Cathedral City City Council
October 22, 2025

Page | 1
ORDINANCE NO. ____

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY REPEALING CHAPTERS 8.02, 8.04, 8.08, 8.10, 8.12, 8.14, 8.18, AND

8.20 OF TITLE 8 OF THE CATHEDRAL CITY MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING NEW CHAPTERS 8.02, 8.04, 8.12, 8.14, 8.18, AND 8.20, THEREBY ADOPTING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS

CODE AND CERTAIN SPECIFIED APPENDICES THEREOF, INCLUDING

LOCAL AMENDMENTS, AND REPEALING AND REPLACING SECTION

8.50.030(A) TO REQUIRE VERIFICATION OF A PUBLIC SEWER

CONNECTION PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING PERMIT FOR

NEW CONSTRUCTION AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM
CEQA.

WHEREAS, the State has adopted and approved the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code (Code), consisting of the California Building Code, California Residential Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Electrical Code, California Fire Code, California Existing Building Code, California Green Building Standards Code, California Energy Code, and California Reference Standards Code, which are published in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations and are based on the latest national, uniform and international model building codes; and
WHEREAS, the Code was published in July 2025 and will become effective and applicable to any building or structure for which application for a building permit is made on or after January 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code §§17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, 18938, and 18941.5 authorize local jurisdictions to adopt the California Building Standards Codes with amendments reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, on June 30, 2025, the Governor signed into law Assembly Bill (AB) 130, which implements a freeze on certain state and local building code updates for nearly six years, subject to limited exceptions, commencing October 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, exceptions include, among others: (1) changes or modifications that are substantially equivalent to changes or modifications that were previously filed by the governing body of the city or county and were in effect as of September 30, 2025; and (2) changes or modifications relating to home hardening; and
WHEREAS The City of Cathedral City finds that amendments to the 2025 California Building Standards Codes are reasonably necessary based on such local conditions, as documented in the City’s Finding of Facts Matrix (Attachment B); and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that each of the proposed amendments are substantially similar to amendments that were previously adopted by Council and were in effect as of September 30, 2025, or fall under one of the other exceptions in AB 130; and WHEREAS The City Council desires to repeal specified chapters of Title 8 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code and adopt new chapters incorporating the 2025 California Building Standards Codes with local amendments; and
WHEREAS The adoption of the California Building Standards Codes with local amendments is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15061(b)(3).

Page | 2

THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Chapters 8.02, 8.04, 8.08, 8.10, 8.12, 8.14, 8.18, and 8.20 and Section

8.50.030(A) of Title 8, “Building and Construction,” are hereby repealed in their entirety.

SECTION 2. New Chapters 8.02, 8.04, 8.08, 8.10, 8.12, 8.14, 8.18, and 8.20 of Title 8 are hereby adopted, incorporating by reference the 2025 California Building Standards Code, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, Parts 1 through 12 inclusive, as published by the California Building Standards Commission, together with the City’s local amendments as set forth in Exhibit A, as though fully set forth herein .

SECTION 4. New Section 8.50.030(A) of Title 8 is hereby adopted as set forth in Exhibit A.

SECTION 5. CEQA. The City Council finds this Ordinance exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15061(b)(3).

SECTION 6.Repeal of Conflicting Provisions. All the provisions of the Cathedral City Municipal Code as heretofore adopted by the City of Cathedral City that are- in- conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.

SECTION 7.Severability. The City Council declares that, should any provision, section, paragraph, sentence or word of this ordinance be rendered or declared invalid by any final court action in a court of competent jurisdiction or by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining provisions, sections, paragraphs, sentences or words of this ordinance as hereby adopted shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 8. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect on January 1, 2026, consistent with the effective date established by the California Building Standards Commission for the 2025 California Building Standards Codes.

SECTION 9. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and cause the same to be published according to law.

The foregoing Ordinance was approved and adopted at a meeting of the City Council held on the ____ day of _____________, 2025, by the following vote:

Ayes:

Noes:

Abstain:

Absent:

Page | 2
Page | 3
___________________________
Nancy Ross, Mayor
ATTEST:

____________________________
Tracey Hermosillo, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________
Eric S. Vail, City Attorney
Page | 3
Page | 4
Exhibit A
Chapter 8 .02
California Building Standards Code

8.02.010 California Codes Adopted without Amendment
The following codes have been adopted by the California Building Standards Commission ("Commission") and are applicable within the City, without local amendments:

A. 2025 California Plumbing Code. The 2025 California Plumbing Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The City adopts the 2025 California Plumbing Code without amendments
B. 2025 California Mechanical Code. The 2025 California Mechanical Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 4 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The City adopts the 2025 California Mechanical Code without amendments C. 2025 California Energy Code. The 2025 California Energy Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 6 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The City adopts the 2025 California Energy Code without amendments.

D. 2025 California Historical Building Code. The 2025 California Historical Building Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 8 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.

The City adopts the 2025 California Historical Building Code without amendments.

E. 2025 California Existing Building Code. The 2025 California Existing Building Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 10 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The City adopts the 2025 California Existing Building Code without amendments.

F. 2025 California Green Building Standards Code. The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code is adopted by the Commission as Part 11 of the California Code of Regulations. The City adopts the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code without amendments.

8.02.020 California and International Codes Adopted with Appendices and Amendments
The City adopts these other 2025 California and International Codes and Appendices, with the local additions, deletions and amendments provided in the following chapters:

Chapter 8.04 Adoption of the 2025 California Building Code and certain Appendices and AmendmentsChapter 8.12 Adoption of the
2025 California Fire Code and certain Appendices and
Amendments
Chapter 8.14 Adoption of the 2025 California Electrical Code, with certain Appendices and Amendments
Page | 4
Page | 5
Chapter 8.18 Adoption of the 2025 California Residential Code, with certain Appendices and Amendments
Chapter 8.20 Adoption of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, with certain Appendices and Amendments
Chapter 8.04 California Building Code, 2025 Edition

8.04.010 California Building Code Adopted with Amendments A. Except for the local amendments set forth herein, there is adopted by reference the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, which is based upon the 2024 International Building Code and is published by the California Building Standards Commission as Part 2 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. A copy of the Code together with the local amendments is on file with the Building and Safety Division.

B. The California Building Code, 2025 Edition (hereinafter "Building Code") shall be the Building Code for the City and said Code together with the adopted appendices and the amendments set forth in this chapter shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the City of Cathedral City.

8.04.020 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the Building Code A. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made to the Building Code:

1. Paragraph 2 of the Building portion of Section 105.2 is amended to reduce the height of fences which are exempt from permit requirements:

Building:

2. Fences and walls not over 3 feet.

2. Paragraph 4 of section 105.2 is deleted to remove the exemption from permit requirements for retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or lIl A liquids.

3. Add new subsection 105.8, Permit issuance restrictions, to read as follows:
105.8 Permit issuance restrictions. Permits for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work, on other than residential single and dual family dwellings and associated U occupancies, shall only be issued to California licensed contractors.

