. Standard
hooks shall comply with Section R608.5.4.5. Not fewer than one No. 4 horizontal bar
shall be installed within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of the stem wall and two No. 4
horizontal bars shall be located 3 to 4 inches (76 mm to 102 mm) from the bottom of
the footing.
R403.1.3.2 Masonry stem walls with concrete footings. In Seismic Design
Categories D0, D1 and D2 where a grouted masonry stem wall is supported on a
concrete footing, not fewer than one No. 4 vertical bar shall be installed at not more
than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The vertical bar shall have a standard hook and
extend to the bottom of the footing and have support and cover as specified in Section
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R403.1.3.5.3 and extend not less than 14 inches (357 mm) into the stem wall. Standard
hooks shall comply with Section R608.5.4.5. Not fewer than one No. 4 horizontal bar
shall be installed within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of the wall and two No. 4
horizontal bars shall be located 3 to 4 inches (76 mm to 102 mm) from the bottom of
the footing. Masonry stem walls shall be solid grouted.
In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 masonry stem walls without solid grout and
vertical reinforcing are not permitted.
R403.1.3.3 R403.1.7.4 {CRC text not modified}
R403.1.8 Foundations on expansive soils. Foundations and floor slabs for buildings
located on expansive soils shall be designed in accordance with Section 1808.6 or Table
1809.7 of the California Building Code as amended in Municipal Code Section 16.04.300.
R403.1.8.1 {CRC text not modified}
16.06.240 Section R404.1.3 Concrete foundation walls.
Section 404.1.3 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R404.1.3 Concrete Foundation Walls. Concrete foundation walls that support light-
frame walls shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this
section, ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as amended by PAMC Section 16.14.250.
Concrete foundation walls that support above-grade concrete walls that are within the
applicability limits of Section R608.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the provisions of this section, ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as amended by PAMC
Section 16.14.250. Concrete foundation walls that support above-grade concrete walls
that are not within the applicability limits of Section R608.2 shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the provisions of ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as
amended by PAMC Section 16.14.250. When ACI 318, ACI 332, PCA 100 or the
provisions of this section, as amended by PAMC Section 16.14.250 are used to design
concrete foundation walls, project drawings, typical details and specifications are not
required to bear the seal of the architect or engineer responsible for design, unless
otherwise required by the state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
16.06.250 Section R504.3.1 Projections exposed to weather.
Section R504.3.1 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R504.3.1 Projections exposed to weather. Floor projections exposed to the weather and
sealed underneath, including but not limited to balconies, landings, decks, and stairs shall be
constructed of naturally durable wood, preservative-treated wood, corrosion-resistant (e.g.
galvanized) steel, or similar approved materials.
//
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16.06.260 Section R506.1 General.
Section R506.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R506.1 General. Concrete slab-on-ground floors shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this section of ACI 332, as amended by PAMC Section
16.14.250. Floors shall be a minimum 3 1/2 inches (89mm) thick (for expansive soils, see
Section R403.1.8). The specified compressive strength of concrete shall be as set forth in
Section R402.2.
16.06.270 Section R602.10.4.5 Limits on methods GB and PCP.
Section R602.10.4.5 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R602.10.4.5 Limits on methods GB and PCP. In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1, and
D2, Method GB is not permitted for use as an intermittent braced wall panels, but
gypsum board is permitted to be installed when required by this Section to be placed
on the opposite side of the studs form other types of braced wall panel sheathing. In
Seismic Design Categories D0, D1, and D2, the use of Method PCP is limited to one-story
single family dwelling and accessory structures.
16.06.280 Table R602.10.3(3) Bracing requirements based on seismic design category.
Footnote e to Table R602.10.3(3) is amended to read as follows:
e. In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2, Method GB is not permitted and PCP is limited
to one-story dwellings and accessory structures.
16.06.290 Section R608.5 Materials.
Section R608.5 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R608.5 Materials. Materials used in the construction of concrete walls shall comply
with this section, as amended by PAMC Chapter 16.14.250.
16.06.300 Section R703.8.5.1 Locations.
Section R703.8.5.1 of the California Residential Code is added to read:
R703.8.5.1 Locations. Flashing shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, gutters,
wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction, and around roof openings. Where
flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than
0.019 inches (0.483 mm) (e.g. no. 26 galvanized sheet) and shall be primed and painted.
