HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 4274
CITY OF PALO ALTO OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
November 18, 2013
The Honorable City Council
Palo Alto, California
Second Reading: Public Hearing: Adoption of Eight Ordinances: (1)
Repealing Chapter 16.04 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and
Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.04, California Building
Code, California Historical Building Code, and California Existing
Building Code, 2013 Editions, and Local Amendments and Related
Findings; (2) Repealing Chapter 16.05 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.05, California
Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and Related
Findings; (3) Repealing Chapter 16.06 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.06, California
Residential Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and Related
Findings; (4) Repealing Chapter 16.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.08, California
Plumbing Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and Related
Findings; (5) Repealing Chapter 16.14 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.14, California
Green Building Standard Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments
and Related Findings; (6) Repealing Chapter 16.16 of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.16,
California Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and
Related Findings; (7) Repealing Chapter 16.17 of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a New Chapter 16.17,
California Energy Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and
Related Findings; and (8) Repealing Chapter 15.04 of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code and Amending Title 15 to Adopt a new Chapter 15.04,
California Fire Code, 2013 Edition, and Local Amendments and Related
Findings (First Reading: October 21, 2013 PASSED: 8-0 Klein absent)
Recommendation
Page 2
Staff recommends that the Council adopt on second reading the attached Ordinances adopting
and amending the 2013 California Building Standards Code.
Executive Summary
Council approved on first reading the attached ordinances at its regular meeting of October 21
2013. The attached ordinances are unchanged with one minor exception. The ordinance
adopting and amending the 2013 California Fire Code corrects an omission in the version
presented to the Council on first reading.
Background
At the October 21, 2013 regular meeting of the Palo Alto City Council, the Council approved, on
first reading, a series of eight ordinances adopting and amending new building standards as
part of the 2013 California Building Standards Code cycle. These ordinances are returning to
the Council for adoption on second reading. A full discussion of the California Building
Standards Code and local amendments is available in CMR #4082.
Discussion
The ordinances presented for second reading are unchanged from the versions approved by
Council on October 21, 2013 with one minor exception: Staff erroneously omitted a local
amendment to the 2013 California Fire Code, which has been inserted into ordinance for the
Council’s adoption on second reading. The local amendment, contained in Section 15.04.017 of
the Palo Alto Municipal Code, deletes Section 103.2 of the 2013 California Fire Code to conform
the regulations to the City’s established local policy and practice.
Resource Impact
Resource impacts from the adoption of these ordinances are limited to staff training costs,
purchasing copies of the new codes and implementation of public outreach efforts.
Policy Implications
The State of California mandates enforcement of the updated California Building Standards
Code and it will go into effect regardless of the City’s action or lack of action. The City does have
discretion to adopt local amendments to the CBSC, which must be effective by January 1, 2014.
Environmental Review
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.
ATTACHMENTS:
: Building Code Ordinances (PDF)
Department Head: Donna Grider, City Clerk
Page 3
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 1
Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City Of Palo Alto Repealing Chapter
16.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a
New Chapter 16.08, California Plumbing Code, 2013 Edition, and
Local Amendments and Related Findings
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 16.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended by
repealing in its entirety and adopting a new Chapter 16.08 to read as follows:
16.08 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE
16.08.010 2013 California Plumbing Code adopted.
The California Plumbing Code, 2013 Edition, Title 24, Part 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,
2010, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California
Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2013. Ordinance No. 5102 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 Mechanical Code" or "Mechanical 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 Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter. One copy of the
California Plumbing Code, 2013 edition, has been filed for use and examination of the public in the
Office of the Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.
16.08.020 2013 California Plumbing Code Appendix Chapters adopted.
The following Appendix Chapters of the California Plumbing Code, 2013 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 A – Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System
B. Appendix I – Installation Standards
16.08.030 Cross - References to California Plumbing Code.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 2
The provisions of this Chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California
Plumbing Code, 2013 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those
provisions.
16.08.040 Violations -- Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this chapter is guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as provided in subsection (a) of
Section 1.08.010 of this code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any
violation of this chapter occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense,
and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as provided in this section.
16.08.050 Enforcement -- Citation authority.
The employee positions designated in this section 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: (1) chief building official; (2)
building inspection supervisor; and (3) code enforcement officer.
16.08.060 Local Amendments
The provisions of this Chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced
provisions of the California Plumbing Code, 2013 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the
cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this Chapter.
16.08.070 Section 306.3 Palo Alto Sewer Use
Section 306.3 is added to the California Plumbing Code to read:
306.3 Palo Alto Sewer Use. All non-domestic waste shall comply with the City of
Palo Alto Sewer Use Ordinance (Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.09).
Where discrepancies exist between the requirements of this code and said
ordinance, the provisions of said ordinance shall apply.
16.08.080 Section 606.9 Hose Bibs.
Section 606.9 is added to the California Plumbing Code to read:
606.9 Hose Bibs. All commercial and industrial buildings where the building
face is parallel to the city sidewalk shall have a hose bib connection installed,
conveniently available to accommodate persons washing the building face or
watering plants.
16.08.090 Section 701.1, Part 4 Materials.
Section 701.1, Part 4 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 3
701.1 (4) Copper, copper alloys, lead and lead alloys, including brass, shall
not be used for building sanitary sewer systems except for domestic
waste sink traps and short lengths of associated connecting pipes
where alternate materials are not practical.
Where permitted by the building official, copper tube for drainage and
vent piping shall have a weight of not less than that of copper drainage
tube type DWV.
16.08.100 Table 701.1 Materials for Drain, Waste, Vent Pipe and Fittings
Footnote 1 is amended to Table 701.1 to read as follows:
1 For limitations on the use of Brass and Copper (Type DWV) refer to Section 701.1, Part 4.
16.08.110 Section 710.2 Sewage Discharge.
Section 710.2of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
710.2 Sewage Discharge. Drainage piping serving fixtures with flood level rims
located below one foot above the elevation of the next upstream manhole cover
of the public or private sewer serving such drainage piping shall be protected
from backflow of sewage by installing an approved backwater valve. Fixtures
above such elevation shall not discharge through the backwater valve except as
approved by the local administrative authority. On existing structures, the
backwater valve may be installed on the private property sewer lateral upstream
of the building’s cleanout at the public right of way.
16.08.120 Section 714.4 Commercial Food Waste Grinders Prohibited.
Section 714.4 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
714.4 Commercial Food Waste Grinders Prohibited. The installation of a
commercial food waste grinder connecting to a private sewage disposal system
is prohibited.
16.08.130 Section 719.7 Cleanouts
Section 719.7 is added to the California Plumbing Code to read:
719.7 A cleanout shall be provided at the point of connection between the
building sewer and the city lateral and an approved fitting shall be used to bring
the cleanout riser to grade. Where sewer cleanouts are to be connected to
existing city laterals, such connections shall be accomplished by use of an
approved fitting.
16.08.140 Section 808.2 Cooling Water.
Section 808.2 of the California Plumbing Code is added to read:
808.2 Single Pass Cooling Water Systems Prohibited. Clean running water used
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 4
exclusively as a cooling medium in an appliance, device, or apparatus is prohibited.
16.08.150 Section 908.2 Horizontal Wet Venting for Bathroom Groups Section
908.2 of the California Plumbing Code is deleted.
16.08.160 Section 1014.1.3 Food Waste Disposal Units and Dishwashers.
Section 10.14.1.3 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
1014.1.3 Food Waste Disposal Units and Dishwashers. Unless specifically
required or permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, no dishwasher shall be
connected to or discharge into any grease interceptor. Commercial Food Waste
Disposal Units are prohibited.
16.08.170 Section 1101.3 Material Uses.
Section 1101.3 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
1101.3 Material Uses. Rainwater piping placed within the interior of a building or
run within a vent or shaft shall be of cast iron, galvanized steel, wrought iron,
Schedule 40 ABS DWV, Schedule 40 PVC DWV, stainless steel 304 or 316L (stainless
steel 304 pipe and fittings shall not be installed underground and shall be kept not
less than six (6) inches (152 mm) aboveground), or other approved materials, and
changes in direction shall conform to the requirements of Section 706.0. ABS and
PVC DWV piping installations shall be installed in accordance with IS 5 and IS 9.
Except for individual single-family dwelling units, materials exposed within ducts or
plenums shall have a flame-spread index of a maximum of twenty-five (25) and a
smoke-developed index of a maximum of fifty (50), when tested in accordance with
the Test for Surface-Burning Characteristics of the Building Materials (see the
Building Code standards based on ASTM E 84 and UL 723.).
ABS or PVC installations are limited to not more than two stories of areas of
residential accommodation.
16.08.180 Section 1105.1.2 Roof Drains (Materials).
Section 1105.1.2 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read:
1105.1.2 Roof drains and conductor/leader’s shall be of cast iron, plastic or other
approved materials.
16.08.190 Chapter 16A Non-Potable Water Reuse Systems.
Chapter 16A of the California Plumbing Code is adopted in entirety.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the
California Plumbing Code, 2013Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein
by reference.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 5
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
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 be effective on the commencement of the
thirty-first day after the date of its adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Development Services
____________________________
Director of Administrative Services
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 6
Exhibit A
FINDINGS FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, 2010 EDITION
Section 17958 of the California Health and Safety Code provides that the City may
make changes to the provisions in the uniform codes that are published in the California
Building Standards Code. Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code require
that for each proposed local change to those provisions in the uniform codes and published in
the California Building Standards Code which regulate buildings used for human habitation, the
City Council must make findings supporting its determination that each such local change is
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.
Local building regulations having the effect of amending the uniform codes, which
were adopted by the City prior to November 23, 1970, were unaffected by the regulations of
Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code. Therefore, amendments
to the uniform codes which were adopted by the City Council prior to November 23, 1970, and
have been carried through from year to year without significant change, need no required
findings. Also, amendments to provisions not regulating buildings used for human habitation,
including amendments made only for administrative consistency, do not require findings.
Code: CPC
Section Title Add Deleted Amended Justification
(See below for
keys)
306.3 Palo Alto Sewer Use C
606.9 Hose Bib C
701.1, Part4 Materials T
Table 701.1 Materials for Drain, Waste, vent
Pipe and Fittings
T
710.2 Sewage Discharge T
714.4 Commercial Food Waste Grinders
Prohibited
G & T
719.7 Cleanouts T & G
808.2 Cooling Water C & T
908.2 Horizontal Wet Venting for
Bathroom Groups
C & T
1014.1.3 Food Waste Disposal Units and
Dishwashers
T
1101.3 Material Uses G T
1105.1.2 Roof Drains (Materials) T
Chapter 16A Non-Potable Water Reuse Syst. C & T
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131141 7
Key to Justification for Amendments to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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.
C
G
T
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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 of these 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.
The City of Palo Alto topography includes hillsides with narrow and winding access,
which makes timely response by fire suppression vehicles difficult. Palo Alto is
contiguous with the San Francisco Bay, resulting in a natural receptor for storm and
waste water 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.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 1
Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Repealing Chapter
16.06 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a
New Chapter 16.06, California Residential Code, 2013 Edition, and Local
Amendments And Related Findings
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 in its entirety and adopting a new Chapter 16.06 to read as follows::
16.06.010 2013 California Residential Code adopted.