4. Section 117 is added to require removal and disposal of trash and debris at building sites:

Section 117 SITE SECURITY AND REMOVAL OF TRASH AND
DEBRIS
Page | 6
117.1.Construction Site Security Provisions
• 117.1.1 All new construction shall comply with the following security measures until utilities have been released by the city:
• A. Perimeter Lighting for Planned Development Projects and new Commercial construction, perimeter lighting shall be installed at a minimum of one hundred fifty-foot intervals and at a height not less than fifteen feet from the ground. The light source used shall have a minimum light output of two thousand lumens and be lighted during the hours of darkness. Additional lighting shall be required if the construction site exceeds four acres in area. • Exception. Infill residential projects shall be exempt from perimeter lighting requirements.
• B. Construction fencing shall be installed, not less than six feet in height, with heavy-duty screening attached, which is designed to preclude human intrusion, shall be installed along the perimeter boundaries of the construction site; or A uniformed security guard, licensed according to Business and
Professions Code, Chapter 11, shall be utilized to continually patrol the construction site during the hours when construction work has ceased
• Exception. Fencing location dependent on site conditions and at the discretion of the Building Official.
• C. Site shall be provided with a chemical toilet and shall be maintained on a regular basis to prevent a public nuisance.

5. Section 117.2 is amended to read as follows:
117.2Trash Containers. Trash container(s) shall be placed on each construction site and shall remain in place until construction is completed.

Where construction sites are separated by one or more lots, separate containers are required for each site. It shall be the contractor's responsibility to ensure that no container is located on or within any public right-of-way. It shall be the contractor's responsibility to ensure that all containers under his or her control are emptied of all deposited materials placed within said container(s) at least once every week.

Inspections. A permit holder shall not be entitled to and a building inspector shall not perform any inspections, including a final inspection, of any phase of completed construction work if the construction site or general area thereof contains an accumulation of construction debris. In- the-event that a building inspector is unable to conduct a requested inspection because of an accumulation of debris; a re-inspection fee shall be paid to the City at the time of the request for re-inspection.

6. Section 502.1 is amended to read as follows:
502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be 8 inches high for commercial and 4 inches high for Page | 7
residential with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch. Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

7. Section 901.1 is amended to read as follows:
901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter and chapter 9 of the California Fire Code shall specify where fire protection and life safety systems are required and shall apply to the design, installation and operation of fire protection and life safety systems.

Where there is a conflict between this chapter and chapter 9 of the California Fire Code, the California Fire Code, as adopted with modifications, amendments and deletions by the City, shall be applicable.

8. Section 1505.1 of Chapter 15 of the Building Code is amended by adding an additional exception to require the installation of clay or concrete tile roofs for all new buildings of Group R and associated Group U occupancies:
1505.1 General. Roof assemblies shall be divided into the classes defined below. Class A, B and C roof assemblies and roof coverings required to be listed by this section shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790. In addition, fire-retardant- treated wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with Table 1505.1 based on the type of construction of the building.

Exception:
a. Skylights and sloped glazing that comply with Chapter 24 or Section 2610.
b. All new buildings of Group R and associated Group U occupancies that have a roof pitch of 2.5 units vertical in 12 units horizontal or greater shall have coverings of clay or concrete tile conforming to ASTM C 1167 and ASTM C 1492, respectively, and shall be installed in accordance with Table 1507.3.7.

9. Section 1506.4 is added to Chapter 15 of the Building Code to provide that roofs of additions and alterations to existing buildings may be roofed in the same roofing material as the original building unless other materials are required by the Chief Building Official:
1506.4 Additions and alterations. Roofs of additions and alterations to existing buildings may be roofed in the same roofing material as the Page | 8
original building unless other materials are required by the Chief Building Official.

10. Amend subsection 3109.1, General, to read as follows:
3109.1 General. The design and construction of swimming pools, spas and hot tubs shall comply with the California Codes.

11. Add subsection 3109.2.1, Drowning prevention safety features, to read as follows:
3109.2.1 Drowning prevention safety features. Cathedral City will enforce section 115922, of the California Health & Safety Code. Where a wall of a group R, Division 3 occupancy (including attached garage) serves as part of the enclosure, numbers (4) or (5) shall be required as part of the enclosure.

Exception: Private pools and spas constructed within the fenced, gated and patrolled boundaries of a country club or similar fenced and gated residential development project are not required to be enclosed by a barrier, provided property complies with section 115922. (a).

8.04.040Adoption of Other Appendices of the Building Code without Amendments.

There is adopted by reference and without amendment, the following appendices to the Building Code:

1. Appendix C: Agricultural Buildings

2. Appendix I: Patio Covers

3. Appendix J: Grading

4. Appendix P: Emergency Housing
Chapter 8.14
California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition

8.14.010 California Electrical Code Adopted with Amendments A. Except for the local amendments set forth herein, there is adopted by reference the California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, which is based upon the 2020 National Electrical Code and is published by the California Building Standards Commission as Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. A copy of the Code together with the local amendments is on file with the Building and Safety Division.

B. The California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition (hereinafter "Electrical Code") shall be the Electrical Code for the City of Cathedral City and said Code together with the adopted Page | 8
Page | 9 10/1/2025
appendices and the amendments set forth in this chapter shall regulate and govern the design, construction, reconstruction, installation, quality of materials, location, operation, and maintenance or use of electrical equipment, wiring and systems within the City as well as the issuance of permits and the collection of permit fees.

8.14.020 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the Electrical Code A. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made to the Electrical Code:

1. Section 230.79 is amended to read as follows:

Section 230.79(C) One-Family Dwellings For a one-family dwelling, the service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 200 amperes, 3-wire, with a minimum 225 ampere bus.

2. Section 310.3 is amended by adding Section 310.3(E), and reads as follows:

Section 310.3(E) Conductors for General Wiring The use of aluminum and copper-clad aluminum conductors, feeder conductors, branch circuit conductors and taps or service entrance cables smaller than size 1/0 (one ought) AWG (American Gauge Wire) is expressly prohibited.

8.14.030 Adoption, Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to Annex H of the Electrical Code
A. There is adopted by reference and with the following additions, deletions and amendments, Annex H (Administration and Enforcement), which is a part of the Electrical Code.

1. Section 80.2 is amended to designate the City's Chief Building Official and his/her designees as the Authority Having Jurisdiction:

80.2 Definitions.

Authority Having Jurisdiction. The City's Chief Building Official and his/her designees are designated as the Authority Having Jurisdiction for purposes of this Electrical Code and wherever the term "Authority Having Jurisdiction" is used in this Code, it shall mean the City's Chief Building Official and his/her designees.

8.14.040 Adoption of Other Annex Chapters of the Electrical Code without Amendments
There is adopted by reference and without amendment, the following annex chapters to the Electrical Code:

Annex A: Product Safety Standards
Annex B: Application Information for Ampacity Calculation Annex C: Conduit, Tubing, and Cable Tray Fill Tables for Conductors and Fixture Wires of the Same Size
Annex D: Examples
Annex E: Types of Construction
Annex F: Availability for Critical Operations Power Systems; and Development and Implementation of Functional Performance Page | 10 10/1/2025
Tests (FPTs) for Critical Operations Power Systems
Annex G: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Annex I: Recommended Tightening Torque Tables from UL Standard 486A-486B
Chapter 8.18.

