HomeMy WebLinkAbout0231.092-
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April "'0, 1992
llONORAELE CI7'Y COUNCIL
Palo Alto, california
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Adoption of the 1,91 Uniform Fi~~ Co~e Vi.th ).m91u!me.nt.!I to the .Mu,nicipal
Code
Menbers of the Council:
Report in BrieL
staff is recommending council adopt the attact.ed ordinance adopting the
1991 edition of the unifonn Fire Code and Elmending Chapter 15.04 cf the
Palo Alto Municipal Code.
Every three years, a neW' edition of the Uni for:rn Fire Code (Uf'C) is
published. At that ti~e, staff reviews the code and recommends Council
adopt tile uye 'With local aInendmer:ts that pert.ain specifically to the City
of Palo Alto. State la.,.; requires t!",at ce.rtain local amendments rela~ed
to housinq must be adopted prior to July I, 1992. If adoption does not
occur by this date, the uniform cede is automatically adopted for the
local agencies by the State through its regulations. In P~lo Alto such
amendments inclUde, b~t are not limiteo to, buildings in the foothills
hazardous fire area, condominium comple~e5 anc some high rise buildings.
Although the 1991 UFC has extensive revisio!'ls wher.; cOII',pared to the
current 1988 edition, the intent of the code and of the local ~mendments
remain consistent. The nature of the changes are based upon dOC'.,Hnent
fonnat, incorporating reg'Ulat ions into -more specif ic art_icles,
consolidating duplicate language, and clarifying local al':';.end!:',ents..
BaCkground to the 1991 Edition ~f "the Uniform Fire Code
The purpose of the Uniform Fire Code and Palo Alto's local amenoments is
to prescribe regulat.ions consistent \;lith nationally recognized good
practice and stand~rd5. This is accomplished to a reasonable degree, by
safeguarding life and property frorr, the hazards of fire and explosion
arising from the storage, hztndling and use of ha~ardou5 materials and
devices, and from conditions hazardous in the use or occupancy of
buildings or prerr.ises.
The Uniform Fire Code is a consensUs document, t,.'hi~h is developed C!fter
nurnE:rous public heari.ngs and testimony from interested members of the
fire service, private industry and other concerned individuals throughout
the twenty-six "Western states. staff Iriembers of the Fire Department
attend hearings held in California~ O=egon, Washington and AriZona.
Local Amendments ana Revisions to the 1991 nni~orm Fire Co~e
The Fire Department staff has revielr.'ed t}:~ 1991 Uniform Fire Code and
recommends adoption of the. Cede, appendices i,mj local amendments as
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'"i describad. in this report~ The 1991 UFC contains significant revisions
referencing fire safety in fire alarm sy~telD.s, false alarms and TIE'"
articles dealing' spacifically ... ·ith aerosol product storage 3nd use.
Many of the. proposed local amend'rnents are section or r.u1I'Iber changes that
have resulted in the extensive restructuring of the Fire Code. Palo Alto
has led the way in improvin9 the Fire Code through the local amer.~ment
process. It. should be noted that :nany sEctions of Palo .\lto's previousH'
adopted local amendltlents can 110"wo' be dele'ted l because they are includeo in
the 1991 edition of the Uniform Fire Code.
Although the 1991 UFC has undergone extensive editorial revisions, the
intent of the code and of the local ar.lendments renain constant. The
nature of the changes are based upon the need to clarify the document
format, incorporatinq existing regulations into more specific articles,
removing or consoliaating duplicate language~ and incorporating uniform
language to assist officials in utilizing bot:!1 the building and fire
codes.
A revision to the 1991 edition ot the Fire Code is Article 80, which
regulates hazardous materials. This a~ticla has undergone changes, as a
result of lessons learned in implementing p::-ovisions new to the 1988
model code. Intent has been clari~ied relative to provisions to address
retail sales of hazardous materials. Increases in exempt. amounts of
chemicals have been allowed where the h~za!"ds have been shown to be
minimal and mitigated through administrative and engineering controls.
A local amenciment is proposed to keep the requirement for protective
equipment, which was deleted from the 19B8 model code due to training
requirements in other ""estern states .... 'hich are infer lor to requirements
in California.
Article 8S, which regulates hazardous materials in aerosol form, is a new
section of the 1991 fire code. The code change ... as developed' 'With
industry cooperation to solve an existing enforcement and use problem
with flam'lllable aerosols. The neow provisions of article 68 increase
industry's ability to ./teet supply and de;;n~nd, while maintaining fire
safety. Its focus is retail sales, wareho'..lsing and storage roolT',s. 'Ine
purpose of this section is to put upper limits on qU21ntities of rack
storage and/or safequards in the form of building construction or fire
protection features. The facility normally associated with this type of
storage is typically a horne improvement center or warehouse type retail
or ~holesale store that sells bulk quantities of aerosol merchandise.
Palo Alto is not proposing local amendments to this article.
Local amendments to Appendix II-A, "suppression and Control of Hazardous
Fire Areasf~ was modified in three areas. First, the definition of the
hazardous fire area has been specified as the City of Palo Alto lands
west of Interstate 280. Second, structures located in the Hazardous Fire
Area are currently required by Ie-cal amendments to install a fire
resistive roof of either Class A, B or C. The lessons learned from the
fires throughout California~ and recently the oakland Hills tire, is that
Class A and B fire resistlve roofing is more effective in retarding the
spread of fire than Class C roofing. Therefore, the proposed local
amendment would strengthen the roofing rcquireme~ts by eliminating the
Class C (less restrictive to fire) roof and require Classes A or B (see
Uniform Building Code Section 3204 (a), (b). Existing structures shall
be required to install a Class A or B roof • ... hen additions~ alterations,
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or repairs exceed 50 percent of the gross area of the '!''Xlf.
requirement is only for residences in the hazardous fire ~rea of t~e
Alto foothills, west of Interstate 280.
This
Palo
Third, in e-rder to uniformly enforce the automatic sprinkler provisions
previously adopted • ... he:t a hOl!le in the foothills t'~as s'Jbstantial
re~odeling changes I a formula is proposed that is similar to the seismic
and automatic sprinkler requirements in the current code {or other
occupancies. Existir.g p'Jildir.gs · .. 'hich have occupiable square footage
added to the gr.oss S(:;rolace f~otage or ""hich excee:d 50 percent of the vi!lue
of the existing structure, shall have an automatic tire sprinkler system
installed through~ut the entire building.
The UnifonD F:i.re and Building Codes are intended
documents, and the proposed amendments relating to
sprinkler requirements 'Will provide congruent language
and building codes.
to be companion
roofing a:nd fire
for both the fire
As indicated earlier, many of the local amendments a:cc minor in na'ture,
yet the Palo Alto Fire code remains a comprel"lensive and advance planning
dOC'lment. 'l'he intent of the code is to reduce 10S5 of 1 if e and property
due. to fire or 'Unauthorized release of haz.ardous materials. The 1991
Fire Code 'k'i th local amendments is also proposed ild th the safety of the
community as the central fccus~ The staff continues to work
cooperatively with the business cOnlnnmity to ensure: the code remains
applicable to the changing type and nature of safety issues.
ReeOIUlEtndatioll.
Staft recommends that Council approve the attached ordinance amending
Chapte~ 15.04 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
Respectfully submitted,
P~ILIP CONST~TINO piie J<arl£.~
/~'t&. JUNE F!, LNG .
,~,lSS.istant City 'a ger
Attachments ~ Environl't',ental
Ordinance
eMF{ 231:92
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ROBERT R. )Ij'ALL
Fire Chief
Impact Assessment
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Err.ri.rormenl. ~ -City of Palo Alto
Project Description/Title: .... d00tion of tt1e 1991 t'dirionor the 'Un.irqrm Fire Code.
JId:tr'e.ss .an:j Te1etnone of AHJlicar'Jt: 250 Hsmiltc10 A ... e;1ue. Pale Alto, California
94JDl (415) 319-2184
Applicatioo for: Ad ...... ptic,O?f rbf! 199 I Ilnj(¢ .. m Ffre Code
(e.g., zoninq c:h.arqe., s.JI:rlivisiOl"l of prq::erty; a....-c::hitecturaJ. re\o'iew, l.:.se
pennit)
Zcrtirq at Project !.ocatian: n/,," __ _ Fee REceipt No.:
W!'ICEOF~
Based 1.l?X'. review of the project files, the urrle.rsig:-Jed ~ of ~ PlannL"'q
l:q:>artJnent has =It>:le:l:
NegatiVE! t»91aration~ 'nJe project has no significant errvironrrental
inpact. No ~tal Ilrpact: Feport is roq.Ured. The reasons for a
.Neqative !:eclaratioo are:
in the .attBC'hed description.
The project has been aFPrwed.
The project has been der.ied.
llevised 8/1/79
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File No.: ~EIPI-"I
9O-EIA-
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Adoption of the 1991 edition of the Un iforrn Fire Code will root have
an adverse environmental effect on the physi~al environment.
The Uniform Fire Code ..... as developed to prescrib~d minimum
regulations and standards consistent 'alith nationally re~ogl"':ized
qooc p~actice. The Fire Code assures a reasonable degree of life
safety and f)roperty prese~vation from the hazard of fire,
explos~on~ and ha~ardous substances and conditions ~hjch would be
harmful to life or property by their intended use or occupancy of
buildings or premises.
The local amendments to the Fire Code viII contain changes in fire
retardant roofing requirements in the ha.'l:ardous fi!'e area .... est of
H~. 280.
Adoption of this code should have a beneficial impact on the
environment ~y reducing the potential damage to the environment in
the event of a catastrophic disaste~.
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ORDINANC;; NO. ____ _
ORDI~ANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CIT¥ OF PALO ALTO
ADOPTING THE 1991 EDITION OF THE UNIFORM FIRE CODE
AND 1t.HE.."lDING CRAnER 15.04 OF THE PALC· AL'!'O
MUNICIP.r...L CODE
The Council ot the City of Palo Alto d.oes ORDAIN as
follows:
SECT!QN l~ Chapter 15.04 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
is hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 15.0.
CNIFORK rIAB CODE
lS.0~~010 A4Qption of the Uniform Pire Coda.
The "Unifonn Fire Code, i-9-&& l-9~~ Edition" of the Inter
national Conference of Building officials and Western Fire Chiefs'
Association, 5360 South Wor1cman Mill :Ro~d, Whittier, California
90601 is adopted, including Appendix 1-8 ~,aLlancle.o, and appenaice6
I-C, II-A, II-B, II-C, II-tl,,, JI~-A, III-C; III-D~ IV-A" :IV-B, V-A,
VI-A, VI-B, VI-C, VI-D,,,<~~~t",V:t·:F,,and, companion standards Nos. 10-
1,,_through 82-2" 'i'R~ee ee~les Orie"c0l'y':of tl1e Uniform Fire Code ~
~(!:on file and open to "publ ic ',Inspection in thE: office of the city
C:lerk. efte eepy 1"br~, ,:,poples" of the secondary Codes set forth
within t.~e Uniform"'"'rlre 'Code, arid the amendments set forth in this
Chapter, are on rile and open to public inspection in the Fire
Department Administrative Office.
Whenever the phrase "Uniform Fire Code-appears in this
Code or in any ordinance af the City, such phrase shall be deemed
a~~_construed to refer to a~d apply to the "Uniform Fire Code, ~~
1.9Sl Edition-as adopted and a:nended b:r· this chapter.
1.5.0".012 Violations Il~_d Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of
this fire Code shall be deemed guilty of a -misdemeanor and UpOi1
conviction thereof shail be punished as provided in subsection (a)
of Section 1.08.010 of the PalO Alto ~unicipal Code. Ea~h separate
day or any portion thereof during ~hich any violation of the Fire
Code OCcurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate
offense, and upon conviction thereof shall pe punishable as herein
provided.
15.04 ~0.13 EnforQeDlent/cit~ __ tion 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
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positions are: Fire Cr.tieC Assistai,t ?i,re (,.hief .. Fi:re Marshal and
Fire Inspector-s. '
§eetion .2 ,1019.'('h) added -Lire Sateoty P.t~.n
Review.
Subsection -9-th) is added to Section 2.101 of the ':!nifonr:
Fire Code to read as follows:
"~'.(b') Fire and life-safety plan review of all new
construction .. all remodels, and all additions.·
1.5.0".025
Investigations.
Subsection (a) is added to section 2.202 of the Uniform
Fire Code to read as follows:
• Ca) Investigations. For the purpose of enforcing laws
pertaining to tire prevention and suppression and pursuing
investigations as required above, the Fire Chief may designate
specific Fire Department personnel by name and job classification
as having the primary duty of the enforcement of laws relating to
fire prevention and fire suppression.
The duties and qualifications of personnel so designated
shall :be stated in applicable j eb des.criptioTIS and other depart
mental orders as needed to clearly define those Fire Department
personnel who may exercise Peace Officer powers pursuant to Penal
Code section 830.31."
15.04.050 section 2.303 delated -Boa~~ of App •• ls.
Section 2.303 of the Uniform Fire Code, "Board of Appeals,"
is deleted.
15.0-4.0150 section ~. lOS .. <14.4 -Order-to E!tP:Qs.~J. or stop
Work &d4ecL
section 3.105 of the Uniform Fire Code is added to read as
follows;
• (a). Wh.enever any installation requiring a permit under
this Code ~s covered or concealed "Without having first been
inspected, the Fire Chief may requirE by written notice, that such
work be exposed for inspection. The ~ork of exposing and recover
ing shall not entail any expense to the Fire Depa.r'tment.
ft (b) The Fire Chief may issue a vr"itten notice to the
responsible party to stop ,,",ork on any portion of the work in
violation of this Code. The notice shall state the n~ture of the
violation and no 'Work shall be done on t.hat portion until the
violation has been approved by the Fire Department."
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15.04.070 ~~ ld> added to SeQti~n 4.102 -Permit
bU·
section 4.102 of the uniform Fice Code is amended to read
liS follows:
• (c::i) All permit fees shall be established by the City
Council as set forth in the municipal fee scbedule.M
15.04.080 section .,10' amende~ -Multiple ~ermits.
Section 4.106 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to read
as follows:
ftHultiple permits for the same location or material:
Whenever, under provision of this Code or Title 17 of the palo Alto
Municipal Code, more than one permit is required for ·~he same
location or the same material, such permits may be combined into a
single permit for administrative purposes.ft
15.04.083 Section 4.108 amended -perm~t ~.qyir~.
section 4.108 ot the Uniform Fire Code is amended to read
as follows:
·Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person,
firm or corporation to use a building or premises or engage in any
activities for which a permit is required by this Cod€: .. i thout
first ~aving obtained such permit ~rom the Bureau of Fire Preven
tion.
CI'l'B
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-4.108-a . .:2,
4 • .108-a~tl.
PERKIr DESCRIPTION
':Ae.t'¢"spt 'prOducTs. To store or handle an aggregate
qua)'lti ty 'of LeVel ::2 or Level 3 aerosol prod\Jets-in
EX,9E!:sS of 500 pounds net weiqht~ See Article, 88.
Aircraft refueling vehicles. To operate. aircraft
refueling Vehicles. See P.rticle 2'; Division II.
Aircraft
aircraft
repair.
repair ha'ngar. To use any structure as
hangar for the purpose of servicing
See Secticn 24.102.
an
or
4.108-e.~. Automobile wrecking yard. To operate an automobile
wrecking yard, junk or ~aste material handling plant.
4.108-b.1. Bonfires or roJbbish fires. To kindle or authorize the
kindling or :maintenance of bonfires or rUbbish fires.
4.10a-b.2. Bowling pin or alley refinishing~ To conduct a
bowling pin refinishing or-bowling alley resurfacing
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4.10a·-b.l.
4.10S-c.l.
operatio~ involving the use
flammable li~Jids or materials.
and application
See ArticLe .2 6.
of
Burning in public place. To ignite or burn 'Waste:
material on publicly o""'T.ed or controlled l~nd, bridge r
street or other public place ~hich has not been set
aside by public author.it~' for such purpose.
Candles and open flames in assembly areas. To use
open flame or candles in connectiot't with asse1':Wly
areas or restaurants, dining or drinking establish
ments. For definition of Asse~lYI see Section 9.103.
See Sections 25.115 and 25.1115 for open flame and
candles. .
4'-:1.0S:;~~':~:'<~_',: "";',:carrii-'''als and fairs. TO' conduct a
Se'e ':Article 25. The Fire Chief
~,~lre,_'pla'ns of the grounds to l::Je
carnival or., fa ir..:
is authorized to
submitted.
4.!OS-C.3;' ,'cellill!>"e nitrate tilm.
?isplaY.,c4!11ulose nitrate
To store. handle, Use or
film. See Article 33.
4 .10B-c . .;.4.
4 .108-c .... $:.
Cellulose nitrate storage. To store or handle ~ore
than 25 pounds of cellulose nitrate plastic (pyroxy
lin) for the manufacturing or assembly or articles or
parts of articles containing cellulose nitrate
plastics (pyroxylin). See Article 27~
Combustible fiber storage. T~ store or handle com
bustible fibers in quantities in excess of 100 cubic
feet. See Article 28.
4,r:LO'-';C: .. :_~:~;;':' ":~usti:b'le, mat:erial st.orage. To store more ,'than
"'2)50,,0 ::,cllbic f.aet qros:so volume of combustib'le" empty
pa,?"king':eases,-.boxes, barrels or similar containers,
o~ rubber or cork, or othex similarly combustible
.. at~rial. See Article 11.. '
L108-c.67. Ccmpressed gases and materials W'r.ich are or may b.:i:COlIie
toxic gases, whether compressed or not~ To store~
transport on site, dispense, use or handle at normal
temperature and pressu~es in excess of ~he following:
TYPE OF GAS
A. Flammable (except cryogenic fluids
and liquified petroleum gases) 200 cu. ft~
B. Oxidizing (including oxygen) 500 cu. ft.
C. Corrosive Any amount
D. Highly toxic (including pesticides
and fumigants) Any amount
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Cod.
UFC
E.
F.
G.
H.
1.
4~lOS-c.7.
Radioactive
Reactive (unstable)
In>2rt
Medical gas (tc install or
maintain a fixed system).
See Article 74, Article 80 and
Article 82~
!'faterl.als 'Which ar~ or may boe;co::l:le
toxic gases. See Article 90.
PE~T DBSCRIPTION
Any amount
Any al!1.ount
6,000 C\;. ft.
200 CU~ ft.
Over
e.xempt amounts
cryogens. Except where federal or state regulations
apply and e'Xcept for fuel systeU'ts of the vehicle,
permi ts are required to prod",Jce, store or handle
cryogenic fluids in excess of (see Article 75) the
folloving amounts:
TYPB OP CRYOGEN INSIDE BtJILDIIIG OOTsrOE BUILDING
A.
B.
c.
D.
4.10B-d.l.
4.10e-d.2.
4.10S-d.l.
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Flammable
oxidizer
(Includes
oxygen)
corrosive or
highly toxic
Nonflammable
Over 1 gal.
50 gal.
OVer 1 gal.
60 gal.
60 gal.
50 gal.
OVer 1 gal.
500 gal.
'¢ryOqens ... , Except 'Where federal or state regulations
!'pplY<"ndexcept ~or fue.laystems of the vehicle, to
produ~.;. .st;~e .. :" or . handle. eryoqens in excess of tbe
~nts listed in Ta~le No. 4.108-B.