//
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16.06.310 Section R902.1.4 Roofing requirements in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
Section R902.1.4 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R902.1.4 Roofing requirements in a Wild Land-Urban Interface Fire Area. The entire roof
covering on new structures and existing structures on which more than 50 percent of
the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, and any roof covering applied
in the alteration, repair or replacement of roofs on existing structures, shall be a fire-
retardant roof covering that is at least Class A. Roofing requirements for structures
located in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall also comply with Section R337.5.
16.06.320 Section R1003.9.2.1 Repairs, replacements and alterations.
Section R1003.9.2.1 is added to the California Residential Code to read:
R1003.9.2.1 Repairs, replacements and alterations. When any repair, replacement or
alteration to the roof of an existing structure is performed, a spark arrester shall be
installed on the existing chimney in accordance with Section R1003.9.2.
16.06.330 Section AJ103 Preliminary Meeting.
Section AJ103 of Appendix AJ of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
Section AJ103.1 General. If a building permit is required at the request of the
prospective permit applicant, the building official or his or her designee may meet with
the prospective applicant to discuss plans for any proposed work under these provisions
prior to the application for the permit. The purpose of this preliminary meeting is for
the building official to gain an understanding of the prospective intentions
for the proposed work, and to determine, together with the prospective applicant, the
specific applicability of these provisions.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the California Residential
Code, 2022
SECTION 3. Section 16.52.040 (Definitions) of Chapter 16.52 (Flood Hazard Regulations) of Title 16
(Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as follows (additions underlined,
deletions struck through, and omissions of unchanged language noted by [. . .]):
16.52.040 Definitions
(a) The definitions contained hereafter shall govern the interpretation of the terms
defined for the purposes of this chapter, except where the context clearly requires
otherwise. Words used in this chapter and not defined in this section shall be interpreted
so as to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this chapter its
most reasonable application.
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(1) "Appeal" means a request for a review of the floodplain administrator's
interpretation of any provision of this chapter or a request for a variance.
(2) "Area of shallow flooding" means a designated AO or AH zone on the Flood
Insurance Rate Map. The base flood depths range from one to three feet; a clearly defined
channel does not exist; the path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate; and
velocity flow may be evident.
(3) "Area of Special Flood Hazard." See "Special flood hazard area."
(4) "Base flood" or "one-hundred-year flood" means the flood having a one percent
chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
(5)
relative to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD), North American Datum (NAVD)
or other datum specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) having a 1% chance of
being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
(6) "Basement" means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground
level) on all sides.
(7) "Breakaway walls" means any type of walls, whether solid or lattice, and whether
constructed of concrete, masonry, wood, metal, plastic or any other suitable building
material which is not part of the structural support of the building and which is designed to
break away under abnormally high tides or wave action without causing any damage to the
structural integrity of the building on which they are used or any buildings to which they
might be carried by floodwaters. A breakaway wall shall have a safe design loading
resistance of not less than ten and no more than twenty pounds per square foot. Use of
breakaway walls must be certified by a registered engineer or architect and shall meet the
following conditions:
(A) Breakaway wall collapse shall result from a water load less than that which would
occur during the base flood; and
(B) The elevated portion of the building shall not incur any structural damage due to the
effects of wind and water loads acting simultaneously in the event of the base flood.
(8) "Coastal high hazard area" is the area subject to high velocity waters, including
coastal and tidal and inundation or tsunamis. The area is designated on the Flood Insurance
Rate Map as Zone V1 - V30, VE or V.
(9) including wave height,
(10) "Development" means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real
estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling,
grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or bulk storage of equipment or materials.
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0160093_20221102_ay16
(11)
attendant utilities and equipment, being watertight with all elements substantially impermeable
and with structural components having the capacity to resist flood loads.
(12) "Flood" or "Flooding" means a general and temporary condition of partial or
complete inundation of normally dry land areas from (A) the overflow of floodwaters, (B)
the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, and/or (C)
the collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or other body of water as a
result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding
anticipated cyclical levels or suddenly caused by an unusually high water level in a natural
body of water, accompanied by a severe storm, or by an unanticipated force of nature, such
as flash flood or an abnormal tidal surge, or by some similarly unusual and unforeseeable
event which results in flooding.