California Residential Code, 2025 Edition

8.18.10 California Residential Code Adopted with Amendments A. Except for the local amendments set forth herein, there is adopted by reference the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, which is based upon the 2024 International Residential Code and is published by the California Building Standards Commission as Part

2.5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. A copy of the Code together with the local amendments is on file with the Building and Safety Division.

B. The California Residential Code, 2025 Edition (hereinafter "Residential Code") shall be the Residential Code for the City and said Code together with the adopted appendices and the amendments set forth in this chapter shall regulate and govern the conditions and maintenance of all one- and two-family properties, buildings and structures within the City by providing the standards for supplied utilities and facilities and other physical things and condition essential to ensure that structures are safe, sanitary and fit for occupation and use and providing for the condemnation and demolition of buildings and structures that are unfit for human occupancy and use, and the issuance of permits and collection of permit fees.

8.18.020 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the Residential Code A. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made to the Residential Code:

1. Section R103.1 is amended to read as follows:

R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. There is established within the City, the Building and Safety Division, which shall be under the administrative and operational control of the Chief Building Official hereinafter referred to as the Chief Building Official.

2. Paragraph 2 of the Building portion of Section R105.2 is amended to reduce the height of fences which are exempt from permit requirements:

Building:
a. Fences and walls not over 3 feet.

3. Section R325 is updated and amended to read as follows:

SECTION R325 LIGHT, VENTILATION, HEATING AND AIR

CONDITIONING

4. Section R325.10 is amended to add an additional subsection, required air conditioning, to read as follows:

R325.10Required air conditioning. Every dwelling unit shall be provided with air conditioning facilities capable of cooling and maintaining a room temperature of not more than 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all Page | 11 10/1/2025
habitable rooms.

R403.1.7.3.1 Minimum foundation elevation requirements.

The top of exterior foundation elevation of all residential structures used for human occupancy shall meet the following criteria.
a. If no elevations have been fixed in connection with a permit or approval, the finished floor shall be located at the highest elevation required as set forth as follows:
i. On level lots, the top of the exterior foundation shall be elevated to a minimum of 18 inches above the top of the curb or the top of the crown of the street immediately in front of the subject lot.
ii. On lots where the lot drains toward the adjacent road or is subject to water impounded behind an adjacent road, the finished floor shall be elevated to a minimum of 18 inches above the top of the crown of the adjacent road.
b. The requirement of this section may be waived or modified by the Chief Building Official, in his or her sole discretion, upon the existence of one or both of the following circumstances:
i. If a proposed method of construction that is prepared by a registered civil engineer provides equivalent flood
protection; or
ii. If the unique characteristics of a building site make the requirements unnecessary.

5. Section R902.1 of Chapter 9 of the Residential Code is amended by adding an additional exception to require the installation of clay or concrete tile roofs for all new buildings of Group R occupancies:

All new buildings of Group R occupancies that have a roof pitch of 2½ units vertical (or greater) in 12 units horizontal shall have coverings of clay or concrete tile conforming to ASTM C 1167 and ASTM C 1492, respectively, and shall be installed in accordance with Table R905.3.7.

6. Section R904.2.1 is added to Chapter 9 of the Residential Code to provide that roof additions and alterations to existing buildings may be roofed in the same roofing material as the original building unless other materials are required by the Chief Building Official:

R904.2.1 Additions and alterations. Roofs of all additions and alterations to existing buildings may be roofed in the same roofing material as the original building unless other materials are required by the Chief Building Official.

8.18.030 Adoption of Other Appendices of the Residential Code without Amendments
There is updated code sections adopted by reference and without amendment, the Page | 12 10/1/2025
following appendices to the Residential Code:

A. Appendix BF: Patio Covers
Chapter 8.20
International Property Maintenance Code, 2024 Edition

8.20.10 International Property Maintenance Code Adopted with Amendments A. Except for the local amendments set forth herein, there is adopted by reference the International Property Maintenance Code, 2024 Edition, which is published by the International Code Council. A copy of the Code together with the local amendments is on file with the Building Department.

B. The International Property Maintenance Code, 2024 Edition (hereinafter "Property Maintenance Code") shall be the Property Maintenance Code for the City and said Code together with the additions, deletions and amendments set forth in this chapter shall regulate and govern the requirements for the maintenance of existing buildings and the issuance of permits and collection of permit fees.

8.20.020 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the Property Maintenance Code
A. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made to the Property Maintenance Code:

1. Amend the tile of Section 602 to read as follows:

SECTION 602 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING FACILITIES

2. Amend Section 602.1 Facilities required, to read as follows:
602.1 Facilities required. Heating and air conditioning facilities shall be provided in structures as required by this section.

3. Amend Section 602.2 by adding the following sentence at the end of the section:
602.2 Residential occupancies. Dwellings shall be provided with air conditioning facilities at all times, shall be capable of cooling and maintaining a maximum temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.

4. Add subsection 602.3.1 to read as follows:
602.3.1 Air conditioning supply. Every owner and operator of any building who rents, leases or lets one or more dwelling units or sleeping units shall supply air conditioning at all times, and shall be capable of cooling and maintain a maximum temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.

Chapter 8.12
California Fire Code, 2025 Edition

8.12.10 California Fire Code Adopted with Amendments
Page | 13 10/1/2025
A. Except for the local amendments set forth herein, there is adopted by reference the California Fire Code 2025 Edition, which is based upon the 2024 International Fire Code and is published by the California Building Standards Commission as Part 9 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. A copy of the Code together with the local amendments is on file with the Building Department.

B. The California Building Code, 2025 Edition (hereinafter "Fire Code") shall be the Fire Code for the City and said Code together with the adopted appendices and the amendments set forth in this chapter shall regulate and govern the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling, and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises, and providing for the issuance of permits and collection of permit fees.

8.12.020 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the Fire Code A. The following amendment is made to Section 202:

1. Chapter 2 Definitions is amended to add the definitions of "Common Area" and “Cannabis Facilities”:

DEFINITIONS
CANNABIS FACILITY: Cannabis establishments and businesses are required to be licensed by the City of Cathedral City including but not limited to marijuana sales occupancies (dispensaries and distribution centers), marijuana cultivation facilities, marijuana product manufacturing (including extraction and infused product operations), and marijuana testing labs. These establishments or businesses involve unique operations which create significant life safety and fire hazards. As such, all establishments or businesses engaging in cannabis activities shall meet the requirements of the City of Cathedral City Fire Department.

New and/or existing marijuana related establishments or businesses (including unlicensed/non-compliant) may require construction permits or a change of occupancy; this may include access control systems, electrical modifications, addition or deletions of walls, addition or modifications of fire protection systems, modification to mechanical systems (exhaust hood systems), air monitoring equipment etc.

Reference the Fire Department Guideline for Construction Permitting for Cannabis Establishments / Businesses Located in Commercial Buildings for further information during the construction permitting process.

COMMON AREA. For the purposes of ADA compliance for visual notification, a common area shall be a room, space, or element made available for use of a restricted group of people (example, occupants of a homeless shelter, the occupants of an office building, or the guests of such occupants). Common areas shall include restrooms, hallways, lobbies, meeting and conference rooms, classrooms, cafeterias, filing and photocopy rooms, employee break rooms, open office areas exceeding 300 square feet, examination and treatment rooms, and similar areas that are not used solely as employee work areas. Mechanical, electrical and Page | 14 10/1/2025
telephone closets, janitor closets, and similar non-occupied spaces that are not common areas or assigned work areas are not required to have visual alarm devises.