Day Care Permits. To ope~ate a day care facility tor
more than six people.
Dry cleaning plants. To engage in the business of dry
cleaning~ Such permits shall prescribe the class of
system to be used. See Article 36 and Article 79 Div~
XVIII.
Dust-producing operations. To operate a grain eleva
tor, flour, starch or feed mill, or plant pulverizing
aluminuM, coal, coke, magnesium, spices, sugar or
other material producing dusts as defined in Article
9.
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4.10S-e.l. EX.plosives or blast.ing agents.. To store. 0':: I.\se
explosives or bla6ting agents. See section 77.104.
,:'Fire ,hydX'ail'tl; and ': wat'e:c-control' Val V@9. :For a penai t
t(),,'\lS~ a fire hydr,an~ 0; operate"a, -water-ccntrol ,"",alue
intel'!ded ~or .tire-suppression l'urposes. See-Article
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Fireworks.
fireworks.
To discharg~ supervised public d~splay of
See Section 13.Ja2.
4 .10S-f .~,.l.. Flammable or combustible liquid pipeline operation and
excavation. '1'0 -use nr operate-a pipeline for the
transportati~n of flammable or combustible liquids or
to ex'C'.avate or do any work beloW' grade ...,ithin 10 feet
of any such pipeline. See Section 79.1701.
4 .108-f • .;.:4;. Fla!'r!1nable or cOmbtlstible liquids and tanks. 1'0
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store, handle or use:
A. Class I 5 gallons above ground inside
8. Class I 10 gallons above ground outside
c. Class I Any amount; underground
o. Class II or III 25 gallons above ground inside
E. Class II or III 60 gallons above ground outside
F. Class II or III MY amount. undergrcund
EXCEPTIONS:
(1) The !Storage or use of Class I liquids in the fuel
tank of a moter vahicle, aircraft, moto~boat, mobile power
plant or ~obile heating plan~ unless such storag~~ in the
opinion of the Chief, would cause an unsafe condition.
(2) The $torage or use of paints, oils, varnishes or
similar flaiWll.able mixtures when such 1 iguids are stored for
maintenance, painting or similar purposes for a period of
not more than 30 days.
G. To inst~ll. alter tanks or other
connection ~ith the storage, handling,
flammable or combustibl~ liquids. See
Title 11'7 P.A.M.C.
equipment in
use or sale of
Article. 79 and
H. To remove, abandon, place temporarily out of service
or otherwise dispos~ of any flammable or combustible
liquid tank. See section 79.114 and Title 17 P.A.M.C.
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I. To change the type or contents stored in any flanwable
r;: col!lbustible 1 iquid. tank to i5 materia,l other than
~.hat for which the t.cmk. ..... as Gesigned and constructed.
4. ~Oa-r.4.
4.10e-f. 5.
•. ~Oa-g.l.
~ .10e-h.1.
A.
B.
c.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
Fruit ripening. To ripen frJit by the. process
described in Section 46.101.
Fumigation or thermal inse~ticidal fogging. To
operate a business of fl!llligation or thermal
insecticidal togging. Also to maintain a room, vault
or chamber in which a toxic or t~~able fumigant is
used, See Article 47.
Garages. To use any structure as a place of business
t~r repairing motor vehicles. See Article 29.
Hazardous materials. To store, transport on site, or
handla hazardous materials in excess of the following
amounts:
corrosive liquids
Flammable solids
Highly toxic 1 iq-.... ids
(including pesticides and fumigants)
Highly toxic solids
{including pesticides and ~umigant5)
Oxi<1izinq liquids Class 4
Class: 1
Class 2
Class 1
oxidizing ;solids Class 4
Class 1
Class 2
Class 1
orqanic peroxides Class I
Class II
Class II
Class IV
Other health hazards
Liquids:
Solids:
Pyropho~ic materials
unstable ,reactive) liquids Class 4
Class J
Class 2
Class 1
7
55 gallons
100 pounds
Any amount
Any amount
Any a!Ilcunt
1 gallon
10 gallons
55 gallons
Ar,y amount
50 pounds
100 pounds
500 pour.ds
'Any amount
Any amount
10 pounds
20 pou.nds
55 gallons
55 pounds
Any amount
Any amount
Any amount
lD gallons
55 gallons
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4.10S-h.2.
4.10S-h.l.
L10S-h.4.
4 .108-j.1.
4.10S-27
A.
B.
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Unstable (reactive) solids Class 4 Any amount
Class 3 Any amcunt
Class 2 100 pounds
Class 1 500 pounds
watQr-reactivE liquids Cla::.s 3 Any amount
Class 2 !O gallons
Class 1 55 gallons
water-reactive solids Class 3 A."y amQl,"':'lt
Class 2 100 pou.nds
Class 1 500 pounds
Hazardous production materials. To store, handle or
use. haz;ardous production material regulated by article
51 in excess of the quantities listed in Table No. 9-A
or 9-B of the Building Code.
Highly toxic pesticides. See hazardous materials and
compressed gases.
High-piled combustible stock. To use any building or
portion thereof exceeding 2500 sq. ft. for the storage
of high-piled combustible stock. A floor plan shC'1oi'ing
the dimensions and location of the stockpiles and
aisles shall be submitted ~ith applications for such
permits. See Article 81.
Junk yards. To operate a ,,'recking yard, junk or waste
material handling plant. See .Article 34.
Liquefied petroleum gases. To install, use or store
liquefied petroleum gas, See Article 82.
To install liquefied petroleum gas containers greater
than 10 gallons water capacity, Plans a=e required.
To maintain or use greater than 1:20 gallons water
capacity.
EXCEPTION: R-3 occupancies where natural gas is not
available.
4.108-1.2 ..
4.10S-m.l.
4.108-m.2.
Lumber yards. To store luttb~r in excess of 100 1 000
board feet. See Articl~ 30.
Magnesium werking.
mere than 10 pounds
Article 48.
To melt, cast, heat treat or grind
of magnes i um per 'Working day. See
covered mall. To use a covered mall in the following
manner:
A. Placing or constructing temporary kiosks, display
booths, concession equipment or the like in the mall.
s
>
'" r--~
t -,"~;", . .q;-~".'.~:!"'''''.:'><' -, f"~l'" lwtI'lf::\5 . . -
.
-
B To use the mall as a place of assembly .
C. To use opan-flame or flame-producing devices.
o. To display any 1 iquid or gas-fueled po· .... er equipmel'lt.
E. To use liquefie.1 petrolaUln gas, liquified natural gas I
or comprEssed flamQable qas. See Article 35.
4.10S-m.3.
4.108-n.l.
4.108-0.1.
4.108-0.2.
A.
B.
4.108-0.3.
4.108-0.4.
4.l0B-p.l.
4.l08-p.2.
4.l0S-p.l.
4.10a-r.L
, .
Matches. To manufacture matches or to st,,;:Jre
exceeding an aggregate 60 matchmen's gross
each gross). See Article 83.
Nitrate film.
nitrate film.
To store, handle I
See Article 33.
use or
matches
(14,000
display
Oil and natural 945 wells. To drill, O~, operate or
maintain an oil or l".atural gas well. Each oil and
natural q3S .'ell penr.it shall be valid for the
calendar year for 'Which it is issued. See Section
79.1101.
open flame aevices in marinas~ See Section 11.400.
To use open flame devices for maintenance for repaiL
cf boats, slips or wharfs4
To use a portable barbecue, brazier or cooking device
on any boat, slip or wharf.
Organic coatings. To manufacture m.ore than one qallon
of orqanic coatings in a working day. See Article 50.
OVens, industrial baking ~r drying. To operate an
industrial baking or drying oven re9ulated by this
Code. See Article 62.
Parade floats4 To use a parade float for public
perfonc.ance, presentation, spectacle, entertainment or
parade. See Section 11.208.
Places of assembly. To operate a place of public
assembly as defined in Article 94
Places of assembly. To operate a temporary place of
public assembly.
Radioactive materials~ To store or handle at any
installation more than 1 microcurie of radioactive
material not contained in a field sourCE or more than
1 millicurie of radioactive material in a sealed
source or sources, or any amount of radioactive
material for Which a specific license from the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission is required. See Article 80.
9
i
1
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,,~g&
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4.108-r.2.
o
Refrigeration equipment. To install or operate a
mech~nical refrigeration unit or system. S~e Article
63.
EXCEPTIONS:
4.10S-s.1.
4.108-t.1.
4.108-t.2
4 .10S-t. 3.
4.10B-W'.1.
4.10S-w.2.
4.108-46
1. Air, ~ater or brine systems.
2'. All units and systems utilizing Group 1
refrigerants with a ref~igerant comprassor or horse
power rating of less than 100.
Spraying or dipping. To operate a spraying or dipping
enterprise utilizing flammable 1 iquids included 'Wi thin
the seepe ci Article 45. See Section 45.102.
Tank Vehicles. To operate a tank vehicle for the
transportation of flammable or combustible liquids.
See Article 7S_ Division XII.
Tents, canopies and temporary membrane air-suppo~ed
structures. To erect or operate a tent or air-sup
ported membrane str'.J.cture having an area in excess of
200 square feet, or any canopy in excess of 400 square
feet, except for structures used exclusively for
camping. See Articles 12 ~nd 32.
Tire recapping. To ope'l'ate tire recapping or rebuild
ing plants. See Article 31.
~i:re<tit9_~9e:,:.' ' ,To' use' an 'oPen area or portion"thereof
"~':--;&,~~,':;~,g~s i,~'"e::ces~' of ,1 .. ,000 ~ic ,reet'~' .. <A',plan
~tlowlJi:~r' loc:a.tjcn and dimensions of stoTilqe area', ,tire
pil~si' ~Qilrl:,inqs', aisles and' access roads shall be
.submltted "wit.h' the application for a permit. See
Artide H.
'Waste mat.erial handling plant. To oper<3te a waste
material handling plant. See Article 34.
Welding and cutting operations. To conduct welding
and/or cutting operations in any occupancy. See
Article 49.
Fire protection systems installation. For installa
tion or modification of and/or to make alarm connec
tions.
A~ Automatic fiee sprinklers system Installation/ Modi
fication
B. Other automatic fire extinguishing systems Installa
tion/Modification
C. Fire Alarm Systems. Installation/Modification
10
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4.108-47
D. Fire Alarm Systems. Connection Auxili~~y
E. Fire Alarm Company to maintain central station
connec~ion~ to C.P~A.
1-10 customers
11-.20 customers
21 or mor~ customers
z ~ Standpipe systems wet, dry vI combination installation
G~ Hydrants private on-site, installation/modification
H. Underground fire service lines, installation/ modi
fication
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Fire Protection systems. Periodic maintenance testing
by firms licensee. by State of California in accordance
'With Aa 2504, State Fire Marshal regulations and
Appendix lllb UFe to perf o rIll periodic testing required
by Code to assure maintenance standards~
Automatic Fire Sprinkler System
Fire Alarm System
Standpipe System
Smoke Removal System
Other systems or appliances
15 i I C .118 S!lhsest:_is-a 1 iii .1107 EM) ad!!ed Re:erui:I"" v,~
aBd B,,.'18,,.1 9u:ryea fe~C5e99 Ways. S1:leeeet-±an 19.297(m)
is added te the gnifaPB Fize Geee te ~eaa as ~el16~9:
(m) Rel!f'lizoed V.~'c:ieal HI BO;f'ilsatal ~P'i'ee t~i;pe lIeeess
"}'Ie' 'le!"'tieal ana heriesJ'\tal et!fVe:;3 tel' -:f-He aeeeS3 .aj e are
FeeJU:il!ee; ~e eeftfel"l! t--c the efllEJifleeei .• 1J stOf);Sal'Eis peFta":'Rinq-t~
-f4,pe-a"Jla:f'at~-el.;lJ!'r-_p\t:lj iR I.;lse bj' the Pals .tllts Fire DCfla:f''EmePlt.
6Fa~eB s~ail Be~ eneeed 15%.
I'XG!lPJ':xalU PF:iYaee dr-ive, sf R 1 eeel:lI3al'lle-ies lIa, se
lftsdit:ea ey 'Efte FiFe 6nlef iA: elf'ef'~'H'a.9hi-p eef'lllitief'ls.
1S~C4.12C UPC +C'E~306 ad~eO -Gurney ~eeess R.~
mAnta tor Elevators.
section 10 .~30Q is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read
as follo'Ws:
-lO.~306. When elevators are provided i~ buildin~s t~o
stories in height or !llore~ constructed after tRe effeet-h e du-t-e--e-!
'tfte e~di"'anee eAaetil'l1 t:t,is see;;,i-&n January 41" 1990. at least one.
elevator shall be of a size to accommodate a fire department gurney
and a J!1inim1lm of two (2) emergency response personnel. For
engineering purposes, sizing shall be based on gurney dimensions of
24-x 82-. It is not the intent of this amendment to require
11
., --.
,
I
!
-.~ -,
il
1
I
fi'
!
-
;,. ...
elevators, but to regulate the mini1l:lIl:r11 si:.:€ when an eJ e'ntor is
installed.
15 Q. laO ~~ 1:9 1.1' -M!!.el!
felle.HH
-1&.11\, laUelill9 af P~.,d.IHt~ 198IWeyiBg 'heel aia4 411e~
sro_.s. E\'eF"t f!~eal:iet-~ ... e}'il'!lJ Beea ana eiuet-----sy-s-t~3.11 £Ie
;peJ!'mal'!leJ'\\:lr atfi;wee: ',:ita laeels, as fH:l:Mel'8I;;1:S as -r-teeeseaEY, .... ~
ele6~1~ in8i~at_ ~fle a~~~efe~ I;;I:se elas9ifiea~ieR £&~fle S),teN. iR
aeeB:!'9:aftee -,Jitfi 'tofte YPltife:f'ftl-MeeheRieal Seae, 1985 eaitie!'h '%'aese
laeels eRa!l alee eleaEly il'1l:iieate t-hBge~e9 af p;r=etil;;l:e'ts ~
~~!"eftiBi~ea tEem ):lei",,! eBFWe) eEl iF!: ti!.e 5Iys"teHla It
~5*C4.1.C Sub3ection~ (g) 4D4 (hl ~~~e~ to section
lo .. y.H-P'3 -Fire Hydrant f!e.-~.
Section 10 .~<J+4o~ia) and fftr403 (b) are added to the
Uniform Fire Code to read 'as follo~s:
-le. 381 (ffL~':03{a) Fire hydrant spacing. Where tire hy
drants 2lre req!.lired by this Code, the standard spacings li$ted
herein shall be lDaintained, unless in the judgment of the Fire
Chief, conditions warrant a reasonable deviation frem these
standards:
-300 feet for commercial/industrial and high density
residential districts;
-500 feet for ether districts.
-fftrtb)
hydrants sha'll
hydrant.
on-site hy4~aLts. Painting of all
be done in visibiliti'-re.lloW' to
on-site. fire
identify the
15.()4.1.50 Subsection tAl ~s, ,~w;' __ gee\Cieft9 (t) afU?o
i&t ~.s : .. 44&4 to seetion 10~3CU -Privat~ A~,,&r1l System:!.
Subsection tet-(b)' is a!IIefl4ea aHa-sl::119sset-ieFl:z (ti al"l9: (~)
~aQded to section 1:6.3Q6 1.4.103 of the Unifo:i.."lIl Fire Code to read
as follows:
"tet(b) PriVate fire alaI'l!1 system connections and/or
installations. The Fire Chief is hereby authorized to pe.rmit
approved and listed (UL) central station fire alarm companies to
make airect connections to the City of Palo Alto Fire Dispatc~1
Commur,ications Cent~r. SUch connections shall be made and
maintained in accordance with Article 14 of the urc 3:-9-a&-1991
edition, the applicable NFPA standards cited therein and in
accordance with any rules, regulations or equipment standards as
may be specified hy the city of Palo Alto communications Division.
12
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.. ,
if) Po1'tlit rel!f\ii:red" -N&--petSSfl, fiAts ~ eef'pe:r*-i~
shall e."flftEet o-1"ly ,1 i. at-e f H:e--.:H-a:FIfI e irelt:lit, s)'steil't-&Y-'fj:f'e'E eet-ive
'9-igfloaliflq aedee la Ute Ktiflicipal FiFe .':;;a~ G)st_ftI: "itAHlt fil"st
flavifl'J e'il'Eainea a~~.,fte---F4-re Chief.
lie l'erssR, fi-t=m-~.Alall !IIa;ee aFlj ee .. 1"Iect.-i~
i~stall er eause te Be i~5tal!ea a~y e~i~meflt i~or t~a~3mit any
.e99a~es as ~a~t af a ~i~e alarM system l t~Ae Cit] af Pal~~~
Fi:l'e Disl'&Eeih('€alMlliAieat.:.. fI ~2p.tep w'i-t.held'l!: t .. a: .... inll! eBt.a-i~~
t~e. the Fi~E C~
ff-J Pe l'"1!I its iSBtled---tffiele'!' E'eet:.ieR -f-l-) aBe.e EiAall--he
-re eea191e fer eaeJse, alld shall !:Ie is~t'11) aLSen tfie-el(f!ress
eenaii;;ieR tshat t.He l'el"'i!i'etee shall iAeiel!lf'liij aful I'lela t-hce Cit~, its
effieel"s, -ageRts iUI!i EB'llIleyeea aaPRless feZ' aFijr le5s a"f" liab4.-±-4:~
ariSi.HJ eu1=: sf tae fa-ill;ll"e Elf' al±eijeE! taill;1f'c sf -stiCh ~~i· .. a'e:e
syst:e!l!:., tone Gity z:;_t.em eE" aHY---S\;1el'J ee.lF\eei;:i~--t;}"iere.it.h.
~~'~ 0:.'~1.6S ~tiQJl tal ef Beeti.on 10. 506 amen~.
,~Ubsec#i'Oll fa) ot Section l.O~:'CS of the Uniform Fire -Code
,ji.s! ~~~:,,:~ ;-,e,ad as follO:lis;:;
~:fal"'~e,r81. Pire~extinguishinq systems shall be
'inStalj;"ea:':~in' aCCordance with the NFPA standards or the 1991 oniform ~iid~Cc<l.e •...•.
fi~/~~ threads used in connection with fire-extiriquish
!i~q'-:S'Y~4~\&b~.t1' ,be national standard hose thread or as approved !>Yt:ll" f~de~ent, . . .. .
""': "'" .. ",1he','loca:'tion',Oi' fire-deparbu:mt hose -connections shall. be
~ppr~~~by. th~ Fir", Cll ie f,
rn':~uildl.."lgs used ;o:or high-piled combustible storage .. fire
I[r,ot~ctic~ sha.l~):Je ,in accordance with Article Sl.
~br' ',Standards.. Pire-exting'.lishinq systems ,,"hall cOIl'lply
!"~tl'.tJle.!! .. ,Uil"'!I .c.~e appropdate NFPA standards.
;aCEP'l';!ONS.
1,. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems nQt covered
by" the Bl:lllelil'l:EJ C~NFPA standards shall be a'pproved and
installed in accordance 'With -afJ~.re, eel 6"Ea~the Oniform
~uild,in9 Code ..
2, Deleted.