The California Residential Code, 2013 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,
2010, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California
Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2013. Ordinance No. 5101 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, 2013 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter.
One copy of the California Residential Code, 2013 Edition, has been filed for use and examination
of the public in the Office of the Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.
16.06.020 2013 California Residential Code Appendix Chapters adopted.
The following Appendix Chapters of the California Residential Code, 2013 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 G – Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
B. Appendix H – Patio Covers
C. Appendix K – Sound Transmission
16.06.030 Cross - References to California Residential Code.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 2
The provisions of this Chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California
Residential Code, 2013 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those
provisions.
16.06.040 Section 1.11.2.1.1 Duties and powers of the enforcing agency/Enforcement is
amended with the following language:
Section 1.11.2.1.1 Duties and powers of the enforcing agency/Enforcement
The responsibility for enforcement of building standards adopted by the State Fire
Marshal and published in the California Building Standards Code relating to fire and panic
safety and other regulations of the State Fire Marshal shall, except as provided in Section
1.11.2.1.2, be as follows:
1. The city, county or city and county with jurisdiction in the area affected by the
standard or regulation shall delegate the enforcement of the building standards
relating to fire and panic safety and other regulations of the State Fire Marshal as they
relate to Group R-3 occupancies, as described in Section 310.1 of Part 2 of the
California Building Standards Code, to both enforcement divisions specific to their
areas of enforcement disciplines:
1.1 The chief of the fire authority of the city, county or city and county, or an
authorized representative and;
1.2. The chief building official of the city, county or city and county, or an
authorized representative.
16.06.050 Violations -- Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this chapter is guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as provided in subsection (a) of
Section 1.08.010 of this code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any
violation of this chapter occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense,
and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as provided in this section.
When the building official determines that a violation of this chapter or chapters 16.04, 16.05,
16.08, 16.14, 16.16 or 16.17 of this code has occurred, he/she may record a notice of pendency
of code violation with the Office of the County Recorder stating the address and owner of the
property involved. When the violation has been corrected, the building official shall issue and
record a release of the notice of pendency of code violation.
16.06.060 Enforcement -- Citation authority.
The employee positions designated in this section 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: (1) chief building official; (2)
building inspection supervisor; and (3) code enforcement officer.
16.06.070 Local Amendments.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 3
The provisions of this Chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced
provisions of the California Residential Code, 2013 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the
cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this Chapter.
16.06.080 Chapter 1, Division II amended – Administration.
Chapter 1, Division II of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
DIVISION II
ADMINISTRATION
The provisions of Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration), Division II of the
California Building Code, 2013 Edition, as locally amended and adopted, shall
apply to this code.
16.06.090 Section R105.1.2 Demolition permits is added to read:
Section R105.1.2 Demolition Permits. In addition to other requirements of law, every
person seeking a permit to demolish a unit used for residential rental purposes shall
furnish an affidavit or declaration under penalty of perjury that the unit proposed to be
demolished is vacant, or that notice to vacate has been given to each tenant lawfully in
possession thereof as required by law or by the terms of such tenancy. No work or
demolition shall begin upon any portion of such a unit until each and every portion has
been vacated by all tenants lawfully in possession thereof.
16.04.100 Section R105.5 Expiration is amended to read:
R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on
the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its
issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or
abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The
chief building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of
time, for periods not more than 180 days each and may require;
1) that the construction documents be revised to partially or fully
comply with current codes, and 2)
payment of a fee.
Extensions shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. For
the purpose of this section, failure to progress a project to the next level of
required inspection shall be deemed to be suspension of the work.
16.06.110 Section R108.5 Refunds is amended to read:
R108.5 Refunds. The building official or permit center manager may authorize the
refund of any fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected. The building
official or permit center manager may authorize the refund of not more than eighty
percent (80%) of the permit fee paid when no work has occurred under a permit issued
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 4
pursuant to this Chapter. The building official or permit center manager may authorize
the refund of not more than eighty percent (80%) of the Plan Review Fee paid when a
permit application is withdrawn or canceled before any plan review work has started.
16.06.120 Section R109.1.3 Floodplain Inspection is amended to read:
R109.1.3 Floodplain Inspections. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest
floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation
certification shall be submitted to City Public Works Engineering for inspection approval
prior to foundation inspection by city building inspection.
16.06.130 Section R109.5 Re-Inspection Fees Assessed/Authorized is added to read:
R109.5 Re-Inspection Fees. A Re-Inspection Fee may be assessed/authorized by the
building official or building inspection supervisor for each re-inspection required when
work for which an inspection is requested is not ready for inspection or when required
corrections noted during prior inspections have not been completed. A “Re-Inspection
Fee” may be assessed/authorized when;
1. The inspection record card is not posted or otherwise available on the work site,
2. The approved plans are not readily available for the inspector at the time of
inspection,
3. The inspector is unable to access the work at the time of inspection, or;
4. When work has substantially deviated from the approved plans without the prior
approval of the building official.
5. When a Re-Inspection Fee is assessed, additional inspection of the work will not be
performed until the fee has been paid.
16.06.140 Section R110.1 Use and Occupancy is amended to read:
R110.1 Use and Occupancy. No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no
change in the existing occupancy classification of a building or structure or portion
thereof shall be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy
therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be
construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other
ordinances of the jurisdiction.
Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from
permits under Section 105.2:
1. Group R - Division 3 occupancies
2. Group U occupancies
16.06.150 Section R202 amended – Definitions added.
Section R202 of the California Residential Code is amended to include the following definitions:
DUAL SENSOR PHOTOELECTRIC/IONIZATION SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A
smoke alarm or detector that utilizes both photoelectric and ionization methods
in a single device.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 5
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.
IONIZATION SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector that uses
a small amount of radioactive material to detect invisible particles generated by
flame.
PHOTOELECTRIC SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector that
uses a light-source to detect the presence of smoke.
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA is a geographical area identified by
the State of California as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with Public
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 significant risk from wildfires. Within the city limits of the City of Palo Alto,
“Wildland-Urban Fire Interface Area” shall also include all areas west of
Interstate 280, and all other areas recommended as a “Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone” by the Director of the California Department of Forestry.
16.06.160 Table 301.2(1) Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria: Section Table 301.2(1)
of the California Residential Code is added to read:
TABLE R301.2(1)
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND
SNOW LOAD
WIND DESIGN SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORY
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM
Speed
(mph)
Topographic
effects
Weathering Frost
line
depth
Termite
0 85 No D1 thru E Negligible 5” Very High
WINTER
DESIGN
TEMP.
(OF)
ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYEMENT
REQUIRED
FLOOD
HAZARDS
AIR
FREEZING
INDEX
MEAN
ANNUAL
TEMP.
(OF)
40 No See
Footnotes
a thru c
0 55
a) The City of Palo Alto entered National Flood Insurance Program in 1979.
b) The effective date of the current Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Map is May 18, 2009.
c) 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)
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 6
16.06.170 Section R310.2.3 Window Well Fall Protection: Section R310.2.3 of the
California Residential Code is added to read:
R310.2.3 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. Window well grates are not allowed. When gates are installed for exit at
window wells and the depth of the window well is greater than 30 inches gates shall be
installed with a permanent lock to prevent access by unauthorized persons. The gates
shall be equipped to accommodate a locking device. The gates shall open outward away
from the well, and shall be self-closing and have a self-latching device. Where the
release mechanism of the self-latching device is located less than 54 inches from the
bottom of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located at least 3 inches below the
top of the gate. The gate and guards shall have no opening larger than ½ inch within 18
inches of the release mechanism. Openings, in other parts of gates, shall comply with
Section R312.1.3. Access ladder shall comply with Section R310.2.1 and shall extend
from the bottom of the well to the top of the guard.
16.06.180 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.
16.06.190 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 one- and two- family dwellings and
in existing modified one- and two- family dwellings shall be provided in accordance
with this section.
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new
residential buildings and structures.
Exception: New detached Group U occupancies, buildings or structures
that do not exceed 1,000 square feet of building area.
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 4100 square feet or modifications are equal to or greater than 100%
of existing square footage of building area, whichever is more restrictive.
3. 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%.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 7
4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings
located in the designated Wild Land-Urban Interface Fire areas.
Exception: Any detached non-residential accessory structures to single
family residences that have a fire area of 500 square feet or less.
5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing buildings
located in the designated Wild Land-Urban Interface Fire areas when modifications
are made that increases the fire area.
Exception: One-time additions to existing buildings made after January 1,
1994 that do not exceed 500 square feet in fire area.
16.04.193 Section R313.1.1 – Design and installation
Section R313.1.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:
R313.1.1 Design and installation. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems
installed in townhouses shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA
13D and State and local standards.
16.04.195 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. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems
installed in one- and two-family dwellings shall be installed throughout in
accordance with NFPA 13D and State and local standards.
16.04.198 Section R313.3.1.1 – Required sprinkler locations.
Section R313.3.1.1 is amended to the California Residential Code to read as follows:
Section R313.3.1.1 – Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers shall be installed
to protect all areas of a dwelling unit. Garages, including Group U occupancies,
shall be fully protected with sprinklers designed for residential density
calculated with four (4) sprinklers flowing. Attics shall be fully protected to
residential density or light hazard as appropriate for the slope of ceiling and
configuration of framing.
Exception: Non-usable attics in one-and two-family dwellings not located
in the Wild Land Urban Interface area may be provided with an
intermediate temperature pilot sprinkler above the attic scuttle and
above any heat producing equipment in lieu of complete attic protection
meeting the requirements above.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 8
16.06.200 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
provisions of this code and the household warning equipment provisions of
NFPA 72 and manufacturers installation and use instructions.
Smoke alarms more than 10 years old shall not be considered as satisfying any
requirement of this code or subject to the provisions of the Health and Safety
Code and shall be immediately replaced by the owner with a smoke alarm that
complies with this section.
Smoke alarms and smoke detectors installed on or after January 1, 2014in
compliance with this code or with the provisions of the Health and Safety Code
shall also either be listed and approved for enhanced nuisance resistance and
rapid response to smoldering synthetic materials or shall meet the following
requirements:
1. Smoke detectors or smoke alarms located within 20 feet of a kitchen, or a
room containing acooking appliance, wood burning fireplace or stove shall be
photoelectric detectors or alarms.
2. In all other required locations dual sensor photoelectric/ionization detectors
or alarms, shall be installed. A photoelectric smoke detector or alarm
installed together with an ionization smoke detectors or alarms may be used
as a substitute for a dual sensor photoelectric/ionization detector or alarm.
Exception: A fire alarm or other approved system with interconnected
photoelectric smoke detectors or alarms located in accordance with, and
meeting the requirements of, this section may be installed. Upon the
actuation of a smoke detector or alarm, only those notification
appliances or alarms in the dwelling unit or guest rooms where the
detectors are actuated shall activate.
16.06.210 Section R322.1 – General.
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, 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 provisions of said regulations shall apply.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 9
16.06.220 Section R327.1.5 Vegetation management compliance. Section
R327.1.5 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
R327.1.5 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.