MID-RISE BUILDING: Buildings measured from 55 feet to 75 feet above the lowest floor level of fire department vehicular access shall be enhanced with high-rise provisions as set forth in Section 509.1 of the California Fire Code.

MODEL ROCKET: shall mean any toy or educational device which weighs not more than 500 grams, including the engine and any payload that is propelled by model rocket engines.

MODEL ROCKET ENGINE: shall mean a commercially manufactured, non-reusable rocket propulsion device which is constructed of a nonmetallic casing and solid propellant, wherein all of the ingredients are self-contained so as not to require mixing or handling by the user and which have design and construction characteristics determined by the State Fire Marshal to provide a reasonable degree of safety to the user. (All remaining provisions of Section 202 are unchanged)

8.12.030 Modifications, Amendments, and Deletions to Appendix Chapter 1 of the Fire Code
A. There is adopted by reference and with the following additions, deletions and amendments, Appendix Chapter 1, Administration, of the Fire Code:

1. Section 104.8.1 is amended to read as follows:
104.8.1 Legal Defense. Any liability against the City of Cathedral City Fire Department or any officer or employee shall be as provided for in California Government Code and case law. Fire suppression, investigation and rescue or emergency medical costs are recoverable in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and 13009.1. Any person who negligently or intentionally, or in violation of law, causes an emergency response, including but not limited to, a traffic accident or spill of toxic or flammable fluids or chemicals, is liable for the costs of securing such emergency, including those costs set out in Government Code Section 53150, et seq. Any expense incurred by the fire department for securing such an emergency situation shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the public agency in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, expressed or implied.
(All other provisions of Section 104.7 are the same.)

2. Section 106.1.1 Plan Submittal is added:
106.1.1 Plan Submittal. Any plan or master engineering report submitted for review shall be stamped by a California licensed professional architect or engineer.

EXCEPTION: Structural plans (new construction or tenant improvement) may be stamped by a California Registered Designers with AHJ approval.

Page | 15 10/1/2025

3. Section 113.4 is amended to read as follows:
113.4 Violations and Penalties. Each person or entity who engages in any of the following conduct is guilty of an infraction violation which is punishable by a fine in an amount provided by the City Municipal Code Section 13.65.050 and by the imposition of any and all other criminal penalties set forth in Chapter 13.65:
a. Violate or fail to comply with any of the provisions of the California Fire Code, or this chapter;
b. Fail to comply with any order made pursuant to the California Fire Code or this chapter;
c. Build or construct in violation of any detailed statement, specifications, or plans submitted and approved pursuant to the California Fire Code or this chapter;
d. Build or construct in violation of any certificate or permit issued pursuant to the California Fire Code or this chapter; or e. Fail to comply with an order made pursuant to the California Fire Code or this chapter which is affirmed or modified after an appeal was conducted.

Each person or entity which engages in flagrant and serious violations and/or continued noncompliance after notice or order to comply has been served on the violator or posted on the subject property at which a violation exists is guilty of a misdemeanor violation which is punishable by a fine provided by Municipal Code Section 13.70.080 and by the imposition of any and all other criminal penalties set forth in Chapter 13.70.

Each person or entity is guilty of a separate offense for each day, or portion thereof, during which any violation of any provision of the California Fire Code or this chapter is committed, continued or permitted by such person or entity after notification of the initial violation and shall be punishable according to the terms set forth herein.

The application of the penalties provided for in this section shall be cumulative and shall not prevent the City from pursuing other remedies provided by the City of Cathedral City Municipal Code for said violations including, but not limited to, the abatement of public nuisance conditions. (All other provisions of Section 113 are the same.)
B. A copy of the foregoing modifications, amendments and deletions to Fire Code Appendix Chapter 1 shall be maintained in the City's Building and Fire Departments and available for public inspection.

8.12.040 Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to Appendix B of the Fire Code
Page | 16 10/1/2025
A. There is adopted by reference and with the additions, deletions and amendments adopted herein, Appendix B, Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings, which is a part of the Fire Code. A copy of Appendix B, as amended, shall be maintained in the City's Building and Fire Departments and available for public inspection.

B. The following amendment is made to Appendix B:

Table B105.2 Required Fire-Flow for Buildings Other Than One- and Two- Family Dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.

Section 903.3.1.1 of the International Fire Code is amended to allow 50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)a.

Section 903.3.1.2 of the International Fire Code is amended to allow 50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)a.

C. The following deletion and amendment is made to Appendix B:

Footnote “a” – The reduced fire-flow shall not be less than 1,000 gallons per minute is deleted.

Footnote “b” – The reduced fire-flow shall not be less than 1,500 gallons per minute and is renumbered to become Footnote “a”.

D. The following amendment is made to Appendix B:

Section B106 Referenced Standard
ICC IFC-18 International Fire Code, Table B105.2 to add (as amended). (All other provisions of Appendix B remain the same.)

8.12.050 Adoption of Other Appendices of the Fire Code without Amendments A. There is adopted by reference and without amendment, the following appendices to the Fire Code:

Appendix Chapter 4 – Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
Appendix A: Board of Appeals
Appendix E: Hazardous Materials Categories
Appendix F: Hazard Ranking
Appendix G: Cryogenic Fluids -Weight and Volume Equivalents Appendix H: Hazardous Materials Management Plans and
Hazardous Materials Inventory Statements
Appendix J-1.1: Cathedral City Public Safety Radio System Coverage Specifications
Page | 17 10/1/2025
Appendix K: Construction Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities
Appendix L: Requirements for Fire Fighter Air Replenishment Systems Appendix M: High-Rise Buildings Retroactive Automatic Sprinkler Requirement.

Appendix N: Indoor Trade Shows and Exhibitions
Appendix O: Temporary Haunted Houses, Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement Uses
Appendix P: Cathedral City Fire Department Development Guidelines A copy of the City of Cathedral City Fire Department Development Guidelines and the Cathedral City Public Safety Radio System Coverage Specifications shall be kept on file with the City Clerk.

B. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 308:

1. Section 308.1.7 is amended to regulate the use of Sky Lanterns:
308.1.7 Sky Lanterns. Sky Lanterns are prohibited in Cathedral City without written permission (fire permit) by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

2. Section 308.1.6. is amended to regulate the use of Tiki/Luau torches:
308.1.6 Open-flame devices. A person shall not utilize or allow to be utilized, an open flame or use of a Tiki or Luau torch in connection with a public meeting or gathering for purposes of deliberation, worship, entertainment, amusement, instruction, education, recreation, awaiting transportation or similar purpose in Group A or E occupancies without first obtaining a permit in accordance with Appendix Chapter 1, Section 105.6.

3.Section 308.3.2.1 is added to regulate the installation of permanent Tiki and/or Luau torches:

Section 308.3.2.1 Installation of Permanent Tiki and/or Luau torches using Liquid Propane Fuel or Natural Gas.
a. The following regulations apply to the installation of permanent Tiki and Luau torches using liquid propane fuel or Natural gas:
i.) Only LPG or natural gas fueled permanent Tiki and/or Luau torches will be allowed.
ii) Installer shall submit plans to the Planning Department for review and approval. After Planning Department approval, the plans must be reviewed and approved by the Building Department and Fire Department. After all approvals,
installer must obtain an operational permit for use of an open flame device.