3. Deleted .
.1.5.0 .... .170 subsections l!?)5 and (b)6 _added to Section,
10. ~-OO!50' -lutomatic:: Fire Extingui!!hin._':L Systems.
13
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Eubsections (b)5 and (b,6 ar-e added tc Sect-ion lu.-3-9-6-fb1-507
of the Uniform Fir'3 Code to read as fcl1c","s:
• (b) 5 In any building or-group of buildings 'W"here .. in
the judgment of the Fire Chief. such building or group of build
ings, dlle t.o size, height, type of construction, location on
property, contents, or occupancy classification 'Would exceed or
severely tax the capabilities of the local fire department to
perform a reasonable level of rescue and fire suppress ior. opera
tions. Suc~ buildings shall include, but not be limited to:
(aa) All neW" buildings requiring L 000 gp1ll. or
more fire flow. Required fire flow shall" be determined by using
the formula and procedures established in the F?B fire flo..,
worksheet, FFB-2J. (See 15.04.370 for fire flow worksheet.)
The area used in the fire flo~ formula shall be
the gross building area regardless of area or-occupancy separation
walls.
(bb) All new building~ !IlOI'e than five: storie:s or
50 ft. in height.
(cc) All new buildings constructed in the
hazardous fir 7 a,~ea, C"ha2a'rd:ous fire area-is defined as, ana
~'ud~'~<,_~l, prq~rty located vest o~ Jnterstate ,280). "See UFC
Appendix HJ:I.A .~',,:}I."'F'PA 13-0 shall be the reference standanl .tqr
r-e.E;idi:!n;'ial, :r,.il:,e spe-in-lll er installation. For -remodels see stlbsee-
!?io#(~"fl><>:j.QW; .
(dd) Existing buildings which have occupiable
s~lare footage added to the gross square footage or which have the
pr-incipal occupancy classification changeo to a more hazardous
cl&ssification, shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system
installed throughout the entire building. Hazards related to
occupancy classifjcations shall be determined hy the Fire Chief
using the Palo Alto Fire Department Listing of Occupancie.s
According to Relative Hazards guideline FPB 24 (Sec. 15.04.375}.
(ee) When additions, alt@rations, or repairs
within any twelve (12)-month period e~ceed fifty percent (50%) of
the value of an existing building or-structure, such building shall
be made to conform to the requirements of subso:ction
lO.~07(b) 5 (aa) for new buildings or structures. Value shall be
determ~ned from the cost per square ~oot table in the most current
Building standards, published by the International Conference of
Building Officials.
under section
sprinklered.
If the building a1dition requires sprinklers
lO.5-G-6507(b)5(aa), tho:! entire building shall be
(ff) If an automatic fire sprinkler system is nat
required for purposes other than this section, the area, height O~
L
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story incr-eases or th~ fire resistive substitutions which may have
been permitted in c~~~ter 5 of the UBC sr.all applY4
(99) The Fire Chief may waive the lOOO-gptr. fire
tlo'W provision when applied to buildings housing only F/:-l cccu
pancies and open parking structures not l~ated in the hazardvus
fit'"e area.
(bb) Sprinkler systems shall be equipped with a
mini~um tvo-.ay sia~ese Fire Oepartment connection. Connections
shall be located on a street front not less than three {3) feet or
more Ulan four (<.) feet above grade and shall be equipped. with an
approved straightway check valve. Locations shall be subject to
~pproval by the Fire Chief prior t~ any installation.
EXCEPTION: Automatic sprinkler systems installed i~
accorda~ce ~ith the NFPA standards I3-0 J and 13-R, may have
a singl. 2 lj2-inch conne~tion ~ith approved straightw~y
check valve.
(ii) Any person} firm, company} or corporation
performing ser.,ficing as required by Title 19 of the California
State Fire Marshal's Rules and Regulations, on any fire protection
appliance, shall affix a permanent label to the riser of the Fire
Department connection d.ir-ectly belo'" the two-way siamese. 'rnls
s-eicker or label shall meet the requirements of the california
State Fi~e Marshalls Office.
(b)6 Life Safety System~ in R-J and R-1 Occupanci~s.
The Fire Chief may approve life safety designed
automatic fire sprinkler systems for installation in R-3 and R-l
occupancies not more than three ()j stories or 35 feet in heiqht.
(aa) Materials: Life safe~y autcmatic fire
sprinkler systems may be installed using any ~aterials list~d for
such use by UL or other nationally recogniz.ed testing laboratory
including materials made of plastic.
(bb; Design stand.ards: Life safety automatic
fire spr-inkler syst,_,;ns shall be designed and ~nstalled in accor
dance with NFFA 13R or may be designed and installed ~_nder the
supervision of a licensed fire protection engineer who vill certify
that. the design criteria 'Will provide life safety from fire
equivalent to NFPA 13R standards as -modified bela,.-B~ 'the Pale .'tl"te
Fi~e aepa~~~. '
(ee) Additional requirements for R-l occupancies:
~t")';':~'i:,de,s,~qiCcr,iteria is approved by the Fire Chief" 'the 'desiqner
~U:,itetl1t!'the -:req:uirements "listed below in addition to :a"PA l'3-R :¢g:~~s,~,:" In buildings containing more than four-R-l units the
following additional requirements shall apply.
l~ A 2 lj2-inch fire department pumper connecti~n
shall be provideQ.
15
•
2. A local water flaw alarm bell shall be prcvided.
3. r.t a local fire alarm is r€qui!:ed sprinkler-water
flow detection shall be interconnected.
4. S}'stems containing more than 100 sprinklers shall
comply with Section 10.307 of this Code~
5. Common attics and usable under-fl..,or spaces shall
be protected a
6. Water supply demand for the system shall he
calculQted to the most remote unit or attic space.
(ddJ Mixed occupancy conditions: Buildings con
taining mixed uses shall be protected in accordance with the
hazardous classification ot each use; reference USC standard 38-1
for determining hazard classes or' ',NFPA standard l~ ~
EXCEPTION: R-l occupancies ~ithin mixed cccup~ncy build
ings meeting all other criteria of this subsection may be
protected to life safety st.andaras on the interior of
individual living units.
(ell9:) Automatic fire sprinkler trade-offs; Fire
resistive substitution or-area and height increases which might
otherwise be permitted shall not apply to buildings protected by
life sarety fire sprinkler systems.
(~f) Installation: All required life safety fire
sprinkler systems shall be installed by contractors licensed by the
State of California for installation of automatic fire sprinkler
systems~
EXCEPTION: An individual homeowner acting as his owm
contractor may install a life safety fire sprin.i(ler system,
provided that the system design has been r'5!vie;.;ed and
approved by a licensed engineer or a C-16 licensed
contractor~
~r{qg) Licensed contractors installing plastic
pipe shall be certified by the manufacturer of the listed pipe, in
addition to S'tate of California contractors I licensing require
ments. This certificate shall be in the possession of the
installer on the job site at all times, and shall be presented upon
request of the Fire Chief.
~(hh)
shall use insulated pipe
Fire ChieL
Installers using listed plastic pipe
clamps or other clamps as approved by the,
16
;~11~.J~(
'."~ ,;:,,::.;: .; -
-
.-'.
_ ....
(ii) All NFPA D-D, or 13R ",y"tems shall be hyr<>
s\:"ti,~~1-Y.t8Lted at 200 psi for t ... o (2) h<>urs.
15.0~.~'2 section ~Q.~~SOS -Sprinkler AlArm sy9tem~~~
Co:gtrol yal v.s.
Section lo~~oa ~f the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
rea-:i as follcws;
II~O.~.08(a.) Alarms.. When serving roore than 10~
sprinklers automatic sprinkler sJ"steIns shall be monitor.ed for water
flow and valve supervi.sion. Monitoring sh,,,,ll be by an approved
centra.l, proprietary or remote station se.rvice or a local alarm
vhich will sound an audible alarm at a constantly attended
location.
(b) Floor CantLol Valves.
systems servinq buildings two {2} or ~ora
have valves installed so as to control the
each floo~ including basements.
Automatic sprinkler
stories in height shall
system L'ldepende,ntly on
EXCEPTION: Buildings not OV6~ three (3) stcries containing
only R-l occupancies.
Floor control valves shall oe protected from tampering
by i:-:.stallation in lockable enclosures and by valve 5uperJ'isioii in
accordance with lo.'~7(a)SC~.B
'i5'~-a4.1.."s. ,,@.tet:!'oA tc;:l • .,d.e'" to '-a-n.;)' 8yhoegti.oris Hn 'a.n~
1", ,'~ <h!j,I' ... tr .... ', .,r_" 8ection :19, 509 -~ Sprinklers 'omit,ted ~
~io" (e) is aclded to·· and sul:lsections Cd) and ,reI
lioilll\:iliit::troio S4et1on 1.0.309 or the llniforln .l'it·e Cod .. to r~das
tDH~;····' .'.
"1.0.509 Subject to-t:he app'roval of tbQ Fire Chief,
~rfnk1.rs ... y be caitted in rOO1n.$ .or a~s as "fo~lo"Ws.
(a) Whan sprinklers are consider~d undesirable beca~6e of
the nature of the cont.ents or in roams or areas which are of
.nonCOmbu~tible ccnstructicn with wholly nonco-mbustible contents and
which are not expos.ed by other areas. Sprinklers shall not be
omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-r~sistiv~
construction or contains electrical equipment.
(b) Spri r.lclers shall net :be installed ....,hen the application
Qf 'Wat.er or tla.~e. and -water to the contents may constitute a
serious lite or fire hazard. as in the manufacture or storage of
quantities of aluminum powder. calcium carbide, calcium phosphide.
JDeta.l1ic sodium and potassium~ quic}C::liIne. magnesiul'r. powder and
sodiUlD: peroxide.
(c) 6:3fe tla:FasH: ar at-ReF .al:ilt:s o-t-the l!:esistd,'e
89f:lSt:l"Wet: i8P' I "Ref]: .. sed to l" Ulie st-era~ e -e-t---ree eras, til es ane---~
17
I!sewtePi4!:s, wfte" etOl"ed-ip. ~et.al eas iFlet~. In accordance \l{i'th
Ns~j:ona;t"Ffre, Protection Assc.::iation standards l.J, 13[; or llR',
(d) Deleted.
(e) D<:E:leted.'"
15. Ct .183 '_!l_c;:tiop, 12 .1.N1Q ametl~ed -Exit Illumination.
section i2.1~~O of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
r&ad as follows:
--+et"Cb'j Et'!lergency P-:')'.&1er Supply~ In Group I occupancies
with an occupant load of 50 or more and all other occupancies ~ith
an occupant load of 100 or more, emergency pc~er supply for exit
illumination shall he automatically provided in the event of
faillJre of the normal power supply ..
Emecgency power shall be supplied from storage
batteries or an on-site generator installed in accordance with the
requirements of the Electrical Code.
Emergency pOIor.'er facilities shall be arranged tc
maintain the specif~c degree of illumination for a period of one
and one-half hours in the event of failure of the normal lighting.
For high-rise buildings and smoke enclosures, see the
BUilding Code. If
Subsection +et(q) added to 12.1.a..1L._-Exit
Subsection tt.-l-e-8--(gl is added to section 12, .. 11 of the
Uniform Fire Code to read as folla~s:
·te+'(gt Emergency Po' .... er Supply. The emergency po.'er
supp!y requir'ed for exit illumination in se~tion 12.1-0-71.0 (c) shall
also provide power for exit sign illumination as required in
Section 12.1-9-&1l,-:(d)."
15.0". 1~87 S\lbseetion --f-eT(a) arjdec1 to section 1:1:.3 '1;2
l3.'~2.'02 -:preventable False Fit:e Alarms ..
Subsection teT{a,} is added to Section --i--l.......-3--G-2-~3. 202 of the
Uniform Fire Code to read as follows:
-+e+-fa) Preventable Fal~~_L:fj.re Alarms. More than three
false alarms received within a 30-day period and each consecutive
alarm thereafter, from a private alarm connection to the Municipal
alarm system or-~-to the Communications Center which are
determined after investigation by the Fire Chief to be preventable
(as defined in the Palo Alto Fire Department General Order) are
subject to a fine, as established by the Municira1 Fee Schedule~
that shall be equivalent to the direct cost of all responding
units.. Cost shall be computed in increments of fifteen (15)
18
minutes. Cancellati,:m ot responses (s) enroute shall be deemed as
a preventable false alarm.~
1.5.04.189 ~~j.ions_+H-(i'l and: fetC,bl alSded. to section
14.10~7. Speeial pravisieae bnDuneiatioD.
Subsections f&t(a) and -tet(b'} are added to Section 14.10';'7
of the Uniform Fire. Code to read a's follows:
"'f«tl8.1 Annunciator Panels.. Graphic annunciator panels
shall be prciviaed at such locations as are required by tho Fire
Chief.
tetlb) Exiatinq Bui14ings. The. provisions of this
section shal1"appl~..-to existing conditions as 'Well as to conditions
arising afte: the adoption thereof, except that the conditions
legally in existence at the adoption of this section and not in
strict compliance. there .... ith s:hall be permitted to continue only if,
in the opinion of the Fire Chief, they do not constitute a distinct
hazard to life or property.~
15~O'.1.92 Subsection .l4.10-6·tUa) amended -Maintenance.
Subsection 14.106~(a) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended
to read as follows:
"14.1C6~I(a) Maint.enance and Testing. All fire alarm
systems shall be maintained and tested in accordance with NFPA
Standard 72-h Te!;t.inq Procedures for Local, l<emote station, and
PLoprieta.:rY ." p~()tec:tive .. .E;ig~alin9 Sys~ems 1988 most :Cuir-&ht:
edi ti oni",,.;gI:; ~!\g<)!"I.1'ire. ~e StaJ'idard 14 -~. "
15;O:j;iiJ.l', .'S@$e~l.()lI.' l.. .. 2· Ud 3 added. t<) se¥o~ t!S;i;.(,t\'~K~h'\lmO"C1!IIW . 1.oa4,
s·Ut;S;.)ct:lons.···l;· :1 arid.····) are added to Section 25~'l~4 fa}' of
t:he"u!fl..f~:r;m' r.ire ~e ~o read as follows:
"(a) Pos~ing of Room Capacity. Rooms having an occupant
load of 50 or more where fixed seats are not installed, and which
is used tor classroom, assembly or similar pl~rpose. shall have the
capacity or the room posted in a conspicuous place on an approved
sign near the main exit from the room. Such sign shall be
maintained legible by the owner or the owner's authorized agent and
shall indicate the number of occupants permitted for each room use.
i ~ 'Occup~nt lqai:i' signs. OCcupant !oad signs., "when
~~l.~,.: shal1':,me,et"::.' the'. requir,ements. .of the' Palo Alto Fire
~~,~1: ,.<)(:cu~.n~ :;;',oa~f.f?ign r~t:;fUireillent~'.
2.~ Maxil1l.Ull1 i.oom capacity sign shall be conspicuously
Po£it.ad:":.:bi,: thft, awne.r. of' the building by means o£ dU?able' siqns
plaO!d"'\in':: each aiSsellW1y room, aUditorium, or room used :for a
s.i:mi,~,ar:·purpose w~~re .fixed seats are not i.nstalled. .It shal~' be
19
... ~"----
. ..,'
-
-'
----,.-...----.---_.-
pnla'Wf~>:::to ,'remove or deface such 6,ign or to permit lll.ore than tie
~eq~~l" nttmb~r' ,of pe£sons .. ithin such space. '
3"; Sample sign. The fol~owin9 sign meets the
reqw:'t"o/'~!:S<irthl" subsection (a),
SEATING CAPACITY 1
NOT TO EXCEED¥ 'v, <v I
ASSEM~Y% 100 I
~~
DINING '± • CD -, 46 T
J_
5
BY ORDER OF FI RE a BLDG. o DEPTS. }
_sll
o J
I
15~O~~195 section !2.113 amended -Exit Illuminatio~.
Section 32.113 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to read
a& folloW's:
-32.113 Exit 11lUInination~ Exits shall be ill-.:.minated in
accordance with Sections 12.1~lO and 12.1~11 of this Code.n
~5.04.197 section 32~11C amended E_~_it __ Siqns.
Section 32.114 is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read as
tollo,*,s:
·Section 32.114 Exit Signs shall be ill~inate~ in
accordance with Sections l2.1~lO and 12.1~11 of this Code."
.15~04.20C Section 3$ __ ~J.)l7 aCided. -Unoooupie~ __ Ten_a.nt Spa.ees.
Secti~n 35.107 is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read as
follo'Ws:
20
-
\
·Section 35.107 Unoccupied tenant spaces shall be isolated
from the relllain1.er of the covered m.all by partitions covered on
both sides by at least 1/2-inch gypsum 'Wallboard or its fire
resistive equivalent. Partitions shall have no penetrations except
door openings equipped with doors lock~d in the closed position.
Such spaces shall be kept free from combu~tible .... aste
material and storage of any kind."
.15.0 •• 203 S.ction 315.10'" .. 4<3,11 -Dry-Cleaning contain-
Section 36.10+5 is added to the Unitorm Fire Code to read
as follows:
·36.1~. Secondary containment shall be provided for
storage and use"of drr"-cleaning solvent.·
1.5.0'.205 section .'1.1141 a~da4 -151ectr.:LJL,Arc 'aIding and
Cytting.
Section 49.114. is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read as
follo'Ws:
-49.114 (a) The frame or case of the. welding machine,
except internal COmbustion anqine driven machines, shall be
qrounded. Ground connections sl'.all be mechanically strong and
electrically ade~~ate for the required current.
Cb) Welding cu~ent return circuits from the work to the
machine shall have proper electrical contact at all joints, and
periodic inspection shall be condUcted in order to ensure that
proper electrical cont3ct is rnai~tain~d.
(c) When electric arc welding or cutting is to discontin
ued fer any substantial period of time j such as during lunch hour
or overnight, all electroaQs shall be removed from the holders..
The holders shall be carefully located so that accidental contact
cannot occur, and the machines shall be disconnected from the po~er
source."
.15 .. 04 .. 207 sub.!eetion 7'5.1.01(11.) EXCEPTION 4. amended -Fuel
oil Tapks.
Subsection 79.101 Ca) of the Uniform .Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
84. Storage and use of fu-al-oil tanks and containers
connected with oil-burninq equipment~ Such storage and use shall
comply with Article 61 and the Mechanical Code. Abandonment and
status of tanks and containers shall comply ~ith 79.115.-
21
-
llnY:sual
Uniform
·".-~-.....
15404.209 subsection 7!L 101 fbj am:end~_~ -Liquids wit_~
Jluming Char~cteristic9. subsection 79.101 (b) of t..'1e
Fire Code is hereby am~nded to read as follows:
• (b) Liquids Wi th t]m.lslJ:al Burning Characteristics.
Additional requir~ments may be necessary for safe storage and use
of li~~ids which have unus~al burning characteristics! ~hich are
subject to self-ignition ~her. expcsed to the air, which ar~ highly
reactive 'With other substances, which are subject to explosive
decomposition, or have other special properties \ihich dictate
safeguards over and above those specified for a normal liquid of
similar flash point classification. See Article 80. Such
substances shall be reported to the Fire Chief."
