AGENDA
JOINT MEETING OF THE COTATI CITY COUNCIL AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
FORMER COTATI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
City Council Chamber, City Hall 201 W. Sierra Avenue
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING
The Cotati City Council welcomes you to its meetings that are generally scheduled for the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. Your interest and participation are encouraged and appreciated.
City Council meeting agendas, minutes and recordings are posted on the City’s Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov. For questions about the agenda or to receive the City Council agenda by e-mail, contact the City Clerk at [email protected] or 707-665-3622.
Cotati City Council Meetings will be conducted in person in the Council Chamber. To guarantee your ability to participate, you must attend the meeting in person. As a courtesy to the public, the City allows citizens the opportunity to view and offer public comments virtually through Zoom Online video conferencing platform. Technical difficulties may occur that make the Zoom platform unavailable. If Zoom is unavailable, the meeting will continue. Participants considering using Zoom should consider attending in person, if they desire to ensure their ability to view the meeting and offer public comments.
Subject to the above disclaimer, Zoom Online video conferencing is available to watch or listen in the following ways:
1. Using the following online livestream meeting portal link: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofcotati7280/streams
2. Cable T.V. Broadcast, local channel 28
Members of the public can participate in the meeting online by clicking the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86056540343?pwd=OUbXoJKa3w1WfcYr8YmeASy2RMDIoy.1 If you do not have the ability to join online, but would like to participate in the meeting, you can call into the meeting using your telephone, by dialing one of the following numbers and entering the meeting credentials:
Webinar ID: 860 5654 0343 Passcode: 299299
+1 (669) 900-6833 or +1 (346) 248-7799 or +1 (253) 215-8782 or +1 (301) 715-8592 or +1 (312) 626-6799 or +1 (929) 436-2866 Attendees may join the meeting any time after 5:45pm. Attendees will be muted until they are called upon for Public Comment. To make a public comment, use the “raise hand” icon on your smart device or desktop computer, or dial *9 if you are using just your telephone. Please listen carefully for the Mayor or City Clerk to address you by name (or phone number) and for the audible Zoom notification that you have been unmuted. Once you begin your public comment, your three minutes will begin.
If you would prefer to submit your public comment in writing, please email your comments to [email protected]. If you are commenting on a specific agenda item or items, please state the agenda item number(s) in the subject line of the email. All comments received via email will be provided to the City Council in writing and included as part of the record of the meeting. They will not be read aloud into the record at the meeting.
Notice is hereby given that Council may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed on this agenda, in accordance with the City Council Rules of Conduct.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Cotati City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for inspection in the online Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov and in the City Manager’s office located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, during the City’s posted business hours.
Accommodations: Upon request, this agenda will be made available in appropriate formats to persons with disabilities as required by Section Cotati City Council Agenda October 28, 2025
202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in a meeting should contact the City Clerk at (707) 665-3622 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.
Rules of Decorum: To avoid distraction, the following meeting etiquette shall be enforced. • Silence electronic devices, including cell phones.
• Audience members are advised to keep conversations to a minimum or conduct them outside the building. • Members of the public are prohibited from speaking, yelling, or otherwise making loud noises from the audience that disrupt the orderly proceeding of the meeting.
• Photographs or video recordings using tri-pods or other means that would be distracting are to be taken only from the designated media area. • The Presiding Officer shall request that the audience withhold expressions of support or opposition for speakers in the interest of time and to encourage the full expression of differing views.
Public Comment: Public comment on any one agenda item is limited to no more than three (3) minutes per person, in accordance with the City Council Rules of Conduct.
Waiver Warning: If you challenge decisions/direction of the City Council of the City of Cotati in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at public hearing(s) described in this agenda, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Cotati at, or prior to, the public hearing(s).
Announcements:
A. Meeting Orientation for New Attendees/Viewers. In conformance with the Brown Act and the adopted City Council Rules, if the City Council is considering an item in which action will be taken, citizens will be invited to provide comments relevant to the item being discussed.
The meeting agenda also includes a Citizen Business item, which is the designated place on the agenda where citizens have the right to comment on any matter within the City’s subject matter jurisdiction. However, Citizen Business items do not generally receive a response because the Brown Act prohibits the City Council from taking action or considering any item that is not on this agenda, so as to ensure that other members of the community who wish to provide comment are notified in advance through a properly noticed meeting agenda. Nonetheless, in accordance with the Brown Act, the Council may briefly respond, may ask a question for clarification, or may direct an item be placed on a future agenda.
B. Measure S supports police services, a variety of recreation programs for all ages, and the maintenance of our streets, parks, and public buildings. See details on the web at cotaticity.gov.
C. Citizens interested in receiving City of Cotati community alerts via text or email are encouraged to enroll with CivicReady, by signing up on the City’s website, www.cotaticity.gov, under the “How do I” link at the top of the homepage.
D. Have you noticed a street light out, pothole, or issues in a City Park? We want to keep Cotati beautiful and running smoothly, so please let us know what needs to be fixed, by going to the City website under “How do I” and “Report a Service Request.” E. Like always, we love to hear from you, so please feel free to contact the City at 707-792-4600 or [email protected]. If you have a nonemergency issue after normal business hours, you can contact us at 707-792-4611 and of course if you have an emergency, please contact 9-1-1.
Continue to look for updates on the City's website and social media channels available on Facebook, Instagram, and CivicReady.
City Council meetings are conducted according to City Council Policy 2025-03: City Council Rules of Conduct. This policy available for inspection in the online Meeting Portal at www.cotaticity.gov and in the City Manager’s office located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, during the City’s posted business hours.
Those wishing to address the Council are asked to complete a speaker card and give it to the City Clerk. When you are called, step to the podium and state your name and address for the record. Persons wishing to address the Council are not required to identify themselves or complete a speaker card; (Gov’t. Code § 54953.3); however, this information assists the Mayor by ensuring that all persons wishing to address the Council are recognized and it assists the City Clerk in preparing the City Council meeting minutes.
1. CALL TO ORDER - ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND NOTICE OF WAIVING OF READING OF ALL
RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES INTRODUCED AND/OR ADOPTED UNDER THIS
AGENDA (ACTION)
A. COTATI CITY COUNCIL – REGULAR MEETING – OCT 14, 2025
3. PROCLAMATIONS
A. NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH PROCLAMATION Cotati City Council Agenda October 28, 2025
B. TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBERANCE
4. AGENDA REVIEW (ACTION)
5. CITIZEN BUSINESS AND PUBLIC COMMENT FOR CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS Any member of the public wishing to speak to the Council on any item(s) listed on the Consent Calendar or any matter(s) not listed on the agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council may do so at this time. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the Council is not allowed to consider issues or take action on any item not listed on the agenda. Pursuant to City Council Policy 2025-03, comments of any member of the public are normally restricted to a total of three (3) minutes in length per person for matters not on the agenda and a total of three (3) minutes per person in length for any and all items on the Consent Calendar. The Mayor may extend the time limit for a reasonable time where a disability accommodation has been requested. To facilitate public comment, the timer indicator lights will display yellow when there are thirty seconds remaining, and red when time has expired.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
A. ADOPT A RESOLUTION FOR APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT WITH PJM
LANDSCAPE TO REPAVE THE DELANO PARK PATHWAY AND AMEND THE
BUDGET FOR THE REQUIRED APPROPRIATIONS
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution approving an agreement with PJM Landscape to remove and replace the existing pathway through Delano Park, authorize the City Manager to execute said agreement and any change orders up to the authorized amount, and amend the budget for the required appropriations.
B. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH STREETLIGHT
RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC TO REFURBISH STREETLIGHTS ON OLD REDWOOD HWY AT E. COTATI AVENUE AND AT VALPARAISO AVENUE AND
AMEND THE ADOPTED BUDGET TO REALLOCATE REQUIRED FUNDING It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution to approve a Minor Construction Agreement with Streetlight Restoration Specialists, Inc. to refurbish streetlights at Old Redwood Highway at E. Cotati Avenue and Old Redwood Highway at Valparaiso, authorize the City Manager to execute said agreement and any needed change orders up to the authorized project budget, and amend the budget to reclassify funding from the streets rehab. project for fiscal year 2025/26.
C. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS OF THE CITY'S SEWER
LIFT STATIONS AND WELL SITES
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Schaaf and Wheeler to prepare condition assessments of the City’s sewer lift stations and well sites and authorizing the City Manager to execute said agreement.
D. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE UPDATING THE RULES
OF CONDUCT FOR PARKS AND OTHER PUBLIC AREAS AND ADDING PERMIT PROCEDURES BY AMENDING CHAPTERS 4.04 (FEES FOR USE OF FACILITIES),
7.12 (LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS), 7.24 (ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS), 7.28 (DOGS IN PARKS DURING FESTIVALS), 9.33 (PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE), 9.36 (CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES) AND 9.40 (OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF THE COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE
It is recommended that the City Council conduct the second reading and adopt an ordinance adding permit procedures and updating the rules of conduct in the City parks and other public areas by amending Cotati Municipal Code (CMC) Chapters 4.04 (Fees for Use of Facilities), Cotati City Council Agenda October 28, 2025
7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats), 7.24 (Animal Restrictions), 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals), 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure), 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) and 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks).
7. DIRECTION ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS (ACTION)
A. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 14 OF THE COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE WITH AMENDMENTS
It is recommended the City Council hold a public hearing to introduce and conduct the first reading of an Ordinance to amend Title 14 of the Cotati Municipal Code to adopt the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code per the standard three-year cycle, with the updated regulations going into effect January 1, 2026.
9. REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
A. PROVIDE DIRECTION TO THE CITY'S WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MEMBER ON THE WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO SONOMA COUNTY
WATER AGENCY STATEMENT OF INTERESTS RELATED TO THE PROPOSED
NEW EEL-RUSSIAN FACILITY AND THE ASSOCIATED WATER DIVERSION
AGREEMENT UNDERTAKEN BY THE EEL RUSSIAN PROJECT AUTHORITY It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council provide direction to the City’s Water Advisory Committee member supporting the Statement of Interests related to the proposed New Eel-Russian Facility and the associated Water Diversion Agreement undertaken by the Eel Russian Project Authority
B. FISCAL YEAR 2025/26 -FIRST QUARTER FINANCIAL UPDATE - REPORT FOR
SUMMARY OF REVENUE SOURCES, CASH AND INVESTMENTS, AND FISCAL
RESILIENCE
It is recommended that the City Council receive the presentation on the un-audited financial position for the City as of the First Quarter Fiscal Year 2025/26.
10. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT & COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS
11. INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED
12. ADJOURNMENT
Certification of Posting of the Notice: I declare under penalty of perjury that I am employed by the City of Cotati and that I posted this notice on the City’s website, bulletin boards of City Hall, Veterans’ Memorial Building and the SMART Train Depot, on or before October 24, 2025. /s/ Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
MINUTES
JOINT MEETING OF THE COTATI CITY COUNCIL AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
FORMER COTATI COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
City Council Chamber, City Hall 201 W. Sierra Avenue
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
6:00 PM REGULAR MEETING
1. CALL TO ORDER - ROLL CALL
Mayor Ford called the meeting to order at 6:00pm.
Attendee Name Title Status
Ben Ford Mayor Present
Sylvia Lemus Vice Mayor Present
Susan Harvey Councilmember Present
Laura Sparks Councilmember Present
John Savage Councilmember Present
Staff Present: City Manager Damien O’Bid, City Attorney John Bakker, City Clerk Kevin Patterson, Director of Community Development Noah Housh, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Craig Scott, Police Chief Chris Simmons, Recreation Manager Ashley Wilson
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND NOTICE OF WAIVING OF READING OF ALL
RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES INTRODUCED AND/OR ADOPTED UNDER THIS
AGENDA (ACTION)
A. COTATI CITY COUNCIL – REGULAR MEETING – SEP 23, 2025 RESULT: Approved [5 TO 0]
MOVER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
SECONDER: Susan Harvey, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Harvey, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
3. PROCLAMATIONS
A. PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY OF COTATI IN SUPPORT OF NORTH BAY ZERO WASTE WEEK OCTOBER 11TH THROUGH 18TH, 2025
Mayor Ford read the proclamation. Proclamation was accepted by Leslie Lukacs of Zero Waste Sonoma. 5 of 204
Cotati City Council Minutes October 14, 2025
4. PRESENTATIONS
A. ZERO WASTE SONOMA UPDATE
Presentation by Leslie Lukacs of Zero Waste Sonoma.
B. PRESENTATION BY THE RANCHO ADOBE FIRE DISTRICT
Presentation by Chief Jeff Velliquette of Rancho Adobe Fire District.
5. AGENDA REVIEW (ACTION)
No changes.
6. CITIZEN BUSINESS AND PUBLIC COMMENT FOR CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS Any member of the public wishing to speak to the Council on any item(s) listed on the Consent Calendar or any matter(s) not listed on the agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council may do so at this time. Pursuant to the Brown Act, the Council is not allowed to consider issues or take action on any item not listed on the agenda. Pursuant to City Council Policy 2025-03, comments of any member of the public are normally restricted to a total of three (3) minutes in length per person for matters not on the agenda and a total of three (3) minutes per person in length for any and all items on the Consent Calendar. The Mayor may extend the time limit for a reasonable time where a disability accommodation has been requested. To facilitate public comment, the timer indicator lights will display yellow when there are thirty seconds remaining, and red when time has expired.
Public Comment:
Laurie Alderman of Cotati
Neil Hancock of Cotati
7. CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
Councilmember Sparks requested to pull item 7D from the Consent Calendar. There being no objection from the Council, the item was moved to directly after the Consent Calendar.
A. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE 2025
AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY EVENTS FARMERS MARKETS - DOWNTOWN
SHOP AND STROLL HOLIDAY EVENT IN DOWNTOWN COTATI
B. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2025 CITY
OF COTATI HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
C. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CITY OF COTATI’S 2025 COTATI CANDYLAND EVENT
RESULT: Adopted [5 TO 0]
MOVER: Susan Harvey, Councilmember
SECONDER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Harvey, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
7D. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2026 COTATI ACCORDION
FESTIVAL AND ASSOCIATED SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, AMPLIFIED
MUSIC, AND TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURES
Pulled from the Consent Calendar at the request of Councilmember Sparks. 6 of 204 Cotati City Council Minutes October 14, 2025
Presentation by Recreation Manager Ashley Wilson.
Councilmembers comment.
Public Comment:
Scott Goree
RESULT: Approve [5 TO 0]
MOVER: John Savage, Councilmember
SECONDER: Sylvia Lemus, Vice Mayor
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Harvey, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
8. DIRECTION OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
None.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (ACTION)
A. CONSIDERATION, INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF DRAFT
ORDINANCE UPDATING THE RULES OF CONDUCT FOR PARKS AND OTHER
PUBLIC AREAS AND ADDING PERMIT PROCEDURES BY AMENDING CHAPTERS
4.04 (FEES FOR USE OF FACILITIES), 7.12 (LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS), 7.24 (ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS), 7.28 (DOGS IN PARKS DURING FESTIVALS), 9.33 (PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE), 9.36 (CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES) AND 9.40 (OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS) OF THE COTATI
MUNICIPAL CODE
Presentation by City Manager Damien O’Bid.
Councilmembers comment.
No public comment.
Council voted to introduce the ordinance, making the following changes:
-Removing the waiver for the first dog license for people over 55 given the new significantly lower $6 fee for seniors, for consistency with Rohnert Park in DocuPet, and to avoid the refund process currently necessary for the first license (Delete 9.12.120.C). -Clarifying miscellaneous unlawful acts and removing outdated language (9.36.030.D). -Editing to refer to other City Council adopted policies (e.g. Park Rules) to establish specific enforceable park open hours (9.36.060)
-Other miscellaneous spelling corrections.
RESULT: Introduce [5 TO 0]
MOVER: Sylvia Lemus, Vice Mayor
SECONDER: Susan Harvey, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Harvey, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None 7 of 204
Cotati City Council Minutes October 14, 2025
10. REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
A. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE POLLUTERS PAY CLIMATE SUPERFUND
LEGISLATION
Presentation by City Manager Damien O’Bid.
Councilmembers comment.
Public Comment:
Neil Hancock of Cotati
Jenny Blaker of Cotati
RESULT: Adopted [5 TO 0]
MOVER: Laura Sparks, Councilmember
SECONDER: John Savage, Councilmember
AYES: Ford, Lemus, Harvey, Sparks, Savage
NAYS: None
11. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Report by City Manager Damien O’Bid.
12. 13.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Councilmembers report out on local and regional events and meetings.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-ACTION AGENDA ITEMS
No public comment.
14. INFORMATION RECEIVED AFTER THE AGENDA WAS POSTED
15. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Ford adjourned the meeting at 8:06pm, after a moment of silence for Mark Milberg, City of Novato Councilmember, who had recently passed.
/s/ Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
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PROCLAMATION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 2025 AS NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT
AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, recognition of the contributions of persons with disabilities is an effective way to overcome negative stereotypes and eliminate physical and attitudinal barriers to full participation in all aspects of community life, including education, recreation and employment; and
WHEREAS, people with disabilities are an important, vital part of our community as valued workers, civic leaders, business owners, veterans, family members, and friends, and they are innovative and valued contributors in the workplace, the classroom, and the community; and WHEREAS, the City of Cotati is committed to ensuring that City programs and employment practices effectively serve and benefit persons of all abilities in order to support individual dignity, self-reliance and productive lives for all people; and WHEREAS, Cotati is proud to renew its dedication to fostering equal access and demonstrating commitment to full inclusion of people with disabilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED on this 28th of October 2025, by the City Council of the City of Cotati, that the month of October 2025 in Cotati is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and encourages all citizens to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of persons with disabilities throughout our community.
Approved:_____________________________
Mayor
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PROCLAMATION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
PROCLAMING NOVEMBER 2, 2025 AS TRANSGENDER DAY OF
REMEMBERANCE
WHEREAS, the City of Cotati recognizes that one of its greatest strengths is the diversity of its people and has a long-standing tradition of upholding the dignity of the individual; and
WHEREAS, the City of Cotati supports equal treatment for all people regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression; and ensures that acts of discrimination and hatred will not be tolerated; and
WHEREAS, members of the transgender community contribute to the growing diversity and prosperity of our community; and
WHEREAS, transgender persons, particularly transgender people of color, continue to face high levels of discrimination, stigma, and bias that can fuel abuse and violence against their community; and
WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Remembrance helps bring public awareness to antitransgender hate crimes and honors the memory of those hurt and killed by acts of antitransgender violence each year; and WHEREAS, our residents are encouraged to observe this day and to honor the lives we have lost because of senseless violence against transgender people, as we move forward together in the promotion of acceptance and understanding.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED on this day of October 28, 2025, that the City Council of the City of Cotati hereby proclaims November 2, 2025 as Transgender Day of Remembrance.
Approved:_____________________________
Mayor
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: ADOPT A RESOLUTION FOR APPROVAL OF AN
AGREEMENT WITH PJM LANDSCAPE TO REPAVE THE
DELANO PARK PATHWAY AND AMEND THE BUDGET FOR
THE REQUIRED APPROPRIATIONS
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution approving an agreement with PJM Landscape to remove and replace the existing pathway through Delano Park, authorize the City Manager to execute said agreement and any change orders up to the authorized amount, and amend the budget for the required appropriations.
Background
Delano Park is a linear park with a continuous pathway connecting Page Street and Valparaiso Avenue. The existing pathway is cracked and very bumpy in sections, and the City has received many complaints from the public. The pathway is a popular walking path and is a shortcut to downtown from areas to the west of Valparaiso Avenue. The City in recent years has installed a flashing beacon crosswalk across Valparaiso Avenue at Lund Hill in response to citizen input.
Removing and replacing the pathway would improve the safety of this walking route and increase the number of people able to use the pathway.
Analysis/Discussion
In response to public complaints of the poor condition of the Delano Park pathway, the City has put up signs indicating the pathway is uneven and has explored options of having Public Works crews install an overlay to smooth the worst sections or having a contractor remove and replace with a wider path the entire extend of the pathway. Staff determined performing the work with City forces would prevent City field staff from attending important daily tasks and, therefore, a bid was requested of PJM Landscaping.
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PJM Landscaping provided the attached proposal which was reviewed by Staff and determined to be fair and reasonable and is recommended for approval. If approved, work would be approved to begin following execution of the contract and ensure there was at least a week and a half of clear weather forecast. The park would be closed during construction but would have limited openings, around the active construction areas, outside work hours.
Financial Considerations
This project was not included in the adopted budget. The proposed sidewalk improvements will be funded by the Parks Department within the General Fund, in an amount not to exceed $30,800. Earlier this year, the City awarded the Sunflower Park Project, which is now under construction, and the bids received were approximately $540,000 below the budgeted amount.
Those cost savings resulted in reduced transfers to the Capital Projects Fund, returning the unused funds to the General Fund. The proposed sidewalk improvement project will utilize a portion of those returned funds. No additional appropriations or budget amendments are required beyond this allocation.
Environmental Issues
This action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use. 12 of 204
RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI
APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH PJM LANDSCAPE FOR THE DELANO
PARK PATHWAY REPAVING PROJECT AND AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR
THE REQUIRED APPROPRIATIONS
WHEREAS, Delano Park is a linear park providing a continuous pathway connecting Page Street and Valparaiso Avenue, which serves as a popular pedestrian route and a shortcut to downtown from neighborhoods west of Valparaiso Avenue; and WHEREAS, the existing pathway is cracked and uneven in sections, and the City has received multiple public complaints regarding its deteriorating condition; and WHEREAS, staff evaluated alternatives for addressing the condition of the pathway, including performing limited repairs with City crews or contracting for full removal and replacement of the pathway; and
WHEREAS, after evaluating these options, staff determined that completing the work with City crews would significantly impact on daily maintenance and operations, and therefore solicited a proposal from PJM Landscape to remove and replace the existing pathway; and WHEREAS, the proposal submitted by PJM Landscape was reviewed by staff and determined to be fair and reasonable, and staff recommend approval of the agreement; and WHEREAS, this project was not included in the adopted budget; however, sufficient funding is available within the Parks Department of the General Fund, in an amount not to exceed $30,800, utilizing a portion of the cost savings from the Sunflower Park Project, which came in approximately $540,000 under budget and resulted in reduced transfers to the Capital Projects Fund and returned funds to the General Fund; and WHEREAS, this action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Cotati hereby:
1. Finds the above recitals are true and correct, and
2. Approves the agreement with PJM Landscape for the Delano Park Pathway Repaving Project, in an amount not to exceed $30,800,
3. Authorizes the City Manager to execute said agreement and any change orders up to the authorized amount.
4. Amend the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Budget for the required appropriations as described. 13 of 204
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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10/22/2025 9:24:04 PM Page 1 of 3
Budget Adjustment Register
Cotati, CA Adjustment Detail
Packet: GLPKT13403 - Delano Park Sidewalk Repaving
Adjustment Number Budget Code Description Adjustment Date BA0000063 Adopted Budget for FY 202… Encumber Funds for Delano Park Repave 10/28/2025 Per council agenda item - staff proposed encumbering funds for the contract with PJM Landscaping to remove and replace the exisƟng pathway in Delano Park. Not To Exceed $30,800.
Summary Description:
Account Number Account Name Adjustment Description Adjustment Before After 101-22-80187-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-SPECIAL PROJEC 30,800.00 Increase Budget for Delano Park Repave 30,800.00 0.00 October: 30,800.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13403 - Delano Park Sidewalk Repaving 10/22/2025 9:24:04 PM Page 2 of 3
Budget Budget Description Account Account Description After Budget Code Summary
Before Adjustment
2025-2026 Adopted Budget for FY 202 101-22-80187-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-SPECIAL PROJECT 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00 2025-2026 Total: 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00
Grand Total: 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13403 - Delano Park Sidewalk Repaving 10/22/2025 9:24:04 PM Page 3 of 3
Fund After
Fund Summary
Before Adjustment
Budget Code:2025-2026 - Adopted Budget for FY 2025/26 Fiscal: 2025-2026 101 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00
Budget Code 2025-2026 Total: 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00
Grand Total: 0.00 30,800.00 30,800.00
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E#25151
PJM Landscape Contractor
3569 Brooks Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 95407
707-792-2200 (p/f)
(email: [email protected])
Lic #772890, QAC #94436
Cert. Arborist #WE-9454A
PJM Landscape is pleased to present to you a bid price of $30,800.00for the work we have discussed, and which will be performed as outlined below. Our price includes all necessary trucking and dumping fees (if applicable). All manual labor and clean up will be performed by PJM Landscape.
Scope of Work:
1- Remove the existing asphalt
- Install new base rock for the paving area
- Compact the base rock with the vibratory plate
- Pour new asphalt
- Area of 560’x5’
- Install (2) chases areas with 3” pipe
- Utilize AC Berm asphalt
- Total of 5-6 days of work (weather permitting)
2- Load and off haul any debris generated to the dump
- Dump fee is included within the price below
ACCEPTANCE OF PROPOSAL
The above prices, specifications and conditions are satisfactory and hereby accepted.
You are authorized to do the work as specified.
Date of Acceptance: _______________ Approx. Start Date: _______________ Job Site Address: City of Cotati at Delano Park
_____________________________________________________________________ Agent for City of Cotati Date
Ricardo Garcia 10.01.2025
_____________________________________________________________________ PJM Landscape/Ricardo Garcia, President Date
We assume no responsibility for any hidden hazards of which we are not informed of such as sprinklers or utility pipes or for damage to sidewalks, drives, etc. in which you request us to cross in the process of our work, nor from claims arising from a question of ownership of the area/s involved. Any additional work will be charged on a T/M basis.
Any changes made from above specifications involving extra costs will be performed only upon written request and will be an extra charge. Full payment is expected at completion of work. Should collection action be necessary owner is responsible for all court/attorney fees.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: ADOPT A RESOLUTIONAPPROVING AN AGREEMENT
WITH STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC TO
REFURBISH STREETLIGHTS ON OLD REDWOOD HWY AT
E. COTATI AVENUE AND AT VALPARAISO AVENUE AND
AMEND THE ADOPTED BUDGET TO REALLOCATE
REQUIRED FUNDING.
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council adopt a resolution to approve a Minor Construction Agreement with Streetlight Restoration Specialists, Inc. to refurbish streetlights at Old Redwood Highway at E. Cotati Avenue and Old Redwood Highway at Valparaiso, authorize the City Manager to execute said agreement and any needed change orders up to the authorized project budget, and amend the budget to reclassify funding from the streets rehab. project for fiscal year 2025/26.
Background
The City owns and operates several streetlights and two of them are decorative, with many artistic features, and have become worn with the surface paint having pealed back causing an unsightly appearance. The City has received many complaints from the Public about the weathered look of these streetlights and the City has now made it a priority to have them refurbished.
Analysis/Discussion
In July of this year, City Staff made contact with Streetlight Refurbishment Specialists, Inc (SRS) and requested a quote for refurbishing two streetlights along Old Redwood Highway; 1) at E. Cotati Ave and 2) at Valparaiso Avenue. SRS provided a quote, and Staff has reviewed the quote and finds it to be fair and reasonable. Attached are reference letters provided by SRS 19 of 204
which provide a level of assurance to Staff of SRS’ abilities regarding streetlight restoration. Also attached is a Brochure listing services SRS provides, their qualifications, and additional references with before and after pictures.