16.06.230 Section R403.1.3 Seismic Reinforcing. Section R403.1.3 of the California
Residential Code is amended to read:
R403.1.3 Seismic reinforcing. Concrete footings located in Seismic Design Categories D0,
D1 and D2, as established in Table R301.2(1), shall have minimum reinforcement of at
least two continuous longitudinal reinforcing bars, one top and one bottom and not
smaller than No. 4 bars. Bottom reinforcement shall be located a minimum of 3 inches
(76 mm) clear from the bottom of the footing.
In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 where a construction joint is created
between a concrete footing and a stem wall, a minimum of one No. 4 bar shall be
installed at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The vertical bar shall extend to 3
inches (76 mm) clear of the bottom of the footing, have a standard hook and extend a
minimum of 14 inches (357 mm) into the stem wall.
In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 where a grouted masonry stem wall is
supported on a concrete footing and stem wall, a minimum of one No. 4 bar shall be
installed at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The vertical bar shall extend to 3
inches (76 mm) clear of the bottom of the footing and have a standard hook.
In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 masonry stem walls without solid grout and
vertical reinforcing are not permitted.
Exception: In detached one- and two-family dwellings which are three stories or
less in height and constructed with stud bearing walls, plain concrete footings
without longitudinal reinforcement supporting walls and isolated plain concrete
footings supporting columns or pedestals are permitted.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 10
16.06.240 Section R403.1.8 – Foundations on expansive soils.
Section R403.1.8 of the California Residential Code is amended to read:
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.
Table 1809.7 of the California Building Code is added and amended to read:
TABLE 1809.7
Prescriptive Footings Supporting Walls of Light-Frame Constructionabcd
Number of
Floors
Supported
by the
Footing e
Thickness of
Foundation
Wall
(inches)
Width of
Footing
(inches)
Thickness of
Footing
(inches)
Depth of
Foundation
Below
Natural
Surface of
Ground or
Finish
Grade
(inches)
1&2 8 15 8 20
3 8 18 8 30
Group U
Occupancies
8 12 8 12
a) The ground under the floor shall be permitted to be excavated to the
elevation of the top of the footing.
b) Interior stud-bearing walls shall be permitted to be supported by
isolated footings. The footing width and length shall be twice the width
shown in this table, and footings shall be spaced not more than 6 feet
on center.
c) See Section 1905 of California Building Code for additional
requirements for concrete footings of structures assigned to Seismic
Design Category C, D, E or F.
d) All foundations as required in the above Table shall be continuous and
have a minimum of three #4 bars of reinforcing steel, except for one
story, detached accessory buildings of Group U occupancy where two
bars are required.
e) Footings shall be permitted to support a roof in addition to the
stipulated number of floors. Footings supporting roof only shall be as
required for supporting one floor.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 11
16.06.250 Table R602.10.3(3) – Bracing Requirements Based on Seismic Design Category.
Footnote e is added to Table R602.10. 3(3) to read as follows:
e. In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2, Method GB is not permitted and the use of
Method PCP is limited to one-story single-family dwellings and accessory structures.
16.06.260 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 R327.5.
16.06.270 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.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the
California Residential Code, 2013 Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated
herein by reference.
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 12
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
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 be effective on the thirty-first day after the date
of its adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Development Services
____________________________
Director of Administrative
Services
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 13
Exhibit A
FINDINGS FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS
TO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE (CRC)
Section 17958 of the California Health and Safety Code provides that the City may make
changes to the provisions of the California Building Standards Code. Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code require that for each proposed local change to those
provisions of the California Building Standards Code which regulate buildings used for human
habitation, the City Council must make findings supporting its determination that each such
local change is reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical
conditions.
Code: CRC
Section Title Add Deleted Amended Justification
(See below for
keys)
R 202 Definition (Dual Sensor Carbon
Monoxide and Smoke Alarm)
T
Table R301.2(1) Climatic and Geographic Design
Criteria
C, G, T
R310.2.3 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
R313.3.1.1 Required sprinkler locations T
R 314.1 Smoke Detection and Notification C, T
R 322.1 Flood Hazard Regulations T
R 327.1.5 Vegetation Management
Compliance
T
R403.1.3 Seismic Reinforcing G
R 403.1.8 Foundation on expansive Soils G, T
Table R602.10.3(3) Bracing Requirements Based on
Seismic Design Category
G
R902.1.4 Roofing Requirements in Wildland-
Urban Interface Fire Area
T
R1003.9.2.1 Repairs, Replacements and
Alterations
T
Appendix G Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
C, G
Appendix H Patio Covers C
Appendix K Sound Transmission C
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131142 14
Key to Justification for Amendments to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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.
C
G
T
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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 of
these 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.
The City of Palo Alto topography includes hillsides with narrow and winding access, which
makes timely response by fire suppression vehicles difficult. Palo Alto is contiguous with the
San Francisco Bay, resulting in a natural receptor for storm and waste water 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.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131143 1
Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Repealing Chapter
16.16 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code And Amending Title 16 to Adopt a
New Chapter 16.16, California Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, and
Local Amendments and Related Findings
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 16.16 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended by
repealing in its entirety 16.16 and adopting a new Chapter 16.16 to read as follows:
16.16 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE
16.16.010 2013 California Electrical Code adopted.
The California Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, Title 24, Part 4 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,
2010, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California
Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2013. Ordinance No. 5103 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 Electrical Code" or "Electrical 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 Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter.
One copy of the California Electrical Code, 2013 edition, has been filed for use and examination of
the public in the Office of the Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.
16.16.020 2013 California Electrical Code Annex Chapters adopted.
The following Annex Chapters of the California Electrical Code, 2013 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. Annex B – Application Information for Ampacity Calculations
B. Annex C – Conduit and Tubing Fill Tables for Conductors and Fixture Wires of the
Same Size
C. Annex I – Unit Recommended Tightening Torque Tables from UL Standard 486A-B
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131143 2
16.16.030 Cross - References to California Electrical Code.
The provisions of this Chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California
Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those
provisions.
16.16.040 Section 89.102.2.3 Third Part Field Evaluation. Section 89.102.2.3 is added to
read:
89.102.2.3. Third-Party Field Evaluation. City of Palo Alto approved applications for
Third-Party Field Evaluators shall be submitted for each project submitting evaluation
reports on Electrical Systems and others as required for these types of reports.
Educational background, training experience, professional licenses, registrations or
certificates, and other applicable qualifications for each key personnel shall include
information as required and defined in NFPA 790 and 791 including but not limited to:
a. Technical Manager, direct Supervisor of FEB operations, and individual(s)
managing the management system, minimum competency for personnel completing
Field Evaluation projects, including educational background, experience, training, and
professional registration.
b. Provide information on the basic evaluation process to the building official in
determining the adequacy and completeness of submitted evaluations and evaluation
reports.
16.16.050 Section 110.13 Mounting and Cooling of Equipment. Section 110.13 (A) (1) is
added to read:
110.13 (A) (1) Slab-On-Grade Supporting Electrical Equipment. When electrical
equipment is proposed to be installed, including temporary electrical for construction,
in locations where the deleterious effects of the environment may create adverse
maintenance issues with ground mounted electrical equipment a concrete slab-on-
grade shall be installed to elevate, protect, and attach equipment to per City of Palo
Alto Electrical Utilities Standards or approved engineering design.
16.16.060 Violations -- Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this chapter is guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as provided in subsection (a) of
Section 1.08.010 of this code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any
violation of this chapter occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense,
and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as provided in this section.
16.16.070 Enforcement -- Citation authority.
The employee positions designated in this section 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
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131143 3
violations of this chapter. The designated employee positions are: (1) chief building official; (2)
building inspection supervisor; and (3) code enforcement officer.
16.16.080 Local Amendments
The provisions of this Chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced
provisions of the California Electrical Code, 2013 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the
cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this Chapter.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the
California Electrical Code, 2013Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein
by reference.
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
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 be effective on the commencement of the thirty-
first day after the date of its adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Development Services
____________________________
Director of Administrative Services
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131143 4
Exhibit A
FINDINGS FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS
TO CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 2013
Section 17958 of the California Health and Safety Code provides that the City may make
changes to the provisions of the California Building Standards Code. Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code require that for each proposed local change to those
provisions of the California Building Standards Code which regulate buildings used for human
habitation, the City Council must make findings supporting its determination that each such
local change is reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical
conditions.
Local building regulations having the effect of amending the uniform codes, which were
adopted by the City prior to November 23, 1970, were unaffected by the regulations of Sections
17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code. Therefore, amendments to the
uniform codes which were adopted by the City Council prior to November 23, 1970, and have
been carried through from year to year without significant change, need no required findings.
Also, amendments to provisions not regulating buildings used for human habitation do not
require findings.
Code: CEC
Section Title Add Justification
(See below for
keys)
110.13 (A) Mounting and Cooling of Equipment C
Annex B Application Information for Ampacity
Calculations
G
Annex C Conduit and Tubing Fill Tables for Conductors
and Fixture Wires of the Same Size
G
Annex I Unit Recommended Tightening Torque Tables
from UL Standard 486A-B
G
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131143 5
Key to Justification for Amendments to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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.
C
G
T
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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 of these 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.
The City of Palo Alto topography includes hillsides with narrow and winding
access, which makes timely response by fire suppression vehicles difficult. Palo
Alto is contiguous with the San Francisco Bay, resulting in a natural receptor for
storm and waste water 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.
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131144 1
Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Repealing Chapter
16.05 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and Amending Title 16 to Adopt a
New Chapter 16.05, California Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, and
Local Amendments and Related Findings
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapter 16.05 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended by
repealing in its entirety 16.05and adopting a new Chapter 16.05 to read as follows:
16.05 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
16.05.010 2013 California Mechanical Code adopted.
The California Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, Title 24, Part 4 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,
2010, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California
Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2013. Ordinance No. 5100 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 Mechanical Code" or "Mechanical 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 Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter. One copy of the
California Mechanical Code, 2013 edition, has been filed for use and examination of the public in
the Office of the Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.
16.05.020 2013 California Mechanical Code Appendix Chapters adopted.
The following Appendix Chapters of the California Mechanical Code, 2013 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 B– Procedures to be Followed to Place Gas Equipment in Operation
B. Appendix C– Installation and testing of Oil (Liquid) Fuel-Fired Equipment
C. Appendix D– Unit Conversion Tables
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131144 2
16.05.030 Cross - References to California Mechanical Code.
The provisions of this Chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California
Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those
provisions.
16.05.040 Violations -- Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this chapter is guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as provided in subsection (a) of
Section 1.08.010 of this code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any
violation of this chapter occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense,
and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as provided in this section.
16.05.050 Enforcement -- Citation authority.
The employee positions designated in this section 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: (1) chief building official; (2)
building inspection supervisor; and (3) code enforcement officer.
16.05.060 Local Amendments
The provisions of this Chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced
provisions of the California Mechanical Code, 2013 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the
cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this Chapter.
16.05.70 504.2.1 Kitchen Exhaust Makeup Air: Section 504.2.1 of the California
Mechanical Code is added to read:
504.2.1 Kitchen Exhaust Makeup Air. Exhaust hood systems capable of exhausting in
excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m3/s) shall be provided with makeup air at a
rate approximately equal to the exhaust air rate and shall not negatively impact the
California Energy Code supply air requirements of ASHRAE 62.2. Such makeup air
systems shall be equipped with a means of closure and shall be automatically controlled
to start and operate simultaneously with the exhaust system.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the
California Mechanical Code, 2013Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated
herein by reference.