15.04.213 I§~tion 79.~O' amended -Change or contents.
Section 79~lD~ of th~ Uniform Fire Code is hereby amended
to read as tollows:
"79.106. Change of Contents. A change in the cor.tents of
a tank shall be in conformance ~ith the require~ents of section
79.105. Prior to a change in contents, the chief may re.quire
testing of a tank. The Fire Chief may require retroactive double
contai~ent upon the change of contents.
Underground tanks shall not contain petroleum products
containing mixtures of a nonpetroleum nature without evidence of
compatibility. Such products shall include, but not be limited to,
ethanol or methanol blends ....
1S .. 0.~21' section', • .1.12 amend.eli -Cleaning witb Flammable
Liquid.
section 79.112 of the uniform Fire Code is hereby amended
to real! as follo""s:
·79.112. Cl~aning ~ith Fla~~able Liquid. Class I liquids
and class II liquids with a flash Foint below 110 degrees F shall
not be used wi thin building for 'Washing parts or reIllo\'ing grease or
dirt unless they are used in a closed machine approved for the
purpose or in a separate ... ell-ventilated room constructed ir,
accorda.nce with Section 79.804. Quantities less than 10 fluid
ounces may be dispensed lIiithin ventilated· enclosures of noncor,J.
bustible construction.h
15.0'~219 section 79.113 amended
Product' an~ Fl~~le or compu~tible Liquids.
Section 79.113 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to read
as f~llows:
-79.113. Waste I'ot:!troleum Products and Flammable or Combus
tible Liquids. Flammable or combustible liquids or any waste
liquid containing crude petroleum or its proo:.lcts shall not be
discharged: into or upon any street, highway. drainage canal or
-
ditch, sto~ drain, sewer or flood-control chann~l~ lake or tidal
watervay, or upon the ground. The FiLe Chief may requi:n~ retroac
tive secondary containment to prevent discharges. III
15 .. 04w222 SUbseetion 19 .. 115 fe) 1 Amended. ----tanka T8mpo-
r,rily Out of Service.
Subsection 79.115{C) of the unito~ Fire Code is amended to
read as folloW's:
III! (c) T3nK:S TeMporarily Cut of Service. 1. ~rnderground
Tanks. Underqround tanks temporarily out ot service shall have the
fill lina, qage opening, vapor return and pUEp connection s~cured
against tampering. vent lines shall remain ope!"'. <:r:d be maintained
in accord~nce ~ith the requirements of this article for vent lines.
Environmental monitoring required by this article or other laws
shall continue.ft
15.0f.223
service 9 Q Days ..
subsectio.:D 79,115 Cd) 1 eyae.q4e4 -Tanks out of
Subsection 79.115 {d) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
-Cd) Tanks Out of Service so cays. 1. Underground tanks.
Any underground tank not 'Used or not monitored by an apprcved
system for a period of 90 days shall be properly safeguarded or
removed in a manner approved by the chief.~
~5.04.225 Subsection 79.115 (dl1A amended -Maintaining
Tapk.,
Section 79 .115(d) lA of the Uniform Fire: Code is amended to
read as follows:
• {A) Maintaining tanks.
accordance with the following:
Tanks shall be 5d:feguarded in
(i) Ramove all flammable or combustible liquids from
the tank, and
(ii) Cap or plug all piping, including fill line, gage
opening, vapor return and pump connection, and secure aqainst
tcm:pering, and
(iii) vent lines shall remain open and be maintained in
accordance with requirements of this article for vent lines.
Tanks 'Which are to be placed back in service shall be
tested in a manner approved by the chief. Environmental samples
Eiohall be taken from approved locations and the analy't.ical reports
provided to the Fire Chief."
15.0 ... 229 Subsection 7 9 .115« d) l.. B.. Iv) a4d:ed: -R.~_oviDg
~.
23
Subsection 79~115'd) lB( .... ) of the Uniform Fire Code is
adQed to read as tollows:
• (v) Environmental samples shall be taken from approved
locations and the analytical reports provided to the Fire Chief.·
15.0'.235 Subsectioc ?',115ft) amenGe4 -Un-:sergrcund Tanks out of Service One Year.
Subsection 7"3.115 (f) of the Uniform Fire Code is addea to
read as follows:
iii (f) Underground Tanks Out of S.ervice One Year. Any
underground tank ~hich has been out of service for a period of one
year shall be r~moved from the gro~nd in a manner approved by the
Fire Chief and the site restored in an acceptable manner.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Double ... all tanks with operable app!'oved monitor
ing systems may be approved for longer periods.
2. In cases where it has been shown that excavating
th.e tank may cause a severe hardship or damage to the
property the chief may permit the tank to be abandoned in
place.
Tar~ shall be removed from the ground in accordance with
Subsection (d) lB.
Tanks shall be abandoned in place as follows:
l~ Remove all flammable or combustible liquids from the
tank and from all connacted piping, and
2. Disconnect the suction, inlet, gage/ vapor retu1""n, and
vapor lines, and
3~ Fill the tank completely with an inert solid material
approved by the Fire Chief and
4. Cap or plug remaining undergrour,d piping, and
5. Retain a record of tank size; location and date of
abandonment~
6. Environmental samples shall be taken from approved
locations and the analytical reports provided to the Fire Chief."
15~O •• 238 Bubsec:tiQn ?~ ___ .. 2(11(e)2<iii) adde'!:'l-Education&L
~titutional and Office.Flammable storage.
section 79~201 (eJ 2 is adt::ed to the Uniform Fire Code to
read as follows:
24
.....---..---::----
'L
1iM'--"-
-(iii; Stordge shall no~ be on the floor.
ExcEPrrON: Double contained ;.raste collection systems
within 5 qallon or less approved safety containe::-s~-
15.0'~241 sUbsection 79,201")3 qen4e4 -construct."-~
Subsection 79~2Dl(f)3 of the Unifo~ Fire Code is am~nded
to read ~s follcws:
-(3) Construction~ Cabinets for B-2 occupancies with less
than 10 occupant5 or R occ~pancies may be constructed of ~ood or
metal~ All other occupand.es shall be. of metal. Cabinets shall be
listed or const4~cted in accordance ~ith the fOllowing:
A. lJnlisted Metal Cabinets~ Metal cabinets shall be
of steel haYing a. thickr.ess of not less than 0.043 inch. The
cabinet, including the door, $hall be double wallp-d with 1 Ij2-inch
airspace betweer. the ~alls~ Joints shall be riveted or welded and
shall be tight fitting. Doors shall be well fitted, self-closing
and equipped with a latching device. The bottom of the cabinet
shall be liquid-tight to a height of at least 2 inches.
B. Wooden cabinets. Wooden cabinets including the
aoors shall be of not less than l-inch Exterior grade ply-.'ood. All
joints shall be fastened in two directions ~ith ~ood screws. Doors
shall be well fitted, self-closing and e~~ipped with a latch. The
bottom of the cabinet shall be painted with an intumescent-type
paint~
15,04.242 Subsection 7',201fb) ad4e~ -Liste4 Retrigera-
li9.!!.
Subsection 79.201(h} is added to th€ Uniform Fire code to
read as follows:
-79. 201{h) Liste~ Refrigeration. Refrigeration of flamma.
ble liquids shall be 'Within appliances listed or approved by a
nationally recognized laboratory. If refrigeration is needed to
prevent a hazardous condition the Fire Chief may require standby
power or an equivalent safeguard."
15~O.~24l Section 79,402 amen.ded. -Plans.
section 79.402 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to read
as follows:
"79.402. Plans shall be submitted ~ith each .!pplication
for a permit to store liquids in drums or tanks. The plans shall
indicate the methods of storage, quantities to be stored. distances
from buildings and property lines, access ioriays, fire-protection
facilities and provisions for drainage and runoff. Storage shall
be in accordance ~ith approved plans.-
25
"-"
-
15.004.244 Section 79. Sf'll amer.u:!ed -Re~t~,~.i_~J_~!1 Locatio:! for
Liqui4 ...
Section 79.501 of the Uniform Fire code is a~ended to read
as follows:
-79.501 (a) Class I Liquids.
liquids in the abovegro~nd tanks outside
within the City of Palo Alto.
The storage of Cl ass I
of buildings is proh3bited
EXCE?TION: '!'he chief ~ay approve aboveground storage of
Class I liquids in quantities of 2000 gallons or le~s in
aqricultl.l,ral la l1 d uS,e zones 8:}'QJ6 t-el!(get'",arily at constr:ucti,on
s,ites", , at :eerth ,_',!I10vin9 projects~ and at .other'"areas ,:'3.Ji
~~r~ea, by'" ih,~ 'cf#ef, provided that all othe'r provisions
o"f 'this Code are met.
'b) Class II and III Li~~id~. The storage of Class II and
III liquid5 in above9~ound tanks outside of buildings is prohibited
within the City of Palo Alto.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. ~~en protected by an approved fire extinguishing
system alld all other provisions of this Code are met.
2 ~ Wher. tank capacity if 600 gallons or less and all
other provisions of this Code are met.
3. When stored in quantities of ~~OOO gallons or
less in a.gricultural, lar:d, -use zones, and temporarily, ilt con
:at:;ucti~n, si~e,s:.P,:,:at :earth' m()Vinq Jlrojects'I' an'd a~::oth~
~:{~~s::'"as:-::~ppi,ov~ ,b~, the, _,chief,..-ilfHi-provided all other provisions of this Code are met'~ "
Subsection 79. 6;Jl (a) of the Unifonn Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
"79. 6tH (a) Location. A flammable or combustible liquid
stor-age tank may be located underground, outside of or under a
building if such installation meets the requirements of this
section, except as otherwise provided in other laws or regulations.
The tank shall be so located ~ith respect to existing fDu~dations
and supports that the loads carried by the latter cannot be
transmitted to the tank. The distance from any part of a tank
storing liquids to the nearest wall of any basement, pit, cellar or
property line shall be no~ less than 3 feet. A minimum distance of
1 toot, shell to shell, shall be maintained between underground
tanks."
26
-
Sub$ection 79.601{d) cf the UnifoI~ Fire Code is amended to
read as fOller ... s:
• {d} Leaking Tanks. L-eaking tanks shall be promptly
reported, emptied l and removed trom the ground., or abandoned in
accordl!.nce with section 19.115. The Fire Chief may permit a. double
contained tank to be repaired by an approved method and may require
recommendations from a qualified engineer.-
lS.C4 ~249 '9' pivision VIl.X pen4eO -use, Dispen~
HiKing and K.~41ipg.
Division VIII of the unifor.m Fire Code is amended to read
as follows:
Division VirI
CSE, DISPENSING, MIXING ~~ BANOLING
15~04~f51 SUbsection 79,8Q2(b} amended
BquipaeDt... Subsection 79.802 (0) of the Uniform
amended to read as follo~s:
Dispensi.Ag
Fire ewe is
If {b) Dispensing Equipment. Class I and Class II liquids
shall not be dispensed by gravity from tanks, drums, barrels or
similar containers. Dispensing devices tor flammable or combusti
ble liquids shall be of an approved type.
An exception may be granted v~ere the nature of the liquid
to be dispensed makes such a restriction impractical, Approved
pumps takin9 suction from the top of the container shall be used.
Flammable O~ combu5~ible li~~ids shall not be dispensed by a device
that operates through p:t"essure 'Within a storage tank: or a contain
er, Llnlei$s the tank or conta iner has been aPP:t-oved as a pressure
vessel for the use to which it is subject~d.
Air or oA~qen shall not be used to pressu~ize an approved
pressure vessel and the pressure input line shall be of combustible
construction. Th~ output flammable or combustible product
conveying line shall be on noncombustible construction. Class I
liquidS shall be disp-e!1sed only from approved safety cans or
original containers.-
1.5 .. 04. 25S ~~~eti9n 79 .8()2 (~ amenc!ed -con.trQJ of Spills
or Connoction to Sev.rs~
Subsection 79.802 (e) of the Uniform Fire Code is alnended to
read as folloW's:
-(e) Control of Spills or Cor.nection to Sewers_ Provision
shall be made to prevent flammable or combustible liquids which may
be spilled at loadi!'.g or unloading points froID. entering publ ic
sewer and drainage systems O~ natural ~a.terways. connections to
such se~ers, drains or ~aterways by which flammable or combustible
27
-
liquid5 might enter shall be provided with sepa~ator box~s or other
approved means whereby such entry is precluded.
Crankcase drainings i!l.rld flammable or combustible liquids
shall not be dumped into se'orlers. Crankcase draining's shall bE;
cauble-contained and labeled until r~moved from tbe premises.
Flammable liquids may not be added to abovegroun~ crankcase oil
storage systems. The Fire chief may approve an aboveground
crankcase oil installation inside. Quantities shall be limited to
uae Tahle 9-A for Combination lA-1B-1C flammable liquids. The Fire
Chief may require periodic analrsis of the c~ankcase oil. If the
analysis of crar~case oil results in a flash point of less than 200
degrees F, the interior storage system may be required to b~ taken
out of service and. removed from the interior."
15.0,.259 Subsection 79.802 Ct) a.~4...12 -:Recycle Equipment.
Subsection 79.802(f} is added to the U~iform Fire Code to
read as follows:
-79.802 (f) Rec~{cle Equipment. EquipIllent to be utilized
for purification, separation, or recycling flammable or combustible
materials and utilizing a heat source shall be reported to the Fire
Chief and reviewed for adequate safeguards."
15.04.263 SUb8ectio~ 7'.80"b) amended -DispeDsinq.
Subsection 79~806(b) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as follows!
.. (b) Dispensing. Dispensing of Class I liquids shall be
from only {l) original shipping containers with a capacity of 5
gallons or less, (2) from safety cans, (3) through closed piping
system or (4) from a portable tank. or container by m~ans of a
listed pump or device drawing through an opening ir. the top of the
tank or container. Class II or III-A liquids may be dispensed from
a container by gravity through a listed self-closing valve. or self
closing faucet.
Class II or III liquids may also be dispensed using inert
gas O~ water I provided the tank or container has been approved as
a vessel for th.a. use to 'Which it is subjected. Dispensing of
liquid.s by 'Water pr-essure or inert gas iEi permitted only if
controls, including pressure-relief devices; are provided to limit
the pressure 50 it cannot exceed the design pressure of the vessel,
tank or container. The pressurized input line shall be of
combustible construction. The output flammable or combustible
product conveying line shall be of noncombustible construction.
Air or oxygen shall not be used to pressurize any container for
dispensing.
Dispensing from underground storage tanks shall be in
accordance ~ith Division IX, Serlice St3tions."
28
L
.'
.. -
•
~.
I
j
-
r , '
.1S.0~ ~26' Subl!!!ection 7,.8Q9 .. :1ded -HallcUi,Jlg.
Subsection 79.80'3 is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read
as folloW's:
.. Seet.--i-eft--79~809. HandLi..nq. The Fire chief may r-eq1..'ire
flammable and. combustible liquid handling to comply 'With Sec.
BO.40J~·
15.04.271 BUbsection 79.903 JLb) amend~4 -supervision o~
~ic. BtatiQPs.
s~section 79.903 (b) of the Uniform Fire Code is amend&d
to read as follows:
-(bj Supervision. The dispensinq of Class I end Class II
liquids into the fuel tank of a vehicl~ or into a container shall
at all times be ur.der the supervision of a qualified attendant.
EXCEPTION: Supervision by a qualified attendant is not
required for a 6~rvice station 'Which is not open to the
publiC, px:ovided that the owner ot such station is account
able for the safe operation of the station and the training
of users thereof. Such stations may include card-or ke:,r
operated dispensers. Wher-e dispensing operations are
unsupervised the Fire Chief ~ay require additional safety
measures $I.lcb as fire reporting equipment, automatic fire
detection devices and automatic quantity limiting controls
on disper.sers.
The attendant ts primary function shall be to supervise,
observe and control the dispensinq of Class 1 and Class II liquids
while said liquids are beinq dispensed. It shall be the responsi
bility of the attendant to prevent the dispensing of Class I and
ClaGs II liquids into portable containers not ir. compliance with
Section 79.104(a), control sources of ignitioT!~ and to give
immediate attention to accidental spills and fire extinguishers, it
needed.
The att~ndant shall at all ti~es be in the immediat~ area
of the dispens~nq operations. If stationed within a structure, the
attendant's v~ew of the dispensing operations shall not be
obstructed by parts of the structure or its appurtenances, signs,
equipment or merchandise for sale."
Subsection 79.901(a) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
W(a) control and Connection to Sewer. Provisions shall be
made in the area where Class I, II or III-A li~~ids may be spilled
to prevent 1 iquids fron. floving into interior ot service station
buildings. Such provisions m3.Y be by grading driveway, raising
29
L
\ ·'f:
\""
door sills, or other equ:!lly effective means. Crankcase draining
and fla:nmah19 OT combustible liquids shall not be dumped into
sewers and shall be double contained and labeled until removed from
the premises.
1$.0"279
Orai:llih1~
Subsection 79.997(b) ameb~e~ Crankcase-
Subsection 79.907 (bj of the Unifcrm Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
"(b} Cr-ankca.;;e Draininq. Tanks installed for-crankcase
drainlng shall be installed in accordance ~ith the requirements for
Class I liquid storage. In addition thereto, drair.age 1 ines
terminating inside a building shall be equipped .i~~ a nonremov
able-type cap, such as a hinged cap). The Fire Chief m~y approve
an a.boveground cral"Jccase Qil installation inside~ Quar.tities shall
be limited to usc Table 9-A for Combination lA-lS-1C flammable
liquids. ':'he Fire Chie.f Itay require pericdic analysis of tt'~e
crankcase oil ~ If the analysis of crankcase oil results in a flash
point of less than 200 degrees F, the interior storage system may
be required to be taken out of service and remove.d from the
interior~·
lS.04~283 §ubsection 80.103(a) ~en4ed -Generel.
Subsection SO .103 (a) of the Uni "form Fire Code is amended to
read AS follows:
"SO.10J(a) General. No person, firm or corporation shall
store., d.ispense, use or handle hazardous material in excess of
quantities specified in Section 4 ~ 108 unless and until a valid
permit has heen issued pursuant to this article.
A permit shall be cbtained when a ~~terial is classifjed as
having ~ore than one hazard category if the quantity li~its are
exceeded in a!1}' ca,tegory.
NO' person, fi.I1lJ or corporation shall in~tall, repair,
abandon, remove, place temporarily out of servlce, close or
substantially modify a storage facility cr other area regulated by
this article until a permit has been issued~ (See also sections
80.107 and 80.108.)
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Routine maintenance.
2. For emergency repai~ ~ork performed on an emer-
gency basis, application for permit shall be made within
two werking days of commencement of work.
Replacement of sanitary 1 ines which have or may have
handled industrial wastes and show evidence of leakage shall be
30
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reported to th~ ~iLe Chiefa The permittee shall apply tor approval
or replacement stem fro~ the fire department.
The pL-.>:l.ittee shall apply for approval to close any
storage, use or handling facility at least 3~ days prior to the
termination ~f the storage, use cr hand.lir".~ of ha'tardo\ls materi?l.ls.
Suc..'1 applicatio:l shall include any change or alteration of the
facility clos\l.re plan filed pursuant t.o Section 80 .. 107 of this
article. This 30-d~y period may be waived by the l'ire Chief if
there are spe.cial circumstanc.4!s requiring such waiver .. ~
15.04.267 Subsection 8C.301~&1 amended -seope.
SWJsection aC.301(a} of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read ~s follo~s:
·SO.301(a} scope. This division applies to the storage Qf
hazardous materials in containers. cylinders and tanks.