(13) "Flood Boundary and Floodway Map" means the official map on which the Federal
Emergency Management Agency or Federal Insurance Administration has delineated both
the areas of flood hazard and the floodway.
(14) a dam or barrier design and constructed to keep water
away from or out of a specific area, including but not limited to levees, floodwalls and
channelization.
(15) "Flood Insurance Rate Map" means the official map on which the Federal Emergency
Management Agency or Federal Insurance Administration has delineated both the areas of
special flood hazard and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
(16) "Flood Insurance Study" means the official report provided by the Federal Insurance
Administration that includes flood profiles, the Flood Insurance Rate Map, the Flood
Boundary and Floodway Map, and the water surface elevation of the base flood.
(17) "Floodplain" or "flood-prone area" means any land area susceptible to being
inundated by water from any flood.
(18) "Floodplain management" means the operation of an overall program of corrective
and preventive measures for reducing flood damage, including but not limited to
emergency preparedness plans, flood control works and floodplain management
regulations.
(19) "Floodplain management regulations" means zoning ordinances, subdivision
regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as
floodplain ordinance, grading ordinance and erosion control ordinance) and other
applications of police power. The term describes such State of California or local regulations
in any combination thereof, which provide standards for the purpose of flood damage
prevention and reduction.
(20) "Floodproofing" means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes or adjustments to non-residential structures which reduce or eliminate flood
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damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, structures
and their contents.
(21) "Floodway" or "regulatory floodway" means the channel of a river or other
watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the
base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot.
(22) "Functionally dependent use" means a use which has an intended purpose that
cannot be performed, unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The
term includes only docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the loading and
unloading of cargo or passengers, and shipbuilding and ship repair facilities, but does not
include long-term storage or related manufacturing facilities.
(23) "Highest adjacent grade" means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface
prior to construction next to the proposed walls foundation of a structure.
(24) "Historic structure" means any structure that is listed individually in the National
Register of Historic Places or in the State of California Register of Historical Resources or
any structure that is listed individually in the current edition of the Palo Alto Master List of
Structures on the Historic Inventory in Category 1 "Exceptional Building" or Category 2
"Major Building" or any structure that has been certified by the Keeper of the National
Register as contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district.
(25)
around it.
(26)
(27) an official determination issued by FEMA that
amends or revises an effective Flood Insurance Rate Map or Flood Insurance Study through a
Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA), Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) or Letter of Map Revision
based on fill (LOMR-F).
showing the property was incorrectly included in a designated special flood
hazard area. A LOMA amends the current effective Flood Insurance Rate Map
and establishes that a specific property, portion of a property, or structure is not
located in a special flood hazard area.
show changes to flood zones, flood elevations, special flood hazard area
boundaries and floodway delineations, and other planimetric features.
-
land has been elevated by fill above the base flood elevation and is, therefore,
no longer located within the special flood hazard area. In order to qualify for this
determination, the fill must have been permitted and placed in accordance with
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to whether a proposed flood protection project or other project complies with
the minimum NFIP requirements for such projects with respect to delineation of
special flood hazard area. A CLOMR does not revise the effective Flood Insurance
Rate Map or Flood Insurance Study, upon submission and approval of certified
as-built documentation, a Letter of Map Revision may be issued by FEMA to
revise the effective FIRM.
(28) "Lowest floor" means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including
basement.
(A) An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure below the lowest floor that is
usable solely for the parking of vehicles, building access or storage in an area
other than a basement area is not considered a building's lowest floor,
provided that it conforms to the applicable non-elevation design
requirements, including but not limited to:
(i) The standard set forth in subdivision (3) of subsection (c) of Section
16.52.130;
(ii) The anchoring standards set forth in subdivision (1) of subsection (a) of
Section 16.52.130;
(iii) The construction materials and methods standards set forth in
subsection (b) of Section 16.52.130; and
(iv) The standards for utilities set forth in Section 16.52.140.
(B) For residential structures, all subgrade enclosed areas are prohibited as they are
considered to be basements. This prohibition includes below-grade garages, storage
areas and subfloor crawl spaces, except existing below-grade subfloor crawl spaces
meeting the standards set forth in subsection (d) of Section 16.52.130.