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 of the CEQA
NOT YET APPROVED
131003 jb 0131144 3
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 be effective on the commencement of the thirty-
first day after the date of its adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Development Services
____________________________
Director of Administrative Services
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Exhibit A
FINDINGS FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS
TO CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2013
Section 17958 of the California Health and Safety Code provides that the City may make
changes to the provisions of the California Building Standards Code. Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code require that for each proposed local change to those
provisions of the California Building Standards Code which regulate buildings used for human
habitation, the City Council must make findings supporting its determination that each such
local change is reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical
conditions.
Local building regulations having the effect of amending the uniform codes, which were
adopted by the City prior to November 23, 1970, were unaffected by the regulations of Sections
17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code. Therefore, amendments to the
uniform codes which were adopted by the City Council prior to November 23, 1970, and have
been carried through from year to year without significant change, need no required findings.
Also, amendments to provisions not regulating buildings used for human habitation do not
require findings.
Code: CMC
Section Title Add Justification
(See below for
keys)
504.2.1 Kitchen Exhaust Makeup Air C
Appendix B Procedures to be Followed to Place Gas
Equipment in Operation
G
Appendix C Installation and testing of Oil (Liquid) Fuel-Fired
Equipment
G
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Key to Justification for Amendments to Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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.
C
G
T
This amendment is justified on the basis of 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 of
these 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.
The City of Palo Alto topography includes hillsides with narrow and winding access, which
makes timely response by fire suppression vehicles difficult. Palo Alto is contiguous with the
San Francisco Bay, resulting in a natural receptor for storm and waste water 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.
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Ordinance No. ____
Adoption of an Ordinance Repealing and Reenacting Title 15 of the Palo
Alto Municipal Code to Adopt the 2012 Edition of the International Fire
Code, as Amended By the State of California, Also Known as the 2013
Edition of the California Fire Code, With Local Amendments and Related
Findings (Chapter 15 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code)
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
its entirety Title 15 and enacting a new Title 15 to read as follows:
15.04 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
15.04.010 Adoption of the California Fire Code.
The California Fire Code, 2013 Edition, as adopted by the California Code of Regulations Title
24, Part 9, and Appendices B, C, D, F, 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 “California Fire Code” appears in this code or in any ordinance of the city,
such phrase shall be deemed and construed to refer to and apply to the “California Fire
Code, 2013 Edition” as adopted by the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9 and
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
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TYPE OF GAS AMOUNT(cubic feet)2
X 0.0283 for m3
Corrosive 200
Flammable (except cryogenic and liquefied petroleum gases) 200
Highly toxic Any amount
Inert and simple asphyxiant 6,000
Irritant 200
Moderately toxic 20
Other health hazards 650
Oxidizing (including oxygen) 504
Pyrophoric Any amount
Radioactive Any amount
Sensitizer 200
Toxic Any Amount
Unstable (reactive) Any amount
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.
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.
15.04.040 Table 105.6.20 amended - Permit amounts for hazardous materials.
3
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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 I-IV
Liquids: Class V
Solids: Class I-IV
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
Solids
55 gallons
500 pounds
Pyrophoric materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
Radioactive materials:
Gases
Liquids
Solids
Any Amount
See Section 105.6.47
See Section 105.6.47
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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 105.7.15 and 105.7.15 added.
Sections 105.7.15 and 105.7.16 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
105.7.14 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.
105.7.15 Underground Fire Service Lines, installation or modification.
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 life-safety plan review. Fire and life-safety plan review of all
new construction, all remodels, and all additions shall be performed by the Fire
Chief or his designee.
5
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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, on-site 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
provided in a format compatible with the City’s Geographic Information
System (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.
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.
6
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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- “Device” and “Workstation.”
The following definitions are added to Section 202 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
DEVICE. Device is, for the purpose of Exhibit “A,” an appliance or piece of
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.
WORKSTATION is a defined space or independent principal piece of equipment
using hazardous materials 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.
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM. An 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 re-circulated 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. Corrosive liquid is any liquid which, when in contact with
living tissue, will cause destruction or irreversible alteration of such tissue by
chemical action;
1) any liquid having a pH of 2 or less or 12.5 or more;
2) any liquid classified as corrosive by the U.S. Department of Transportation; and
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3) any material exhibiting the characteristics of corrosivity in accordance with Title
22, California Code of Regulations §66261.22.
MODERATELY TOXIC GAS. 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 (Max TQ)
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.
For gas mixtures containing one or more toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic
components, LC50 shall be calculated using CGA Standards P-20 and P-23 as referenced
in Appendix E, Section 103.1.3.1
OTHER HEALTH HAZARD MATERIAL. 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).
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.
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA. A geographical area identified by the state
as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in 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 Wildland-Urban 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-Urban Interface Fire Area” which map and all notations, 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.
15.04.210 Section 605.12 added - Immersion Heaters.
Section 605.12 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
8
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605.12 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 Section 608.6.1 added - Failure of Ventilation System.
Section 608.6.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
608.6.1.1 Failure of Ventilation System. Failure of the ventilation system
shall automatically disengage the charging system.
15.04.225 Definitions added to section 902.1- “Dual Sensor Photoelectric/Ionization
Smoke Detector or Alarm,” “Dual Sensor Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detector or Alarm”,
“Ionization Smoke Detector or Alarm,” and “Photoelectric Smoke Detector or Alarm.”
The following definitions are added to Section 902.1 of the California Fire Code to read as
follows:
DUAL SENSOR PHOTOELECTRIC/IONIZATION SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke
alarm or detector that utilizes both photoelectric and ionization methods in a single
device.
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.
IONIZATION SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector that uses a
small amount of radioactive material to detect invisible particles generated by flame.
PHOTOELECTRIC SMOKE DETECTOR OR ALARM. A smoke alarm or detector that uses a
light-source to detect the presence of smoke.
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 a utomatic
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.
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Exception: New non-residential occupancies, buildings or structures that do
not exceed 1,000 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 4100 square feet or when the addition is equal or
greater than 100% of the existing building square footage whichever is
more restrictive.
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 provided throughout all new
buildings located in the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas.
Exception: Any non-residential accessory structures to single family
residences that have a fire area of 500 square feet or less.
6. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing
buildings located in the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas when
modifications are made that increases the fire area.
Exception: One time additions to existing buildings made after January
1994 that do not exceed 500 square feet in fire area.
15.04.235 Amend Section 903.1.1.1 to read:
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
2. Where future use or tenant is determined to require a higher density, the
sprinkler system shall be augmented to meet the higher density.
15.04.240 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
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installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R and State and local
standards.
15.04.245 Section 903.3.1.2.2 added – Attics and usable crawl spaces.
Section 903.3.1.2.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
903.3.1.2.2 Attics and usable crawl spaces. Attics and usable under-floor
spaces including crawl spaces shall be fully protected to residential or light
hazard density as appropriate for the slope of the ceiling and configuration of
framing.
15.04.250 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 one-and two-family dwellings and townhouses shall be
installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and State and local
standards.
15.04.255 Section 903.3.1.3.1 added - Garages and attics.
Section 903.3.1.3.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
903.3.1.3.1 Garages and attics. Garages, including Group U occupancies, shall be
fully protected with sprinklers designed for residential density calculated with
four (4) sprinklers flowing. Attics shall be fully protected to residential density or
light hazard as appropriate for the slope of ceiling and configuration n of
framing.
Exception: Non-usable attics in one-and two-family dwellings not located in the
Wildland Urban Interface area may be provided with an intermediate
temperature pilot sprinkler above the attic scuttle and above any heat
producing equipment in lieu of complete attic protection meeting the
requirements above.
15.04.260 Section 903.3.7 amended - Fire department connections.
Section 903.3.7 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
903.3.7 Fire department connections. Sprinkler systems shall be equipped with
a minimum two-way Siamese Fire Department connection. Connections shall
be located on a street front not less than three (3) feet or more than four (4)
feet above grade and shall be equipped with an approved straightway check
valve. Locations shall be subject to approval by the Fire Chief prior to any
installation.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with the NFPA
standards 13-D for one- and two-family dwellings in the designated Wildland-
Urban Interface areas, and 13-R for multi-family dwellings throughout the City
Palo Alto, may have a single 2-1/2-inch connection with approved straightway
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check valve.
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:
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.
Exception: Buildings not over three (3) stories in height containing only R-3
occupancies, or with 10,000 square feet or less above the first story.
Floor control valves shall be protected from tampering by installation in
lockable enclosures or as approved by the chief. Floor control valve
assemblies shall be provided with a flow switch and drain connections.
15.04.275 Section 907.2.11 amended - Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms.
Section 907.2.11 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and
multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL217 shall be installed in
accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.5 and manufacturers
installation and use instructions.
Smoke alarms more than 10 years old shall not be considered as satisfying any
requirement of this code or subject to the provisions of the Health and Safety
Code and shall be immediately replaced by the owner with a smoke alarm that
complies with this section.
Smoke alarms and smoke detectors installed on or after January 1, 2014 in
compliance with this code or subject to the provisions of the Health and Safety
Code shall also either be listed and approved for enhanced nuisance resistance
and rapid response to smoldering synthetic materials or shall meet the
following requirements:
1. Smoke detectors or smoke alarms located within 20 feet of a kitchen, or a
room containing a cooking appliance, wood burning fireplace or stove
shall be photoelectric detectors or alarms.
2. In all other required locations dual sensor photoelectric/ionization
detectors or alarms, shall be installed. A photoelectric smoke detector or
alarm installed together with an ionization smoke detectors or alarms
may be used as a substitute for a dual sensor photoelectric/ionization
detector or alarm.
Exception: For Group R occupancies. A fire alarm or other approved
system with interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors or alarms
located in accordance with, and meeting the requirements of, this section
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may be installed. Upon the actuation of a smoke detector or alarm, only
those notification appliances or alarms in the dwelling unit or guest room
where the detector is actuated shall activate.
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 weather-protected at the location of the wall(s).
15.04.290 Section 3311.1 amended - Stairways Required.
Section 1411.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
3311.1 Stairways Required. Each level above the first story in new multi-
story 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 multi-story 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.).
15.04.295 Section 3311.1 added - Required Means Of Egress.
Section 1411.1.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
3311.1 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 202 amended – Definition of “continuous gas detection system.”
The definition of “Continuous Gas Detection System” in Section 202 of the California Fire Code
is amended to read:
CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM. An approved 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 re-circulated and not exhausted to a treatment system (e.g.
breathing zone), the Chief may require a cyclical basis at intervals not to
exceed 5 minutes. The gas detection system shall be able to detect the
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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.
15.04.320 Section 507 added - Fire Protection Water Supply System.
Section 507 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
507.1.2 Fire Protection Water Supply System. An approved hydrant and hose
system or portable fire-extinguishing equipment suitable for the fire hazards
involved shall be provided for open storage yards and processing areas.
Hydrant and hose systems shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 24.