Page | 18 10/1/2025
iii) Maximum length of flame shall not exceed twelve (12) inches.
iv) Flame shall be a minimum of eight (8) feet from ground level and entire torch shall be entirely on private property. v) Minimum size of pipe support shall be one- and one-half inches (1 1/2") in diameter. EXCEPTION: If mounted on a structure and braced to the satisfaction of the inspection authority, minimum size could be one inch (1"). A radius of five (5) feet between torch burner and combustibles shall be maintained.
b. Where natural gas or LPG is used, an approved shut-off valve shall be located at or near the base of the torch and a labeled secondary shut-off shall be located at a readily accessible remote location.

Secondary valves may operate one or more torches.
(All remaining provisions of Section 308 are unchanged) C. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 503:

1. Subsection 503.1.2 is amended to regulate fire apparatus access roads for developments of one-or two-family dwellings:
503.1.2 Additional access. The Fire Chief is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access. Developments of one-or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 25 shall be provided with separate and approved fire apparatus access roads. All multiple-family residential developments shall provide with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

2. Subsection 503.2. is added to provide for the evaluation of the design of access roads:
503.2 (b) Access road design. The Fire Chief shall evaluate access road design in terms of total response efficiency. The Fire Chief is authorized to make modifications to access road network design, access road route and inter-connectivity with new or existing roads so that response efficiency is maintained.

3. Subsection 503.5.3 is added to regulate access roads with installed fences which cause the distance from the road to exceed the maximum distance allowed in Section 503:
503.5.3 Fences. When fences are installed that caused the distance from an approved fire department access road to exceed the maximum distance allowed in Section 503 here in, a person gate shall be provided in the fence to maintain the required fire department access. The gate shall be a minimum four (4) feet in width and be equipped with a keybox, key switch and/or lock accessible from both sides in accordance with Section Page | 19 10/1/2025
506 of this Code.

4. Subsection 503.1.4 is added to regulate fire access roads, fire lanes and signage:
503.1.4 Fire apparatus access roads, fire lanes and signage. In all locations where access by emergency vehicles for fire suppression and rescue purposes is unduly difficult or subject to obstruction, the Fire Chief may designate certain locations as fire lanes. Fire lanes may include some or all roadways within certain public or private structural complexes. Such roadways shall be marked and/or posted in accordance with the standards provided by the Cathedral City Fire Department. Persons or entities who park, leave, abandon, or store a vehicle(s) or cause or permit a vehicle(s) to be parked, left, abandoned, or stored in a fire lane may be subject to the issuance of an infraction citation pursuant to Chapter 13.65 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code and/or may have their vehicle(s) towed from the location pursuant to local or State statutes. All fire lane signs and/or curb markings shall be maintained in a legible and visible condition at all times by the property owner(s).

5. Subsection 503.2.1 is amended to regulate the dimensions for fire access roads for subterranean and above-ground parking structures and those located in the proximity of buildings and structures more than thirty (30) feet in height:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6 and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches, except that subterranean and above ground parking structures shall have an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 8 feet 6 inches.

6. Subsection 503.2.3 is amended to regulate the design of access road surfaces:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus (73,000 lbs.

GVW) and shall be surfaced so as to provide all- weather driving capabilities.

7. Subsection 503.2.4 is amended to regulate the turning radius of access roads:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the Fire Chief. Fire access road turns and corners shall be designed with a minimum inner radius of 15 17 feet and an outer radius of 38 feet. Radius must be concentric.

8. Subsection 503.2.5 is amended to regulate dead ends for access roads:
503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 one hundred fifty feet in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus. The City of Cathedral City has two approved turn around provisions: (i) a cul-de-sac with an outside Page | 20 10/1/2025
turning radius of 38 feet from centerline with no parking permitted and (ii) a hammerhead turnaround 65 feet from centerline in both directions.

9. Subsection 503.2.7 is amended to regulate the grade of access roads:
503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the Fire Chief based on the fire department's apparatus. No grade shall exceed 12 percent. Grade transitions shall not exceed maximum angle of approach and angle of departure based on the fire department's apparatus as determined by the Fire Chief.

10. Subsection 503.2.9 is added to provide for aerial fire access roads:
503.2.9 Aerial Fire Access Roads. Buildings or portions of buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with approved fire apparatus access roads capable of accommodating fire department aerial apparatus.

Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located within the aerial fire apparatus access roadway.
a.503.2.9.1 Minimum width. Fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet in the immediate vicinity of any building or portion of building more than 30 feet in height.
b.503.2.9.2 Proximity to building. At least one of the access routes required under this section 503.2.9 shall be located within a minimum of 15 feet and a maximum of 30 feet from the building and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building.

11. Amendments are made to Section 503.6 to maintain emergency response standards related to efficiency and time. It is necessary for the Fire Chief to have the authority to condition the design of access roads related to the proposed project as delays in response times have a detrimental effect upon public safety:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the Fire Chief. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved Opticom system as a means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained at all times.
a.503.6.1 Knox access switches; approved padlock or chain.

Existing secured automated vehicle gates or entries shall utilize approved Knox access switches as required by the Fire Chief. The location of the Knox access switches must be approved by the fire code official prior to the installation. Secured non-automated vehicle gates or entries shall utilize an approved padlock or chain (maximum link or lock shackle size of ¼ inch) when required by the Fire Chief.
b.503.6.2 Residential complexes. Residential complexes using secured automated vehicle entry gates or entries shall utilize a Page | 21 10/1/2025
traffic pre-emptive strobe-activated switch and/or an approved Knox key electric switch when required by the Fire Chief. Gate arms securing parking lots and parking structures shall be equipped with a fire department approved dual-keyed Knox key electric switch. When activated, the arm or arms shall open to allow fire and law enforcement access.
c.503.6.3 Dimensions. Approved security gates shall be a minimum of 20 feet in unobstructed drive width on at least the entry side with gate in open position. An unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm) shall be provided and maintained at all times.
d.503.6.4 Power failure. In the event of a power failure, the gate(s) shall be defaulted or automatically transferred to a fail- safe mode allowing the gate to be pushed open without the use of special knowledge or any equipment. If a two- gate system is used, the override switch must open both gates.
e.503.6.5 Override switch. If there is no sensing device that will automatically open the gates for exiting, a fire department approved Knox electrical override switch shall be placed on each side of the gate in an approved location.
f.503.6.6 Spikes and roadway obstructions prohibited. No spikes or roadway obstructions shall be constructed within access and exit ways without provisions for emergency retraction or removal with a Knox electrical override switch or similar device as approved by the Fire Chief.
g.503.6.7 Final inspection. A final field inspection by the Fire Chief is required before electronically controlled gates may become operative. Prior to final inspection, electronic gates shall remain in a locked-open position.
(All remaining provisions of Section 503 are unchanged) D. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 504:

1. Section 504.1 is amended to add provisions pertaining to required access:
504.1 Required access. Exterior doors and openings required by this code or the California Building Code shall be maintained readily accessible for emergency access by the fire department. An approved access walkway leading from fire apparatus access roads to exterior openings shall be provided when required by the Fire Chief. Finished grade to be flat and accessible on all sides of the building where ground ladder access is the only means to reach the highest point on the building from the exterior. Distance from building for finish grade shall be flat as required by the Fire Chief. Obstructions shall not be placed as to interfere with ground ladder placement.
(All remaining provisions of Section 504 are unchanged) Page | 22 10/1/2025
E. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 505:

1. Subsection 505.1.1 is added to provide the minimum premises identification standards for multi-family, multi-retail and multi-commercial occupancies:
505.1.1 Address numbers for specified occupancies. All multi-family, multi-retail and multi-commercial occupancies shall have a minimum of twelve (12) inch high numbers, with a minimum one and one- half (1½) inch stroke. All commercial, light and heavy industrial occupancies shall have a minimum of twelve (12) inch high numbers, with a minimum one and one-half (1½) inch stroke.