EXCEPTION'S:
l.
in this
sion.
Hazardous materials regulated by other articles
Code unless specifically incHcated in this divi-
2. Indoor storage of liquid and solid oxidizers,
organic peroxides, unstable (reactive) and water-reactive
materials in quantities less than the exempt amounts shall
be as specifiea. in sections 80.306. 30.307, 80.309 and
80.310."
15.04.290 Ilubsect.icil 80. jOl (b.il amen4e~ -Tanks out of
8.nice '9 Days.
Subsection SO.301{b)2 of the Uniform Fire Code is a~ended
to read as follows:
"'2. Tanks out-of-service 90 days. Any stationary tank not
used for a period of gO days shall be properly safeguarded or
removed in a manner appr-oved by the Fire Ch:ieL Such tanks shaH ..
have the fill line, gauge opening and pump connection secured
against tampering. Vent lines shall b~ properly maintained.
Tar.Jcs 'Which are to be placed back in service shall be
tested in A manner approved by the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief may
require Sec. 79.115 provisions4w
1S.0'.2P3
piscbarge.
Subs.ctiQ~ 80.30~(b)4 amended Uriauthoriled
Subsection 80.301(b)4 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended
to read as follo~s:
".. Empty containers and tanks. Empty containers and
tanks prevIously used for the storage of hazardous materials shall
31
l
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be free from residual ~aterial and vapor as defined by the u.s.
Departnent of Transportation {O.O.T.}, cr in the Federal Resource
Conservation and Recovery ~ct (R.C.R.A., other regulating author
ity, or mainta.ined as specified for the storage of the hazardous
zaterial. Empty cornpre~sed: gas cyl inders shall be considered full,
no matter how much material they contain~ and shall be identified l
secured and separdted from nonc¢mpatibles. Empty cylincers ~hich
leak and which contain highly toxic or toxic materials shall have
access to an app~oyed gas cabinet or equivalent protection.~
lS.04.296 subseotion SO.301Ci) ameD~ed -Shelf storage.
Subsection 80~ 301(i) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
"(i) Shelf Storage. Shelves shall be of substantial
construction and adequately braced~ For seismic re~~ire~ents and
the seismic' zone in ~hich the material is located, see the Building
Code.
Sh.elves sha~l be p'rovided with a lip or guard when u.sed for
the storage of individual containers~
EXCEPTION: storage in hazard..:'lus materials storage cabinets
or laboratory furniture specifically designed for such use.
Storage cabinets and laboratory f~rniture shall be ade
quately braced.
Shelf storage of hazardous Illaterials shall be maintained in
an orderly manner. S~oraqe of hazardous mateyials containers shall
not be on the floor.
EXCEPTION: Waste collection ~ithin double contained
approved safety co~tainers ~hich are 5 gallons or less.-
1~.04:.3CO Subsection SO.lell;} a..n!.ended -M&Xi~_~ Qua.ntity
on Bite.
Subsection BO.301(j) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
--80.301(j) Maximum Quantity on Site. The storage of
hazardous materials shall conform to all applicable provisions cf
the Palo Alto Municipal ~ode.v
15~O'~302 Subsection BO.3e1'l}1 am,ud!d -General.
Subsection 80.301(1)1 of the Uniform Fire Coae is amended
to read as follows:
·Unless exempted or otherwise provide.d for and in excess of
the exempt amounts specified in Sections 80.302 through 80.315 1
rooms j buildings or areas used for the storage of solid and liquid
hazardous Zilate~ials shall be provided with a means to control
.",--~~
-,'~;4,·~:it>
7-·
32
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sp.illage and to contain or drain off spillage a!1d fire protection
water discharged in the storage area.n
~5.04.303 Subsection 8o.301cm~nde~ -~~~ila~.
Subsection aO.301(m} of the Uniform Fire Code 1s amended to
read as follows!
If (JlI.) Ventilation. Unless exempted or otherwise provided
for and in excess of the exempt .em aunts specified in Sections
80.302 through 809.315, indoor storage areas and storage buildings
shall be pr~vided with mechanical exhaust ventilation.
EXCEPTION: Where natural ventilation can be showr. to be
accept~ble for the materials as stored.
Hazardous materials ... hich require r-efriger'ltion to prevent
19. heal t..1-:l. hazard shall have appr-oved safeguards equivalent to
ventilation controls.
EXhaust ventilation systems shall comply with the follow-
ing:
1. Installation shall be in accordance with the
provisions of the Mechanical Code.
2 ~ Mechanical ventilation shall be at a ra.te of not
less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot of floor area
over the storage area.
3. Systems shall operate continuously.
designs aay be approved by the Fire Chief.
4. A manual shutoff control shall be provided out
side L~e room adjacent to the access door into the room or in a
location approved by the Fire Chief., The switch shall be of the
break-glass type and shall be laheled 'Ventilation System Emergency
Shutoff .;~.
5. EY..haust ventilation shall be arranged to consider
the density of the potential fumes or vapors released. For fumes
or vapors that are heavier than air, exhaust shall be taken fr-om a
point wi~hin 12 inches of the floor.
E. The location of both the exhaust and inlet air
openings shall be arranged to provide air :movements across all
portions of the floor or room to prevent the accumulation of
vapors.
7. Exhaust ventilation shall not be recirculated
within the room o~ building if the materials stored are capable of
emitting hazardous vapors.
B.
Every
L
Lahe,ling of, product-co'nveying
prod~.ct-conve.y ing hood and duct
33
hoOd and duct
SYS~.'" shall be
r _--
,
"
1 '.
1
", periiarient:l~,;: affixed with labels t &s nwneroi.i.S as necessary r \lih1ch
cle-a-r,l,.Y'indlcat'& the. approved use classific.a:tien for, the. SYGtem., in
ac-co>rdance:wUhthe Uniform l!echanical Coee, 1991 edition.' n ... e
la.b81#':'Sh8:ll>~1'so clearly indicatt:i t..~ose types 'of products 'Which
are 'l>robil:>it~ from being conveyed in the .. yst ..... •
15~O.c ~305 ~3ection §:O. 301 (x) amended ... Electrical wiring
and Equipment.
Subsection a'J.301(rl of the Uf'lifonn fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
rr {r) Electrical Wiring and Eq--.lipment. Electrical .... l,.rlng
and equipment shall be installed in accordance ~ith the Electrical
CoCe. Hazardous materials "Which require refrigeration to prevent
a physical hal.ard shall be within approved electrical appliances. !II
.I.S;h.308 Br&&thinq
ltPp~r'a~YL. ' ' Sub.e;~ion 80.303[0)5 ad~ed
............. ~Ul!,seCt~'(ri80.3031"');is added to the Uniform Fire Code to
~ad:, as,:,1:~~,lO'ti~l
:~-8~:,~:~b3,{cf5 :::'When highly ,toxic Q'r toxic ,compressed gaSses
ar,e:'-':"'.~Adj,,':'.:"41·,~min.iliro:ftl ,~f 'two :'self-cont"!.int!d breathing appara,tus
!~~,J.::::,~ ::j'l~~\,;td~,~>:!':,:..-l~he breat:~~n9 apparatus shall be suitable" for
use:J-~,',,"'11:;tf,,>:~e ':: w.a:tel::l.a1, &torea and shall be located nee.r ,,:t;.he ~ __ i{,:~e;;:are~,":o..t,:<5t,orage in a J.ocation that provides s~fe,ty"to Itho,se>",~~ed"i;o; don the apparatus., ,A 'safe e.rea, is, one ~ich is ~~t :'li'.k:~iy,:t,o be ~ed,iatelY affected by the release of hazardous
mat.e:ri.:al."iri.: 'the' area. of concern ..
"" ",' •• ",,, "d" ,,' '_" '" '"
....... f!hji.ri6~~f;'",';mti.irie.dbreathlng apparatus would lxoinadeqUate
p/~ot;~,9~i.,,?p:-:~u,e<,t-;O ,the "nature of the <Jases present~ other appropri
~t~ 'p~~~~lve:,,~~~t!nt, shall ~ provided .. H
E\:tJs!seetien B9, 4 Bl-ta) et t;he t:rflife-l1'f!-F-i!'e Gs~e is alRef'lEied-t-e
~a9 fella .. s.
!t86. 49~ ra) Sesf.le. -1'his didsisfi applies toe "tae ai5pefr~
iA§, \:lse aft&; aaflEll-i-nq at hai!a~8BWS mat~~
TanJts.
BXeEH?i'IGUf ila~j,etls l!Ia~et'ials £e~-a-teEi Ell a'tBef' ar-tie-l-es
4ft--t_-€ede-r
t5.0~ .H' subsectl,.on 80.401 (h) 7 amelJde~ -Aboveground
Subsection BO.401(b) of the Uniform Fire Code is amended to
read as fcllows~
111. Aboveground Tanks. Aboveground. tanks containing
hazardous materials s~lall be located and protected in accordance
34
~,,_' I" .m-____ -
L
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with the p.ro~/isicns
materials as specified
as requi~ed by Section
required .•
tor e~terior storage of the particular
in D:ivision Ill. Such tanks sJ':.all be marked
80.401 ~n). Secondary containme~t ~h311 be
~5.0 •• 31~ subsection aO.iOl(k12 amende4 -Limit CQntro18~
TC·p·rature.
SUbsection aO.401(k)2 of the Uniform Fire Code is amended
to re~d as follows:
-2. Temperat1.lre. Process tanks and equipment which
involve temperature control of the material shall be provided vith
limit controls to maintain th~ te~perature ~ithin a safe ra~ge.
Redundant temperature control equipment 'Whic:h will operate upon
tai1ure of the primary temperature control shall be provided if the
sy"tem is within combustible construction or if the ventilation
system is of combustible construction. Manually activated reset
may be requ!rec."
15.0 •• 3~3
gutshipg By.tams_
Subsection 80.401(r) amended :rire-Extin-
Subsection SO.401(r} of the Uniform fire Code is amended to
read as follows:
• (r) Fire-extinguishing Systems. Area.s 'Where haz::ardous
materials exceed the exempt amounts specified in Tables No. 80.402-
A ar.:(J SO.02-B and indoor rocms or areas in 'Which hazard.ous
materials are dispensed or used shall he protected by an automatic:
tire-extinguishing system. Sprinkler system design shall be not
less than that required under V.B.C. standard No. 38.1 for Q,dinary
Hazard, Group 3, with a minimum design area of 3,000 square feet.
Where the materials or storage arrangement re~~ire a highar level
of sprihkler system protection in ac:cvrdance ~ith nationally
recognized standards, tbe higher level of sprir.kle.r shall be
provided.
EXCEP'I'ICN: Alternate. automatic fire-ex.tinguishing systems
may be used if approved by the Fire Chief.N
15.04.32E Subsection 80~402(b}2 B ame~d.4 -Ventilation.
Subsection 80.402 (b) 2 S of the Uniform Fire Code is amended
to read as folloWS!
B. Ventilation. ~~en gases, liquids or solids having a
hazard ranking of ~ or 4 in accordance ~ith U.F.C. Standard No.
89.3 Are dispensed or used, mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be
provided to capture fumes~ m.ists or vapors at the point of
generation.
L
.,
EXCEPTION: Gases, liquids or solids which can be demon
strated not to create ha~.f~l fumes, mists or vapors.
35
i
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NOT'.metallic ductwork allowed by the Mechanical Code: for
product conveying fumes to the duct~ork greater than 1G inch~s in
diameter shnll be sprinklered.
EXCEPTION: Listed nonmetallic duct for ins;'d.: and outside
flame spread and smoke spread of less than 25 as defined in
Chapt€r 42 of the uniform Building Code."
1.5. C4. 330 SW:!s.ction @",Q .. ! .. !.JI2(b)3 l ...... lyJ.J.-.il e.meDded -Frocess
Eguipaellit.
Subsection aO.402(b)JF(viii) of the Uniform Fire Code is
hereby amended ttl read as follo ... ·s:
-{viii) Process equipment. Effluent from process equip
ment containing highly toxic or toxic gases which may be discharged
to the atmosphere shall be processed through an exhaust scrubber or
other processing system~ Such system shall comply .. ith the
provisions of the Mechanical Code for product-conveying ventilation
systems. Effluent discharge containing highly toxic or toxic gases
shall provide protection equivalent to Sec. 80.303(a)6D.
EXCEPTION: Specificall:f exempted :by the Air Board~-
15.04. J33
Requira;antR for
lqu i a·llt •
subsectioll 80.102lbJ:3 G ad_d>ed Special
Interior Kighly Toxic or _Toxic Gas Generation
Subsection aO.402(b)G is hereby added to the Uniform Fire
Code to read ~s rollows:
"6ee'tisft 80.402 (b) 3G Indoor devices of equipment which
generate or manufacture highly toxic or toxic gas in concentrations
greater than 1/2 IDLH and are not regulated elsewhere in this Code
shall be reported to the Fire Chief for approval.
EXCEPTION: ~-J pool, spa: or sauna applications.~
15.0'.336 Subsecti~n 80.4C2 (elt added Speoial
!R~.~qu:iJi~r~_::l.~!!~t"""--..lr;JO"rL.JE~""'t""e .. r"'i"Qr Hi ghly Tox ic or TO:zJ e Gas Ge nerat ion
Jguipment.
Subsection BO.402(c)9 is added to the Uniform Fire Code to
read as follows:
"~~60.402CC)9 Exterior devices of equipment which
generate or manufacture highly tnxic or toxic gas in concentrations
9r~ater than 1/2 lDLH and are not regulated elsewhere in this Code
shall be reported to the Fire Chief for approval.
EXCEPTION: R-3 pool, spa, or sauna applications.-
36
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1! .. C"'~319 Sub!le.c:tiart aO.(03(e\1 Iildded -Carts Tl'lrough
~..21:.!.
Subsection 80. 403 (c~ ~J is added to the Ur.iform Fii:-e CoO, :I
read as follows;
·7. Carts and trucks tr-ansporting hazardous m~terial.s
through exit corridors shall be required to co:nply 'With
Sec. 51.108 {..::) ••
15.D,.3.2 Sybpeetioa 82.105(.) amen4e~ -storag~ and OS.
cf Liqu'fi.4 Petroleum G~'.
Su.l:lsection B2.205(a) of the Uniform Fire code is amended to
read:
11182.10S{a}. Storage and use of liguified petroleum gas
(LPG) is prohibited vithin the City limits of Palo Alto where
natural gas mains exist.
EXCEptION: The Fire Chief may permit the use of LPG for
tha folloving purposes and in the !ollowinq manner:
(1) Portable containers in connection ~ith portable
equipment or devices which are approved tor use with LPG.
(2) As an emergency standby fuel supply for critical
industrial, medical or research equipment.
(3) In vehicle servicing operations installed. in
acco~dance ~ith applicable safety standards.
The storage of LPG shall conform to the provisions of
applicable stat<E and local Codes and ordinance.s."
15..0·"'43 Ar~ 90 iIIC!c5e4--Requlatien of Facili,ties Whera
Materials Whicb Are or Kay Bee.om,., Toxic Gases 1!re Found.
Article 90 is added to the Uniform Fire Code to read as
follows:
·,ARTICLE 90
Regulation of Facilities Where Materials Which
Are or May Became Toxic Gases are Found
DIVISION I. APPLICATIONS AND DEFINITIONS
90.101 Application.
(a) This article applies to all new and existing facili
ties wher-e regulated materials subject to t.his article are present
in concentrations ~hich exceed the Level of Concern as determined
in acoordance vith this article.
37
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------------------------------------~---~
,b) It is intended that this article supplement, and be
used in conjunction ~ith, other sections of this chapter and ~ith
the Uniform Buildi~g code, 1988 edition.
(e) In th~ event of co~tlicting or overlapping regulatory
provisions within the Palo Alto Municipal Code, the Fire Code and
this article, the more stringent rcqui~ement shall prevail.
(d) In the e\?snt of con!1 icting O!:" overlapping req'.J.latory
provisions with Ii! federal 1 a .. · cr state lal.l or regulation, unless
the application of this article is expressly preempted by an Act o~
conqress or enactment of the state legislature, the more stringent
requirement shall be deemed to apply.
90.102 Definitions.
Ca) General. Unless the context othenr;ise requires, the
words an~ phrases in this article shall have the meanings set forth
in this section and shall gcvcrr the construction of this article.
For words and phrases not defined in this chaFter, the definitions
set forth in other articles of tng Fire Code shall co~trol.
(bJ Limiteoj Applications. For the purpose of this
article, certain terms and words are defined as follows:
1. "Controls N are a means to regulate materials so
as to prevent unauthorized discharges.
2. "Control Area" means a space within a building
where regulated materials may be stored, handled, dispensed or
used. A control area is an area formed by one or more of the
following:
(i) An occupancy separation 'With a minimum one
hour fire" resistive rating, or
(ii) The exterior .. -all, roof or foundation of tho:
building. A maximum of four control areas shall be permitted
within a building except buildings or porticns of buildings used
for retail sales, which shall have a maximum of two c~ntrol areas.
3~ wEquilibrium Vapor Concentration" ("EVC") means
the state of a regulated material at \IIhich vapor pl-essure has
stabilized and is no longer rising or fallin:T. Eve value of a
regulated material is determined by multiplying vapor pressure
(Nvpn) by 106, and dividing by atmospl:-.eric pressure; as sho\lofl1 in
the following equation:
EVe (ppm) ; Vapor pre§~ure X 106
Atmospheric Pressure [760 mmHg]
Note: Vapor pressure for materials with a boiling point equal to
or less than 2S·C shall be 750 m~Rg; materials with a boiling point
qreater than 2S'C shall use the actual vapor pressure for that.
' . C·::'--.L.· ...
-
mate~ial at 2S·C. Atmospheric pr~ssure is assumed to be 760 mm at
sea level.
". "'Facility" means any building, structure,
installation, e~~ipment, pipe, container, site, area~ appurtenant
:o;tructure, or 61.;.rroundinq lar,d area where regulated materials are.
stored, used, dispensed, handled, placed or otherwise have come to
be loca.ted.
5, -Fire cede" !:leans thE': uniform Fire Code ('flJFC") I
as adopted or modified by the Falo Alto Municipal Code.
6. -Gas III means an aeriform fluid W'hich is in a
gaseous state at normal temperature and pressure.
7. "Inert Construction Materials" -means materials
which under reasonably foreseeable conditions will not degrade or
react upon contact with the regulated materials to be contained.
a. "Level of CC1"')cern" C"LOC lt ) means the maximum
concentration of a substance in air that ~ill not cause serious
health E:ffects in the majority of the populatiozl ""hen exposed to
the substance for a relatively short period of time. For purposes
ot this article, the I..OC is equal to 0.1 of the TDLH value, as
defined in Article 80 of the Fire Code, if the particular substance
has an established rOLH, or it no IDLH value has been established,
the LOC shall be considered. to be 0.01 LCso , 0.1 LeLa, 0.001 LDso'
or 0.01 LOLa.
9. ".Lethal Concentration" ($lLC 0·) means the median
lethal concentration level, at which 50 percenf of appropriate test
al1imals die when expo:sed br inhalation for a scientifically
appropriate specified time period.