15.04.325 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 P-20 and P-23 as referenced in Appendix E, Section 103.1.3.1
15.04.330 Section 5001.2.2.2 amended - Health Hazards.
Section 2701.2.2.2 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
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:
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(a) Non refrigerated or non-cryogenic 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) Non-refrigerated or non-cryogenic 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.
15.04.340 Section 5002.1 amended – addition of definition of “secondary containment.”
The following definition is added to section 5002.1 of the California Fire Code to read:
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.
15.04.350 Section 5003.1 amended – addition of definitions of “carcinogen,” “other
health hazard material,” and “sensitizer.”
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The following definitions are added to section 5003.1 of the California Fire Code to read:
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.
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 the blood to
decrease hemoglobin function, deprive the body tissue of oxygen or affect
reproductive capabilities, including mutations (chromosomal damage) or
teratogens (effect on fetuses).
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.
15.04.352 Section 5003.1.3.1 added - Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic gases and
similarly used or handled materials.
Section 2703.1.3.1 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.
15.04.354 Section 5003.1.5 added - Secondary Containment Requirements.
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.
15.04.356 Section 5003.1.6 added - Secondary Containment Requirements.
Section 2703.1.6 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
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5003.1.6 Secondary Containment Requirements. A containment system shall
be required for all hazardous materials, which 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. Construction shall be substantial, capable of safely and
securely containing a sudden release without discharge. Design criteria shall
be performance oriented and constructed of physically and chemically
compatible materials to resist degradation and provide structural and
functional integrity for a period of time reasonably necessary to ensure
detection, mitigation, and repair of the primary system. Regardless of
quantities, spill control and secondary containment shall also comply with
Section 5004.2.
15.04.358 Section 5003.1.6 added – Other health hazards.
Section 5003.1.6 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.1.6 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.
15.04.360 Section 5003.2.2.1 amended - Design and Construction.
Section 2703.2.2.1 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 fail-safe
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
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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 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:
1. Piping for inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
2. Piping for pressure relief devices.
7. Secondary containment or equivalent protection from spills 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:
1. Secondary containment is not required for toxic corrosive gases if the
piping is constructed of inert materials.
2. Piping under sub-atmospheric conditions if the piping is equipped with an
alarm and fail-safe-to-close 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.
15.04.361 Section 5003.2.2.2 amended - Additional Regulation for Supply Piping for
Health Hazard Materials.
Section 2703.2.2.2 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 fire-resistance-rated 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 1x10-9 cubic centimeters/second where practical, or shall
pass testing in accordance with an approved, nationally recognized standard.
Tests shall be conducted by a qualified “third party” not involved with the
construction of the piping and control systems.
15.04.370 Section 5003.3.1 amended - Unauthorized Discharges.
Section 2703.3.1 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.
15.04.381 Section 5003.5.3 added - “H” Occupancies.
Section 2703.5.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5003.5.3 “H” Occupancies. In “H” occupancies, all piping and tubing may be
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 5003.9.8 amended - Separation of Incompatible Materials.
Section 2703.9.8 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5003.9.8 Separation of Incompatible Materials. Incompatible materials in
storage and storage of materials that are incompatible with materials in
use shall be separated. When the stored materials are in containers having a
capacity of more than
5 pounds (2 kg) or 0.5 gallon (2 L), separation shall be accomplished by:
1. Segregating incompatible materials in storage by a distance of not less than 20
feet (6096 mm) and in an independent containment system.
2. Isolating incompatible materials in storage by a noncombustible partition
extending not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above and to the sides of the
stored material.
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3. Storing liquid and solid materials in hazardous material storage cabinets.
4. Storing compressed gases in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures in
accordance with Sections 5003.8.5 and 5003.8.6. Materials that are
incompatible shall not be stored within the same cabinet or exhausted
enclosure.
15.04.391 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 non-combustible 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.
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.
15.04.400 Section 5004.2.1 amended - Spill Control for Hazardous Material Liquids.
Section 2704.2.1 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. Liquid-tight sloped or recessed floors in indoor locations or similar areas in outdoor
locations.
2. Liquid-tight floors in indoor locations or similar areas provided with liquid-tight
raised or recessed sills or dikes.
3. Sumps and collection systems.
4. Other approved engineered systems.
Except for surfacing, the floors, sills, dikes, sumps and collection systems shall
be constructed of noncombustible material, and the liquid-tight seal shall be
compatible with the material stored. When liquid-tight sills or dikes are
provided, they are not required at perimeter openings having an open-grate
trench across the opening that connects to an approved collection system.
15.04.401 Section 5004.2.2 amended and Table 5004.2.2 deleted - Secondary
Containment for Hazardous Material Liquids and Solids.
Table 5004.2.2 is deleted and 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.
Amend Section 5004.2.2.2 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 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 alarm-initiating device at not more
than 150-foot (45,720 mm) intervals and at each exit and exit-access doorway
throughout the transport route. The signal shall be relayed to an approved
central, proprietary or remote station service or constantly attended on-site
location and shall also initiate a local audible alarm.
15.04.420 Section 202 amended – addition of definition of “corrosive liquid.”
The following definition is added to section 202of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
CORROSIVE LIQUID. Corrosive liquid is a liquid which, when in contact with
living tissue, will cause destruction or irreversible alteration of such tissue by
chemical action. Examples include acidic, alkaline or caustic materials. Such
material will be considered corrosive when the Ph is 2 or less or 12.5 or more,
except for foodstuffs or medicine. Included are Department of Transportation
and Title 22, California Code of Regulations, 66261.22 classed corrosives.
15.04.430 Section 5704.2.7.5.8 amended - Overfill Prevention.
Section 3404.2.7.5.8 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 5704.2.9.6.6 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 fuel-burning equipment inside buildings.
15.04.440 Section 5704.2.7.5.9 added - Automatic Filling of Tanks.
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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 testing
shall be maintained on-site for a period of five (5) years.
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. Notwithstanding the hazard class definition in Section
3702, 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 definition of “moderately toxic gas” and
“maximum threshold quantity.”
The following definition is added to section 6002.1 of the California Fire Code to read as
follows:
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.
MAXIMUM THRESHOLD QUANTITY. Maximum Threshold Quantity (Max TQ) 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.
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:
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6004.1.4 Automatic Shut-Off Valve. An automatic shut-off valve, which is of a
fail-safe 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
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
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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 shut-off valves
shall be of a fail-safe- to-close 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.
6004.1.13 Emergency Response Team. Responsible persons shall be
designated the on-site 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 on-site 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
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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 shut-off valve, which is
of a fail-safe 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.
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
15.04.491 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.
15.04.492 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:
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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.
15.04.493 Section 6004.2.2.7 amended –Treatment systems.
Section 3704.2.2.7 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
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 gas-tight outlet plug or
caps.
1.3 Hand wheel-operated 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.
15.04.494 Section 6004.2.2.10.1 amended – Alarms.
Section 3704.2.2.10.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
6004.2.2.10.1. Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm
and transmit a signal to a constantly attended control station when a short-
term 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,
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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
15.04.501 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.
15.04.502 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.
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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 500-gallon (1892 L) water capacity in
connection with portable equipment or devices which are approved for
use with LPG.
(2) As an emergency standby fuel supply for critical industrial, medical or
research equipment.
(3) A single tank of no more than 2000-gallon (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 Section 4902.1 amended – Definition of wildland-urban interface area.
The definition of “wildland-urban interface fire area” in Section 4902.1 is amended to read as
follows:
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA is a geographical area identified by
the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public
Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4202 and Government Code Sections
51175 through 51189. In addition, within the limits of the City of Palo Alto,
wildland-urban 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.
15.04.530 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 site-specific wildfire risk
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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 fire-resistance 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.
15.04.540 Sections 4907.1 though 4907.2 amended - Defensible space.
Sections 4070.1 through 4907.2 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4907.1 General. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or
maintaining buildings or structures in, upon or adjoining the Wildland-Urban
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
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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 non-fire-resistive vegetation growth.
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.
15.04.550 Sections 4914 through 4914.3 added – Access Requirements for wildland-urban
interface fire areas.
Section 4914 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4914 ACCESS
4914.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter
constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be
provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with this chapter.
4914.2 Driveways. Driveways with an all-weather surface shall be provided
when any portion of an exterior wall of the first story of a building is located
more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a fire apparatus access road. Driveways
shall provide a minimum unobstructed width of 12 feet (3658 mm) and a
minimum unobstructed height of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm). Driveways in
excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with turnarounds.
Driveways in excess of 200 feet (60960 mm) in length and less than 20 feet
(6096 mm) in width shall be provided with turnouts in addition to
turnarounds. An all-weather surface shall be any surface material acceptable
to the code official.
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A driveway shall not serve in excess of two dwelling units without meeting
the requirements for an access road in accordance with this chapter.
Driveway turnarounds shall be in accordance with Fire Department
Standards. Driveways that connect with a road or roads at more than one
point may be considered as having a turnaround if all changes of direction
meet the radii requirements for driveway turnarounds.
Driveway turnouts shall be an all-weather road surface at least 10 feet (3048
mm) wide and 30 feet (9144 mm) long. Driveway turnouts shall be located as
required by the code official.
Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges on driveways
and private roads. Design loads for bridges shall be established by the code
official.
4914.3 Fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall be all
weather roads with a minimum width of 20 feet (6096 mm) and a clear height of
13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm); and shall be designed in accordance with Fire
Department Standards. Dead-end roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in
length shall be provided with turnarounds designed in accordance with Fire
Department Standards. An all-weather road surface shall be any surface
material acceptable to the code official.
15.04.560 Sections 4915 through 4915.9 added – Water supply requirements for wildland-
urban interface fire areas.
Section 4915 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4915 WATER SUPPLY
4915.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter
constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be
provided with fire protection water supplies in accordance with this chapter.
Exception: Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and
agricultural buildings with a building area of not more than 500 square feet (56
m2).
4915.2 Water sources. The point at which a water source is available for Fire
Department use shall be located not more than 600 feet from all portions of
the exterior walls of the building and be approved by the code official. The
distance shall be measured along an unobstructed line of travel.
Water sources shall have a minimum usable water volume as determined by
the adequate water supply needs in accordance with Section 4915.4. This water
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source shall be equipped with an approved hydrant. The water source shall be
provided and maintained by a recognized water purveyor, mutual water
company or water pumped from a well. The design, construction, location, water
level maintenance, access, and access maintenance of man-made water
sources shall be approved by the code official.
4915.3 Hydrants. All hydrants shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with nationally recognized standards. The location and access shall be
approved by the code official.
4915.4 Adequate water supply. Adequate fire protection water supplies shall be
as follows:
1. One and two-family dwellings. The required fire protection water supply
for one- and two- family dwellings shall be in accordance with Appendix
B.
Exception: The water supply duration need not exceed 30 minutes for
structures not exceeding 2,400 sq. ft.
2. Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The water supply
required for buildings other than one-and two-family dwellings shall be in
accordance with Appendix B.
Exception: The water supply duration need not exceed 2 hours.
4915.5 Obstructions. Access to all water sources required by this code shall
be unobstructed at all times. The code official shall not be deterred or
hindered from gaining immediate access to water source equipment, fire
protection equipment or hydrants.