(29) "Manufactured home" means a structure, transportable in one or more sections,
which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent
foundation when it is attached to the required utilities. The term does not include a
recreational vehicle.
(30) "Manufactured home park or subdivision" means a parcel (or contiguous parcels) of
land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for sale or rent.
(31) "Market value of the structure" means that value of a structure determined by
estimating the cost to replace the structure in a new condition and adjusting that cost
figure by the amount of depreciation which has accrued since the structure was
constructed. The cost of replacement of the structure shall be based on a square foot cost
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factor determined by reference to a building cost estimating guide recognized by the
building construction industry, as approved by the floodplain administrator. The amount
of depreciation shall be determined by taking into account the age and physical
deterioration of the structure and functional obsolescence, as approved by the floodplain
administrator, but shall not include economic or other forms of external obsolescence.
The use of replacement costs or accrued depreciation factors different from those
contained in recognized building cost estimating guides may be approved at the
discretion of the floodplain administrator only if such factors are included in a report
prepared by an independent professional appraiser and supported by a written
explanation of the differences.
(32) "Mean sea level" means, for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 1929 or other datum, to which base flood
elevations shown on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced.
(33) "New construction," for floodplain management purposes, means structures for
which the "start of construction" commenced on or after the effective date of floodplain
management regulations adopted by this community, and includes any subsequent
improvements to such structures.
(34) "Person" means an individual or his agent, firm, partnership, association or
corporation, or agent of the aforementioned groups, or the State of California or its
agencies or political subdivisions.
(35) "Recreational vehicle" means a vehicle which:
(A) Is built on a single chassis;
(B) Measures 400 square feet or less at its largest or widest horizontal
projection;
(C) Is designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a small truck;
(D) Is designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as
temporary living quarters for recreational, seasonal use camping or travel;
and
(E) Incorporates a vehicle that is defined by the State of California as a camp
trailer, camper, fifth-wheel travel trailer, or house car.
(36) "Remedy a violation" means to bring the structure or other development into
compliance with the State of California or local floodplain management regulations, or, if
this is not possible, to reduce the impacts of its noncompliance. Ways that impacts may
be reduced include protecting the structure or other affected development from flood
damages, implementing the enforcement provisions of this chapter or otherwise
deterring future similar violations, or reducing federal or State of California financial
exposure with regard to the structure or other development.
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(37) "Riverine" means relating to, formed by, or resembling a river (including tributaries),
stream, or brook.
(38) "Sand dunes" means naturally occurring accumulations of sand in ridges or mounds
landward of the beach.
(39) "Special flood hazard area (SFHA)" means an area having special flood or flood-
related erosion hazards, and shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map as Zone A, AO, Al -
A30, AE, AH, V1 - V30, VE or V.
(40) "Start of construction" includes substantial improvement and other proposed new
development, and means the date on which the building permit was issued, provided the
actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or
other improvement commenced within 180 days from the date of issuance of the permit.
The actual start means either the first placement of permanent construction of a
structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the
construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement
of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land
preparation, such as clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of
streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers,
or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on
the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling
units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual start of
construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other part of a
structure, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the structure.
(41) "Structure" means a walled and roofed building, including but not limited to a gas
or liquid storage tank, that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
(42) "Substantial damage" means damage of any origin sustained by a structure,
whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its original damage-free condition would
equal or exceed fifty percent of the market value of the structure before the damage
occurred.
(43) "Substantial improvement" means any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or
other proposed new development of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds fifty
percent of the market value of the structure before the start of construction of the
improvement. This term includes a structure which has incurred substantial damage,
regardless of the actual repair work to be performed.
The term shall not include:
(A) Any project, or any portion of a project, for improvement of a structure
undertaken in response to a finding by the local code enforcement official
that there are existing violations of State of California or local health, sanitary,
or safety code specifications which render the structure unfit for human
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occupancy; or
(B) Any alteration of an historic structure, provided that the alteration will
not result in the termination of a structure's continued designation as an
historic structure; or
(C) Any project, or any portion of a project, for improvement of a structure
that is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
(42 U.S.C. Section 12101 et.seq.).
(44) "Variance" means a grant of relief from the requirements of this chapter which
permits construction in a manner that would otherwise be prohibited by this chapter.