10. lI.Lethal Concentration Low" C"LCLo") means the
lowest concentration of a chemical at ~hich some test animals died
followinq inhalation expos~re.
11. -Lethal Dose Median" ("LOsc ·) means the dose at
which 50 percent of test animals cHe follotarinq expos-..lre. The
lethal dose is given in milligrams per kilogram of body weight of
the test animals.
12. "Lethal Dose Low N (~LDLo") means the lowest dose
of a chemical at which some test animals died follo~ing exposure.
13.1I Material Hazard rndex" ("'MHr") means a numeric
value used ~or ranking of chemical substances (materials) in order
to determine the level of controls necessary for regulated
materials4 MEr is determined by dividing the EVe of a material at
25°C by the LeW: for the material, as shown in the following
equation:
'L
MHI "'" Eve (ppm) @ 25 Cl C
LO< (ppm)
39
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14. "Maximum Threshold Quantity" {"Max. T.Q.-) means
the maximum q~~ntity of a Class II or Class III ~egulated material
which may b~ stored in a single vess~l before a stricter category
of regulation is required by this a~ticle~ Max. T.Q. is determined
by the following equation:
Max. T.Q. (IDs} 2.5 x 10.!
HIlI
15~ 1IIM:inimu:t Threshold Quantity" ("Min. T.Q."} !I!.eans
the aggregate quantity in a control area which, d~e to the minimal
agqreq~te quantities present, need only comply with specific
control requirements established in subsection 90.401(e) or this
alticle, and not -with the requirements .for Class r, II, or III
requlat~ materials. Min. T.O. for mixtures shall be based on the
aggregate veiqht (in pounds) of the regulated components.
For D.O.T. Poison A (those materials characterized by the
United States Department of Transportatior. ("D.C.T. II) as poison
A): Kin. T.Q. = 1 lb. or less.
For other regulated materials: Min. T.Q. = 2 lbs. or less.
Minimum threshold quantity controls are set forth in subsection
90.401(e) of this article.
16. ·Person" means an individual. trust, firm. jOint
stock company, c.orporation, part:nership~ association or ether
business entity, city, county, district, the state, any department
or agercy thereof, or the United states, to the extent authorized
by law~
17. -Regulated Materials w means all materials,
reqardless of form (i .e., liquid, solid or qas) .,hich meet the
criteria established by subsection 90.2Cl(b), below.
18. "Responsi.ble Pers<?ns" or npersons responsible""
means permittees under this article, owners, managers and persons
responsible for the day-to-day operation of any facility subject to
this article.
19. nUnauthorized Discharge" means releasing,
spill~n9, leaking, pumping~ pouring, emitting, emptying~ injecting,
escap1nq, leaching, dumping or disposing a regulated material into
the environment~ including any se.,er, storm drain, ditch, drainage
canal} lake, river or tidal .,aterway, surface water, ground water,
land surface, sidewalk, street or hi9h~ay, subsurface strata, or
ambient air, except:
Ta}-(i) A "Federally Permitte.d Release", as
that term is defined in sSection 101 of the Comprehensive Environ
menta~. Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. -!
~~ion 9602, 10) ~ or pursuant to a permit of the Bay Area Air
Qualify Management District, or .,aste discharge requirements of the
San Francisco Say Regional Wa.ter Quality Control Board or lccal
40
--.
wasteyater pretreatment requir~ments for publicly owned treatment
works: or
-fbt(ilJ The no~al application of materials
used in weed abatement, erosion control t soil a~endment or similar
application when used in accordance with manufact~rers' instruc
tions or nationally r~cognized standards.
DIVISION II. GENERAL PROVISIONS
90.201 (a) General. This article gcverl'1.s the storage, dispens
ing/ use an~ handling of regulated materials. To the extent that
the application of this article to the registration and use of
pesticides is preempted b~' an express provision of an Act of
Conqre:as or a statute adopted by the state leqislature, this
art,icle does not apply.
(h) Regulated Materials. nRegulated Materials"', including
but not limited to, gases, are those materials which meet the
following criteriai
1. The ma~erial has an established Level of Concern
(-LOC tt ) as detihed in this article; and
2. The material mepts either of the follOwing
crite.ria:
(i) It is shipped in compressed gas cylinders,
and the material is or becomes or a~ts as a gas upon release at
normal temperat~re and pressure, (70'F and 760 ~~nHg) or;
(ii) The material is used or handled as a gas,
whether or. not the material meets the definition of a co~pressed
gas as set forth in article 9 of the Fire Code.
Materials which meet the foregoing criteria are subject to
the provisions of this article.
{c) General Obligation. No person shall cause, sufter or
permit the storage, handling, use, or dispensing of materials
regulated by this article:
1. In a manner which is contrary to a provision of
this article or any other fede~al, state or local statute, code t
ordinance, rule, regulation or standard of performance relating to
materials subject to this article. or
2. In a manner ~hich causes an unauthori~ed
discharge or Which poses a significant risk ~f such unauthorized
discharge.
A person responsible for a facility shall, as soon as he or
she has knowledge of an unauthorized discharge from or at such
facility, immediately notify the Fire Chief of such discharge.
41
" • ~ ,
.t
i
•
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(d) Pennits.
l~ Genera.l. No person shall store, dispense, use or
handle any regulated material in excess of an ex~mpt amount at a
tacility ~iless a compliance plan has been submitted to the Fire
Chief and a permit for the facility has been issued pursu~nt to
this article.. The specific requirements for obtaining a permit:
shall be established by the Fire Chief in accordance with the
provisions of Article 4 o! the Fire Code.. The Fire Chief may
charge a tee or fees in connection with the filing of a compliance
plan and the issuance of a Permit, in accordance ..... i th the Municipal
Fee Schedule.
2.. MEl calculations tor each ~e9ulated material to
be stored, dispensed, used or handled at the facility shall be
submitted to the Fire Chief as part of the compliance plan. ThE
Fire Chief may require th~ submission of any additional availab!e
acute toxtcit.y data to support the MHI value proposed for-each
material.
(e) Compliance.
1. Notwithstanding section 1.103 of the Fire code,
persons responsible {or any tacili ty 1 awfully inexistence on
April 16, 1990 which is no~ in compliance ~ith the provisions of
this article shall submit a compliance plan to the Fire Chief nQ
later than April 16, 1991~ For purposes of this section, the term
-lawfully in existence" includes, bl.lt is not limited to, those
facilities for which a bulldir,q permit has been issued and
construction has begun. The compliance plan shall set forth the
time and manner in ~hich the facility is proposed to be hrought
into compliance.
2. Persons responsible for facilities la .... fully in
existence on April 10, 1990 shall cause their facilities to be in
full compliance with this a:rticle not later than April 16, 199:3.
The Fire Chief may extend this time period at the request of a
responsible pe~son for a maximum of tyO (2) additional years if the
Fire Chief makes a ~ritten determination that hardship, unique cir
cumstances or other qood cause exists for such extension. The Fire
Chief may cha~ge a fee for processing a request for extension, in
accordance ~ith the Municipal Fee Schedule.
. J~ Persons responsible for a facility not la..,fully
in existence or operating on April 16, 1990 shall submit a
compliance plan and obtain a permit prior to storing, dispensing,
using or handling any regulated material.
(f) Closure.
1. General. It shall be unlawful for any person to
abandon, remove, or close a facility or other area regulated by
this article until a closure plan has been submitted to and
approved by the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief may charge a fee or
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fees ~or reviewing ana processing a closure plan in ac;,;:ordance 'With
the Municipal Fee Schedule.
:2. Closure Plan. A closure plan shall be s-ubmitt~d
by a responsible person to the Fire Chief at least 30 days prior to
tacility closure. The clos.ure plan shall demonstrate to the
satisfaction of the Fire Chief that regulated materials which are
or have been stored, dispensed, handled or used in the ~acility
will be transported J disposed of or reused in a manner consistent
with public health and safety_ The Fire Chief may waive all or
part of tl'. _ :3 0 day period upon a finding of good cause.
(q) Seismic Protection. Persons responsible for a
facility with one or -more stationary tanks and pipinq systems used
for regulated materials shall cause such tanks and piping systems
to be seismically braced in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 16*04 {the uniform Building Code) of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code~
(hj Security. Responsible person~ shall cause facilities
whe:te materials subject to this article are stored, handled,
dispensed or used to be secured against unauthorized entry.
(i) Breathing Apparatus~
1. In order to provide for immediate initial 01".
scene response in the event of an Unauthorized discharge and to
provide en-scene assistance to fire fiqhte~s and other emergency
response personnel # persons responsible fer any facility where
Class .I or corrosive ~~·equlated materials are present shall provide
a minimum of two selt-containea br~athinq apparatus. When self
contained breathing apparatus would be inadequate protection due to
the nature of the qases present.. other appropriate protective
equipment shall be provided.
2. The breathing apparatus or other protective
equipment shall be suitable for use with the material present and
shall be in a conspicuously marked place imm~diately near the area
where the materials are present in a location that provides safety
for those expected to don th~ apparatus.
3. A "location that provides safety" is one which is
not likaly to be immediately affected by the release of a regulated
material ..
(j} Incompatible Materials. Responsible persons shall
cause incompatible classes of regulated materials to be separated,
and shall cause requlated materials to be separated from other
incompatible hazardous materials as listed in Table 51-110-A of the
Fire Code. Separation shall be maintained by means of one-hour
fire resistive construction, or by the use of separate gas
cabinets. For purposes of this section, the term hincompatible"
shall mean those materials listed in the above mentioned Table Sl
llO-A.
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(k) Leak Testing. Responsible persons shall cause c,on
tainers of regulated materials to be tested [or leaks immediately
upon delivery, and again immediately prior to dl?parture of such
containers from facilities. Testing' shall be ~pprcved: by the Fire
Chief in accoraance with appropriate natl.onally recognized industry
standiards and practices~ if any. Appropr-iate remedial actions
shall ba immediately undertaken ~hen leaks are detected.
(1) Protective Plugs/caps.
cause the protective plugs and caps of
place. at all times unless and \.intil
placed into U6e~
(~) Emergency Response Plans.
Responsible persons shall
regulated materials to be in
the materials are properly
1. If the preparation of an emergency response plan
f.or the facility is not required by ar.y other laW', r.e:sponsible
persons shall prepare, O~ caUSE to be prepared~ and filed with the
Fire Chief, a written emergency response plan.
2. If the preparation of an emergency response plan
is required by any other law, a responsible person shall file a
copy of the plan with the Fire Chief.
(n) Emergency Response Team.
l~ . If not required to do so by another law, a person
responsible for a facility subject to this article shall designate,
or call5e. to be aesignated, an on-site emergency response team which
shall be composed of an adequate number of trained, respcnsible
persons~ and which shall serve as liaison to the fire department.
2. Emergency response team members shall ascertain
all on-site locations 'Where reg->Jlated m.aterials are stored, handled
and used, shall become fa~iliar ~it~ the emergency response plan,
and the chemical nature of such regulated mat€rial~ shall act as
facility liaison to the Fire Department and shall be prepared to
respond in an emergency.
(0' Emergency Drills.
1.
of each on-site
frequently than
Responsible persons shall cause em~rgency drills
emergency response team to be conducted not less
once every three months.
2. Records of drills cond'>Jcted shall be maintairled
at the facility for three years and shall he made available fer
inspection upon request Py the Fire Chief.
(p) Annual Maintenance.
1. Responsible persons shall cause all safety
control systems at a facility to be tested not less frequently than
annually and ~aintained in good working condition.
2. Maintenance arid testing shall be performed by
persons qualified to perform the maintenance and tests.
3. Maintenance records a!ld c~rti tications shall be
available to the Fire Chief upon inspection or re~~est.
(q) Flo'W" Limiting orifices and Devices for D.O.T. poison
A. Containers for those materials classified as D.O.T. Poison A,
reaardlcss of the amount of D.O.T. Poison A, shall be equipped ~ith
& flow re&trictinq oritice~ when available from the supplier of the
O.O.T. Poison A. If a flo~ restricting orifice is not available,
the container shall be used with a flo~ limiting device.
(r) Fire Extinguishing Systems.
1. Except as hereinafter provided, responsible
persons shall cause all interior and exterior use areas and
interior storage areas and storage buildings to be protected by
automatic sprinkl~r systems.
2. The design o£ the sprinkler systems shall be not
less than that requireQ under uniform Building Code St~ndard Ne.
lS-l for Ordinary Haza~'d Group 3 with a minimwn design area of
3,000 square teet. Where the materials or storage arrangettlent
require a hiqher level of sprinkler system. protection in accordance
with nationally r.eognized standards, the higher level of sprinkler
system protection shall be provided.
3. If the chemical properties of the. regulated
materials are such that the materials ~ill be incompatible with the
use of a sprinkler system, the Fire Chief may require alternatiVe
forms of fire protection~
DI1tISION Ill. CLASSIFICATION OF MA!'ERIALS
90. 30~ (a) General. Reg1Jl ated materials sha.ll be classified
according to their Material Hazard Index (l'MHI") value.
(b) Class I Regulated Meterials~ Of the mate~ials
regulated by this article, Class r materials pose the greatest
potential he:zanL A regulated JlI,aterial which has an MEl valuE.
equal to or greater than five hundred thousand (500,000) or which
is classified as D.O.T. Poison A, shall be classified as a Class I
~egulated material.
(c) Class II Regulated Materials. A regulated material
which !"-·3.S an HHI equal to or greater than ten thousand (10,000) but
less than five hundred thousand (500,000) shall be Classified as a
Class II requl~ted material.
(d) Class III Regulated Haterials~ A regulated material
which has an KHI equal to or greater than four thousand nine
hundred (4,900) but less than ten thousand (10,000) shall be clas
sified as a Class III regulated material.
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(e) Maximum Threshold Quantity ("Max. T.Q.~). Regulated
mater-ials \t'hich exceed their Max. T.Q. shall be classified one
level higher than otherwise determinc~ by the MHI (i.e., Class III
to Class II, or Class II to Cl~ss IJ.
(fl Materials not. Exceeding Minimum Threshold QiJantity
(~Min. T.Q.-l. Regulated materials which do not exc~ed the Min.
T~Q. sh~ll satisfy only the specific requirements established in
section 90.401, .and shall not other.-ise be re.'Vlired to ,,-~eet the
requirements applicable to materials clas~ified as Class I, II or
III requlated materials.
,g) Exempt ~~ounts.
1. Except as provided in subsection (2) of this
section, material 'Which would otherwise be regulated is exempt
from regulation under this article if:
(i) 'rhe .Material has an MHI less than 4,900; or
(ii) The aggregate
control area does not exceed the Min.
material in a single vessel does not
as follows:
C.O.T. Poison A
Other Regulated Materials
quantity of the material in a
T.Q., and the quantity of th~
exceed the amounts specified
1/4 lb.
1 lb.
2. Notwlthstandin-; the exe:ro1-'tion in subsection (1),
above r no Class I material, regardless of the amount thereof, is
exempt from the provisions relating to Wflow limiting devices·, set
forth in subsection 90.201 (q) nor from the provisions relating to
-fire extinguishing systemsft, set forth in subsection 90.201 er).
NVISION IV. SPECIFIC PROVISIONS
90.401 (a) General.
1. The specific provisions required by this article
shall :be in addition to those requirements specified in other
articles of the Fire Code. The re~Jirements for the ~sc or i~door
storage of regulated materials shall be cumulative as the hazard
class of regulated material increases, in accordance with the
follo~ing table:
HAZARD ClASSIFICATIONS AND CONTROLS
HAZARD CLASSIFICATION
Class I
HAZARD CONTROLS
Includes Class I, CLass II, Class
III, Minimum Threshold Quantity
and Exempt Amount Controls
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class II
Class III
Minimum Threshold
Exe!llpt Amounts
Includes Class !I, Class
ginimum Threshold Quantity
Exempt Amount controls
IlL
and
Includes Class III,
Threshold Quantity and
Amount:. Controls
Minimum
Exempt
Includes Minimum Threshold Qual'l
tity and Ex~mpt Amount controls
other Applicable Statutes I Codes I
Ordinances
24 Exterior stora9~ of regulated materials is
covered by subsection (f) of this section~
3. All control equipm~nt for materials regulated by
this article shall meet appropriate natior,ally recognized stan
dards f if any, approved by the Fi~e Chief.
(bJ Class I Controls. Persons
tacility where Class I materials are present
of the requirements of this subsection (b)
(e), Cd), ee), and (f) of this section.
responsible for any
shall comply ~ith all
and with subsections
1. Piping.
(1) Pipinq for Class I materials shall be
designed and fabricated trom materials compatible with the material
to be contaiued. Pipinq shall be of strength and durability suffi
cient to vithstand the pressure, structural, and seismic stress and
exposure to which it may be subjected, as required by Chapter 16.02
(Uniform Building Code) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
(ii) Secondary containment shall be provided for
plpl.ng for Class I materials. The secondary containment shall be
capable of directing a sudden release into an approved disc:r.arge
treatment system, and shall be monitored continually ~ith a
continuous gas monitoring system approved by th~ Fire Chief.
Secondary containment includes, but is not limited to, aouble
walled piping.
2. Automatic Shut-off. An automatic shut-off
Which is of a "fail-safe to close" design shall be provided.
of the following shall activate automatic shut-off:
(1) Gas detectio~,
(ii) Manually, from remote locations.
{iii) Failure of e~ergency power.
valve
Each
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(iv} Seismic activity, upon a seismic event
within 5 seconds of horizontal 5pmisoidal oscillation having a peak
acceleration of .39 (= 2.94m/sec 2) and a period of ~4 seconds.
(v) Failure of primary containment.
(vi) Activation of ~anual tire alarm.
3. E~ergency Control station. Signals from emer
gency equipment shall be transmitted to an emergency control
station which is continually staffed by trai~ed personnel.
(e) Class II Controls. Responsible persons shall cause
materials 'Which are cla.ssified as class II materials to be provided
'With the controls specified in this subsection (cj and in subsec
tions Cd), (e) and (f) of this section.
1. connections.
(1) Piping and tubing shall be installed in
accordance with appropriate nationally recognized standards, if
any, approved by the Fire Chief, and shall have ~elded connections
compatible with the regulated material throughout unless an
exhausted enclosure is provided.
(il) M~terial which is not compatible with
ferrous piping may be installed in non-ferrous piping approved by
the Fire Chief.
< iii) Where connections other than welded con
nections meet:. appropriate nationally recognized industry standards,
if any, a person responsible for a facility may seek an exception
trom the Fire Chief, by filing a request for exception ",ith the
Fire Chief, which shall document the standards and reason for the
exception.
2. Local Gas Shut-off.
(i) Manual activation controls shall be provided
'at locations near t.he point of llSot:'. and near the source, as approved
by the Fire Chief~
(ii) The Fire Chief may require additional
controls at other places, including, but not limited.to, the entry
to the building, the area in the building where regulated materials
are stored or used, and emergency control stations.
{iiiJ Manually activated shut-off valves shall be
of ~tail safe to close" design.
3. Emergency power shall be
provided for~
(i) Exhaust ventilation, includj ng the po\o{er
supply for treatment systems.
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(ii) Gas-detection systems~
(iii) Emergency a1am systems.
elv) Temperature-control systems 'Which comply
with the Fire Code.
4. Excess Flow Control.
CiJ Portable tanks and cylinders shall be
provided with exc~ss flow control.