4915.6 Identification. Water sources, hydrants and fire protection equipment
shall be clearly identified in a manner approved by the code official to identify
location and to prevent obstruction by parking and other obstructions.
4915.7 Testing and maintenance. Water sources, hydrants and other fire
protection equipment required by this code shall be subject to periodic tests as
required by the code official. All such equipment installed under the provisions
of this code shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall
be repaired or replaced where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and
servicing of such fire protection equipment and resources shall be in
accordance with approved standards.
4915.8 Clearance of fuel. Defensible space shall be provided around water
tank structures, water supply pumps and pump houses in accordance with
Section 4907.
4915.9 Standby power. Stationary water supply facilities within the wildland-
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urban interface area dependent on electrical power to meet adequate water
supply demands shall provide standby power systems in accordance with the
Electrical Code to ensure that an uninterrupted water supply is maintained. The
standby power source shall be capable of providing power for a minimum of
two hours.
Exceptions:
1. When approved by the code official, a standby power supply is not
required where the primary power service to the stationary water
supply facility is underground.
2. A standby power supply is not required where the stationary water supply
facility serves no more than one single-family dwelling.
15.04.570 Sections 4916 through 4916.3 added – Fire sprinkler requirements for wildland-
urban interface fire areas.
Section 4916 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4916 AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
4916.1 General. Buildings and structures located in wildland-urban interface
areas shall be provided with automatic fire sprinkler protection in accordance
with this chapter.
4916.2 New buildings. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout all new buildings located in the wildland-urban
interface area.
Exception: Accessory structures to single-family residences that are non-
residential and that have a building area of 500 square feet or less.
4916.3 Existing buildings. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout all existing buildings located in the wildland-urban
interface area when modifications are made that increase the building area.
Exception: One-time additions to existing buildings made after January 1, 1994
that do not exceed 500 square feet in building area.
15.04.580 Sections 4917 through 4917.3.5 added – General Requirements for wildland-
urban interface fire areas.
Sections 4917 through 4917.3.5 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPRESSION AND CONTROL
4917.1 General
4917.1.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter establish general
requirements applicable to new and existing properties located within
wildland-urban interface areas.
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4917.1.2 Objective. The objective of this appendix is to provide necessary
fire- protection measures to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban
interface area and improve the capability of controlling such fires.
4917.2 Vegetation Control
4917.2.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Sections 4917.2.2
through 4917.2.5.
4917.2.2 Maintenance of Defensible Space
4917.2.2.1 General. Defensible spaces required by 4907 shall be maintained
in accordance with Section 4917.2.2.
4917.2.2.2 Modified Area. Non-fire-resistive vegetation or growth shall be
kept clear of buildings or structures, in accordance with Section 4907, in such a
manner as to provide a clear area for fire suppression operations.
4917.2.2.3 Responsibility. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or
maintaining buildings or structures are responsible for maintenance of
defensible spaces. Maintenance of the defensible space shall include
modifying or removing nonfire-resistive vegetation and keeping leaves,
needles and other dead vegetative material regularly removed from roofs of
buildings and structures.
4917.2.2.4 Trees. Tree crowns extending to within 10 feet (3048 mm) of
any structure shall be pruned to maintain a minimum horizontal clearance of
10 feet (3048 mm). Tree crowns within the defensible space shall be pruned to
remove limbs located less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the ground surface
adjacent to the trees.
Portions of tree crowns that extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the outlet
of a chimney shall be pruned to maintain a minimum horizontal clearance of
10 feet (3048 mm).
Deadwood and litter shall be regularly removed from trees.
4917.2.3 Clearance Of Brush Or Vegetative Growth From Roadways. The code
official is authorized to require areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side
of portions of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to be cleared of
non-fire- resistive vegetation growth.
Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental vegetative fuels or
cultivated ground cover, such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants
used as ground cover, provided they do not forma means of readily
transmitting fire.
4917.2.4 Clearance of brush and vegetative growth from electrical transmission
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and distribution lines.
4917.2.4.1 General. Clearance of brush and vegetative growth from
electrical transmission and distribution lines shall be in accordance with Section
4917.2.4.
Exception: Section 4917.2.4 does not authorize persons not having legal right
of entry to enter on or damage the property of others without consent of the
owner.
4917.2.4.2 Support clearance. Persons owning, controlling, operating or
maintaining electrical transmission or distribution lines shall have an
approved program in place that identifies poles or towers with equipment and
hardware types that have a history of becoming an ignition source, and provides
a combustible free space consisting of a clearing of not less than 10 feet (3048
mm) in each direction from the outer circumference of such pole or tower
during such periods of time as designated by the code official.
Exception: Lines used exclusively as telephone, telegraph, messenger call, alarm
transmission or other lines classed as communication circuits by a public
utility.
4917.2.4.3 Electrical distribution and transmission line clearances.
4917.2.4.3.1 General. Clearances between vegetation and electrical lines shall be
in accordance with 4917.2.4.3.
4917.2.4.3.2 Trimming clearance. At the time of trimming, clearances not less
than those established by Table 4917.2.4.3.2 shall be provided. The radial
clearances shown below are minimum clearances that shall be established, at
time of trimming, between the vegetation and the energized conductors and
associated live parts.
Table 4917.2.4.3.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
TABLE 4917.2.4.3.2
MINIMUM CLEARANCES BETWEEN VEGETATION AND
ELECTRICAL LINES AT TIME OF TRIMMING
LINE VOLTAGE MINIMUM RADIAL CLEARANCE FROM
CONDUCTOR (feet)
2,400-72,000 4
72,001-110,000 6
110,001-300,000 10
300,001 or more 15
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
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Exception: The code official is authorized to establish minimum clearances
different than those specified by Table 4917.2.4.3.2 when evidence
substantiating such other clearances is submitted to and approved by the code
official.
4917.2.4.3.3 Minimum Clearance To Be Maintained. Clearances not less than
those established by Table 4917.2.4.3.3 shall be maintained during such periods
of time as designated by the code official. The site-specific clearance achieved, at
time of pruning, shall vary based on species growth rates, the utility company-
specific trim cycle, the potential line sway due to wind, line sag due to electrical
loading and ambient temperature and the tree’s location in proximity to the
high voltage lines.
Exception: The code official is authorized to establish minimum clearances
different than those specified by 4917.2.4.3.3.3 when evidence substantiating
such other clearances is submitted to and approved by the code official.
Table 4917.2.4.3.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
TABLE 4917.2.4.3.3
MINIMUM CLEARANCES BETWEEN VEGETATION AND ELECTRICAL
LINES TO BE MAINTAINED
LINE VOLTAGE MINIMUM CLEARANCE (inches)
750-35,000 6
35,001-60,000 12
60,001-115,000 19
115,001-230,000 30.5
230,001-500,000 115
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
4917.2.4.3.4 Electrical Power Line Emergencies. During emergencies, the utility
shall perform the required work to the extent necessary to clear the hazard.
An emergency can include situations such as trees falling into power lines, or
trees in violation of Table 4917.2.3.3.3.
4917.2.5 Correction Of Condition. The fire code official is authorized to give
notice to the owner of the property on which conditions regulated by Section
4917.2 exist to correct such conditions. If the owner fails to correct such
conditions, the legislative body of the jurisdiction is authorized to cause the
same to be done and make the expense of such correction a lien on the
property where such condition exists.
4917.3 ACCESS RESTRICTIONS
4917.3.1 Restricted Entry To Public Lands. The fire code official is authorized to
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determine and publicly announce when wildland-urban interface areas shall
be closed to entry and when such areas shall again be opened to entry. Entry
on and occupation of wildland-urban interface areas, except public
roadways, inhabited areas or established trails and campsites that have not
been closed during such time when the wildland-urban interface area is closed
to entry, is prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Residents and owners of private property within wildland-urban interface
areas and their invitees and guests going to or being on their lands.
2. Entry, in the course of duty, by peace or police officers, and other duly
authorized public officers, members of a fire department and members of the
Wildland Firefighting Service.
4917.3.2 Trespassing On Posted Private Property.
4917.3.2.1 General. When the fire code official determines that a specific
area within a wildland-urban interface area presents an exceptional and
continuing fire danger because of the density of natural growth, difficulty of
terrain, proximity to structures or accessibility to the public, such areas shall be
restricted or closed until changed conditions warrant termination of such
restriction or closure. Such areas shall be posted in accordance with Section
4917.3.2.2.
4917.3.2.2 Signs. Approved signs prohibiting entry by unauthorized persons
and referring to this code shall be placed on every closed area.
4917.3.2.3 Trespassing. Entering and remaining within areas closed and posted
is prohibited. Exception: Owners and occupiers of private or public property
within closed and posted areas; their guests or invitees; authorized persons
engaged in the operation and maintenance of necessary utilities such as
electrical power, gas, telephone, water and sewer; and local, state and federal
public officers and their authorized agents acting in the course of duty.
4917.3.3 Use Of Fire Roads And Defensible Space. Motorcycles, motor
scooters and motor vehicles shall not be driven or parked on, and trespassing is
prohibited on, fire roads or defensible space beyond the point where travel is
restricted by a cable, gate or sign, without the permission of the property
owners. Vehicles shall not be parked in a manner that obstructs the entrance
to a fire road or defensible space.
Exception: Public officers acting within their scope of duty. Radio and
television aerials, guy wires thereto, and other obstructions shall not be
installed or maintained on fire roads or defensible spaces, unless located 16
feet (4877 mm) or more above such fire road or defensible space.
4917.3.4 Use of Motorcycles, Motor Scooters, Ultra light Aircraft And Motor
Vehicles. Motorcycles, motor scooters, ultra light aircraft and motor vehicles
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shall not be operated within wildland-urban interface areas, without a permit by
the code official, except on clearly established public or private roads.
Permission from the property owner shall be presented when requesting a
permit.
4917.3.5 Tampering With Locks, Barricades, Signs and Address Markers.
Locks, barricades, seals, cables, signs and address markers installed within
wildland- urban interface areas, by or under the control of the code official,
shall not be tampered with, mutilated, destroyed or removed.
Gates, doors, barriers and locks installed by or under the control of the code
official shall not be unlocked.
15.04.584 Sections 4917.4 through 4917.4.10 added – Ignition source control
requirements for wildland-urban interface fire areas.
Sections 4917.4 through 4917.4.10 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917.4 IGNITION SOURCE CONTROL
4917.4.1 General. Ignition sources shall be in accordance with Section 4917.4.
4917.4.2 Objective. Regulations in this section are intended to provide the
minimum requirements to prevent the occurrence of wildfires.
4917.4.3 Clearance From Ignition Sources. Clearance between ignition sources
and grass, brush or other combustible materials shall be maintained a minimum
of 30 feet (9144 mm).
4917.4.4 Smoking. When required by the fire code official, signs shall be
posted stating NO SMOKING. No person shall smoke within 15 feet (4572
mm) of combustible materials or non-fire-resistive vegetation.
Exception: Places of habitation or in the boundaries of established smoking
areas or campsites as designated by the fire code official.
4917.4.5 Equipment and Devices Generating Heat, Sparks Or Open Flames.
Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames capable of
igniting nearby combustibles shall not be used in wildland-urban interface
areas without a permit from the code official.