(45) "Violation" means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully
compliant with the community's floodplain management regulations. A structure or other
development without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of
compliance required in this chapter is presumed to be in violation until such time as that
documentation is provided.
(46 od that relies on the use of flood damage-
resistant materials and construction techniques in areas of a structure that are below the
elevation required by this standard by intentionally allowing those areas to flood.
SECTION 4. Section 16.52.075 (Requirement to submit new technical data.) of Chapter 16.52
(Flood Hazard Regulations) of Title 16 (Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is added to
read as follows:
16.52.075 Requirement to submit new technical data.
A community's base flood elevations may increase or decrease resulting from physical changes
affecting flooding conditions. As soon as practicable, but not later than six months after the
date such information becomes available, the City shall notify FEMA of the changes by
submitting technical or scientific data. Such submission is necessary so that, upon confirmation
of those physical changes affecting flooding conditions, risk premium rates and flood plain
management requirements will be based upon current data.
SECTION 5. Section 16.52.110 (Development permit required) of Chapter 16.52 (Flood Hazard
Regulations) of Title 16 (Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as follows
(ellipses indicate existing language that is unchanged but omitted for brevity):
16.52.110 Development permit required.
[. . .]
(b) The foundation design details, including but not limited to:
(1) The proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level, of the lowest floor, including
basement, of all structures;
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(2) For a crawl-space foundation, the location and total net area of foundation
openings as required in this ordinance and applicable Federal Emergency Management
Agency technical bulletins, including but not limited to, TB 1-93 and TB 7-93; and
(3) For foundations placed on fill, the location and height of the fill, and compaction
requirements (compacted to ninety-five percent using the Standard Proctor Test
method);
(c) Proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any nonresidential
structure will be floodproofed, as required in subdivision (3) of subsection (c) of
Section 16.52.130 and applicable Federal Emergency Management Agency technical
bulletins, including but not limited to TB 3-93;
[. . .]
SECTION 6. Section 16.52.130 (Standards of Construction) of Chapter 16.52 (Flood Hazard
Regulations) of Title 16 (Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as follows
(additions underlined, deletions struck through, and omissions of unchanged language noted
by [. . .]):
16.52.130 Standards of construction.
In all areas of special flood hazards the following standards are required:
[. . .]
(c) Elevation and Floodproofing.
(1) In residential new construction and substantial improvement of any residential
structure, the lowest floor, including basement:
(A) In an AO zone, shall be elevated above the highest adjacent grade to height equal
to or exceeding to a height above the highest adjacent grade of not less than the depth
number specified in feet on the Flood Insurance Rate Map plus 1 foot, or elevated at
least two not less than 3 feet above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is
specified;
(B) In an A zone, shall be elevated at least one foot two feet above the highest adjacent
grade if no depth number is specified or one foot above the base flood elevation,
whichever is higher; or
(C) In all other zones, including Coastal A zones shall be elevated at least one foot
above to or above the base flood elevation.
(D) Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated to or above base
flood elevation plus 1 foot, or design flood elevation, whichever is higher.
(E ) Garages and carport floors shall comply with one of the following:
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(i) They shall be elevated to or above the elevations required above in (A), (B) and
(C) or
(ii) They shall be at or above grade on all but one side of the structure and allow the
automatic flow of floodwater into and out of the garage or carport. Where a
garage or carport shall solely be used parking, building access or storage.
Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor, including
basement, shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor, and
verified by a community official to be properly elevated. Such certification and
verification shall be provided to the floodplain administrator.
(2) Nonresidential new construction and any substantially improved nonresidential
structure shall either be elevated to conform with subdivision (1) of this subsection (c)
or, together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities:
(A) Shall be floodproofed below the minimum elevation required in subdivision (1)
above so that the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the
passage of water;
(B) Shall possess structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and
hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy; and
(C) Shall be certified by a registered professional engineer that the standards of this
subdivision are satisfied. The certification shall be provided to the floodplain
administrator.
(D) Shall provide a flood emergency plan that includes maintenance and operation
requirements. The plan shall be approved by the floodplain administrator. Plans shall
be recorded as a covenant.