If approved, Staff would process the agreement with SRS then schedule the work. As described in the quote, the poles, luminaire arms and mast arms, traffic signal heads, visors, pedestrian heads, push button housings and luminaires, push button poles and decorative bases will be scraped and repainted. SRS is to provide traffic control with uninterrupted traffic flow during the refurbishment work. Existing decorative bases will be restored; however, replacements of the missing decorative bases are excluded. These bases have gone missing over the years, generally because they were struck by cars and damaged beyond repair.
Financial Considerations
To fund this project, staff propose reclassifying $45,000 ($41,040 + contingency) from the Capital Projects Fund to the General Fund – Streets Repairs and Maintenance account. This adjustment will reduce the transfers out of the General Fund and the corresponding transfers into the Capital Projects Fund by the same amount. The street rehabilitation project originally budgeted in the Capital Projects Fund was placed on hold earlier this year after bids exceeded the available budget. Staff are reassessing the scope of the project to identify cost-effective options for completing necessary street improvements at a lower price point. No other budget adjustments are being requested at this time.
Environmental Issues
This action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use. 20 of 204
RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COTATI APPROVING A MINOR
CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT WITH STREETLIGHT RESTORATION
SPECIALISTS, INC TO REFURBISH STREETLIGHTS ON OLD REDWOOD HWY AT E. COTATI AVE AND AT VALPARAISO AVE AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, the City owns and operates several streetlights and two of them are decorative, with many artistic features, and have become worn with the surface paint having pealed back causing an unsightly appearance; and
WHEREAS, the City has received many complaints from the Public about the weathered look of these streetlights and the City has now made it a priority to have them refurbished; and WHEREAS, in July of this year, City Staff made contact with Streetlight Refurbishment Specialists, Inc (SRS) and requested a quote for refurbishing two streetlights along Old Redwood Highway; 1) at E. Cotati Ave and 2) at Valparaiso Avenue, and SRS provided a quote and Staff has reviewed the quote and finds it to be fair and reasonable; and WHEREAS, the poles, luminaire arms and mast arms, traffic signal heads, visors, pedestrian heads, push button housings and luminaires, push button poles and decorative bases will be scraped and repainted, and SRS is to provide traffic control with uninterrupted traffic flow during the refurbishment work, and existing decorative bases will be restored, however, replacements of the missing decorative bases is excluded, and these bases have gone missing over the years either having been struck by cars and damaged or missing for some unknown reason; and
WHEREAS, to fund the proposed project, the City desires to reclassify $45,000 ($41,040 plus contingency) from the Capital Projects Fund to the General Fund – Streets Repairs and Maintenance account, thereby reducing the transfers out of the General Fund and the corresponding transfers into the Capital Projects Fund by the same amount; and WHEREAS, this action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Cotati hereby determines:
1. The above recitals are true and correct, and
2. The Streetlight Restoration Specialist scope of work to provide streetlight refurbishment work on two City streetlights is approved, and 21 of 204
3. Approve the budget reclassification and appropriation of $45,000, and
4. Authorize the City Manager to execute the subject agreement.
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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10/23/2025 12:43:22 PM Page 1 of 3
Budget Adjustment Register
Cotati, CA Adjustment Detail
Packet: GLPKT13402 - Streetlight Restoration Project - ORH at E.
Cotati
Adjustment Number Budget Code Description Adjustment Date BA0000062 Adopted Budget for FY 2025… Move funds from Street Rehab to Streetlight Resto 10/28/2025 Per council agenda item- staff proposed to reallocate funds from the stret rehabilitation project to the street furbishment for two intersections, E.
Cotati Ave at ORH and Valparaiso at ORH.
Estimate cost is $41,040 plus contingency. Not to exceed $45,000.
Summary Description:
Account Number Account Name Adjustment Description Before Adjustment After 101-00-81000-000000 OPER TRANS OUT-GENL Reduce Transfers Out for Street Rehab 3,443,589.00 -45,000.00 3,398,589.00 October: -45,000.00
101-19-80187-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-SPECIAL PROJECT Increase Budget for Streetlight Restoration 30,000.00 45,000.00 75,000.00 October: 45,000.00
605-00-67000-49PWGL OPER TRANS IN - STREET IMPRV. Reduce Transfers In for Street Rehab -1,165,000.00 45,000.00 -1,120,000.00 October: 45,000.00
605-00-91300-49PWGL STREET IMPROVEMENTS Move funds from Street Rehab to Streetlight R… 1,165,000.00 -45,000.00 1,120,000.00 October: -45,000.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13402 - Streetlight Restoration Project - ORH at E. Cotati 10/23/2025 12:43:22 PM Page 2 of 3
Budget Budget Description Account Account Description After Budget Code Summary
Before Adjustment
2025-2026 Adopted Budget for FY 20… 101-00-81000-000000 OPER TRANS OUT-GENL 3,443,589.00 -45,000.00 3,398,589.00 101-19-80187-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-SPECIAL PROJECT 30,000.00 45,000.00 75,000.00 605-00-67000-49PWGL OPER TRANS IN - STREET IMPRV. -1,165,000.00 45,000.00 -1,120,000.00 605-00-91300-49PWGL STREET IMPROVEMENTS 1,165,000.00 -45,000.00 1,120,000.00 2025-2026 Total: 3,473,589.00 0.00 3,473,589.00
Grand Total: 3,473,589.00 0.00 3,473,589.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13402 - Streetlight Restoration Project - ORH at E. Cotati 10/23/2025 12:43:22 PM Page 3 of 3
Fund After
Fund Summary
Before Adjustment
Budget Code:2025-2026 - Adopted Budget for FY 2025/26 Fiscal: 2025-2026 101 3,473,589.00 0.00 3,473,589.00
605 0.00 0.00 0.00
Budget Code 2025-2026 Total: 3,473,589.00 0.00 3,473,589.00 Grand Total: 3,473,589.00 0.00 3,473,589.00
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STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
2828 COCHRAN STREET #360, SIMI VALLEY, CA 93065
Phone 805.468.5271
License 811227 (Exp 08/31/2026)
PROJECT: COTATI CITY INSTERSECTION POLE REPAIR AND RESTORATION ESTIMATE 20250702-1BM
COTATI CITY
201 W. SIERRA AVENUE
COTATI, CALIFORNIA 94931
5454 DIAZ STREET
IRWINDALE, CA 91706
ATTN: CRAIG SCOTT
The following estimate has been prepared, and includes all labor, tools, equipment and materials necessary to repair and restore the intersection poles as outlined in the scope of work below, at two (2) locations in Cotati City. Anything not specifically included in the scope of work below is excluded. For revisions or items you would like revised, added or removed, please notify Brian Moran at [email protected]. All work is being quoted to be performed at night between the hours of 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. All work is quoted at prevailing wage. No daytime work is included in our prices and/or scope of work. Bonds are not included in our prices but can be provided upon request, normally at an additional cost of approximately 2.5% to 3% of the contract price.
SCOPE OF WORK: The work outlined here in this description shall be performed to the Intersection poles at Old Redwood Highway & Valparaiso/Myrtle (Intersection 1) as well as E. Cotati Ave & W. Sierra Avenue (Intersection 2). The items included in being repainted are Type 1A poles, vertical poles with luminaire arms and mast arms, traffic signal heads, visors (outside of visors only), pedestrian heads, push button housings and luminaires, push button poles and decorative bases. Our prices include traffic control.
Included in our scope of work is surface preparation to be accomplished by one or more of the following methods: hand sanding, hand scraping, grinders, power tools, surface preparation tools, needle guns and laser paint removal. Our crew will remove loose and flaky paint (up to 20% of the total surface areas to be repainted). Full coating removal is NOT included in our scope of work or price. After surfaces are properly prepared, we will clean all surfaces receiving new coatings as necessary with a solvent and/or other cleaner to remove dust, dirt, oil, grease and/or other surface contaminants and to further maximize proper inter-coat adhesion. Signs (but not straps) on the vertical portion of the poles, and/or signs which can be easily removed will be taken down and temporarily stored on site while we work on the poles and will be re-installed before we leave the corner. Other signs and appurtenances which cannot be easily removed (such as those on the horizontal mast arm), cameras, pre-emptive systems, etc. shall be masked off and/or protected as necessary to prevent overspray or contamination from during the course of our work. The majority, or all, of the masking, plastic, paper, etc. will remain up and installed from the time we begin work until we finish. Safety related signs shall remain visible, either by utilizing transparent plastic during the course of our work, or by our crew removing the masking after each shift. Other than safety related signs/cameras/etc. masking shall remain. Should the city require us to remove masking/protective coverings and re-install each shift, additional charges shall apply based upon the amount of time and materials it requires to reinstall. This includes charges for additional traffic control 26 of 204
required during the reinstallation. Also included in our price are aesthetic repairs to the broken decorative bases found at the intersection of E. Cotati/W. Sierra. Repairs will be completed in such a way that upon completion, the decorative bases in their normal functioning position will not appear to have been repaired. After surface preparation and cleaning have been completed, and after repairs to the base(s) have been completed, we will mask as necessary the yellow retroreflective tape located on the fronts of the signal backplates. The front of the signal head back plates and outside of the visors shall be coated with one (1) coat of PPG’s Speedhide Flat black (or equivalent), after which time the masking tape protecting the yellow portions shall be removed. We will apply one (1) coat of High-Performance High Solids Two Component Epoxy Primer (SW MacroPoxy646) to the vertical poles, horizontal arms and mounting hardware. After primer has adequately dried, we will apply one (1) coat of High-Performance High Solids Engineered Polysiloxane Marine coatings (SW Sherloxane800) in a solid color to be chosen and approved by the city prior to mobilization. All coatings shall be applied by way of our customized HVLP spray system whenever we deem it to be feasible, which in this case, appears to be the case. In some cases, coatings may need to be applied by brush or roller, or a combination of brush, roller and spray, and we will determine that based upon field conditions when we arrive to perform the work.
LUMP SUM PRICE - $41,040.00
This estimate was prepared by Brian Moran on June 23, 2025 and is valid until August 31, 2025. Please contact Brian via email at [email protected] for any questions, clarifications or modifications needed.
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STREETLIGHT RESTORATION
SPECIALISTS, INC.
LICENSE 811227
2828 COCHRAN STREET #360
SIMI VALLEY, CA 93065
805.468.5271 Phone
[email protected]
“FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS, WE HAVE COMPLETED ON SITE, REFURBISHMENT,
RETROFITTING AND REPAINTING OF LIGHTPOLES, INTERSECTION POLES AND
STREETLIGHTING TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS IN THE
INDUSTRY……………………………………….OURS!” 28 of 204
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC. (SRS) SPECIALIZES IN ON SITE
REFURBISHMENT, RESTORATION AND REPAINTING OF MODERN AND ANTIQUE STREETLIGHTS, PARK LIGHTING AND OTHER RELATED EQUIPMENT. OUR SERVICES EXTEND TO PARKING LOT LIGHTPOLES AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS; EVEN CONVERTING CONVENTIONAL STREETLIGHTING INTO SOLAR POWERED LIGHTING. SINCE ITS
INCEPTION, SRS HAS PROVIDED IN FIELD REFURBISHING, RESTORATION AND
REPAINTING OF THOUSANDS OF POLES FOR PRIVATE, LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CLIENTS. SOME OF OUR CURRENT AND PAST PROJECTS INCLUDE
WORK IN THE CITIES OF LOS ANGELES, HOLLYWOOD, BEVERLY HILLS, RIVERSIDE,
TUSTIN, SAN JOSE, PASADENA, GLENDALE, SAN DIEGO, US AIR FORCE, US MARINE CORPS, LAWRENCE LIVERMORE NATIONAL LABORATORIES AND MANY MORE. WE
HAVE COMPLETED HISTORICAL RESTORATION PROJECTS OF DILAPIDATED ANTIQUE CONCRETE AND CAST-IRON POLES FOR CALIFORNIA CITIES. SRS DESIGNS AND BUILDS ITS OWN UNIQUE EQUIPMENT SPECIFICALLY FOR THIS SCOPE OF WORK. WE OWN
OUR EQUIPMENT AND BUCKET TRUCKS OUTRIGHT, KEEPING COSTS LOW, WITH NO NEED TO RENT COSTLY EQUIPMENT. THESE FACTORS ALLOW US TO PASS OUR COST SAVINGS DIRECTLY TO YOU!
ON SITE LIGHTPOLE RESTORATION AND REPAIR WAS A NONEXISTENT WORK SECTOR.
PRIOR TO 2001, THE CALIFORNIA CONTRACTORS STATE LICENSE BOARD DID NOT HAVE AN APPROPRIATE LICENSE FOR ON SITE LIGHTPOLE RESTORATION. SRS
FOUNDER BRIAN MORAN, SUCCESSFULLY PETITIONED THE CALIFORNIA CONTRACTORS STATE LICENSE BOARD IN 2001 TO CREATE THE NEW LICENSE CATEGORY; C61/D64 “LIGHTPOLE RESTORATION”. AS A RESULT, BRIAN WAS ISSUED THE VERY FIRST ‘LIGHTPOLE RESTORATION’ LICENSE.
ABOUT US
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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APPLICATION OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE COATINGS
ELECTRICAL (LUMINAIRE INSTALLATION & LED RETROFITTING) CONCRETE (POLE REPAIR, FOUNDATION REPAIR)
STRUCTURAL STEEL (ON SITE REPAIRS)
ORNAMENTAL METAL (REPAIR & FABRICATION)
SHEET METAL
REINFORCING STEEL
WELDING
GLAZING
ABRASIVE BLASTING
LEAD PAINT REMOVAL
TRAFFIC CONTROL
SOLAR PARKING LOT LIGHTING (DESIGN/SALES/INSTALLATION) *NOTE: SRS PERFORMS THE SERVICES LISTED ABOVE AS THEY PERTAIN
SPECIFICALLY TO LIGHTPOLES, STREETLIGHTS, SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION POLES, ETC. (I.E. WE WILL DO CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION SUCH AS POLE BASES AND FOUNDATION REPAIR, BUT NOT CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS FOR BUILDINGS. WE
WILL DO ELECTRICAL WORK AS IT PERTAINS TO LIGHTING SUCH AS INSTALLING NEW LIGHTS, CHANGING LUMINAIRES, LED RETROFITTING, ETC., BUT WE WILL NOT REWIRE YOUR BUILDING. WE WELD PARKING LOT LIGHTS BUT NOT STRUCTURAL BEAMS IN YOUR BUILDING.)