{ii) Valves shall be permanently marked to
indicate the maximum design flo~ rate.
S. Gas Detection. A continuous gas-detection system
in acco~ance with Section 80.303(a) 9, shall he provided to detect
the presence of gas at or below the permissible exposure limit.
The detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a
signal to a continually staffed remote location to provide an
immediate response to an alarm. The alarm shall be hoth visual and
audible and shall be designed to provide ~arning both inside and
outside of the storage, use or handlinq area~ The audible alarm
shall be distinct fro~ all other on-site alarms.
6~ Reduced Flow Valves~ Reduced flow valves may be
utilized to reduce the maximum flow rate from cylinders and tanks
under full flow conditions. Valve flow rates may be considered in
det~rmining the size of treatment systems required for a worst case
release~
7. seismic Shutoff Valves. A seismically activated
valve meeting standards approved by the Fit"e Chief shall be
provid.e.d for automatic shut off of regu14ted materials upon a
seismic event within 5 seconds of horizontal semisoidal oscillation
having a peak acceleration of .3g (= 2.94m/seC 2) and a period of .4
seconds.
S. class II Corrosives~ Inert construction
materials shall he used Cor the primary containment of Class II
Regulated Materials .. hich are corrosives~ Alternatively, secondary
containment shall be provided for Class II materials whiCh are
corrosives.
9. Eme~gency Alarms. When materials re~~lated by
this article are transported through exit corridors or exit
enclosures~ there shall be an emergency ~elephone system or a local
manual alarm station or a signaling devic::e approved by the Fire
Chief at not more than ISO-foot intervals and at each exit doorway
throuqhout the transport route~ The signal shall be relayed to an
approved central, proprietary or remote station service or a
con:oitantly attended on-site location and shall also initiate a
local audible alarm.
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(d) Class III Controls~. Persons responsibl~ for a
facility shall cause lP_aterials which are classified as Class III
materials to be proviQ~d 'ol1ith the controls specified in thi~
subsection <d} and in subsections (e) and <f) of t~is section.
1~ Piping, valves, and fittings.
(1) Piping, valves, fittings and rela~ed compo
nents shall be designed and fapricated from materials compatible
vith the material to be cc~tained. They shall have strength and
durability su!ficier.;t to withstand the pressure, structural and
seis~ic, and any other stress and exposure to which they may be
subjected.
(ii) Expansion chambers shall be provided DE!t\r{een
valves whenever the regulateo gas may be subjected to thermal ~x
pansion. Chambers shall be sized to provide protection tor piping,
valves and i!':lstrumentation and to accommodate the expansion of
regulated materials~
2. Signage.
{i) Stationary above ground tanks shall be
placarded with hazard ide.ntification signs as specified in Fire
Code Stand3Td No. 79-3, for the sp~cific material contained.
indoor storage,
outdoor storage,
(ii) Signs prohibiting smokinq shall be posted in
use and handling areas and within 25 feet of
use and hand~ing areas.
(iii) signs:, shall not be obscured or removed.
t iv) signs shall be in English and such other
languages may be appropriate, as determined by the fire Chief.
(VI signs shall be durable.
(vi) The siZe, color and lettering shall be in
conformance with national~y recognizea standards determined by the
Fire Chief to be applicable to the regulated material.
J. Inert Gas Purge System. Gas systems for
regulated materials shall b~ provided with individually cedicated
inert gas purge systems (e.g .. f nitrOg'en, helium, argon and neon).
(e) Minimum Thre~hold Quantity Controls. ResponsiDle
persons shall cause materials which do not ex.ceed the Minim'ulll.
Threshold QUantity to be provided with the controls specified in
this subsection (e) and in subsection {t) of this section.
1. Exhaust ventilation.
(1) Storage of cylinders shall be 'Within venti
lated gas cabinets. exhausted enclosures or ""i thin a ventilated
separate gas storage room as defined in the Fire Code.
50
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(ii) storage of portable ~nd stationary tanks
shall be within a s~par<!te ventilated room \,rithout other-occupancy
or use,
(iii] If gas cabinets are provided l the roo~ or
area in which they are located shall have independent exhaust
ventilation.
(ivJ EXhaust syste~s tor gas cabinets_ e~~austed
enclosures and separate gas storage rooms shall be designed to
handle the accidental release of gas, Such exhaust systems shall
be capable of diluting, adsorbing, acs'::!rbing, neutralizing, l:)\.:.rninq
or otherwise proces~ing the entire contents of the single tank O~
cylinder of gas ~hich presents the highest potential hazard.
(vJ Systems utilized for such processing shall
be designed as a treatment syste~, as described in subsection (e)
3 of this section. If a total containment system is utilized, the
system shall be designed to han~le the maKimul!!. anticipated pr-essure
of release to the system when the system reaches equilibrium.
2.
they shall be:
Gas Cabinets. When gas cabinets are provided
(i) Operated at neqative pressure in relation to
the $urrounding area.
{ii) Provided with self-closing limited access
ports or tire-rated windovs to give access to equipment controls.
The average velocity of ve~tilation at the face of access ports or
windows shall be not less ~~an 200 feet per minute 'fpm) with a
minimum or 150 fpm at any other point of the access port or window.
(iii) Connected to a treatment system~
(iv) Provided .. ·i th self-closing doors.
( ..... ) Constructed ct steel 'With a t!1ick.ness not
less than l2-gauge.
3. Treatment systems.
ti) Treatment systems shall be utilized to
process all exhaust ventilation to be discharged trom gas cabinets,
Eyhausted enclosures or separate storage rooms. Treatment systems
shall be designed to LeQUCe the maximum allowable discharge
concentration of the gas to one-half lDLH at the point of discharge
to the atmosphere as specified in subsections (e) 5 and 6 belo~.
(ii) When more than one gas may be emitted to the
treatment system .. the treatment system shall be designed to handle
the worst case release based on the releas~ rate, the quantity and
the IDLH for all the gases stored or used.
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I
I
I
II
I
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4. Treatment system sizin-;. Treatment syst£"ms shall
be sized to process the vorst case release of each gas based on the
maximum flo'J ra~e of release from the cyl inder or tank uti] ized
~hich presents the highest potential hazard. ~he e~tire contents
of tanks and cylinders shall be considered.
5. stationary tanks.
(i} Stationary tanks shall be labelii!d with t.he
maximum rate of release for the qas contained based on any valves
or fittings that are inserted directly into the tanx.
(ii) If multiple valves or fittings are provided,
the maximum flow rate of release for the valve or fitting ~ith th~
highest flow rate shall be indicated. If liquefied gases are in
contact with any valve or fitting, the liquid flow rate shall be
utilized for purposes of computation of the maximum flew rate of
release. All flow rates indicated on the label shall be converted
to cubic feet per minute of qas at ncrmal temperature and press·...J.r-e.
6. Portable tanks and cylinders.
(i) For portable tanks and cylinders, the
maximum flow rate of release shall be calculated based on assuming
the total release from the cylinder or tank within the time spec
ified in the Table belo~:
Container
CYlinders
Portable Tanks
Nonliquefied
(Minutes)
5
40
Liquefied
(Minutes)
30
240
(ii} When portable tanks or cylinders are
equipped with approved reduced flow valves, the worst case release
will be determined by the maxi~um achieval::lle flo-..' from. the valve as
determined by the valve manufacturer or the gas supplier. Reduced
floy and excess flow valves shall be permanently Inarked to indicate
the maximum design flew rate. Such markings shall indicate the
flow rate for air under standard condi~ions.
7. Gas Detection foc D.O.T Poison A. A portable or
fixed gas aetection system capable of ~onitering at PEL for each
regulated material classified as a D.O.T. Poison A stored or used
within the facility shall be provided.
(f) Exterior storage.
1. General. Persons l'esponsible for a facility
where there is e~terior storag~ of any regulated material shall
comply with the provisions of this subsection (f) and ef Chapter
16.02 (the Building Code) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
2. Distance Limitation to Exposures. Exterior
storage ef regulated materials shall not be ~ithin 75 feet of a
52
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building; structu~e, property line, street j alley, public way or
exit to a pUblic way unless the storage is ~hielded by a structure
which has a minimum fire resistive rating: of two flours and wh_ch
interrupts the line of sight be:tween the storage and the exposure.
The shieldinq structure shall be at least five (5) feet from any
exposure. The shielding structure shall have not more than two
sides which shall be at approximately 9a-degree directions.
3. Openings in Buildings Subject to Exposure. When
an exterior storage area is located within 75 feet of a building,
openings into the :building other than piping shall not be, :::lve the
height o~ the top of the shielding stru~ture referred to in subsec
tion (f) 2 ot this section or within 50 feet horizontally from the
storage araa, whether or not protected by a shieldinq structure.
4. Air Intakes. No ext.erior storaqe area to!:'
regulated materials shall be within 75 feet of any air intake.
5. canopies~ Portable tanks and cylinders stcred
outside of building'S shall be storE-d under a canopy constructed of
nO:lcombusti:bl.a materials. Such exterior storage shall not be
considered indoor storage. An automatic fire-sprinkler system l or
alternative systems as determined by the Fire Chief for m~terials
incompatible with water l shall be provided for c~nopies installed
for the storage of rogulated materials.
6. Stationary Tank Controls. Controls on stationary
tanks shall be in accordance ~ith the following:
(i) Pressure-relief devices shall be vented to
a treatment system designed in accordance ~ith the provisions of
subaection (e) 3 of this section.
(ii) Where filling or dispensing connections are
provided, they shall be provided with a means of local exhaust.
Such exhaust shall be designed to capture fumes and vapors. The
exhauat shall be dir-ected to a treatment system designed in
accordance with the provi5io~s of this subsection (e) 3 of this
section.
(iii) stationary tanks shall be provided ~ith a
means o£ excess flow control on all tank inlet or outlet connec
tions. Inlet connections that are designed to preclude backflow
and pressure-relief devices are exempt from this requirement.
7. Gas cabinets for leaking cylinders.
(i) At least one gas ca:binet or exhausted
enclosure shall be provided for the handling of leaking cylinders.
The cabinet or enclosure shall be ~ithin or adjacent to the
exterior storage area and connected to a treatment system as
specified in subsection (e) 3 of this section.
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(ii) A gas cabinet cr exhausted enclosure need
not be provided for leaking cylinders if all cylinders are stored
within gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
8. Local exhaust ~or leaking portable tanks.
(1) A means of local exhaust shall be provided
to capture regulated material leaking froJ: portable tanks~ Th~
local exhaust may consist ot portable d~cts or collectio~ systems
designed to be applied to the site of a leak in a valve or fitting
on the tank. The local ex.'a ... st syste:n shall be ccnnected to a
treatment system as spe~ified in subsection (e) 3 of this section.
(ii) A local exhaust system shall be provided
within or immediately adjacent to every exterior storage area; and
within separate gas storage rooms used for portable or stationary
tanks.
(g) Tank cars ~nQ Piping .
. L The provisions of this a.:-ticle shall not apply to
tank cars which meet all re~uirements of the U.S. Department of
Trans.portation, while such tank cars are used tor 't-l1.e trans
portation and unloading of regulated material, as such terms are
u~.e~, in the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S. C.---§
$e~Qtl lSOl et seq. "Unloading" does not include the use of ta:1k
cars to store regulated materials.
2. The previsions of this article shall apply to
pipinq and control systems i automatic shut off valves~ emergehcy
control stations, gas detection systems, treatment systems and
alarm systems used vith piping which connects tank cars to
facilities for the unloading and delivery of regulated material,
and to tank cars used to store rE'!gulated materials.
DIVISION V. PROVISIONS SEVERABLE
90.501 Provisions Severable.
Th~ provisions of this article are severable. If any
provision of this article or its application to any person or
circumstance is held invalid~ the invalidity shall not affect other
provisions or applications of this article which can be given
affect 'Without the invalid provision or application.
DIVISION VI. CIVIL PENALTIES
90.601 (a} Any person. property owner, firm or corporation ~ho
intentionally or negligoantly violates any provision of this Article
90 of the Uniform Fire Code or ~ho tails to comply ~ith any order
issued thereunder, shall be liable for a civil penalty ~hich shall
be not less than five hundred dollars nor more than six thousand
dollars per day for each violation, 'Which shall b~ assessed and
54
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recovered in a civil action brought in the name of the people by
tne City Attorney.
(b) In any civil actio~ brought to seek such civil penal
ties, and/or to obtain injunctive relief for violation or any
provision of said Article 90 of the Uniform Fire Code in which
act.ion the city prevails I the court snaIl determine and ilo.pose
reasonable expenses I including attorneys' tees, incurI'"ed by the
city in the investigation and prosecution of the action~
(c) Such remedies are in addition to and do not supers~d9
or limit any and all other r-emedies, civil or criminal.
15404.345 ~~dix .-1 ... nd9d--Lit. safety &~¢~ir ... n~'
Lqr "i.tlD9 High-Rl •• Building ••
2.1 GENERAL
"APPENDIX 1-8
LIFE SAFE'I''i REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING
HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
(a) PUrpose. The purpose of this appendlx is to provide
a reasonable degree of safety to persc~s occupying existing hiqh
rise buildinqs by ~equirinq mini~um standards fer exit c~rridors.
exit stairways and elevator shafts, mor.itored alarm systems and
emergency plans.
(b) Scope.. The req-.J.irements sha.ll apply to all high-rise
builcings constructed prior to the adoption date of this appendix
which have floors used for human occupancy located more than 75
.feet aboVe the lowes.t level of approved fire department v-ehicle
access or other physical configuration that qualifies a bui~ding as
hiqh rise by local ordinance.
(c) Permits Required.
L 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 re ..... iew meeting shall be held,
including the owner's design team~ building official and the chief,
to (leterlIlir.e the adequacy of the life-safety elnergency systems
concept for tne building. The life-safety emergency systems shall
be reflected on the plans tor the building and become a permanent
part of the buildinq department's records. The building official
and the chief may require sufficient documentation. based upon
enqineerinq analysis, that the concept meets the intent of
nationally recoqnized good practices and such quidel ines as the
building official and chief ha\re published.
(d) Enforcement. The provisions of this appendix shall be
enforced by the chief.
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(e) Compliance. All buildings shall be madoe to conform
'With the. requir-e:rnents of section 2.2 within the follo ..... ing time
periods:
1. Subsections (k), (1) and {mJ shall be ccrnpleted
'Within six tt:cnths of the adoption date of this appendix.
or their
official
tions (a)
appendix.
2. The owr:ers of buildings affected by this appendix
representatives shall submit plans to the building
showing intended meth04s of co~pliance with subsec
th~ough (j) within six mo~ths of adoption date of this
3. Subsections (e), Ch), and {i) shall be completed
within one year of the adoption date of this appendix.
4. Subsections {a), (b) I (c),
shall be c~mpl,eted lJi,t15:iFl th~ee yeal"s 9f the
a~~ el'lSiH '~~:<~X' ; pe:f0t'~ 'April 1: 19!14.
(d), (fj, (g) and (j)
aaoptiefl aate st ~
Note: Regardless of any specific compliance date stipulated above,
a building shall not be ceemed in violation of this appendix until
such date has expired.
(f) Exceptions. The
exceptions to the requirements
following circumst~n~e~:
F ire Chief may grant cel:-tain
of this Apper.dix 1-B, und.er the
1. The Fire Chief !iJay allo~ the use of alternate
materials or methods of compliance upon a finding that the use of
such alternate materials or methods of compi Lance: ..... i11 provide
levels of tire and life safety equal to or greater than those
otherwise required in this Appendix I-B~
2. The Fire Chief may ... aive individual requirements
of this Appendix I-8 or grar.t reasonable extensions of time in
which t~ comply ... ith said require~ents 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 upo"n an
overall evaluation of the following factors:
ta+--(i) The amount of fire and life safe.ty that
would be lost if the requirements were ~aived or deferred;
The cost of complying .... ith the require-
ments:
-fet(l'ii) The financial hardship and disruption
to occupants and users" 'of the building in question;
f<it (iv)
building in question: and
The type and nature of the use of the
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~tvf such other factors as in the judgment
of Fire Chief .. ill result in pn.widing a rea:sonable degree of
saflety .as required by this uni~o-'''' Fire Code, to persons occupying
or ~5inq the buildinq.
3. The Fire Chief may grant reasonable extensions of
time, up to t~~ additional ye~rs, within ~hich to comply vith the
requiremonts of Subsections 2.2 (a). (e), (el. (d). (f). (q) and
(;) of this Appendix I-B, ~pon making a finding of hardship ba~ed
upon the factors set forth in subsection (2) of this subsection
2.1(fJ~ or upon the agreement of the building owner that within
said time, the c1.lilding will be 100% sprinklered, as detint!d in the
applicable NFPA standards.
4. The Fire Chi~~ 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 deteroi
nation in the next available council packet: shall ~ail notice,
postage prepaid .. to the affected. building O .... 71er; and shall p~lish
such notice ~nce in a nevspaper of general circulation not later
than five (5) days after the distribution 0: the notice on the city
council packet. The notice shall state the address llnd general
description of the sUbject property and the nature of the determi
nation. The notice shall also state that the details regarding the
decision will bE available in t~e Fire Chief's office, and that an
appeal may be taken within ten '10) days after the date of
publication of the notice.
(9') Appeals.
~~ Any person aqqriev6d or affected by any aeter
mination made by the Fire Chief pursuant to Paraqraph 2.1 (f) of
Appendix I-B may appeal that determination in accordance with this
Paragraph 2.1{g) •
2. An appeal from the decision of the Fire Chief
sh~ll be initiated withir. ten (10J days after the publication of
notice, as provided in Paragraph 2.1(0, :by the filing at the
office of the City Hanager Qf a writtEn, dated appeal, signed by
611 pa=ties named as appellants, stating the names and official
mailing addresses of all appellant(s) participatinq in the appeal
and their relationship to the matter being appealed.
3. The appeal shall contain a statement of all facts
supportinq 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 heari.ng. 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
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appellant{s) by the city Manager or designee in irfriting4 The
notice shall be mailed, PQstage prepaid~ addressed to the
appellant{s) at the addressees) listed on the appeal, or it shall
be delivered to the appellant,s) per£onally, ~t least ten (10) days
prior to the hearing date. If the .appellant. is other than tht8
buildinq owner, the building owner shall alsc 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 ali testimonial, documentary and tangible evidence
bearing on the issues. The City Manager or designee may continue
the hearing from tiiIle to time. The City Manager or designee may
approve, modify or disapprove the determinati~n of the Fire Chief.
Within three (3) working days of the close of the hearing, the city
Mana.ger or designee shall render a decision in ·...rriting4 The
decision shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to tbe appellant{s) at
the eddres$ (es) listed on the appeal or delivered to the
appellant's) pel~sonallY4 If the appellant is other than the
building owner, th€ building owner shall also be notified of the
decision.
7.
shall be final.
The decision of the City Manager or designee
Ch) 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
ot the above requirements shall be guilty of a misd~meanor. Such
person, firm or corporation is guilty of a separate offense for
each and every day during any po~ion of which any violation of
the:<;e requirements is committed, continued or permitted by such
person, firm or corporation.
(i) Severability. Should any section, subsection,
paragraph,~ sentence { clause or phrase. of this appendix be declared
unconstitutional cr invalid for any reason, such decision shall not
affect the validity of the remaining portions of these require
ments.