Exception: Use of approved equipment in habitated premises or designated
campsites that are a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) from grass-, grain-,
brush- or forest-covered areas.
4917.4.6 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in wildland-
urban interface areas.
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4917.4.7 Outdoor Fires.
4917.4.7.1 General. No person shall build, ignite or maintain any outdoor fire of
any kind for any purpose in or on any wildland-urban interface area, except
by the authority of a written permit from the code official.
Exception: Outdoor fires within inhabited premises or designated campsites
where such fires are in a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor
fireplace or grill and are a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) from any
combustible material or nonfire-resistive vegetation.
4917.4.7.2 Permits. Permits shall incorporate such terms and conditions that
will reasonably safeguard public safety and property. Outdoor fires shall not
be built, ignited or maintained in or on hazardous fire areas under the
following conditions:
1. When high winds are blowing,
2. When a person 17 years old or over is not present at all times to watch and
tend such fire, or
3. When a public announcement is made that open burning is prohibited.
4917.4.7.3 Restrictions. No person shall use a permanent barbecue,
portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace or grill for the disposal of rubbish, trash or
combustible waste material.
4917.4.8 Outdoor Fireplaces, Permanent Barbecues And Grills. Outdoor
fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall not be built, installed or
maintained in wildland-urban interface areas without approval of the fire code
official.
Outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall be maintained in
good repair and in a safe condition at all times. Openings in such appliances
shall be provided with an approved spark arrestor, screen or door.
Exception: When approved by the fire code official, unprotected openings in
barbecues and grills necessary for proper functioning.
4917.4.9 Reckless Behavior. The fire code official is authorized to stop any
actions of a person or persons if the official determines that the action is
reckless and could result in an ignition of fire or spread of fire.
4917.4.10 Planting Vegetation Under Or Adjacent To Energized Electrical
Lines. No vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power
lines that, at maturity, shall grow within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the energized
conductors.
15.04.585 Section 4917.5 added – Storage control requirements for wildland-urban interface
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fire areas.
Section 4917.5 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917.5 CONTROL OF STORAGE
4917.5.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the California Fire
Code, storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with Section
4917.5.
4917.5.2 Hazardous materials. Hazardous materials in excess of 10 gallons (37.8 L)
of liquid, 200 cubic feet (5.66 m 3) of gas, or 10 pounds (4.54 kg) of solids require
a permit and shall comply with nationally recognized standards for storage and
use.
4917.5.2.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Installations
4917.5.2.1.1 General. The storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas) and
the installation and maintenance of pertinent equipment shall be in accordance
with the California Fire Code and recognized standards.
4917.5.2.1.2 Location of containers. LP-gas containers shall be located within
the defensible space in accordance with the California Fire Code.
4917.5.3 Explosives. Explosives shall not be possessed, kept, stored, sold,
offered for sale, given away, used, discharged, transported or disposed of
within wildland- urban interface areas.
4917.5.4 Combustible Materials.
4917.5.4.1 General. Outside storage of combustible materials such as, but
not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials or paper products shall
comply with the other applicable sections of this code and this section.
4917.5.4.2 Individual Piles. Individual piles shall not exceed 5,000 square feet
(465 m 2) of contiguous area. Piles shall not exceed 50,000 cubic feet (1416 m
3) in volume or 10 feet (3048 mm) in height.
4917.5.4.3 Separation. A clear space of at least 40 feet (12 192 mm) shall
be provided between piles. The clear space shall not contain combustible
material or nonfire-resistive vegetation.
4917.5.4.4 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials
4917.5.4.4.1 General. Firewood and combustible material shall not be stored
in unenclosed spaces beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under
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eaves, canopies or other projections or overhangs. When required by the
code official, storage of firewood and combustible material stored in the
defensible space shall be located a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from
structures and separated from the crown of trees by a minimum horizontal
distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).
4917.5.4.4.2 Storage For Off-Site Use. Firewood and combustible materials not
for consumption on the premises shall be stored so as to not pose a hazard.
15.04.586 Section 4917.6 added –Dumping in wildland-urban interface areas.
Section 4917.6 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917.6 DUMPING
4917.6.1 Waste Material. Waste material shall not be placed, deposited or
dumped in wildland-urban interface areas, or in, on or along trails, roadways or
highways or against structures in wildland-urban interface areas.
Exception: Approved public and approved private dumping areas.
4917.6.2 Ashes And Coals. Ashes and coals shall not be placed, deposited
or dumped in or on wildland-urban interface areas.
Exceptions:
1. In the hearth of an established fire pit, camp stove or fireplace.
2. In a noncombustible container with a tight fitting lid, which is kept or
maintained in a safe location not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from nonfire-
resistive vegetation or structures.
3. Where such ashes or coals are buried and covered with 1 foot (305 mm) of
mineral earth not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from nonfire-resistive
vegetation or structures.
15.04.587 Section 4917.7 added - Protection Of Pumps And Water Storage Facilities.
Section 4917.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917.7 PROTECTION OF PUMPS AND WATER STORAGE FACILITIES
4917.7.1 General. The reliability of the water supply shall be in accordance
with Section 4917.7.
4917.7.2 Objective. The intent of this section is to increase the reliability of
water storage and pumping facilities and to protect such systems against loss
from intrusion by fire.
4917.7.3 Fuel Modification Area. Water storage and pumping facilities shall
be provided with a defensible space of not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) clear of
non-fire- resistive vegetation or growth around and adjacent to such facilities.
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Persons owning, controlling, operating or maintaining water storage and
pumping systems requiring this defensible space are responsible for clearing
and removing nonfire-resistive vegetation and maintaining the defensible
space on the property owned, leased or controlled by said person.
4917.7.4 Trees. Portions of trees that extend to within 30 feet (9144 mm)
of combustible portions of water storage and pumping facilities shall be
removed.
4917.7.5 Protection of Electrical Power Supplies. When electrical pumps are
used to provide the required water supply, such pumps shall be connected to
a standby power source to automatically maintain electrical power in the event
of power loss. The standby power source shall be capable of providing power for
a minimum of two hours in accordance with the Electrical Code.
Exception: A standby power source is not required where the primary power
service to pumps are underground as approved by the code official.
15.04.588 Section 4917.8 added – Land use limitations in wildland-urban interface fire areas.
Section 4917.8 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4917.8 LAND USE LIMITATIONS
4917.8.1 General. Temporary fairs, carnivals, public exhibitions and similar
uses must comply with all other provisions of this code in addition to enhanced
ingress and egress requirements.
4917.8.2 Objective. The increased public use of land or structures in wildland-
urban interface areas also increases the potential threat to life safety. The
provisions of this section are intended to reduce that threat.
4917.8.3 Permits. Temporary fairs, carnivals, public exhibitions or similar uses
shall not be allowed in a designated wildland-urban interface area, except by
permit from the code official.
Permits shall incorporate such terms and conditions that will reasonably
safeguard public safety and property.
15.04.590 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 HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS SECTION 1901
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GENERAL
1901.1 Purpose. The purpose of this appendix is to provide a reasonable degree
of safety to persons occupying existing high-rise 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 high-rise 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 meeting shall be held, including the owner’s design team,
building official and the chief, to determine the adequacy of the life-safety
emergency systems concept for the building. The life-safety emergency systems
shall be reflected on the plans for the building and become a permanent part
of the building department’s records. The building official and 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
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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:
(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
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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 Chief’s
office, and that an appeal may be taken 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.
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
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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.
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 5002 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 1-3/8 inch bonded, solid-core wood doors, if equipped with
self-closures, 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 high-rise 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.
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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.
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 high-rise 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 foot-candle 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
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each drill shall be maintained in the building management office and made
available to the fire department for review.
15.05 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
15.05.10 Adoption of Chapters 3, 4, 5, 8, 25, and 56 of the International Fire Code.
Chapters 3, 4, 5, 8, 25, and 56 of the International Fire Code, 2012 Edition, are adopted, as
herein amended. One copy of the International Fire Code is on file and open to public
inspection in the office of the city clerk. Three copies of the secondary codes set forth within
the International 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 “International Fire Code” appears in this code or in any ordinance of the
city, such phrase shall be deemed and construed to refer to and apply to the “International Fire
Code, 2009 Edition” and this chapter.
15.05.015 Section 304.1.2.1 added – Weed and Combustible Debris removal.
Section 304.1.2.1 is added to the International Fire Code to read as follows:
304.1.2.1 Weed and Combustible Debris removal. The fire chief may cause
the removal of weeds or combustible debris on properties in which further
delay of such removal would promote a hazard. The chief may also at his option
bill subject properties for any and all expenses related to the removal or as
outlined in Chapter 8.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
15.05.020 Section 308.3.5 deleted – Religious Ceremonies.
Section 308.3.5 of the International Fire Code is deleted.
15.05.030 Sections 311.5 through 311.5.3 deleted – Vacant premises.
Sections 311.5 through 311.5.3 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.05.035 Section 316.4 added – Roof guardrails at interior courts.
Section 316.4 is added to the International Fire Code to read as follows:
316.4 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 12-inch diameter sphere cannot pass through.
Exception: Where the roof opening is greater than 600 square feet in area.
15.05.040 Section 404.2 amended – Fire safety and evacuation plan
required.
Section 404.2 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
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404.2 Where Required. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan shall be
prepared and maintained for the following occupancies and buildings.
1. Group A buildings having an occupant load of 100 or more persons.
2. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons, or 2
or more stories in height.
3. Group E: See §3.13 Title 19, CCR for regulations.
4. Group H.
5. Group I. See §3.09 Title 19, CCR for regulations.
6. Group R-1. See §3.09 Title 19, CCR for regulations.
7. Group R-2 college and university buildings.
8. Group M buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons.
9. Covered malls exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m2) in aggregate
floor area.
10. Underground buildings.
15.05.050 Section 404.3.1 amended – Fire evacuation plans.
Section 404.3.1 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
404.3.1 Fire Evacuation Plans. Fire evacuation plans shall include the following:
1. Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evacuation of the building is
to be complete or, where approved, by selected floors or areas only.
2. Description of what the fire alarm, if required, sounds and looks like
(audible and visual warning devices).
3. Procedures for employees who must remain to operate critical equipment
before evacuating.
4. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation has
been completed.
5. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for rescue or
emergency medical aid.
6. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire
or emergency.
7. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other
emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response
organization.
8. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for
further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
9. A description of the emergency voice/alarm communication system alert tone
and preprogrammed voice messages, where provided.
15.05.060 Table 405.2 amended – Fire and evacuation drills.
Table 405.2 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
//
//
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TABLE 405.2
FIRE AND EVACUATION DRILL
FREQUENCY AND PARTICIPATION
GROUP OR
OCCUPANCY
FREQUENCY
PARTICIPATION
Group A Quarterly Employees
Group Bb Annually Employees
Group E See §3.13 Title 19, CCR
Group I See §3.13 Title 19, CCR
Group R-1 See §3.13 Title 19, CCR
Group R-2c Four annually All occupants
1. The frequency shall be allowed to be modified in accordance with
Section 408.3.2.
b. Group B buildings having an occupant load of 500 or more persons.
c. Applicable to Group R-2 college and university buildings in accordance with
Section 408.3.