SERVICES PERFORMED
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF SAN JOSE –
(1000+ POLES AND $1M+ OF LIGHTPOLE REPAINTING SERVICES COMPLETED OVER THE PAST 13 YEARS)
CITY OF SAN DIEGO –
(ANTIQUE STREETLIGHT RESTORATION PROJECTS INCLUDING LEAD-BASED PAINT
REMOVAL FROM CONCRETE AND CAST-IRON STREETLIGHT POLES, CONCRETE POLE
REPAIR, METAL RESTORATION AND REPAIRS APPLICATION OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE COATINGS SINCE 2015.)
CITY OF GLENDALE –
(750+ POLES AND $1M+ OF IN FIELD LEAD PAINT REMOVAL AND LIGHTPOLE REPAINTING SERVICES COMPLETED SINCE 2001)
BOULDER COUNTY, COLORADO –
INTERSECTION POLE AND BRIDGE RAIL REPAINTING
TOWN OF BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO –
DECORATIVE STREETLIGHT REPAINTING, GLOBE REPLACEMENT, BRIDGE RAIL
REPAINTING
CITY OF RIVERSIDE –
(2500+ POLES PLUS HISTORICAL RESTORATION OF COPPER SHAFTED ANTIQUE STREETLIGHT POLES SINCE 2019)
REFERENCES
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CONTRACTOR LICENSE INFORMATION
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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PORTFOLIO OF
COMPLETED PROJECTS
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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L.A. CITY HALL
COMPLETED TROLLEY POLES
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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L.A. CITY HALL
COMPLETED TROLLEY POLES
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF BURBANK
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF SANTA BARBARA
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF ORANGE
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
CITY OF RIVERSIDE
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CITY OF GLENDALE
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF GLENDALE
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF ARCADIA
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
CITY OF ONTARIO
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CITY OF LOS ANGELES
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF PASADENA
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF TUSTIN
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF VAN NUYS
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF SAN DIEGO
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF SAN DIEGO
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF LOS ANGELES
CONCRETE LIGHTPOLE REPAIR
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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NEWPORT BEACH – FAUX CONCRETE
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
ALUMINUM POLE TO BLACK &
GREEN FAUX CONCRETE
FIBERGLASS POLE PARTIALLY
COATED IN FAUX CONCRETE
SAME FIBERGLASS POLE
COMPLETED IN FAUX
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CITY OF LAGUNA NIGUEL
ANTI-GRAFITTI CLEAR COAT ON CONCRETE POLE
IN PROCESS COMPLETED
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF ENCINO – CUSTOM SIGN PAINTING
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF SAN JOSE
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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OIL DERRICKS - RUST REMOVAL, RUST
CONVERSION & REPAINTING
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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BRIDGE RAILING (COLORADO)
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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SAN JOSE, CA
METAL BENCHES & TRASH CANS
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CITY OF REDLANDS
SOLAR STREETLIGHTING
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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CAMP PENDLETON MARINE BASE
SOLAR STREETLIGHTING
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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MARCH AIR FORCE BASE
SOLAR PARKING LOT LiGHTING AND FOUNDATION
INSTALLATION
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
BRIAN MORAN - PRESIDENT
2828 COCHRAN STREET #360
SIMI VALLEY, CA 93065
805.468.5271 PHONE
[email protected]
STREETLIGHT RESTORATION SPECIALISTS, INC.
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION
APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
TO PROVIDE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS OF THE CITY'S
SEWER LIFT STATIONS AND WELL SITES
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council consider and adopt a resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with Schaaf and Wheeler to prepare condition assessments of the City’s sewer lift stations and well sites and authorizing the City Manager to execute said agreement.
Background
The City owns and operates a public sewer system and a public water system, and these systems require ongoing maintenance and periodically condition assessments to determine any equipment replacement and/or site remediation needed. These efforts are to ensure the safe and reliable operation of these systems.
Analysis/Discussion
The City has four sewer lift stations and three drinking water wells. The intent of the proposed condition assessment of these facilities is to identify components that are reaching the end of their useful lives and subject to failure. These components can be proactively replaced or renewed before they fail to improve the reliability of these systems.
The lift stations receive sewage through gravity flow, and each has two submersible pumps which operate on a flow sensor. Each station is submersible which means the pumps, piping, and sensors are contained in a well filled with sewage, and the equipment is subjected to a highly corrosive environment. The well containing the sewage, pipes entering and existing with the wet 64 of 204 well, equipment, sensors, and rest of the infrastructure is to have their condition assessed to determine the need for renewal and/or replacement.
The drinking water system’s three wells each have infrastructure consisting of the well column, casing, submersible pump, electrical system, sensors, treatment system, and for two of the wells, granular activated carbon filtration systems. These sites are monitored continuously by instrumentation for proper operation and are automatically shut down if critical parameters are not met. Additionally, each site is inspected daily by Public Works Staff, and water samples are collected and sent to a lab for analysis of water quality. A condition assessment would identify renewal and/or replacement needs of the components and factor in their visual condition, operating within design parameters, and expected life.
In June 2024, the City issued a Request for Proposals for engineering services including condition assessments and received 16 proposals. After evaluating the proposals, Staff determined Shaaf and Wheeler were the most qualified to provide condition assessment services.
In late 2024, Staff requested that Schaaf and Wheeler provided a proposal to do three discrete projects within the overall scope of work, as detailed below. • Perform condition assessments on the City’s sewer lift stations and its three drinking water wells. This is a general system wide assessment of the wells and sewer lift stations.
• Preliminary Design of backup power generators at two critical sewer lift stations, both in the City’s “bird” section.
• A detailed review of Well 2, which has been offline since this summer, including related rental of a water storage tank and water quality sampling costs.
The proposed scope of work essentially dedicates half of the work effort/fee to evaluate and provide recommendations for overall improvements to the three (3) municipal wells and the four (4) sewer lift stations. This includes on-site visits to review the infrastructure and staff interviews, as well as reviewing as-builts, water quality data, corresponding technical memorandums summarizing the review, recommendations and costs and preliminary design of generator backups at the two (2) sewer lift stations in the “bird” section of the City. Note that Task 4 is not proposed to be authorized under this scope, instead relying on the technical memorandums.
The other approximately half of the work effort/fee is a detailed “deep dive” evaluation of Well 2, which is a critical component of the water system in Cotati, particularly during droughts and to moderate wholesale water purchases during high demand times of year. To save costs, staff are proposing to rent a water storage tank and conduct water quality sampling directly. The scope of work includes a detailed review of water quality data and analysis of potential treatment alternatives. Finally, the work would conclude with a preliminary design of the proposed treatment system.
Note that there is an option scope item to conduct “zonal water quality sampling” that staff are not currently recommending. For water wells, there is a method to take discrete water quality 65 of 204 samples at different depths along the screened interval(s). This type of zonal water quality sampling is typically employed if it is suspected that a particular constituent is coming from a discrete layer in the aquifer. If this were the case, in theory, the zone could be blocked off in the well to avoid pulling in this water and potentially avoid the need for a surface treatment system.
If, during the evaluation of Well 2, this seems to be likely, staff will revisit this.
If approved, the services would be conducted through the end of this year with deliverables due in early 2026. Following completion of these services, the City would include identified renewal and replacement projects in its five-year Capital Improvement Program.
Financial Considerations
With the removal of Task 4, the total not to exceed contract amount is $278,799. Both the water samples and the pumped water storage tank proposed to be rented by the City for the Well 2 evaluation are additional expenses estimated not to exceed $15,300. Therefoere, the total project cost is proposed to not exceed $294,099.
The City’s Fiscal Years 25/26 – 26/27 Adopted budget includes the following in the first year:
• Water Renewal and Replacement $150,000
• Sewer Renewal and Replacement $70,000
The Schaaf and Wheeler proposal is $296,979 in total, after removing Task 4 the adjusted total is $278,799 which includes a total of $210,413 for Water and $68,386 for Sewer. This project also requires a storage tank rental for the Well 2 testing and Water quality samples before discharge of the stored water which are estimated at $5,300 and $10,000 respectively. This creates a total cost of $225,713 for the Water fund and $68,386 for the Sewer fund. This leaves the Sewer project just within budget but the Water fund over budget by $75,713.
To cover the budget shortfall for Water, staff propose using the corresponding unappropriated fund balances. Please see the attached proposed budget amendment.
For the Water Fund, the impact to fund balance was previously reduced with the deferral of the Distribution Monitoring Project ($130,000) to fund the Emergency Water Repairs Project ($73,191). The difference of $56,809 will now be returned to the unappropriated fund balance and will be used to partially offset the proposed project.
In addition to these hard costs, public works field crew will be required to provide an estimated 28 hours to tie in the storage water tank as well as facilitate the sample testing. The total estimated cost of staff time is approximately $5,340 using the current billing rate. These costs are already included in the budgeted salary and benefits, and as such no budget amendment is required.
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Environmental Issues
This action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use. 67 of 204
RESOLUTION NO. (XX)
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COTATI APPROVING A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SCHAAF AND WHEELER TO PREPARE
CONDITION ASSESSMENTS OF THE CITY'S SEWER LIFT STATIONS AND
WELL SITES AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAID
AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, the City owns and operates a public sewer system and a public water system and these systems require ongoing maintenance and, periodically condition assessments to determine any needed equipment replacement and/or site remediation; these efforts are to ensure the safe and reliable operation of these systems; and WHEREAS, the City has four sewer lift stations and three drinking water wells and a condition assessment of these facilities identifies components that are reaching the end of their useful lives and subject to failure, and these components can be proactively replaced or renewed to improve the reliability of these systems by replacing their components before they fail; and WHEREAS, the lift stations receive sewage through gravity flow and each has two submersible pumps which operate on a flow sensor, and each station is submersible which means the pumps, piping, and sensors are contained in a well filled with sewage and the equipment is subjected to a highly corrosive environment; and
WHEREAS, the well containing the sewage, pipes entering and exiting the container, equipment, sensors, and rest of the infrastructure is to be assessed for their condition and need for renewal and/or replacement; and
WHEREAS, the drinking water system’s three wells each have infrastructure consisting of the well column, casing, submersible pump, electrical system, sensors, treatment system, and for two of the wells, granular activated carbon filtration systems; and WHEREAS, the well sites are monitored continuously by instrumentation for proper operation and are automatically shut down if critical parameters are not met, additionally, each site is inspected daily by Public Works Staff and manual water samples are taken and sent to the lab; and
WHEREAS, a condition assessment would identify renewal and/or replacement needs of the components and factor in their visual condition, operating within design parameters, and expected life; and
WHEREAS, in June 2024, the City issued a Request for Proposals for engineering services including condition assessments, and received 16 proposals, and, after evaluating the proposals, Staff determined Shaaf and Wheeler was the most qualified to provide condition assessment services; and
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WHEREAS, in late 2024, Staff requested and Schaaf and Wheeler provided a proposal to perform condition assessments on the City’s sewer lift stations and its three drinking water wells (Exhibit A); and
WHEREAS, the City has negotiated the attached proposal, have proposed to remove task 4, and finds the remaining components to be fair and reasonable and recommends it for approval; and
WHEREAS, appropriations from the unappropriated water funds balances are needed in the amounts of $75,713; and
WHEREAS, this action is found to qualify for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 15301 in that the project consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of the existing or former use.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Cotati hereby determines:
1. The above recitals are true and correct, and
2. The Schaaf and Wheeler Professional Services scope of work (Exhibit A) to provide condition assessment services for the sewer and water systems is approved, and
3. Appropriations of the aforementioned amounts from the unappropriated Water Fund balance, for the subject agreements are approved
4. The City Manager or their designee is authorized to execute the subject agreement.
5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, City Clerk
Approved as to form:______________________________
City Attorney
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10/23/2025 2:00:18 PM Page 1 of 3
Budget Adjustment Register
Cotati, CA Adjustment Detail
Packet: GLPKT13062 - Enterprise Condition Assessments - 10/14/2025
Adjustment Number Budget Code Description Adjustment Date BA0000055 Adopted Budget for FY 2025… Conditions Assessment-Water Renewal & Replace 10/28/2025 Staff recommendation to Council for Approval of Schaaf and Wheeler proposal. Increased budget to $210,413 from $150,000.
Plus additional $15,300 for sampling and storage expenses incurred by the City. Sampling estimated at $10,000 ($500 per sample with 10 samples).
Storage Estimated at $5,300 for two months.