All address numbers are required to be illuminated (back or surface lit). (All remaining provisions of Section 505 are unchanged) F. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 506:

1. Section 506.1 is amended to add provisions pertaining to key boxes:
506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting purposes, the Fire Chief is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the Fire Chief. Secured emergency access gates serving apartment, townhome or condominium complex courtyard must provide a key box in addition to association or facility locks.

The nominal height of Knox lock box installations shall be five (5) feet above grade. Location and installation of Knox key boxes must be approved by the Fire Chief.
(All remaining provisions of Section 506 are unchanged) G. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 507:

1. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 507:
a. Subsection 507.5.3 is amended to provide additional installation requirements for private fire service mains and appurtenances:
i. NFPA 25 shall establish the minimum requirements for the installation of private fire service mains and their appurtenances supplying automatic sprinkler systems, open sprinkler systems, water spray fixed systems, foam systems, private hydrants, monitor nozzles or standpipe systems with reference to water supplies, private hydrants and hose houses.
ii. Private fire service mains shall be not less than eight (8) inches in diameter when serving private fire hydrants and fire sprinkler systems.
iii. Ductile iron piping with a minimum rating of Class 150 or C900 Page | 23 10/1/2025
Class 200 plastic piping, installed to NFPA 24 standards, is required for all private fire service mains. When fire pumps are installed, a minimum Class 200 ductile iron fire service main is required.
iv. All restrained joints on private fire service mains, private fire hydrant lines and fire sprinkler laterals shall be calculated as required by NFPA 24,or use Water Agency/District Drawings.

Calculations shall be submitted and the resulting
dimensions/details of restrained joints shall be shown on the plans.

Minimum design working pressure shall be 150 PSI. Special design considerations may be required with high static pressures or lines in which fire pumps are installed.
v. Private fire service mains when supplying three (3) or more fire hydrants shall be designed with a looped water supply.
vi. In order to isolate the fire sprinkler underground lateral from any private fire hydrant system, a listed aboveground indicating valve (post indicator valve or outside stem and yoke valve) shall be provided for the fire sprinkler lateral.
vii. Indicating valves shall be required to sectionalize no more than two commercial buildings, three residential buildings or two private fire hydrants on private fire service mains or when 5 or more fire appliances are on a looped fire service underground system. Any deviation will require the Fire Department approval.
viii. On-site private fire hydrants and Fire Department Connections shall be located less than three (3) feet behind the face of a curb or when no curb is provided and shall be protected by guard posts set in concrete to the following specifications:
Constructed of steel not less than 4 inches in diameter and concrete filled
Spaced not more than 4 feet between posts on center
Set not less than 3 feet deep in a concrete footing of not less than a 15-inch diameter
Set with the top of the posts not less than 3 feet above ground Located not less than 3 feet from the fire hydrants, post indicator valves and Fire Department connections
All guard posts shall be painted yellow. (Rust-Oleum safety yellow #2149 or equivalent)
ix. The installing contractor shall provide a completed "Contractors Material & Test Certificate for Underground Piping" as required by NFPA 24.
x. Double Check Detector Assemblies (Private):
All Double Check Detector Assemblies shall be UL listed/FM approved for fire protection service in compliance with NFPA

24. All Double Check Detector Assemblies shall be installed with two tamper switches and electrically monitored at a UL listed central station service, when there are 20 or more fire sprinkler heads.
All Double Check Detector Assemblies shall be provided with a chain and breakaway security lock. A key shall be kept in the spare sprinkler head box and KNOX key box.
Reduced pressure zone assemblies or reduced pressure
detector assemblies shall not be installed in private fire service Page | 24 10/1/2025
mains and fire sprinkler systems.
b. Subsection 507.5.3.1 is amended to provide additional installation requirements for private fire service mains and appurtenances:
507.5.3.1 Fire Department Connections and Private Fire
Hydrants
i. Fire Department Connections shall be installed at apparatus access roads in locations approved by the fire department. Check with the fire department prior to plan submittal.
ii. The Fire Department Connection shall extend between 30" to 48" above finished grade.
iii. Fire Department Connections shall be visible, accessible, and installed in approved locations downstream of all Double Check Detector Assemblies. The check valve for the FDC shall be above grade. Fire Department connections shall be located within 100 feet of a fire hydrant. Exceptions may be made by the fire code official.
iv. Fire Department Connections shall be equipped with protective caps.
v. When the total sprinkler system demand, including hose allowance, is less than 499 G.P.M., the Fire Department Connection riser shall be 4" in nominal diameter and shall have a standard 2-way threaded 2 ½” connection.
vi. When the total sprinkler system demand, including hose allowance, is 500 GPM to 1,199 G.P.M., the Fire Department Connection riser shall be 6" in nominal diameter and shall have a standard 3-way threaded 2 ½” connection.
vii. When the total sprinkler system demand, including hose allowance, is greater than 1,200 G.P.M., the Fire Department Connection riser shall be 6" in nominal diameter and shall have a standard 4-way threaded 2 ½” connection.
viii. In a building complex, where two or more buildings are served, or identification of which building is served by separate Fire Department Connections; the Fire department will require signs of substantial construction to be posted at each Fire Department Connection identifying the respective buildings served. The minimum letter size shall be 1" on a contrasting background, white letters on a red background.
ix. Fire Department Connections shall be painted red (Rust-Oleum Safety Red # 2163 or equivalent).
x. Fire Department Connection piping shall be ductile iron from the private fire service main to the Fire Department Connection check valve above ground. The pipe from the Fire Department
Connection check valve to the Fire Department Connection shall be ductile iron pipe. The NFPA 13R Fire Department Connection piping shall be copper from the private fire service main. xi. Commercial fire hydrants with a 4", x 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" outlets are required when fire flow demand is 1,500 GPM or greater.

Residential fire hydrants with a 4” x 2 ½” outlets are required when the fire flow demand is less than 1500 GPM. Existing residential fire hydrants that are located within 150’ of a building do not need to be upgraded to commercial fire hydrants if that hydrant(s) can provide the required fire flow.