15.05.070 Sections 408.3.1 through 408.3.4 deleted.
Sections 408.3.1 through 408.3.4 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.05.075 Sections 408.5.1 through 408.5.5 deleted.
Sections 408.5.1 through 408.5.5 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.04.076 Sections 408.6 through 408.6.2 deleted.
Sections 408.6 through 408.6.2 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.04.077 Sections 408.7 through 408.7.4 deleted.
Sections 408.7 through 408.7.4 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.04.078 Sections 408.8 through 408.8.3 deleted.
Sections 408.8 through 408.8.3 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.05.079 Section 408.9 amended – Group R-2 occupancies.
Section 408.9 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
408.9 Group R-2 Occupancies. Group R-2 occupancies shall comply with the
requirements of Sections 408.9.1 through 408.9.3 and Sections 401 through
406. Group R-2 college and university buildings shall comply with the
requirements of Sections 408.9.1 through 408.9.6 and Sections 401 through
406.
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15.05.080 Sections 408.9.4 through 408.9.5 added – First Emergency Evacuation Drill.
Sections 408.9.4 through 408.9.5 are added to the International Fire Code to read as follows:
408.9.4 First Emergency Evacuation Drill. The first emergency evacuation drill of
each school year shall be conducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.
408.9.5 Time of Day. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at
different hours of the day or evening, during the changing of classes, when the
school is at assembly, during the recess or gymnastic periods, or during other
times to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires.
15.04.090 Sections 408.10 through 408.10.5 deleted.
Sections 408.10 through 408.10.5 of the International Fire Code are deleted.
15.05.100 Section 408.11.1.2 amended – Plan Revisions.
Section 408.11.1.2 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
408.11.1.2 Revisions. The lease plans shall be revised annually or as often
as necessary to keep them current.
15.05.110 Section 503.1.1 amended – Buildings and facilities.
Section 503.1.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall
be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter
constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access
road shall comply with the requirements of this section and Fire Department
access road standards and shall extend within 150 feet 945,720 mm) of all
portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of
the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the
building or facility.
Exception: When Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancies are equipped
throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system, the provisions of
Sections 503.1.1 and 503.2.1 may be modified by the fire code official.
15.05.120 Section 503.2.1 amended – Dimensions.
Section 503.2.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed
width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), except for approved security gates in
accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of 13
feet 6 inches (4115 mm).
Exception: When there are not more than two Group R, Division 3, or Group U
occupancies, the access road width may be modified by the fire code official.
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15.05.130 Section 503.7 added – Traffic Calming Devices.
Section 503.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
503.7 Traffic Calming Devices. Traffic Calming Devices such as speed humps,
traffic circles or other physical measures intended to control vehicle speed on
fire apparatus access roads are prohibited unless approved by the fire code
official.
15.05.140 Section 504.4 amended – Access Control Devices.
Section 504.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
504.4 Access Control Devices. When access control devices including bars,
grates, gates, electric or magnetic locks or similar devices, which would inhibit
rapid fire department emergency access to the building, are installed, such
devices shall be approved by the fire code official. All access control devices
shall be provided with an approved means for deactivation or unlocking by the
fire department.
Access control devices shall also comply with Chapter 10 Egress.
15.05.150 Section 507.4 added – Roof guards at interior courts.
Section 507.4 is added to Chapter 5 of the International Fire Code to read as follows:
507.4 Roof Guards At Interior Courts. Roof openings into interior courts that are
bounded on all sides by building walls shall be protected with roof guards. The
top of the roof guard 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 12-inch diameter sphere cannot pass through.
Exception: Interior courts with roof opening greater than 600 square feet in area.
15.05.160 Section 510.1 amended – Emergency responder radio coverage in buildings.
Section 510.1 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage in buildings. All buildings shall
have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building
based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communications
system of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building. This section shall not
require improvement of the existing public safety communications system.
Emergency responder radio coverage systems shall be installed in accordance
with Section 510 and Appendix J.
15.05.170 Section 510.1.1 added – Obstruction by New Buildings.
Section 510.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
510.1.1 Obstruction by new buildings. When determined, a new structure
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obstructing line of sight emergency radio communications to existing buildings
or to any other locations, the developer of the structure shall provide and
install the radio retransmission equipment necessary to restore
communications capabilities. The equipment shall be located in an approved
space or area within the new structure.
15.05.180 Section 806.1.1 amended – Display inside buildings.
Section 510.1 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
806.1.1 Display inside buildings. The display of decorative vegetation,
including Christmas trees, in new and existing buildings shall be in accordance
with the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.08 and Sections
806.1 through 806.5 of this Code.
15.05.190 Section 5601.1 amended - Scope- Explosives and Fireworks
Section 5601.1 of the International Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
5601.1 Scope- Explosives and Fireworks. For explosives requirements see Title
19 California Code of Regulations Chapter 10 and section 5601.1.1 of this
chapter. For fireworks requirements see Title 19 California Code of Regulations
Chapter 6 and section 5601.1.2 of this chapter.
Exceptions:
1. The armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National
Guard.
2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States
Pharmacopoeia.
4. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory,
law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities.
5. Items preempted by federal regulations.
15.05.200 Sections 5601.1. through 5608.1.1 added – Explosives, fireworks, and
rocketry.
Sections 5601.1.1 through 5601.5.3.2.3 are added to the International Fire Code to read as
follows:
5601.2 Explosives. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and
use of explosives are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Possession, storage, handling and use of explosives for test and research
purposes is allowed with permit and approval of the fire code official.
2. Possession, storage, handling and use of squibs, explosive nuts or bolts and
similar small quantity explosive devices is allowed with permit and approval of
the fire code official.
5601.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and
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use of fireworks, including those fireworks classified as Safe and Sane by the
California State Fire Marshal, are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Storage, handling and use of fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects
outside of buildings when used for public or proximate audience displays,
motion picture, television, theatrical and group entertainment productions and
when in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations.
2. Storage, handling and use of pyrotechnic special effects fireworks inside of
buildings when used for proximate audience displays or special effects in
theatrical, television, motion picture and group entertainment productions
when in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and
when in buildings equipped throughout with an approved fire sprinkler system.
5601.4 Rocketry. The storage, handling, and use of model rockets shall be in
accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and as approved
by the Fire Code Official.
Add Sections 5601.5 through 5601.5.3.2.3 to read:
5601.5 Small Arms Ammunition-General. Indoor storage and display of black powder,
smokeless propellants and small arms ammunition shall comply with Sections 5601.5.1 through
5601.5.4.2.3.
5601.5.1 Packages. Smokeless propellants shall be stored in approved shipping containers
conforming to DOTn 49 CFR, Part 173.
5601.5.1.1 Repackaging. The bulk repackaging of smokeless propellants, black powder and
small arms primers shall not be performed in retail establishments.
5601.5.1.2 Damaged packages. Damaged containers shall not be repackaged.
Exception: Approved repackaging of damaged containers of smokeless propellant into
containers of the same type and size as the original container.
5601.5.2 Storage in Group R occupancies. The storage of small arms ammunition in Group R
occupancies shall comply with Sections 5601.5.2.1 through 5601.5.2.3.
5601.5.2.1 Smokeless propellants. Smokeless propellants intended for personal use in
quantities not exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) are permitted to be stored in Group R-3 occupancies
where kept in original containers. Smokeless powder in quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg)
but not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) are permitted to be stored in Group R-3 occupancies
where kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of at least 1 inch (25 mm) nominal
thickness.
5601.5.2.2 Black powder. Black powder intended for personal use in quantities not exceeding
20 pounds (9 kg) are permitted to be stored in Group R-3 occupancies where kept in original
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containers and stored in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of at least 1 inch (25 mm)
nominal thickness
5601.5.2.3 Small arms primers. No more than 10,000 small arms primers shall be stored in
Group R-3 occupancies.
5601.5.3 Display and storage in Group M occupancies. The display and storage of small arms
ammunition in Group M occupancies shall comply with Sections 5601.5.3.1 through
5601.5.3.2.3.
5601.5.3.1 Display. The display of small arms ammunition in Group M occupancies shall comply
with Sections 5601.5.3.1.1 through 5601.5.3.1.3.
5601.5.3.1.1 Smokeless propellant. No more than 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless propellants,
each in containers of 1 pound (0.454 kg) or less capacity, shall be displayed in Group M
occupancies.
5601.5.3.1.2 Black powder. No more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of black powder shall be
displayed in Group M occupancies.
5601.5.3.1.3 Small arms primers. No more than 10,000 small arms primers shall be displayed in
Group M occupancies.
5601.5.3.2 Storage. The storage of small arms ammunition in Group M occupancies shall
comply with Sections 5601.5.3.2.1 through 5601.5.3.2.3.
5601.5.3.2.1 Storage of Smokeless propellant. Commercial stocks of smokeless propellants not
on display shall not exceed 100 pounds (45 kg). Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not
exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in portable wooden boxes having walls of at least
1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness.
5601.5.3.2.2 Black powder. Commercial stocks of black powder not on display shall not exceed
50 pounds (23 kg) and shall be stored in a type 4 indoor magazine. When black powder and
smokeless propellants are stored together in the same magazine, the total quantity shall not
exceed that permitted for black powder.
5601.5.3.2.3 Small arms primers. Commercial stocks of small arms primers not on display shall
not exceed 750,000. Storage shall be arranged such that not more than 100,000 small arms
primers are stored in any one pile and piles are at least 15 feet (4572 mm) apart.
SECTION 2. The Council adopts the findings for local amendments to the California
Fire Code, 2013 Edition, attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 3. The Council finds that this project is exempt from the provisions of
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the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061 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
thirty-first day after the day of its adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Senior Deputy City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Human Resources
____________________________
Director of Administrative
Services
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EXHIBIT A
Findings for Local Amendments to the
2013 California Fire Code
The following local amendments to the 2013 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 submitted as the “Findings of Fact” document with regard to the adoption of
the California Fire Code, 2013 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, 2013 Edition, have been recognized by the
City of Palo Alto (“City”) 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 all who live and work within the City’s boundaries.
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
70-90 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, wind-driven
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 major focus of the “Silicon Valley,” the center for an expanding and changing 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
Andreas Fault zone. The City’s location makes it particularly vulnerable to damage to taller and
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 active faults. Approximately 55% of the City’s land surface is in the high-to-
moderate 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.
The majority of the City’s high-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 high-rise 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;
g. Many high-rise structures are located near areas of high fire danger necessitating special
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precautions.
Transportation. Palo Alto is dissected by a major state highway (El Camino Real) and two major
freeways (I-280 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
traffic congestion throughout the city, thereby reducing the fire department’s response time
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 built-in 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 region-wide 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
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
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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
of Title 15 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”):
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 county-wide 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.
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.
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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 multiple-station 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– Definition of “continuous gas
detection system” and sections 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.
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
provided. These restrictions are appropriate given Palo Alto’s seismically active local geological
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 restrictions are
appropriate given Palo Alto’s seismically 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 urban-wildland interface areas that are necessary to mitigate the
additional fire risks in the Palo Alto foothills hazardous fire zone. The modifications contained
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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 high-rise 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.