Summary Description:
Account Number Account Name Adjustment Description Before Adjustment After 401-00-80188-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-GENERAL Conditions Assessment-Water Sampling 32,800.00 10,000.00 42,800.00 October: 10,000.00
401-00-80616-000000 EQUIPMENT RENTAL Conditions Assessment-Water Tank 5,000.00 5,300.00 10,300.00 October: 5,300.00
402-00-92300-DSTRIB Distribution System Monitoring Reduce Budget for Conditions Assessment-Wa… 130,000.00 -56,809.00 73,191.00 October: -56,809.00
402-00-92300-MSTPLN Water Renewal and Replacem… Conditions Assessment-Water Renewal & Repl… 150,000.00 60,413.00 210,413.00 October: 60,413.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13062 - Enterprise Condition Assessments - 10/14/2025 10/23/2025 2:00:18 PM Page 2 of 3
Budget Budget Description Account Account Description After Budget Code Summary
Before Adjustment
2025-2026 Adopted Budget for FY 20… 401-00-80188-000000 CNTRCT SVCS-GENERAL 32,800.00 10,000.00 42,800.00 401-00-80616-000000 EQUIPMENT RENTAL 5,000.00 5,300.00 10,300.00 402-00-92300-DSTRIB Distribution System Monitoring 130,000.00 -56,809.00 73,191.00 402-00-92300-MSTPLN Water Renewal and Replacement… 150,000.00 60,413.00 210,413.00 2025-2026 Total: 317,800.00 18,904.00 336,704.00
Grand Total: 317,800.00 18,904.00 336,704.00
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Budget Adjustment Register Packet: GLPKT13062 - Enterprise Condition Assessments - 10/14/2025 10/23/2025 2:00:18 PM Page 3 of 3
Fund After
Fund Summary
Before Adjustment
Budget Code:2025-2026 - Adopted Budget for FY 2025/26 Fiscal: 2025-2026 401 37,800.00 15,300.00 53,100.00
402 280,000.00 3,604.00 283,604.00
Budget Code 2025-2026 Total: 317,800.00 18,904.00 336,704.00 Grand Total: 317,800.00 18,904.00 336,704.00
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2200 Range Avenue, Ste. 201
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 528-4848
[email protected]
PROPOSAL MEMO
VIA EMAIL
DATE: August 27, 2025
TO: Craig Scott, City of Cotati
FROM: Ben Shick, PE
SUBJECT: Sewer Pump Station and Well Assessment Proposal Schaaf & Wheeler will provide the following scope of work to complete condition assessments for the City of Cotati’s sewer pump stations (Quail Hollow, Eagle (New Century), Benson, and Redwood) and three potable water Wells (Wells No. 1A, 2, and 3). This scope also includes preliminary design for the addition of generators at Quail Hollow and Eagle pump stations and preliminary design for a treatment system at Well No. 2. The attached fee estimate for each task is for budgeting purposes; some individual tasks may require more effort than estimated, some less.
Task 1: Data Collection, Review, and Site Visits
Schaaf & Wheeler will collect existing available information from the City, including as-builts, reports, models, and any other pertinent data available from the City. The existing data will be reviewed and evaluated and City Public Works staff will be interviewed.
Schaaf & Wheeler and subconsultants (J. Calton Engineering and Todd Groundwater) will visit each pump station site to visually assess the age and condition of the pump station equipment.
Current pump station operation and known issues will be discussed with City staff.
Task 2: Pump Station Evaluation
Schaaf & Wheeler will perform the following evaluations and system analyses for each pump station:
• Evaluate pump station site for accessibility, safety, flooding, and code compliance. • Evaluate existing electrical, mechanical, and communication/alarm equipment based on visible condition, age, reports, and discussions with operations and maintenance staff. • Pump station level sensors and controls will be evaluated for reliability, ease of operation,
• Evaluate condition of existing structures based on visible condition. This scope does not include structural evaluation of the structures and buildings. • Evaluate the emergency/back up power generation and switching gear for each pump station. Evaluate options for adding generators and/or receptacles for portable generators at pump stations that do not have backup power. • Pump station capacities will be evaluated and compared to the peak inflow rates from the current hydraulic model that was developed for the storm drain master plan. Pump station capacities will be evaluated based on existing available information and by performing pump drawdown testing, if feasible during the pump station stie visits. It is assumed that the peak pump station inflow rates to each pump station will be determined by reviewing and evaluating existing available reports and data. 73 of 204
To: Craig Scott, City of Cotati
Schaaf & Wheeler 2
August 27, 2025
• Evaluate the size, age, and condition of the force mains, fittings, and valves. Force main evaluations will be based on age, visible condition, size, material, cathodic protection devices where applicable, and discussions with operations and maintenance staff.
Task 3: Well Evaluation
Schaaf & Wheeler and subconsultants, J Calton Engineering and Todd Groundwater, will perform the following evaluations for the City’s Wells No. 1A, 2, and 3. Water quality evaluation and preliminary design for Well No. 2 is provided under Task 7.
Review of Well Documents and Water Quality Data
Todd staff will review available information relating to the well construction, maintenance, and water quality. On receiving notice to proceed, Todd staff will request the City provide all relevant well documentation information, including construction, rehabilitation, operations, water level and quality records. A portion of this information has already been made available to Todd staff, though we anticipate there may be more relevant information not yet provided.
Provide Recommendations for Zonal Water Quality Sampling for Well No. 2 Following review of available information, Todd staff will provide recommendations regarding the potential for zonal water quality sampling of Well 2. This sampling plan recommendation would provide multiple options for zonal sampling, weighing the costs and benefits of each for the well in question. Following delivery of these recommendations, if desired, Todd staff will draft a scope of work to execute the appropriate sampling program.
Should zonal sampling be conducted, Todd staff can be available to oversee field operations.
Memorandum of Results, Findings, and Recommendations
Based on findings from the well documentation and potential zonal sampling, Todd will summarize findings and recommendations in a Technical Memorandum (TM). The TM will include documentation of the background information reviewed and any zonal sampling results obtained, as well as analysis of these results. The TM will also include detailed recommendations for additional evaluation, rehabilitation, maintenance actions, and/or appropriateness of treatment solutions to achieve and maintain acceptable function of the well.
Task 4: Establish Improvements & Estimates of Probable Construction Costs Schaaf & Wheeler will develop recommended short term and long-term improvements for each pump station and well. Short term improvements will be developed with the goal of utilizing existing available funds to improve the operation and safety of the pump stations. Long term improvements will be established for full pump station rehabilitations/replacements.
Estimates of probable construction costs will be developed for the proposed improvements. 74 of 204
To: Craig Scott, City of Cotati
Schaaf & Wheeler 3
August 27, 2025
Task 5: Technical Memorandum
Schaaf & Wheeler will prepare a technical memorandum summarizing assessment, findings, recommendations, and estimates of probable construction costs. The technical memorandum will include a summary of the assessment detailed in Tasks 2 and 3 and will include recommendations for short-term and long-term improvements for each facility. The recommended improvements will be prioritized, and replacement schedules will be provided.
This scope includes submitting a draft memo for review and comment followed by a final memorandum. One meeting will be scheduled to review and discuss the draft memorandum.
Task 6: Generator Preliminary Design
Schaaf & Wheeler and electrical subconsultant, J. Calton Engineering will provide preliminary design documents for the installation of permanent backup generators at the Quail Hollow and Eagle Pump Stations. The design will include generator sizing, a basic site plan, wiring diagram, and material specifications with the intention that the preliminary design documents will be sent to a design-build generator company for final design and installation. Final design documents can be provided for an additional fee upon request. Construction support services is not included, but can be provided for an additional fee upon request.
Task 7: Well No. 2 Treatment Evaluation and Preliminary Design Schaaf & Wheeler and subconsultant, Trussell Technologies, Inc. will provide water quality evaluation, treatment alternatives analysis, and preliminary design documents for the preferred treatment alternative for Well No. 2 as detailed herein:
Coordination and Project Management
Trussell will provide project management activities throughout the project to facilitate adherence to the schedule and budget. Project management activities will include all necessary project coordination including meetings and monthly invoicing activities.
Water Quality Evaluation
This task includes review of relevant background materials to evaluate the current water quality of Well No. 2. Trussell will review relevant documents and data that will aid in the understanding of current operations, water quality targets, system constraints, and other information relevant to potential treatment design options.
Trussell will conduct one site visit to gain familiarity with the City’s wells and learn more from engineering and operations staff regarding well operation and well site constraints.
Analysis results will be compiled and presented at a virtual conference call.
Treatment Alternatives Analysis
Trussell will identify and compare two technically viable treatment alternatives that can be implemented at No. Well 2 to meet the water quality targets. The analysis will focus exclusively on source‑water constituents introduced through the well. Considerations for this evaluation will include, but not be limited to:
• Water quality goals and source water quality
• Site constraints (footprint, access, utilities, sewer discharge options) • Implementation feasibility (construction complexity, permitting, schedule) 75 of 204
To: Craig Scott, City of Cotati
Schaaf & Wheeler 4
August 27, 2025
• Operability (operator skill level, maintenance, chemical handling, residuals management)
• High-level, budgetary cost differences (capital and annual O&M) For both alternatives, Trussell will prepare high-level design information including basic design criteria, a process flow schematic, and approximate space requirements. An associated budgetary cost estimate will also be provided to facilitate comparison between alternatives.
The initial concepts for the two viable alternatives will be presented to the City during a virtual conference call. Based on the information provided, the City will select the preferred treatment alternative. This scope does not include an Alternatives Analysis report; however, the alternatives analysis will be summarized in the Preliminary Design Report.
Preliminary Design
Trussell will develop the preliminary design and construction cost estimate for the selected design alternative. The preliminary design will include key design criteria, document project constraints, and describe project elements. A process flow diagram and high-level site layout will also be developed.
Prior to completing the Preliminary Design Report, Trussell will lead a workshop to review design elements with the City. Feedback provided during the workshop will be incorporated into the Preliminary Design Report. A draft report will be submitted to the City for review and comment prior to finalizing.
Assumptions:
This scope of work was prepared under the following assumptions:
1. This scope excludes evaluation, review, and recommendations for the pump station communication system and data.
2. The City will have the capability of collecting additional water quality data for Well No. 2 (as needed) and will be able to operate the well at full-scale flows during sampling.
3. Water quality targets for treated well water will comply with the California drinking water requirements for maximum contaminant levels (MCL) or, if none, secondary maximum contaminant level (sMCL).
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To: Craig Scott, City of Cotati
Schaaf & Wheeler 5
August 27, 2025
Schaaf & Wheeler proposes to complete this work on a time and materials basis for a fee not to exceed $296,979 as outlined on the attached fee estimate. If you have any questions regarding this scope and budget, do not hesitate to contact me at (415) 420-1123 or [email protected].
Best regards,
SCHAAF & WHEELER
Ben Shick, PE
Vice President
RCE 68813
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Principal Project Manager
Senior Engineer
Assistant Engineer
Hourly Rate $305 $255 $205
Task 1 Data Collection, Review, and Site Visits 16 0 24 9,800 $ 7,625 $ - $ -$ $ - $ 17,806 381 $ $ 7,657 $ 10,150 A Collect & Review Existing Data 4 12 3,680 $ 1,575 $ 79$ 5,334 $ 2,294 $ 3,040 $ B Site Visits 12 12 6,120 $ $ 6,050 $ 12,473$ 303 $ 5,363 $ 7,109 Task 2 Pump Station Evaluation 8 0 40 10,640 $ $ 7,000 $ - -$ $ - $ 17,990$ 350 $ 17,990 - $ A Pump Station Evaluation 8 40 10,640 $ $ 7,000 $ 17,990$ 350 $ 17,990 Task 3 Well Evaluation 6 0 10 3,880 $ $ 3,600 $ 19,359 $ - $ 1,148 - $ 27,987 $ $ 27,987 $ - A Review Documents and Data 4 8 2,860 $ 3,600$ $ 7,080 $ 14,074$ 534 $ 14,074 B Recommendations for Water Sampling (Well No. 2) 2 2 1,020 $ 12,279$ 614$ 13,913$ $ 13,913 Task 4 Establish Improvements & Estimates 14 0 32 10,830 $ $ 7,000 $ - -$ $ - $ 18,180 350 $ $ 7,817 $ 10,363 A Establish Improvements 12 16 6,940 $ $ 4,000 $ 11,140$ 200 $ 4,790 $ 6,350 B Estimates of Probable Construction Cost 2 16 3,890 $ $ 3,000 150$ 7,040 $ $ 3,027 $ 4,013 Task 5 Technical Memorandum 18 0 44 14,510 $ $ 4,525 $ 16,680 $ - $ 1,060 - $ 36,775 $ $ 15,813 $ 20,962 A Draft Technical Memorandum 12 32 10,220 $ 3,525$ 12,000$ 776$ 26,521$ $ 11,404 $ 15,117 B Final Technical Memorandum 6 12 4,290 $ 1,000$ $ 4,680 $ 10,254$ 284 $ 4,409 $ 5,845 Task 6 Generator Preliminary Design 6 0 16 5,110 $ 13,500 $ - $ -$ $ - $ 19,285$ 675 $ 19,285 - $ A Generator Preliminary Design 6 16 5,110 $ 13,500$ 675$ 19,285$ $ 19,285 Task 7 Well 2 Treatment Eval and Prelim. Design 24 0 20 11,420 $ - $ - $ 140,510 $ - $ 7,026 $ 158,956 $ 158,956 $ - $ A Coordination and PM 12 $ 3,660 10,700$ 535$ 14,895$ $ 14,895 B Water Quality Evaluation $ - $ 23,810 1,191$ 25,001$ $ 25,001 C Treatment Alternatives Analysis 4 4 2,040 $ 42,620$ 2,131$ 46,791$ $ 46,791 D Preliminary Design 8 16 5,720 $ 63,380$ 3,169$ 72,269$ $ 72,269 TOTAL EXCLUDING OPTIONAL TASKS 92 0 186 66,190 $ $ 43,250 $ 36,039 $ 140,510 -$ 10,990 $ 296,979 $ $ 218,230 $ 78,749 Trussell Technologies, Inc.,
Treatment
Subconsultant
Markup (5%)
Total for Water Wells
Total for Sewer Pump Stations
Schaaf & Wheeler
City of Cotati
Schaaf & Wheeler
Fee Estimate - August 27, 2025
Schaaf & Wheeler Subtotal
J Calton Engineering, Electrical
Todd Groundwater,
Well Evaluation
Presidio Systems Inc.,
CCTV Inspection
Total
$278,799
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: CONSENT CALENDAR (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE
UPDATING THE RULES OF CONDUCT FOR PARKS AND
OTHER PUBLIC AREAS AND ADDING PERMIT
PROCEDURES BY AMENDING CHAPTERS 4.04 (FEES FOR
USE OF FACILITIES), 7.12 (LICENSING AND KEEPING OF
DOGS AND CATS), 7.24 (ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS), 7.28
(DOGS IN PARKS DURING FESTIVALS), 9.33 (PUBLIC
URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE), 9.36
(CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS
AND OTHER PLACES) AND 9.40 (OBSTRUCTING STREETS
AND SIDEWALKS) OF THE COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Damien O'Bid, City Manager
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council conduct the second reading and adopt an ordinance adding permit procedures and updating the rules of conduct in the City parks and other public areas by amending Cotati Municipal Code (CMC) Chapters 4.04 (Fees for Use of Facilities),
7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats), 7.24 (Animal Restrictions), 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals), 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure), 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) and 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks).