(3) All new construction and substantially improved structures, with fully enclosed
areas below the lowest floor (excluding basements) that are usable solely for the
parking of vehicles, building access or storage, and which are subject to flooding shall
be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by
allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement
shall comply with the California Building Code guidelines set forth in the applicable
Federal Emergency Management Agency technical bulletins, including but not limited
to TB 1-93 and TB 7-93 and shall meet or exceed the following minimum criteria:
(A) Possess a minimum of two openings on different sides of each enclosed area. If a
building has more than one enclosed area, each area shall have openings with the total
net area of nonengineered openings of not less than one square inch for every square
foot of enclosed area, subject to flooding where the enclosed area is measured on the
exterior of the enclosure walls. The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one
foot above grade the higher of the final interior grade or floor and the finished exterior
grade immediately under each opening. Openings may be equipped with screens,
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louvers, valves or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic
entry and exit of floodwaters into and out of the enclosed areas and shall be accounted
for in the determination of the net open area; or
(B) Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect. Construction
documents shall include a statement by a registered design professional that the design
of the openings will provide for equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls
by allowing for the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters as specified on Section
2.7.2.2 of ASCE 24.
(C) Openings shall be not less than 3 inches in any direction in the plane of the wall.
(D) Openings shall be permitted to be installed in doors and windows; doors and
windows without installed openings do not meet the requirement of this section.
(4) Manufactured homes shall also meet the standard in Section 16.52.160.
(d) Existing Residential Below Grade Subfloor Crawl Spaces. Notwithstanding the
provisions of subsection (c)(1) for existing residential structures, existing below-grade
subfloor crawl spaces shall be allowed to remain beneath substantially improved
structures provided all other standards of construction set forth in Section 16.52.130
and the following conditions are met:
(1) The lowest floor of the living space of the existing structure is at or above the
elevation required under subsection (c) above;
(2) The below-grade crawl space shall be backfilled to the maximum extent possible
without violating Uniform Building Code requirements for minimum crawl space height;
(3) The crawl space grade is not more than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade
outside the foundation;
(4) The height of the crawl space, measured from the interior grade of the crawl space
to the top of the foundation wall, does not exceed four feet;
(5) There is an adequate drainage system capable of removing floodwaters from the
interior area of the crawl space within seventy-two hours after the flood event; and
(6) The expected velocity of the floodwaters at the site does not exceed five feet per
second.
(e) Prohibition of Residential Basement Construction.
(1) For residential structures located within a Special Flood Hazard Area:
(A) No new basements shall be constructed; and
(B) No existing basements shall be expanded.
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SECTION 7.Section 16.52.160 (Standards of manufactured homes) of Chapter 16.52 (Flood
Hazard Regulations) of Title 16 (Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as
follows (additions underlined and deletions struck through):
16.52.160 Standards for manufactured homes.
All new and replacement manufactured homes and additions to manufactured homes
on foundations in flood hazard areas or coastal high-hazard areas shall:
(a) Be elevated so that the lowest floor is at or above the based flood elevation
elevation meets requirements specified in sections 16.52.130 and 16.52.180 as
applicable; and
(b) Be securely anchored to a permanent foundation system to resist flotation,
collapse or lateral movement in accordance with ASCE 24.
SECTION 8. Section 16.52.180 (Coastal high hazard areas) of Chapter 16.52 (Flood Hazard
Regulations) of Title 16 (Building) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as
follows (additions underlined, deletions struck through, and omissions of unchanged
language noted by [. . .]):
16.52.180 Coastal high hazard areas.
Within coastal high hazard areas established in Section 16.52.060 the following
standards shall apply:
(a) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be elevated on
adequately anchored pilings or columns and securely anchored to such pilings or
columns so that the lowest horizontal portion of the structural members of the lowest
floor (excluding the pilings, columns, grade beams and bracing) is elevated to or above
the base flood elevation plus 1 foot or design flood elevation, whichever is higher. Wind
loading values used shall be those required by applicable state or local building
standards.
(b) All new construction and other development shall be located on the landward side
of the reach of mean high tide.
[. . .]
SECTION 9. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of the California
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.
//
//
//
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SECTION 10.This ordinance shall be effectiveon the thirty-first day afterthe date of its adoption.