Page | 25 10/1/2025
xii. Private fire hydrants shall be painted red (Rust-Oleum Safety Red # 2163 or equivalent).
xiii. Blue reflective markers shall be installed to identify location of all fire hydrants. These markers shall be visible from both directions of vehicle travel.
xiv. Hydraulic calculations shall be provided for all private fire hydrant systems. Calculations shall be calculated back to the point of the flow test. The fire hydrant system shall meet the fire flow requirements as required by the California Fire Code.
xv. When the private fire service main serves both fire sprinkler system(s) and private fire hydrant(s), the hydraulic calculation shall include the fire hydrant flow rate with associated private fire hydrant(s) and fire sprinkler flow rate for a minimum design of 20 PSI residual pressure for the fire hydrant (s).
xvi. All private fire service mains and water tanks shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5:
Private fire hydrants of all types: Inspection annually and after each operation; flow test and maintenance completed annually. Fire service main piping: Inspection of exposed, annually; flow test every five years.
Fire service main piping strainers: Inspection and maintenance completed after each use.
Records of inspections, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
xvii. Dry barrel and wall hydrants shall be inspected annually and after each operation with the necessary corrective action taken as shown in table 7.2.2.4 of the Cathedral City Fire Dept.

Development Guidelines.
xviii. Wet barrel shall be inspected annual and after each operation with the necessary corrective action taken as shown in table 7.2.2.5 of the Cathedral City Fire Dept. Development Guidelines.
c. Subsection 507.5.1 is amended to provide more stringent private fire hydrant placement requirements:
507.5.3.1.1 Where required. Minimum basic private fire hydrant spacing for multi-family residential (triplexes or greater, apartment houses, hotels, convents or monasteries) and all commercial or industrial properties shall be spaced not more than 300 feet along streets or fire apparatus access roadways, so that all fire apparatus- accessible portions of the building are within 150 feet of a hydrant.
(All remaining provisions of Section 507 are unchanged) H. The following Section 511 is added to provide reliable public safety communication:

Section 511 is added to ensure portable hand-held radios used by police and fire personnel often do not have the signal strength to send radio messages from within buildings or from underground parking garages to outside emergency responders. Installation of a Public Safety Radio System into the building will Page | 26 10/1/2025
increase radio frequency amplification for all first responders and improve public safety:

SECTION 511 FEATURES AND REQUIREMENTS.
511.1 General. All new buildings four stories in height or taller and all subterranean levels of parking structures or existing altered buildings over twenty (20) percent shall meet the City of Cathedral City Public Safety Radio System Coverage specifications as determined by the Fire Chief.

I. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made to Section 901:

1.Section 901.4 is amended to provide circumstances under which existing non-conforming buildings are required to comply with fire safety requirements for newly constructed buildings and structures:
901.4 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems. Fire protection systems shall be maintained in accordance with the original installation standards for that system. Required systems shall be extended, altered, or augmented as necessary to maintain and continue protection whenever the building is altered, remodeled or added to. Alterations to fire protection systems shall be done in accordance with applicable standards.

Exceptions: Existing non-conforming buildings shall comply with all the fire safety requirements for a newly constructed building or structure under the following circumstances:
a. When the floor area in an existing non-conforming building is increased greater than fifty (50) percent of the total square footage of the original building.
b. When a change in occupancy occurs in an existing non- conforming building which, in the opinion of the Fire Chief or Chief Building Official, significantly changes the use of the building. c. When structural repairs and/or alterations are made to an existing non-conforming building which exceeds fifty (50) percent aggregate replacement of the total square footage of the original building.

2.Section 901.6 is amended to provide additional provisions pertaining to inspections, testing and maintenance of fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems:
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. It shall be the responsibility of the owner to ensure that these requirements are met.

Non-required fire protection systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed. Prior to the removal of any fire protection system, permission shall be obtained from the Fire Chief.

J. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 903:

Page | 27 10/1/2025

1.Section 903.2 is amended to provide more stringent fire protection requirements by requiring the installation of approved automatic fire sprinkler systems in every newly constructed Group A occupancy building where one of the following conditions exist;
a. Section 903.2.1.1 is amended as follows:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1 occupancies where:

The aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.

Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section.
(The other provisions of section 903.2.1.1 remain the same) b. Section 903.2.1.2 is amended as follows:
903.2.1.2 Group A-2 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where:

The aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet. Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section. (The other provisions of section 903.2.1.2 remain the same) c. Section 903.2.1.3 is amended as follows:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-3 occupancies where:

The aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.

Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section.
(The other provisions of section 903.2.1.3 remain the same) d. Section 903.2.2 is amended as follows:
903.2.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group B occupancies where one or more of the following conditions exists:
i) Where the aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet. Fire resistive walls shall not be
considered for reducing the gross floor area of the building for the purposes of this section.
ii) Where the fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more persons.
iii) Where the fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.

Page | 28 10/1/2025
e. Section 903.2.3 is amended as follows:
903.2.3 Group E. Except as provided for in Sections 903.2.3.1 for a new public school campus and 907.2.3.6 (Automatic fire alarm system) for modernization of an existing public school campus building(s), an approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies where:
i) The aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet. Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section.
ii) Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the level of exit discharge.

Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any fire area or area below the level of exit discharge where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level and the aggregate fire area under the roof does not exceed 3,000 square feet
(The other provisions of section 903.2.3 remain the same) f. Section 903.2.4 is amended as follows:
903.2.4 Group F-1. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings used for Group F occupancies where one or more of the following conditions exists:
i) Where a Group F-1 aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet regardless of stories.
ii) Where a Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane; or
iii) Where the combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 3,000 square feet.

Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section. iv)Cannabis Cultivation and Manufacturing Sites: The Fire Department considers these uses to be a Group F-1
(Factory Industrial Moderate-Hazard Occupancy). All new construction is required to be fire sprinkled per the
amended Fire Code (see above requirements).

Cannabis Cultivation and Manufacturing Sites that will be sited in an existing structure, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

Page | 29 10/1/2025
(a) Where a Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000
square feet; or
(b) Where a Group F-1 fire area is located more than
three stories above grade plane; or
(c) Where the combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds
24,000 square feet.
(The other provisions of section 903.2.4 remain the same) g. Section 903.2.7 is amended as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one or more of the following conditions exist:
i) Where a Group M aggregate fire area under the roof
exceeds 3,000 square feet. regardless of stories.
ii) Where a Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane; or
iii) Where the combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.

Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section.
h. Section 903.2.9 is amended as follows:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic fire sprinkler shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one or more of the following conditions exists:
i) A Group S-1 aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet regardless of stories.
ii) A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane; or
iii) The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, under the roof exceeds 3,000
square feet.
iv) Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section. i. Section 903.2.9.1 is amended as follows:
903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406 of the California Building Code, where the aggregate fire area containing a repair garage under Page | 30 10/1/2025
the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet or where the vehicles serviced are parked in the basement.
j. Section 903.2.10 is amended as follows:
i)903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S- 2 occupancy where one or more of the following
conditions exist:
(a)A Group S-2 aggregate fire area under the roof
exceeds 3,000 square feet regardless of stories;
Exception: Group S-2 carports – 100% open on all sides of non-combustible construction
(b)A Group S-2 fire area is located more than three
stories above grade plane; or
(c)The combined area of all Group S-2 aggregate fire
areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, under
the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.