Background
Like all cities, the City of Cotati (City) has a variety of rules regarding conduct in public spaces, including parks. Generally, these are intended to reduce nuisances and disturbances in public areas, including in urban parks that are shared by the general public.
Today, many of the parks have inconsistent signage, sometimes with references to code sections that no longer exist. Therefore, the primary goal of this code update is to ensure that the rules are clear and enforceable and function for the benefit of all park users as well as the adjacent 80 of 204
neighbors. This will then enable a new set of park signage, using the wayfinding sign standards.
At the regular City Council meeting on October 14, 2025, the City Council introduced the ordinance with some edits, including:
- Removing the waiver for the first dog license for people over 55 given the new significantly lower $6 fee for seniors, for consistency with Rohnert Park in DocuPet and to avoid the refund process currently necessary for the first license (Delete 9.12.120.C). - Clarifying miscellaneous unlawful acts and removing outdated language (9.36.030.D) - Editing to refer to other City Council adopted policies (e.g. Park Rules) to establish specific enforceable park open hours (9.36.060)
- Other miscellaneous spelling corrections.
Analysis/Discussion
Most City parks are currently signed with a park rules sign, typically at or near the primary entrance to the park. The park rules on these signs have been updated throughout the years and span a variety of City municipal code chapters. As a result, the park rules signs were only completely accurate at the time of installation. Today, many of these signs have outdated references to code sections and the listed rules are often inconsistent between parks. The net result of this is confusion of the public and the inability of the City to effectively enforce violations of the rules to reduce nuisance issues.
To understand the current state of the park signage, the staff audited all park signs throughout the City. This was then put into a matrix, which is attached to this staff report. Each listed park rule was added as a column and the name of the park on each row. Below the heading on each column is the listed municipal code section and a color code to indicate if the municipal code section still exists (green) or if it no longer exists or was replaced (red). The first column indicates if the park sign was fabricated in accordance with the new wayfinding signage standard (Yes - green) or not (No - red). The ”X” in the matrix indicates which rule was listed at which park.
Using the matrix as a guide, staff pulled all of the referenced municipal code sections to verify the language or propose edits, as needed. The proposed edits for each municipal code chapter are indicated in redline/strikeout and attached to this staff report. The following is a summary of the proposed edits, by Chapter:
Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities)
The proposed changes in this chapter adds a definition of a City Facility, adds clarity on the process for events in the street and when an encroachment permit is needed and generally removes many details by pointing to the separately adopted Park Policy. This avoids the potential for conflicting requirements and puts most of the functional rules in the more easily updateable Park Policy. Finally, this adds the requirement for budgets for events that request fee elimination or waivers beyond what is allowed under the adopted policy. This adds to the existing requirement to require actuals of revenue and expenses within 15 days following an event with waived or reduced fees.
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Chapter 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats)
The proposed changes in this chapter move the leash restraint provisions to consolidate them with similar provisions in Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions). There are also minor cleanup edits related to the recent switch to license dogs in DocuPet.
Chapter 7.16 (Sale of Animals)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.
Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions)
The proposed changes in this chapter clarity the leash law in all public spaces, including parks.
All dogs would be required to be on 6-foot leash in any public space, unless that space is specifically signed by the City to allow dogs off leash (i.e. dog parks). Additionally, the proposed edits include a prohibition of dogs in any ”special use sports facility”, such as basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, baseball fields, etc. that are posted as such by the City. This section also incorporates provisions from Chapter 7.12 regarding control of animals, eliminates the provision that prohibits animals in La Plaza Park and adds a general section for violations.
Chapter 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals)
The proposal is to eliminate this chapter completely. Dogs are generally at most festivals today, so the current ordinance is not enforceable. Removal of this chapter would allow rules related to dogs to revert to Chapter 7.24 that generally require leashing of dogs on a 6-foot leash, as well as control of the dog by the owner/handler.
Chapter 8.12 (Rubbish and Debris)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.
Chapter 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure) Currently, this chapter only prohibits urination, defecation and public exposure for people over 10 years old. The proposed changes eliminate the age distinction and removes redundant language in the public exposure section.
Chapter 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) The proposed changes in this chapter refers to other City Council policies to set park open hours.
For noise, it would eliminate the prohibition on drums during certain days and hours, clarify that any amplified sound is not permitted without a permit. The proposed changes also include the addition of a Section 9.36.130, which sets forth the procedures for obtaining such a permit.
Chapter 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks)
The proposed changes in this chapter simply clarify that there are instances, such as events or construction encroachments, when streets or sidewalks may be temporarily closed.
Chapter 9.41 (Curfew)
No changes are proposed in this Chapter.
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Financial Considerations
If the recommended edits, or some variation, are adopted by the City Council, the next step will be to fabricate and install new signage at City parks. At this time, staff does not have a construction estimate for the cost of this work, but once the changes are finalized, staff will return to the City Council with an actual cost and installation plan. While there is not an estimate, it is expected to be no more than $50,000.
Environmental Issues
Where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review.
This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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New Park Sign
(per sign program)?Dogs must be restrained by leashDogs must be restrained by leashDogs must be on leashHelp Keep this area clean by removing your pet's wasteClean Up After DogsHelp keep this area clean by removing your pet's wasteHorses not allowedDogs prohibited (except service dogs)Animals prohibited during festivals (except service dogs)Litter ProhibitedNo LitteringMotorized vehicles prohibitedPermit Required for Group EventsPublic Urination / Exposure ProhibitedOvernight camping prohibitedAlcoholic Beverages Prohibited (Except with City Permit)Drums restricted to 1 pm to 4 pm, Wed, Sat, Sun.Amplifiedsound prohibited without permit from CityLoitering by juveniles prohibited (curfew 11 pm to 6 am)Loitering by juveniles prohibited (curfew 11 pm to daylight)No overnight parking in this lotRestrooms Open Daily Dawn to DuskWayfinding/History KioskInterpretive SignDirectional BollardsDirectional Signage
7.24.080 7.24.020 7.12.060 7.24.060 7.12.070 - 7.16.010 7.24.030 7.24.030 8.12.010 9.36.030[E] CVC 23127 4.04.020 9.33.010 9.36.060 9.36.100 9.36.110 9.36.110 9.41.010[a] 9.40.033 - - - - - - Delano Park Yes X X X X
Draper Park Yes X X
Falletti Park No X X X X X X X X X X X
Kotate Park No X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
La Plaza Park No X X X X X X X X X X
Pocket Park Yes X X X X X X X
Putnam Park No X X X X X X X X X X X X
Santero Park No X X X X X X X X
Sunflower Park No X X X X
Veterans Park No X X X
Posted Rules by Park
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ORDINANCE NO.
UPDATING THE RULES OF CONDUCT IN PARKS AND OTHER PUBLIC AREAS WHEREAS, the City of Cotati has adopted a variety of rules of conduct for parks and other public areas over many years, as codified in various chapters of the municipal code; and WHEREAS, the rules of conduct for parks are generally posted at the primary entry to the City parks, many of which are outdated and need to be revisited with the updated facilities in the parks; and
WHEREAS, the City has created a uniform signage program, generally known as the wayfinding signage program and the City Council intended to extend this signage type into all public spaces, including City parks; and
WHEREAS, City staff reviewed the existing signage in all City parks and used this existing baseline to develop proposed changes to the municipal code to provide consistency in the rules, allowing the City to better address nuisance issues in City parks; and WHEREAS, the City introduced this ordinance in a duly noticed public meeting on October 14, 2025; and
WHEREAS, where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review. This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
NOW THEREFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Recitals.
The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated into the findings herein.
SECTION 2: Amendment to the Cotati Municipal Code.
1. Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit A, attached to this ordinance.
2. Chapter 7.12 (Licensing and Keeping of Dogs and Cats) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit B, attached to this ordinance.
3. Chapter 7.24 (Animal Restrictions) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit C, attached to this ordinance.
4. Chapter 7.28 (Dogs in Parks During Festivals) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit D, attached to this ordinance.
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5. Chapter 9.33 (Public Urination, Defecation and Exposure) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit E, attached to this ordinance.
6. Chapter 9.36 (Conduct in Parks, Plazas, Streets and Sidewalks and Other Places) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit F, attached to this ordinance.
7. Chapter 9.40 (Obstructing Streets and Sidewalks) is hereby amended as indicated in Exhibit G, attached to this ordinance.
SECTION 3: Compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act.
Where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review.
This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
SECTION 4: Construction and Severability.
It is the intent of the City Council of the City of Cotati to supplement applicable state and federal law and not to duplicate or contradict such law, and this ordinance shall be construed consistently with that intent. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance, or its application to any person or circumstance, is for any reason held to be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases of this ordinance, or its application to any other person or circumstance. The City Council of the City of Cotati hereby declares that it would have adopted each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more other sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases hereof be declared invalid or unenforceable.
SECTION 5: Effective Date.
This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption, pursuant to the California Government Code.
SECTION 6: Publication.
The City Clerk shall cause this ordinance to be published and/or posted as required in Section 36933 of the California Government Code.
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 14, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
RESULT:
MOVER:
SECONDER:
AYES:
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IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED that the foregoing ordinance was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Cotati held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
RESULT:
MOVER:
SECONDER:
AYES:
Approved:___________________________
Mayor
Attest:______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to form:
______________________________
City Attorney
This document is a true and correct copy of Ordinance Number ### and has been published or posted pursuant to law. California Government Code § 40806
______________________________
Kevin Patterson, Deputy City Clerk
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
Chapter 4.04
FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES1
Sections:
4.04.010 Definitions.
4.04.020 Permits for parks.
4.04.030 Permits for city hall and other city facilities.
4.04.040 Reduced fee or no-fee use of city facilities.
4.04.050 Special facilities and extra services.
4.04.060 Refund of fees.
4.04.070 Changes in reservation time.
4.04.080 Payment of fees in advance.
4.04.090 Billing for actual costs.
4.04.100 Fees may be waived if percentage of proceeds paid.
4.04.110 Power to revoke permit and cancel contract.
4.04.120 Covenant to indemnify the city.
4.04.130 Workers’ compensation insurance.
4.04.140 Right to enter.
4.04.150 Rules, regulations and forms.
4.04.010 Definitions.
Unless the particular provisions or the context otherwise requires, the definitions and provisions contained in this section shall govern the construction, meaning, and application of words and phrases used in this chapter.
A. “Amplified sound” means music or speech projected or transmitted by artificial means, including but not limited to amplifiers, loudspeakers, or any similar devices.
B. “Billboard” means the billboard located at the Plaza Park of the city.
C. “Bandstand” means the bandstand located at the Plaza Park of the city.
D. “City Facilities” means city buildings or spaces available for rent.
ED. “City hall” means the building, or any portions thereof, located at 201 West Sierra Avenue, Cotati, California, and in which is housed the city’s administrative office.
FE. “Department” means the recreation and parks department of the city.
GF. “Director” means the director of the recreation and parks department, or equivalent.
HG. “Park” means any public park, plaza or recreation or playground area, or building or facility thereon, within the city, owned and maintained by the city as a public park, or recreation or playground area, whether or not such areas have been formally dedicated to such purpose.
IH. “Permit” means the written permission issued to, or contract entered into with an applicant by an official of the city in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, and any amendment or supplement to such permit or contract.
JI. “Permittee” means the person who shall have been granted permission to use a city facility or park.
KJ. “Person” means and includes, except where the context requires a different meaning, an individual, a copartnership, joint adventurers, a firm, an unincorporated association, a syndicate, a club, a society, a trust, and all private or political or charitable or social organizations doing business or existing under and by virtue of any law, as a corporation or otherwise.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
LK. “Pollution” means the contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of park waters.
ML. “Vehicle” means and includes any wheeled device or conveyance, whether propelled by motor, animal, or human power. The term shall include any trailer in tow of any kind, size or description. Exception is made for baby carriages and vehicles in the service of the city. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.020 Permits for parks.
A. No person in a park shall conduct, operate, present, manage or take part in any of the following activities unless a permit is obtained prior to the start of the activity:
1. Any picnic, outing or gathering sponsored by any person and composed of more than (20) twenty or more persons;
2. Any exhibit, dramatic performance, play, motion picture, radio or television broadcast, fair, circus, musical event, or any similar event which has been or intends to be announced, promoted or advertised in or by any media source, including but not limited to any newspaper, radio, television, magazine, pamphlets, brochures, posters or handbills;
3. Any public meeting, assembly or parade, including but not limited to drills, maneuvers, ceremonies, addresses, speeches or political meetings at which it is reasonably anticipated that more than (20) twenty or more persons will be present or in attendance;
4. Any use of any park facility by a certain person or group of persons to the exclusion of others.
B. Standards for Issuance of Permit.
1. The city manager, or designee, shall issue a permit unless s/he finds:
a. That the proposed activity or use of the park will unreasonably interfere with or detract from the general public use and enjoyment of the park; or
b. That the proposed activity or use of the park will unreasonably interfere with or detract from the public health, safety or welfare; or
c. That the conduct of the proposed activity or use is reasonably likely to result in violence to persons or property resulting in serious harm to the public; or
d. That the proposed activity or use will entail an extraordinary expense or operation by the city; or e. That the facilities desired have been reserved for another activity or use on the day and hour(s) requested in the application.