INTRODUCED: October 17, 2022
PASSED: November 14, 2022
AYES: BURT, CORMACK, DUBOIS, FILSETH, KOU, STONE, TANAKA
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Planning and Development Services
____________________________
Director of Public Works
____________________________
Director of Administrative Service
Code: California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5
Chapter(s),
Section(s),
Table(s),
Appendices
Title Add Deleted Amended Justification
(See below
for keys)
R202 Wildland-Urban
Interface Fire Area
T
R202
Superficial floor area
A, G
Table R301.2 Climatic and
Geographic Design
Criteria
C, G, T
R301.2.2.6 Irregular Buildings G
R304.4
Dwelling unit and
congregate residence
A, G
R310 Emergency Escape
and Rescue Openings
C, T
R310.4.2.3 Window Well Fall Protection T
R 310.4.1 Security Bars T
R313.1.1 Design and installation T
R 313.2 One and Two Family
Dwellings
Automatic Spr. Syst.
T
R313.2.1 Design and installation T
R313.2.2 NFPA 13D sprinkler increase
in design requirements
T
R313.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler
systems
T
R 314.1 Smoke Detection and
Notification
C, T
R314.1.1 Smoke alarms or detector
end of life replacement
T
315.7.5 Carbon monoxide alarms T
R 319.1 Address Identification T
R 322.1 Flood Hazard Regulations T
R 327.1.5 Vegetation
Management
Compliance
T
R401 General T, G
R402.2.1 Materials for
concrete
E
R403,
R403.1.2,
R403.1.3,
R403.1.3.1,
R403.1.3.2
Foundation G, T
R 403.1.8 Foundation on expansive
Soils G, T
R404.1.3 Concrete foundation walls E
R 504.3.1 Projections exposed to
weather
G, T
R506.1 Concrete Floors on ground E
R602.10.4.5 Limits on methods GB and
PCP
G
Table
R602.10.3(3)
Bracing Requirements Based
on
Seismic Design Category
G
R608.5 Materials E
R 703.8.5.1 Flashing Locations T
R902.1.4 Roofing Requirements in
Wildland- Urban Interface
Fire Area
T
R1003.9.2.1 Repairs,
Replacements and
Alterations
T
Appendix AH Patio Covers C
Appendix AJ Existing Building and
Structures
C, T
Appendix AK Sound Transmission C
Appendix AX Swimming Pool Safety Act C, G
AJ103,
AJ103.1
Preliminary Meeting,
General
C, G
Key to Justification for Amendments to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations
A This is an administrative amendment to clarify and establish civil and administrative
procedures, regulations, or rules to enforce and administer the activities by the Palo Alto Building
Inspection Department. These administrative amendments do not need to meet HSC
18941.5/17958/13869 per HSC 18909(c).
C This amendment is justified based on a local climatic condition. The seasonal climatic
conditions during the late summer and fall create severe fire hazards to the public health and
welfare in the City. The hot, dry weather frequently results in wild land fires on the brush covered
slopes west of Interstate 280. The aforementioned conditions combined with the geological
characteristics of the hills within the City create hazardous conditions for which departure from
California Building Standards Code is required.
G This amendment is justified based on a local geological condition. The City of Palo Alto is
subject to earthquake hazard caused by its proximity to San Andreas fault. This fault runs from
Hollister, through the Santa Cruz Mountains, epicenter of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, then
on up the San Francisco Peninsula, then offshore at Daly City near Mussel Rock. This is the
approximate location of the epicenter of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The other fault is
Hayward Fault. This fault is about 74 mi long, situated mainly along the western base of the hills
on the east side of San Francisco Bay. Both faults are considered major Northern California
earthquake faults which may experience rupture at any time. Thus, because the City is within a
seismic area which includes these earthquake faults, the modifications and changes cited herein
are designed to better limit property damage as a result of seismic activity and to establish
criteria for repair of damaged properties following a local emergency.
T The City of Palo Alto topography includes hillsides with narrow and winding access, which
makes timely response by fire suppression and emergency response vehicles difficult. Palo Alto
is contiguous with the San Francisco Bay, resulting in a natural receptor for storm and wastewater
run-off. Also, the City of Palo Alto is located in an area that is potentially susceptible to
liquefaction during a major earthquake. The surface condition consists mostly of stiff to dense
sandy clay, which is highly plastic and expansive in nature. The aforementioned conditions within
the City create hazardous conditions for which departure from California Building Standards Code
is warranted.