Fire resistive walls shall not be considered for reducing the fire area of the building for the purposes of this section.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.4 of the California Building Code or where located beneath other occupancy groups.
k. Section 903.2.10.1 is amended as follows:
903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks or buses where the aggregate fire area under the roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.
l. Section 903.2.4.4, is added for Group F-2 occupancies 903.2.4.4 Group F-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings containing a Group F-2 occupancy when the fire area under roof exceeds 3,000 square feet.
m. Section 903.3.10 is amended to provide additional requirements for floor control valves:
903.3.10 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indication control valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in buildings three or more stories in height unless otherwise approved by the Fire Chief. Valve locations will be determined and approved by the Fire Chief.
n. Section 903.6 is added to require the installation of automatic Page | 31 10/1/2025
sprinkler systems for buildings constructed near an existing fire sprinkler protected structure:
903.6.1 Buildings proximately located to a protected building or structure. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in any building constructed within 10 feet of an existing fire sprinkler protected building or structure.
o. Section 903.6.1.1 is added to establish conditions in which tenant improvements or added square footage will result in the application of Section 903:
903.6.1.1 Tenant improvements. Section 903 shall apply to existing buildings undergoing tenant improvement where the improvement or added square footage results in the total aggregate fire area of the building increasing by 50% or more of the existing square footage.
(All other pro visions of Section 903.2 not expressly amended herein remain unchanged)
p. Section 903.6.2 is added for Increased Square Footage.

Section 903.6.2 Increased Square Footage. Any existing building or structure undergoing construction or alteration which adds square footage exceeding the total aggregate floor area, as prescribed in Section 903.2 shall require an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.

Exceptions: (1) One and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes (2) additions to occupancies equating to fifty (50) percent or less of total floor area. Fire Sprinkler requirements for these occupancies shall be determined based on the California Fire Code Table B105.1 – Minimum Required Fire Flow for Buildings.

K. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 916:

1.Section 916.3.1 is added:
916.3.1 Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to a constantly attended control station when a short- term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visible and audible and shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.

2.Section 916.3.2 is added:
916.3.2 Supply Shutoff. The gas detection system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for whichever gas is detected.

Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required for reactors utilized for the production of highly toxic or toxic compressed eases where such reactors are:

Page | 32 10/1/2025
a. Operated at pressures less than 15 pounds per square inch (psi).
b. Constantly attended.
c. Provided with readily accessible emergency shut-off valves.

3.Section 908.3.3 is added:
908.3.1 Valve closure. The automatic closure of shutoff valves shall be in accordance with the following:
a. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiates the gas detection system alarm, which is within a gas cabinet exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
b. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiates the gas detection system alarm, which is within a gas room and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures, the shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
c. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiates the gas detection system alarm, which is within a piping distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve for the compressed container of specific gas detected supplying the manifold shall automatically close.

Exception: When the gas-detection sampling point initiates the gas detection system alarm, which is at a use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shutoff valve in the gas valve enclosure for the branch line located in the piping distribution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.

L. Section 1103.11 is added Increased Hazard Class in Change of Use Section 1103.11 Increased Hazard Class in Change of Use. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed in existing, non-sprinklered buildings when a change of use occurs resulting in a higher hazard classification.

M. Section 1201.1.1 is added Other Systems
Section 1201.1.1, Other Systems. Where required by the Fire Code Official, other systems and operations including but not limited to battery systems assembly, battery reconditioning and storage, research and development of battery storage systems, electric vehicle manufacturing and testing, and battery charging systems for cars or carts inside of buildings or structures, shall comply with this chapter.

Exception: When approved by the Fire Code Official, charging stations Page | 33 10/1/2025
for electric vehicles located in open parking garages of Type I or II construction.

N. Section 3106.4.8 is added to regulate fire protection measures for parade floats:

SECTION 3106.4.8 PARADE FLOATS

1.3106.4.8.1 Decorative materials. Decorative materials on parade floats shall be non-combustible or flame retardant.

2.3106.4.8.2 Fire protection. Motorized parade floats and towing apparatus shall be provided with a minimum 2-A: 1O-B:C rated portable fire extinguisher readily accessible to the operator.

3.3106.4.8.3 A twelve (12) inch minimum clearance of decorative materials shall be maintained around the vehicle and/or generator.

4.3106.4.8.4 Portable generators shall be secure from tipping and subject to approval by the fire code official.

O. Section 5614 is added to regulate fireworks:

SECTION 5614 FIREWORKS
5614.1 Prohibition. The manufacture, sale, possession, storage, handling or use of "safe and sane" fireworks as currently defined in the California Health and Safety Code section 12529 or "dangerous fireworks" as currently defined in the California Health and Safety Code section 12505 or thereafter amended by state statute is prohibited in the City.

The provisions of this section do not apply to fireworks displays conducted in accordance with the provisions of any permit issued pursuant to this chapter.
5614.2 Seizure of fireworks. The Fire Chief, any authorized Fire Chief, or his or her designee, peace officer or other city official authorized to enforce the City's Municipal Code may seize, take, remove, or cause to be removed at the expense of the owner all prohibited fireworks and explosives. This will include all persons, firms or corporations who manufacture, sell, possess, store, handle or use any prohibited fireworks or explosives.

P. The following modifications, amendments and deletions are made Section 5704:

1.Section 5704.2.9.6.1.4.1 is added to prohibit the installation of combustible/flammable liquid tanks in residential districts:
5704.2.9.6.1.4.1 Location
The installation of underground combustible and/or flammable liquid tanks is hereby prohibited in all residential districts. The Fire Chief may authorize installation of underground combustible/flammable liquid tanks in agricultural, commercial and manufacturing districts.

Page | 34 10/1/2025

2.The definition of Secondary Containment in Section 5704.2.9.7.4 added:

SECONDARY CONTAINMENT- That level of containment that is external to and separate from primary containment and is capable of safely and securely containing the material, without discharge, for a period of time reasonably necessary to ensure detection and remedy of the primary containment failure.

Q. Section 6109 is added regarding liquefied petroleum gas (LPG):

1.6109.1.1 New Installation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas. All new installation of liquefied petroleum gas with an aggregate capacity of 2,000 gallons or more shall be protected by an approved automatic fixed water spray system. The system shall protect the entire surface area of the tank and the cargo tanker transfer area. The system shall be calculated to provide a minimum density of .25 gallons per minute per square foot with a one-hour duration water supply.

A copy of the foregoing modifications, amendments and deletions to the Fire Code shall be maintained in the City's Building and Fire Departments and available for public inspection.

8.12.060 Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones
A. The designated Fire Haard Severity Zones within the City are depicted upon the Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) Map, dated March 24, 2025, a copy of which shall be available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk.

Chapter 8.50
Sewer Connections

8.50.030 New construction.

All buildings and structures with plumbing facilities constructed on or after the effective date of this chapter shall be connected to an available public sewer system prior to issuance of a temporary or final certificate of occupancy, or any other permit, license, or certificate that authorizes or purports to authorize the occupation of any such building or structure.

A. Verification in the form of payment receipts, or approved permits, from the respectful utility, shall be provided to the Building and Safety Division prior to the issuance of a building permit.