2. The city manager, or designee, may impose reasonable conditions or restrictions on the granting of a permit, including, but not limited to, any of the following:
a. A requirement that the applicant furnish or pay for applicable insurance, providing the city a certificate of insurance showing the city as a named insured or paying to the city the amounts necessary for the city to obtain necessary insurance coverage;
b. Restrictions on fires, fireworks, amplified sound, dancing, sports, use of animals, equipment or vehicles, the number of persons to be present, the location of any bandstand or stage, or any other use which appears likely to create a risk of unreasonable harm to the use and enjoyment of the park by others, or of damage to park property;
c. A requirement that the applicant post a reasonable security deposit for the repair of any damage to park property, or the cost of cleanup, or both;
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Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025. d. A requirement that the applicant pay a reasonable fee to defray the cost of furnishing adequate security forces by the city at the proposed use or activity;
e. A requirement that the applicant pay any required business license tax or other required fees; f. A requirement that the permittee furnish additional sanitary and refuse facilities that might be reasonably necessary, based on the use or activity for which the permit is being sought. g. Any restrictions, rules or policies adopted by the City Council.
3. Permits shall not be transferable without the written consent of the city manager, or designee.
4. Within ten business days after receipt of an application for a permit, submitted on forms approved by the city manager, the city manager shall apprise the applicant in writing of his/her reasons for refusing a permit, or of any conditions attached to the issuance of a permit, and aIf the City Manager, or designee, refuses to issue a permit, any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal in writing within five days to the city council, which shall consider the standards set forth herein and sustain or overrule the city manager’s decision at the next available regular city council meeting next following the city clerk’s receipt of the written appeal.
5. A permittee shall be bound by all park rules and regulations, and all applicable ordinances, fully as though the same were inserted in his/her permit.
6. All applications for permits for the use of parks or the facilities located thereon shall also be reviewed and approved by the director. (Ord. 342 § 1, 1982; Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.030 Permits for city hall and other city facilities.
A. No person may use the city hall, billboard, or city streetscity facilities without first having applied for and obtained a permit therefor from the city manager or designee.
B. Applications for the use of city streets for special events or neighborhood gatherings shall be submitted to the director, and must be approved reviewed by the chief of police and the general services directorDirector of Public Works prior to approval. Any use of city streets that include modifications, construction, or similar changes of a non-temporary nature must apply for an encroachment permit, in accordance with Chapter 11.01 (Encroachments within Public Rights of Way). Any use of the city hall involving the moving of city equipment, attachment to or penetration of any wall, floor or ceiling surface shall require approval by the general services director.
C. The city manager, or designee, may impose reasonable conditions or restrictions on the granting of a permit, including but not limited to any of the following:
1. A requirement that the applicant furnish or pay for applicable insurance, providing the city a certificate of insurance showing the city as a named insured, or paying to the city the amounts necessary for the city to obtain necessary insurance;
2. Restrictions on amplified sound, dancing, sports, use of animals, equipment or vehicles, the number of persons to be present, the location of any bandstand or stage, or any other use which appears likely to create a risk of interference with the normal operations of the facility by city personnel;
3. A requirement that the applicant post a reasonable security deposit for the repair of any damage to city property, or the cost of cleanup, or both;
4. A requirement that the applicant pay a reasonable fee to defray the cost of furnishing adequate security forces by the city at the proposed use or activity;
5. A requirement that the applicant pay any required business license tax or other required fees;
6. A requirement that the permittee furnish additional sanitary and refuse facilities that might be reasonably necessary, based on the use or activity for which the permit is being sought. 90 of 204
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Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
7. Any restrictions, rules or policies adopted by the City Council.
D. Permits shall not be transferable without the written consent of the city manager, or designee.
E. Within ten business days after receipt of an application for a permit, submitted on forms approved by the city manager, the city manager shall apprise the applicant in writing of his/her reasons for refusing a permit, or of any conditions attached to the issuance of a permit, and If the City Manager, or designee, refuses to issue a permit, any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal in writing within five days to the city council, which shall consider the standards set forth herein and sustain or overrule the city manager’s decision at the regular city council meeting next following the city clerk’s receipt of the written appeal. (Ord. 342 § 2, 1982; Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.040 Reduced fee or no-fee use of city facilities and parks.
A. The city manager, or designee, may grant permission to use any of the city’s facilities or parks free, or for a fee less than would otherwise apply under the following circumstances, and subject to thein accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council.following conditions:
1. Such must be for a purpose which, in the judgment of the city manager, is a charitable, cultural, civic or governmental purpose, is of city-wide interest and scope, and is open to the general public;
2. The applicant must not be organized or operated for profit;
3. If an admission fee is to be charged or a collection is to be taken, the applicant shall state on the application the purposes for which the proceeds for the event will be used.
B. Permittee shall include an event budget with the permit application and request for special fee waivers on a form prescribed by the city manager. Not later than fifteen days following the event, the permittee shall file a verified statement, on a form prescribed by the city manager, setting forth the total gross receipts from the event, and all expenses incurred and paid in connection with the event. Such statement shall be a condition precedent to the granting of any subsequent permits to use city facilities or parks.
C. In no event shall the applicant not be required to provide or obtain:
1. Payment for required insurance; or
2. A certificate to the city manager, or designee, showing such insurance has been obtained. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.050 Special facilities and extra services.
The city manager, or designee, may make such additional charges as s/he deems reasonable:
A. For the use of any city public-address system;
B. For any additional equipment supplied by the city necessary to the permittee’s use of city facilities; C. For supervising any installation required for the purpose of effecting the permittee’s use; D. For changes in the standard arrangement of city facilities, including special seating arrangements; E. For additional gas, electricity, water, steam connections and special mechanical or electrical connections; F. For custodial work beyond the unusual normally scheduled hourscleanings; G. For the erection of platform and stands other than those usually furnished; and H. For any other special facilities and extra services which are furnished by the city or additional staff time beyond the process of permitting the event or standard preparation of the facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 91 of 204
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Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
4.04.060 Refund of fees.
A. Refunds of fee payments and such other moneys required by this chapter may be made upon written application of the permittee, in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council. where:
1. The permittee gives written notice of cancellation of the approved use to the city manager at least seventy-two hours in advance of such use; or
2. The scheduled use is cancelled by the city manager as authorized by this chapter, or at the request of the city manager and with the consent of the permittee; or
3. The actual cost to the city in providing for the service or work for which the fee was paid was less than the fee paid.
B. In no event shall moneys paid for by the permittee to the city for purposes of purchasing required insurance be required to be refunded if such moneys have been spent for such purpose by the time cancellation occurs.
C. In no event shall any fees paid hereunder be refunded if the permit is revoked or the contract permitting the use is cancelled because the permittee violated the terms of the permit or contract, or other terms of this chapter, or other law pertaining to the use of city facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.070 Changes in reservation time.
A. Change in reservation time for any use may be made in accordance with the restrictions, rules, and policies adopted by the City Council. approved by the city manager; provided, however, that written request for such change is made by the permittee to the city manager at least forty-eight hours in advance of the time stipulated on the agreement between the permittee and the city for the commencement of the agreed-upon use.
B. The city manager, upon seven days’ notice, may change a reserved time or cancel a use if such use or time conflicts with use of a city facility for city business or city purposes. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.080 Payment of fees in advance.
Payment of all fees shall be in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council.required by the city manager and authorized hereunder must be made prior to any permit or contract being granted or executed by the city by which the use applied for by permittee is permitted. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.090 Billing for actual costs.
If the fFees paid by the permittee in connection with (1) executing a contract with the city, or (2) being granted a permit to use a city facilitythat do not pay forcover the actual expenses of the city incurred in connection with the performance of the permitted use shall be recovered by the City in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council., the permittee is liable for such unpaid balance, and will be billed by the city therefor after the conclusion of the permitted use. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.100 Fees may be waived if percentage of proceeds paid.
The city manager, or designee, is authorized to waive certain fees in accordance with the restrictions, rules, policies and fee schedules adopted by the City Council. classify any use of city facilities for the purpose of determining the appropriate fees to be imposed, including, but not limited to requiring certain users to pay to the city a percentage of any proceeds obtained by the user in connection with her/his use of city facilities. In the event such percentage is so collected, other fees may be waived by the city manager; provided, however, appropriate insurance requirements provided in this chapter shall in no case be waived. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.110 Power to revoke permit and cancel contract.
The city manager, or designee, shall have the authority to revoke a permit or cancel any contract entered into hereunder upon finding of violation of any rule or ordinance, or upon the violation of any condition or restriction under which the permit was issued. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 92 of 204
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 4.04 FEES FOR USE OF CITY FACILITIES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
4.04.120 Covenant to indemnify the city.
A. By his/her entering into any contract permitting his/her use of any city facility, and/or by accepting the permission granted to use any city facility, every permittee or person shall be deemed to covenant and agree to relieve and discharge the city and the officers and employees of the city from any and all liability for loss and/or injury and/or damages to any person and/or property that may be sustained by reason of the occupancy and/or use of the facilities of the city, and to save them free and harmless therefrom; and every such person or permittee shall be deemed to covenant and agree to pay for any and all damage to such facility, and damage to or loss of any other city property resulting either directly or indirectly from such occupancy and/or use of the facilities by or through the negligence and/or other acts of the permittee, his/her agents and employees, or any person or persons participating in or attending the performance, attraction, event or affair in connection with or during such use and occupancy.
B. Such permittee or person shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the city of Cotati, its agents, officials, and its employees and volunteers from any and all actions, claims, damages, costs or expenses, including attorneys’ fees and witness costs, which may be asserted by any person arising out of or in connection with the permittee’s or person’s use or occupancy of any city facility. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.130 Workers’ compensation insurance.
In like manner, whenever in the opinion of the city manager, or designee, the circumstances may warrant same, a permittee shall procure, pay for and keep in force workers’ compensation insurance for and on behalf of, and protecting the agents and/or employees of such permittee; provided, further, however, that whenever under the laws of the state such permittee shall be required to cover his, hers or its agents and/or employees by workers’ compensation insurance, such law or laws shall be complied with, notwithstanding the exercise of or failure to exercise such discretion of the city manager with regard thereto. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.140 Right to enter.
The city manager, or designee, and other authorized representatives of the city, shall have the right to enter the city hall, and all parts thereof, and any other city facility or park, at all times during any and all uses or occupancies of such facilities. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982).
4.04.150 Rules, regulations and forms.
The city manager, or designee, shall issue from time to time, as s/he deems necessary, rules and regulations and forms to implement the provisions of this chapter and to clarify the rules, regulations and policies adopted by the City Council. Such rules and regulations shall have the force of law, and the failure to obey the same shall be deemed a violation of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 338 § 1(part), 1982). 1 Editor’s Note: For bandstand use fees and regulations, see Resolution 77-26; for photocopy and other city facility use fees, see Resolution 78-34.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS
AND CATS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
Chapter 7.12
LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS
Sections:
7.12.020 Maximum number of dogs, cats or litters.
7.12.040 Dogs – Restraint required – Exceptions – Control by responsible person.
7.12.060 Dogs – License required.
7.12.080 License – Vaccination required.
7.12.100 License – Annual fee imposed.
7.12.120 Dog license fee – Exemptions.
7.12.140 License – Application – Issuance of certificate.
7.12.160 License tag – Attachment required – Exceptions.
7.12.180 License tag – Duplicate.
7.12.200 Dog licenses – Record keeping by city.
7.12.020 Maximum number of dogs, cats or litters.
A. No person shall keep or maintain on any premises more dogs or cats than set forth in Section 17.42.040 of the Cotati Municipal Code except: (1) premises maintained by a veterinarian licensed by the state for the practice of veterinary medicine, (2) premises with a kennel license and any required land use permit for a commercial kennel or pet shop, (3) premises upon which a licensed animal shelter is located.
B. No person shall allow the parturition and rearing of more than two litters of dogs or cats in any one calendar year from the total number of females owned by him or her or maintained on his or her premises without a valid kennel license and any required land use permit for a commercial kennel. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.040 Dogs – Restraint required – Exceptions – Control by responsible person.
A. Every owner or person in possession of a dog shall keep such dog or dogs confined to his or her own premises or shall keep such dog or dogs under physical restraint by means of a leash not to exceed six feet in length except:
1. Assistance dogs while performing their duties;
2. Dogs participating in field or obedience trials or exhibitions;
3. Dogs assisting their owner or handler in legal hunting or in the herding of livestock;
4. Dogs assisting a security guard or assisting a peace officer engaged in law enforcement activities;
5. Dogs being trained for any of the purposes set forth in this section on private land with permission of the land owner, so long as such dogs are under direct control of such individuals to assure that they do not violate any other provision of this title or other law.
B. No person shall keep a dog under the physical restraint of a leash unless such person is capable of controlling and directing said dog. Any dog which is not subject to such control and direction may be seized and impounded.
C. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from biting or physically harassing any person engaged in a lawful act and from interfering with the lawful use of public or private property.
D. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from causing injury to another animal while such animal is lawfully upon public or private property and which results in veterinarian treatment or death.
E. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall desist from commanding or provoking such dog to attack, sic or threaten a person when such person is peaceably and lawfully upon public or private property. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.060 Dogs – License required.
Every owner of a dog which is four months of age or older, and which is kept in the city, shall obtain a license tag and annual license for such dog from the city and shall pay the annual fee imposed by resolution of the city council.
No person shall maintain or board any dog four months of age or older which has not been licensed, except:
A. A license shall not be required for a dog owned or under the control of a nonresident of the city and which is to be kept in the city for less than thirty days.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS
AND CATS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
B. A license shall not be required for dogs temporarily brought into the city for entry into an event, show or exhibition scheduled not more than ten days thereafter.