2.2 REQUIREMENTS
Ca) Automatic Sprinklers. All required exit corridors,
stairwells~ elevator lobbies~ publ ic assembly areas occupie.d by 100
or more persons and co~~ercial kitchens shall be protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler ex"stem meeting the design criteria of
U4B,C4 Standard N04 38-1. 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.
(bJ Corridor Doors. All doors opening into required exit
cor~idors shall be in conformance with the Building Code.
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EXCEPl'ION:
doors, if
placed.
Existing 1-3/8 inch bonded t solid-core weod
equipped l&rit!l self-closures, need not be re-
ee) Co~ridor Openings. All openings into required exit
corridor, other than doors: shall be in confonaance with the
Building Code~
(d) Exit stairways. All high-rise buildings shall have a
minimum of two approved exit staiI."1o.'lYs. The Fire Chief may alloW'
a minimum of one approved stain:ay upon a find: .'19 that add itional
automatic sprinkler protect.ion is provided that meets the s~ irit of
this Appendix and provides at least the equivalent p!"otection of
that prescribed in this Appendix.
(e) Exit stairwell Doors. All stairwell doors which are
to be locked frow the stairwell side shall automatically unlcck t
wi thout unlatching, 'When the alarm s}'stem activates.
(f) Elevator Lobby Separation. All elevators on all
floors shall open into elevator lobbies ~hich are separated from
the remainder of the building as is required for corridor construc
tion in the Building Code. The Fire Chief may ~aive this require
ment upon a finding that a~~itional automatic sprinkler protection
is provided that meets the spirit of thi~ Appendix and provides at
least the equivalent protection of that prescribed in this
Appendix ..
(q)
equipped for
Code~
Elevator Recail. All automatic elevators shall be
emergency operation in conformance ~ith the Building
(hJ Fire Alarm systerns~ All high-rise buildings shall
have an alarm system meeting the requirements of this section~ All
required tire alarm syst~~s ~hall 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 a~ient noise levels, as measured
in the A scale, within all habitable areas of the b".Jildinq. All
required alan:. systems shall cperate automatically by smoke or
products of combustion detectors and by manual pull stations as
approved by the chief.
(i) Fire Alarm Supervision. All fire alarm systems shall
be connecte.d to an approved central station or the local fire
department dispatch office in conformance with the Fire Code as
approved by the chief.
(j) Exit Illumination. Exits shall be illuminated at any
time the building is occupied ~ith lights having an intensity of
not less than 1 footcandle at floor level. Such lighting shall
have an independent alternate source of supply such as an emergency
battery pack.
(k) Emergency Plan. The management for all buildings
shall establish and maintain a written fire and life safety
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emerqency plan ...... hich has been approved by the chief. The chief
shall develop written criteria and guidelines upon ~hich all plans
shall be based.
{l) Posting
the emergency plan
stairway placarding)
chief.
of Emergency Plan and Exit Plans. Copies of
ana exiting plans (including elevator and
shall be postea in loc~tions approved by the
(iII) Fire Drills. The management of all buildings shall
conduct fire drills tor their staff and eJ:llployees at least every
120 days. The fire department must be advised of such drills at
least 24 hours in advance. 1\ written record of each drill shall be.
maintained in the build1~q management office and made available to
the fire department for review.
15~04.34' Paragraph 1<bl o~ Appen4iz rIA amen~e4 -Spark
Arrester. Required.
paragraph 7(b) of Appendix IIA of th£ Uniform Fire Code is
amended to read:
~7. Spark Arresters Requir2d.
(a) Each chimney used in conjunction with any fireplace,
barbecue, incinerator or any heating appliance in which solid or
liquid fuel is used, upon any building. structure or pr.emises
located within zoo feet of any ha:z:ardous fire area. shall be
maintained with a spark arrester constructed with heavy wire mesh
or other noncombustible material with openings not to exceed 1/2
inch.
(b) No person shall operate or cause to be operated any
tractor, engino, machine, motorcycle or truck equipment with an
internal combustion engine on or within 200 feet of any hazarGous
fire area or near any flammable agricultural crop without main
taining in effective 'IIo·orkinq order a spar)r arrester attached to the
exhaust system.
(e) Spark arresters attached to the exhaust system or
engines or equipment or vehicles as described in this section shall
not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to ;.llow t'lames or
heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.-
15.04.3491 Far_sr.ph.15 Ca) 6 of APPendi~_ 1"t-1. added
Clftarance of Brush or Vegetation Gro~th.
Paragraph 16 (a) of Appendix lIA. of the Uniform Fire Code is
added to read:
-16. Clea~ance of Brush or vegetation Growth from Struc-
tures.
(a)
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6. In 1 ieu C'~ the provisions of subsections (a) 1 an.d
2, the o·..m.er or otl'.:e= responsible person 1!'.ay, at chat person's
option, substitute an approved greenbelt co~posed of appropriate,
fire retardant plants, subject to approval of the Fire Chief, in
the subject areas."
1'.0".355 Paragraph 2+2'5 ~ppen4ix IIA IIl!de4 -J'ire
y;ot.ctiou Requirements.
Paragra.pt~ *as of Appendix. II-A of the Uhiform Fire Code is
addect to read:
.*~,:5. Fire protection aeqvirell8nts. All builders of
buildings constructed after the effective date of the ordinance
adopting this section within the boundaries of the hazardous fire
area of the City of Palo Al to, as de:Eined in this Code, shall
provide fire protection a5 follow~:
l.
DepartJ::lent
Code; and
Access and adequate water supply for emergency Fire
operations as required in Article 10 of the Uniform Fire
2. Class AT<':Oi B at' C root covering as require<.i in
Chapter 32 of the uniform Building Code as amended.
3. For residential buildings, an automatic fire sprinkler
system. designed in accordance W'itb the NFPA (Pamphlet 13D) Standard
for the installation of sprinkler systems in one and two-family
dwellings, i!l;nd in :mobile homes. for this section, the use of
approv~d plastic piping with insulated hangers or others as
approv~d by the Fire Chief, shall be permitted •
• ~:P":~',!1diUtlor.a,alterati()n", ··!>r . repalr" .... lthin..ny
j;lOfJ;~li'oti*f~~ft""ii~ ~ri~, ..".,.,ed :rUt)' percent. (50'1 of the va]. .. eo! /lJr'~~~'I!11t:L<l.:lt!"l or. <ltrUc;tUre, such buiLding shaLl be made to
eo"'t~;:!:,pfherequ'r ..... nts of Suhse"tionl.O.","S07(b)5{aa) for new
~UUa:J.i'!t&i>H'~ ,~",tu1:e... Value shall be de.terminedfroJl, the coat
~:~-::~~1':-:::too":t table 'in the most current IDll-lding StaMflrd$,
~lil;~~,l)y:.~h~. International Conference Qf lluildil)9 {)ffieials.
5. For buildings other than residential buildings~ an
automatic tire sprinkler system designed for the applicable hazard
class as defined in Uniform Buildinq Code Standard 38-1, 1988
edition ••
15.04.360 putie,-are discretionary.
NotloFithstanding any other provision of this chapter a.nd the
provisions of the Uniform Fire Code, whenever the words "shall" or
"must-are used in establishing responsibility or duty of the City,
its elected or appointed officers, employees, or agents, it is the
legislative intent that such words establish a discretionary
respor.sibility or duty requiring the exercise of judgment and
discretion.
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--1 .. '.11: ... ".'.: .. ~
.. .
'1S .. 0"~ l'S nngr.ph • of ltPpe'9",i$ XXX! u..!1d.~ ---Llrl 'low
RtqUi rAUJtt.
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paragraph 4 of Appendix IlIA of the Uniform Fire Code is
a~ended to read as follows:
-4 ~ Fire 1'10\1 Require1:l.ents for Bui!dings. Tl"le minimum
tire-floV requirements for buildings shall be det2rmi~ed by Palo
AltQ Fire Department Flo~ work Sheet, F.P.B~ 23 (see 15~04~370 for
fire flow vor~ she~t}.ft
15.04 .. 370. ,.1.0 .. ito :rire D,p.rU:ieut lire rloy work Sh.et.
F.~.B 23 is added to read as follows:
_. ___________ • ___ ~ .... ", ..... l-J). ____ _
~~~W~" ~---------_.bO~~~~~~~~~~~_~-"' ____ -n-___ \~'f _""!~n; .... _.:;..:,J~.\ n.... 14
n-.~,... l., .. ~
~ .. t.Iotrtj,ct~ .r ~l., .. ·~r_.,.....
,.,dJ........tru'"'~~_~
ill.. &:q9S!I!!i ~: ~ '" ~ :w-_di -'P'-... kl,l-t ........
~ W'1~ • __ ~. '-Pl-t __ <'-\ '-do u.u .nac.
~"" ~~II"J':'" , .. u..:., Ill' tl.~ \.I ~ ..:.:. ...... .." ..... UIiI."
r....:' J __
PT UJwtn tw ~ ......... """""' ___ ""
s IO!!' ~ ZoIZIJIt, !f IIf'u.t'7 ~ '-..., ....... l' ~
~ t1faU1~ 'MI ~ ........... ~'" n .
... &mO&L.~C: f'm: mrSZ!: If -.lla.c. '" ~ I ... II ~. "
~":~;S~:;:·n~ ~ S.,.lU, 1'I •• ~ ....
==..,.~Ut 0" ~ ~ r-u ,.,. n.-.l "
"MJ __ t .. .-lJ., ~ ___ ""
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11!i.04 .. 375 .. palo Alto Fire pepart.m&.Dt Listing or occupan
cies According to Relative Hai_rds.
F .. P .. B. 24 is added to read as follows:
High Hazard 1-3
Lo .. Hazard
1-1
1-2
4-1
A-1
H-2
H-3
H-S
H-6
H-4
A.-2,2.1
E-l,2,3
A-3
A-4
B-1
R-1
B-3
B-2
R-3
8-4
The higher the occupancy as shown on
the chart, the more severe the hazard
Based on avera9ing relative haza~ds
according to USC Tables SA, 58, SC, 50.
SECIIQN 2.. The City Council hereby ac.opts the findings [or
local amendments to the 1991 Uniform Buildin'g Code, attached hereto
as Exhibit ·A~ and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 3.. The provisions of this o=dinance ar-e severable.
If any provision of this ordinance or its application to any person
or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect
other provisions or applications of this ordinance or the provi
sions h@reby adopted which can be given effect ~ithout the invalid
provision or application.
SECTION 4. This ordinance and the provisions herein
enacted are to be read in co~junction with any provision of St~te
or Fede-al la~ relati~g to the handling or storage of materials
herein regulated I and is intended to supplement such State or
Federal regulation in the interest of public safety.
SECTION 54 The Council finds that none of the provisions
of this ordinance will have a significant environr.ental impact.
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SECTION e, This ordinance shall be effE..::tive on the
t~irty-first day after the date of its adoption, provided, however,
the provisions herein ena~ted shall be operative from and after
July 1., ~992.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENT:
AttEST: APPROVED:
City Clerk Mayor
city Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Fire Chief
Sr~ Assistant city Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
Flndings
The following local llInen<iments to th~ 1991 t1nifonn Fire
Code make modifications wh.!.ch relate to buildings used for human
habitation, as defined in the. State Housing Code, Part L 5 of
Division l3 of the California Health and Safety Code. In accor
aance ~ith Section 17958.7 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.
The majority of local amendments made either do not affect
residential property or are made strictly to conform to other parts
of the Palo Altc Municipal Code (PAMe) or for similar administra
tive purposvs.
The amendments for which findings are made are as follows.
For specific findings, see attached narrative (E~hibit A-l).
1. PAMe § 15.04.120
2.
Findill9.: This l!lodification requires larger elevators, .",'hen
they are otherwise required~ It is necessary tor faster
emergency response time due to traffic layout. See finding
3, topographical.
FAMC § 15.04.165
Finding:
reference
authority
This is an administrative amendment only to
the Fire Department as the appropriate permitting
for fire extinguishing systems.
3, FAMC § 1,.04.170
Finding: This :rnodificati~r'. requires additional firE
extinguishing syst€= . .s in the foothills. See findings I, 2
and 3, climatic I geographical and topographical.
4. FAMe § 15.04.172
Finding: Same as 15.04.170.
5. PAMe § 15.04.345
linding: This modification requires additional fjre and
lite safety featUres in existing high-rise buildings. See
all findings.
6. PAMe § 15.04.3H
Finding: Same as 15.04.170.
1
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PANe § l5.04.355
Findir'9:: This :modification re-qlJ.iI:"ES either class A or B
~O¢f C"overing .",i th.in th~ haza;t-dous fire area. Saros as
15.04.170.
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EXHIBIT )'-1
Findings fer _ocal Amendments to the
1991 Fire Code
PREAMBLE
Findings of fact:
A. Pursuant to Section 17S58.S o~ the Califor~ia Health
and Safety Code, the report contained herein is submitted as the
"Findings of Fact'" document with regard to the adoption of the
Uniform Fire Code, 1991 Edition, and amendments. Under this
adopting ordinance, specific amendments have been established "'hieh
are more restrictive in natYre than those adopted by the State of
California (state. Building code Stand:ards, State Housing and
community Develc-pD',ent Codes) commonly referred tc as Cal iforl'lia
Code of Regulations, Titles 19, 24 and 25.
B. 'I'hese amendments to the Uniforn Fire Code, 1991
Edition r have been recognized by the City of Palo Alto as tools for
addressinq the fire p~oblem, concerns and future direction by ~hich
the authority can establish and maintain an environment which ~ill
afford a level of fire and life safety to all who live and work
~ithin the City's boundaries.
C. Under the provisions of Section 17958.5 of the Hf'!alth
and Safety Code .. local amendments shall be based upon the follow
ing: climatic, geological/geographical, and topographical condi
tions. The findings of fact contained herein shall address each of
these situattons and shall present the local situation which,
either sin~~larly or in combination, caused the established
amendments to be adopted.
1. CLIJIf..ATI C :
The district, on an average, experiences an
annual rainfall of 16n-le~. ~his ~ainfall can be expected between
October and April of each :I"ear. However, curing the summer months
there is little, if any, measurable precipitation. During this dry
period the temperatures are usually hetween 70'-90· with light to
gusty westerly winds.. These drying winds, combined 'With the
natural vegetation which is dominant throl..lqhout the area, create a
hazardous fuel condition 'Which has caused extensive grass and
brushland 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.
Because of the ~eather patterns, a normal
rainfall cannot always be relied upon. This can re~ult in ~ater
rationing and 'Wate=-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 storaqe capacities and
inc~eased consumption.
3
2. GEOLOCICAL/GEOGRAPHICAL:
a. Geographical Locati2n. Palo Alto is located
at the north~rn most part of Santa Clara County. Palo Alto is a
1l'!ajor focus of the IISilicon Valley,· the center for an expanding
and changing electronics industry. as t;,'ell as pha:..-maceutical,
biomedical, and genetic research.
b. Seismic Location. palo ~lto is situated on
alluvial soils between San Francisco Bay and the San Andreas Fault
zone. 'I'he City's location makes it paz:-ticularly vulnerable to
d~a9"e to taller and older structures caused by seismic e·.,ents.
The relatively young geological processes that have created the San
F,ancisco Bay Area are still active today. Seismically, the city
sits between two active earthquake faults (San Andreas and the
Hayward/Calaveras), and numercus potentially active faults~
Approximately 55\ of the City's land surface is in the hign-to
moderate s~ismic hazard zones.
c. Seismic and Fire Hazards~
earthquake has the potential of causing greater
damage than the e~rthquake itself.
Fire follOwing an
loss of life and
The majority of the Cityls high-rise
structures are. located in seismic risk zones. Should a significant
seismic event occur, Public safety I'"esourc~s 'Would have to be
prioritized to mitigate the greatest threat, ar.d 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.
situation:
9lfAN jam 00300161
Other yariab~es may tend to intensify the
(1) The extent of damage to the 'Water
system;
{2} The extent of isolation due to bridge
and/or free'Way overpass collapse;
(3) The extent of road· ... ay damage and/or
amount of debris blocking the road
'Ways;
(4} Climatical conditions (hot, dry ~eath
er ~ith high winds);
(5) Time of day ~i1l influence the amount
of traffic on roadways and could in
tensify the risk to life during normal
business hours;
(6) The availability of timely mutual aid
or military assistance;
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(7) Many high-rise structures are located
near areas of high fire danger neces
si~3tin9 special precautions.
d. Tr~nsportati9n~ Pale Altc is Dissected by
a major state highway (Bl Camino Real) a~d two major rre~ways (1-
280 ~n~ U~S~ lOl~, ~hich potentially could affect response times of
fire suppres~ion e~~ipment~
e. Soil COjlditions. P910 Alto lies at tha-
sO'llthern end of San Fr.ancie::co Bay and is l:l'.lil t atop the .elluvial
deposits that sur~ound the ~argins of the Bay. The alluvium ~aS
created by the flooding of the many streams emptying into the San
Francisco Bay depression, and from intermittent sea ~ater inunda
tion that has occurred over the last 2 or 3 mi:_ior. years. The
areas closest to the Bay are overlain by unconsolidated fine silty
clay, known as Bay Mud which varies in thickness from a t~~ feet to
as much as 30 feet. Generally, the oldEr ~ore stable allu¥ium is
to the south and the younger less stable ~aterial is to the north.
Bedrock lies beneath the area at depth generally 300' or ~ore.
D. TOPOGAAPHlCAL:
'the findings of fact fer the tcpographical element, as
would be axpected~ are closely associated wi~h the geoloqical/qeoq
raphical element. with the elevation changes within the district,
development is of course follewing the path of least ~esistance,
creating a meanderinq pattarn. This then does not lend itself to
a good systematic street and road layout, which · .. ·ould promote easy
traffic flow. It has, in fact, resulted in few major crosstown
thoroughfares which tend to be heavily conqesteQ, primarily during
commute hours and seasonal periods 'Of the year. This creates
barrierE Which redu~e the response time of fire equip~ent and ether
emergency service;s. ThE topography of the. district is being
burdened by major structur25. Employment areas are throughout tha
district. Th~ people who work in these compl~xes have added to the
traffic congestion through~ut the city, thereby reducing the fire
department's response time capabilities.
In.'"lerent delays caused by the traffic patterns to many
of these types of proj ects., make it necessary to mitigate this
problem by requiring additional built-in automatic fire protection
systems, that provide early detecticn and: initial control until the
arrival of the fire department.
E. As a result of the findings of facts which identifies
the various climatic, geological/geoqraphical and topographical
e~ements~ those additional requirements as specified in the
amen~ents to the ~doptin9 ordinance for the Uniform Fire Coda 1991
Edition, cy the City of Palo Alto area considered reasonable and
necessary modifications~ The experience of several d1sastrous
fires yithin the City in addition to Santa Clara, Monterey, San
Mateo, Alameda and Contra Costa counties have demonstrated the need
for other fire prot~ction features, the most significant of ~hich
was located in the ~land/Berkeley Hills in which over 3,000 homes
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were de.stroyed and 25 people were killed. While it is clearly
understood that the adoption of such regulaticns may not pre~ent
the incidence of fire, the implementation of thes~ var~ous
amendments to the Code may reduce the severity and potential of
loss of life and property.
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