Certificate Of Completion
Envelope Id: D7A3D7A742E54B7B93989ECE93D9649F Status: Completed
Subject: DocuSign: Adoption of 9 Ordinances Related to the 2022 CA Building Codes
Source Envelope:
Document Pages: 173 Signatures: 55 Envelope Originator:
Certificate Pages: 3 Initials: 0 Vinhloc Nguyen
AutoNav: Enabled
EnvelopeId Stamping: Enabled
Time Zone: (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
250 Hamilton Ave
Palo Alto , CA 94301
Vinhloc.Nguyen@CityofPaloAlto.org
IP Address: 199.33.32.254
Record Tracking
Status: Original
11/21/2022 11:02:42 AM
Holder: Vinhloc Nguyen
Vinhloc.Nguyen@CityofPaloAlto.org
Location: DocuSign
Security Appliance Status: Connected Pool: StateLocal
Storage Appliance Status: Connected Pool: City of Palo Alto Location: DocuSign
Signer Events Signature Timestamp
Albert Yang
Albert.Yang@CityofPaloAlto.org
Assistant City Attorney
City of Palo Alto
Security Level: Email, Account Authentication
(None)
Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 97.126.59.62
Sent: 11/21/2022 11:11:03 AM
Viewed: 11/21/2022 2:49:57 PM
Signed: 11/21/2022 2:51:09 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Geoffrey Blackshire
Geoffrey.Blackshire@CityofPaloAlto.org
Fire Chief
Fire Services
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(None)
Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 199.33.32.254
Sent: 11/21/2022 2:51:19 PM
Resent: 11/29/2022 3:43:47 PM
Viewed: 11/29/2022 3:54:58 PM
Signed: 11/29/2022 3:56:24 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Brad Eggleston
Brad.Eggleston@CityofPaloAlto.org
Director of Public Works
City of Palo Alto
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Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 199.33.32.254
Sent: 11/29/2022 3:56:35 PM
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Signed: 11/29/2022 5:46:20 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
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Kiely Nose
Kiely.Nose@CityofPaloAlto.org
Director, Administrative Services/CFO
City of Palo Alto
Security Level: Email, Account Authentication
(None)
Signature Adoption: Uploaded Signature Image
Using IP Address: 73.162.77.140
Sent: 11/29/2022 5:46:29 PM
Viewed: 12/1/2022 7:25:34 AM
Signed: 12/1/2022 7:26:13 AM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Signer Events Signature Timestamp
Jonathan Lait
Jonathan.Lait@CityofPaloAlto.org
Interim Director Planning and Community
Environment
City of Palo Alto
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(None)
Signature Adoption: Uploaded Signature Image
Using IP Address: 99.88.42.180
Sent: 12/1/2022 7:26:27 AM
Viewed: 12/1/2022 11:12:56 AM
Signed: 12/1/2022 11:16:47 AM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Ed Shikada
Ed.Shikada@CityofPaloAlto.org
Ed Shikada, City Manager
City of Palo Alto
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Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 199.33.32.254
Sent: 12/1/2022 11:16:58 AM
Viewed: 12/1/2022 1:50:09 PM
Signed: 12/1/2022 1:50:45 PM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Patrick Burt
pat@patburt.org
Mr
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Using IP Address: 98.37.159.0
Sent: 12/1/2022 1:50:55 PM
Resent: 12/2/2022 10:23:28 AM
Viewed: 12/2/2022 11:49:03 AM
Signed: 12/2/2022 11:49:57 AM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
Not Offered via DocuSign
Lesley Milton
Lesley.Milton@CityofPaloAlto.org
City Clerk
City Clerk
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(None)
Signature Adoption: Pre-selected Style
Using IP Address: 199.33.32.254
Sent: 12/2/2022 11:50:10 AM
Viewed: 12/2/2022 11:55:06 AM
Signed: 12/2/2022 11:55:38 AM
Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure:
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Envelope Summary Events Status Timestamps
Envelope Sent Hashed/Encrypted 11/21/2022 11:11:03 AM
Certified Delivered Security Checked 12/2/2022 11:55:06 AM
Envelope Summary Events Status Timestamps
Signing Complete Security Checked 12/2/2022 11:55:38 AM
Completed Security Checked 12/2/2022 11:55:38 AM
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