No person shall refuse to exhibit a dog license when so directed by a police officer or animal control officer. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.080 License – Vaccination required.
No license shall be issued for any dog, which is four months of age or older, pursuant to this chapter unless and until the owner presents to the city a valid certificate of vaccination signed by a veterinarian and certifying that the dog has been vaccinated with an approved rabies vaccine and showing that the period of time from the date of vaccination to the date of expiration of the vaccination does not exceed the time interval prescribed by the State Department of Health. In no case shall a license be issued with an expiration date greater than the rabies vaccination expiration date. Where a certificate of vaccination shows that a dog should not be vaccinated due to infirmity or other disability, the nature of the infirmity and/or other disability and the estimated date of termination thereof shall be shown. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.100 License – Annual fee imposed.
An annual dog license fee set by resolution of the city council is imposed upon every dog four months and older, which is kept in the city by any person. Such license fee shall be reduced as established by resolution for spayed or neutered dogs. The license fee is due and payable thirty days following the day upon which the dog is four months old, or thirty days following the day upon which the dog, if over the age of four months, is first owned by a resident of the city and thereafter on the first day of each year. The fee is an annual fee and shall not in any case be prorated. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.120 Dog license fee – Exemptions.
License fees shall be waived for:
A. Assistance dogs which are used primarily for the purpose of guiding or assisting persons who are blind, deaf or otherwise disabled;
B. Service dogs used in law enforcement by a governmental agency; C. One dog kept in a household where the owner of the dog is over the age of fifty-five years. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.140 License – Application – Issuance of certificate.
Upon each application for a license, the owner shall furnish to the city, in writing, his or her name, the address where the dog is kept, the name, breed, age, sex and color of the dog, and proof of current vaccination. The city shall furnish application forms for such purpose. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.160 License tag – Attachment required – Exceptions.
A. With each dog license issued, the directorCity shall issue a metal tag bearing an identifying number and the words and letters “Cotati Police Dept.” Said dog license tag shall be securely affixed to a collar, harness, or other device and shall be worn by the dog for which the license was issued at all times that said dog is in the city, except when said dog is confined in a commercial kennel, pet shop or veterinary facility, or it is being exhibited at a show, field trial or other competition. The license tag shall be shown by the owner at any time upon demand by the animal control officer or police officer.
B. It is unlawful for any person to attach a metal tag issued pursuant to this section to any dog other than the dog for which it was issued. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.12.180 License tag – Duplicate.
If a license tag is lost or destroyed, a duplicate or other tag in lieu thereof shall be procured from the city within thirty days after loss or destruction. Upon receiving payment of a replacement fee, the city shall issue a replacement tag to the owner. The replacement fee shall be fixed by resolution duly adopted by the city council which may be amended as necessary. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.12 LICENSING AND KEEPING OF DOGS
AND CATS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
7.12.200 Dog licenses – Record keeping by city.
The directorCity shall keep a record of all licenses issued by him or her, together with a description of the dog for which such license is issued. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 96 of 204
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
Chapter 7.24
ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
Sections:
7.24.020 Public nuisance.
7.24.040 Public nuisances – Abatement.
7.24.060 Animal waste.
7.24.080 Dogs at large in public areas.
7.24.085 Dogs in Special Use Sports Facilities.
7.24.090 Dogs – Control by responsible person.
7.24.100 Dogs at large on certain private lands.
7.24.120 Animals other than dogs at large.
7.24.140 Animals prohibited in La Plaza Park.
7.24.160 Restraint – Proper care required.
7.24.180 Poultry, fowl – Overcrowding, improper feeding prohibited.
7.24.200 Stables and premises kept clean.
7.24.220 Herding in streets prohibited.
7.24.240 Animals kept in vehicles.
7.24.260 Neglect of animals prohibited.
7.24.280 Tethering a dog.
7.24.300 Biting animals – Notification and disposition.
7.24.320 Reporting stray or found animals.
7.24.340 Posting of intention to trap cats.
7.24.360 Teasing or tormenting animals.
7.24.380 Abandoned animals – Prohibited.
7.24.400 Possession of wild or undomesticated animals prohibited.
7.24.420 Definition of wild and/or undomesticated animal.
7.24.440 Remedial measures.
7.24.460 Feeding of certain wild animals.
7.24.480 Disposal of dead animals.
7.24.500 Control and seizure of diseased animals.
7.24.520 Poisoning or abusing animals.
7.24.540 Violations
7.24.020 Public nuisance.
A. No owner or person having possession, custody or control of any animal shall permit such animal to do any of the following:
1. Trespass upon, or damage any private property within the city without the permission of the private property owner;
2. Damage public property in the city;
3. Obstruct the reasonable and comfortable use of property in any neighborhood or community by running at large, chasing vehicles, molesting passers by, barking, howling, baying, screeching or making other loud or continuous noises for a continuous period in excess of thirty minutes.
B. No owner, or person having possession, custody or control of any animal shall:
1. Permit unsanitary conditions to exist on the premises where the animal is kept which would cause odors, attract flies or vermin, or otherwise be injurious to public health and safety, or indecent or offensive to the senses, or an obstruction to the free use of property, so as to interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property by the neighborhood, community or persons;
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
2. Keep or maintain any animal in violation of Title 17 of the municipal code.
C. A violation of this section is declared to be a public nuisance and the causing of a public nuisance in violation hereof.
D. Any private person may maintain an action under Civil Code Section 3493 for enforcement of this chapter declaring certain acts a public nuisance, if such acts are specially injurious to such person. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.040 Public nuisances – Abatement.
A. Whenever an animal control officer has reasonable cause to believe that a public nuisance exists, he or she may conduct an investigation of the alleged nuisance. In addition, whenever an animal control officer receives three or more complaints or affirmations in writing from persons having separate residences in the same neighborhood or from persons employed regularly in the same neighborhood, that any animal is a public nuisance as that term is used in this title and in the municipal code, the animal control officer may investigate to determine if a public nuisance exists. If the animal control officer determines that a public nuisance exists, the nuisance shall be abated in accordance with the municipal code, and the animal control officer may seize and impound the animal causing the public nuisance.
B. Notwithstanding any of the preceding, no animal that is part of an agricultural operation pursuant to California Civil Code Section 3482.5 shall be deemed to be a public nuisance under this section, provided such animal is owned and kept in compliance with this title and state law. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.060 Animal waste.
A. No owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any animal, except a disabled person using an assistance dog, shall permit or allow any animal to do any of the following:
1. Defecate on any public street or other public property without immediately cleaning or removing the excrement to a proper receptacle;
2. Defecate on any private property other than that of its owner without the consent of the owner, lessee or other person in control of the private property.
B. Any person owning or otherwise having an animal in his possession, custody or control on any public street or other public property shall carry a tool or device to be used for cleaning or removing animal excrement. This tool or device shall be presented to the animal control officer upon demand. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.080 Dogs at large in public areas.
No person owning or otherwise having a dog in their care, charge, control, custody or possession shall cause, permit or allow such dog to be in or upon any public property within the City, including streets, parks or playgrounds, unless such dog is under restraint by a leash. The leash shall not exceed six feet in length. Dogs may only be offleash in designated off-leash areas posted as such by the City. It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog to permit the same, under any circumstances, to be off-leash in, on or about any public property within the city except public property posted with signs permitting dogs to be off-leash.
Every dog found in violation of the provisions of this section may be immediately seized and impounded. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.085 Dogs in Special Use Sports Facilities.
Dogs are prohibited in special use sports facilities, such as basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields, volleyball courts, skateparks or similar that are so designated and posted by the City.
7.24.090 Dogs – Control by responsible person.
A. Persons who keep a dog on leash or under physical restraint must be capable of controlling and directing the dog. 98 of 204
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The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
B. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from biting or physically harassing any person engaged in a lawful act and from interfering with the lawful use of public or private property.
C. Every owner or person in possession, custody or control of a dog shall at all times prevent such dog from causing injury to another animal while such animal is lawfully upon public or private property.
D. No person shall command or provoke any dog to attack, sic or threaten a person or other animal when such person or animal is peaceably and lawfully upon public or private property and not posing any articulatable or specific threat
7.24.100 Dogs at large on certain private lands.
It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog to suffer or permit the same to be upon the lands of another without the consent of the owner or person entitled to the use or possession of such lands. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.120 Animals other than dogs at large.
It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any animal, other than a dog or cat, to permit the same, under any circumstances, to stray or run at large upon any public street or other public place, or upon any private place or property or common area of any planned development, cluster, townhouse or condominium project without the consent of the owner thereof, or to cause or permit such animal to be pastured, herded, staked or tied in any street or alley or other public place. Every animal other than a dog or cat, found in violation of the provisions of this section may be immediately seized and impounded. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.140 Animals prohibited in La Plaza Park.
It is unlawful for the owner or person otherwise having possession, custody or control of any dog or other animal to suffer or permit the same, under any circumstances, to enter upon La Plaza Park, except as follows:
A. An owner or person having possession, custody or control of an animal may permit the same to enter upon La Plaza Park for events during which specific animals have been specifically permitted by the city as part of such event and when such permission is posted upon the La Plaza Park bandstand. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.160 Restraint – Proper care required.
No owner or person otherwise in possession, custody or control of any animal, except a cat, shall permit such animal to trespass upon or be kept upon property without the property owner’s consent. The owner or other person in possession, custody or control all animals shall provide them with necessary food, drink and shelter, and at nighttime shall secure them in an appropriate enclosure. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.180 Poultry, fowl – Overcrowding, improper feeding prohibited.
No person shall overcrowd in any crate, box, or other receptacle domestic fowl or poultry or fail to provide proper food, water, shelter or sanitation for same. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.200 Stables and premises kept clean.
Every person who shall stable, keep, pasture or maintain any animal in the city shall at all times keep the stable, enclosure or premises in or on which said animal is kept in a clean and sanitary condition, free from manure, mud and other material which may cause harm to the animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.220 Herding in streets prohibited.
No person shall drive or herd any animal on or along any street or alley. Animals may be ridden or driven in harness or by means of rope, halter or similar device, subject to traffic regulation and the orders of any personnel whose duties include the direction of street traffic. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 99 of 204
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
7.24.240 Animals kept in vehicles.
A. No person shall confine an animal in a vehicle unless there is adequate ventilation and unless the temperature or other conditions do not threaten the health of the animal. If an animal is confined in a vehicle in a manner that threatens its health, any animal control officer or any peace officer may enter the vehicle by whatever force is reasonably necessary to release the animal without liability upon the city or any person for resulting damage.
B. Any animal that has been confined in a vehicle in violation of this section may be impounded pending a hearing to determine if the animal shall be returned to its owner. In the event of any such impoundment, the owner or person in possession, custody or control of the animal shall be liable for all costs and expenses of impounding or keeping the animal.
C. Section 23117 of the Vehicle Code of the state of California is incorporated by reference.
D. Any animal control officer or peace officer may remove an animal that is not properly tethered in accordance with subsection C above without liability upon the city or any person for resulting damage. The driver of the vehicle may be cited for violation of such duty.
E. With the exception of RVs or motor homes that are adequate and serve as the residence of the owner, animals may not be housed in vehicles. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.260 Neglect of animals prohibited.
No owner or person in possession, custody or control of any animal shall cause or permit such animal to be without proper care and attention. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.280 Tethering a dog.
A. It is unlawful for any person to tether any dog on a leash, rope, chain, cable or other device for more than ten hours in a twenty-four hour period.
B. Any tethering device used to control any dog shall comply with all of the following:
1. The tether or chain provided must be at least ten feet in length, with swivels at both ends, and be properly attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable so as not to interfere or become entangled with the dog or other objects on the property.
2. Any tethering system used shall not allow the dog to leave the property of their owner or person in possession, custody or control of the dog.
3. No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight.
4. Any chain or tether shall be attached to a properly fitting flat collar or harness worn by the dog. The use of choke chains or pinch collars attached to any tethering device is prohibited.
5. The chained or tethered dog must have constant access to necessary shelter and water. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.300 Biting animals – Notification and disposition.
A. The owner or other person in possession, or control of any animal that bites a human being shall immediately notify the police department of such bite, giving the name and address of the person bitten, if known to him/her, and shall obey any quarantine instructions given by the police department, county animal regulations department and/or health officer. The animal control officer may, in his or her discretion, order the animal quarantined at the shelter, at a veterinarian’s office, or at the owner’s residence and may impose such reasonable conditions thereon as may be required.
B. If any person fails or refuses to obey any lawful order for the quarantine of an animal for observation of rabies, the animal control officer may impound the animal for such quarantine at the expense of the owner. The animal control officer shall charge the owner in such case for the care and board of the animal. Such rates shall be set by resolution of the city council, or by the animal shelter. The redemption fees provided in this title shall also apply to an animal quarantined for rabies observation. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006). 100 of 204
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
7.24.320 Reporting stray or found animals.
Any person who apprehends or picks up a stray or apparently lost animal or who traps an animal shall report the same to the police department within twenty-four hours and shall release such animal to the owner or to the police department upon demand. The person shall provide the police department with a complete description of the animal, its location and a means to contact the person keeping the animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.340 Posting of intention to trap cats.
Any person who is intending to trap any cat or cats on their property must post such intentions by notifying neighbors on both sides, behind, and across such property. This can be accomplished by anonymously leaving a written notice of such intent, at least forty-eight hours prior to said trapping, on each doorstep of surrounding dwellings. Said written notice shall state where any trapped cats will be taken. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.360 Teasing or tormenting animals.
No person shall tease or torment any animal. No parent who is present with their minor child shall allow or permit his/her minor child to tease or torment any animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.380 Abandoned animals – Prohibited.
It is unlawful to abandon any animal in the city. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.400 Possession of wild or undomesticated animals prohibited.
No person shall board, have, keep, maintain or have in his/her possession or control, for any length of time, in any zoning district in the city, any wild and/or undomesticated animal, as defined in Section 7.24.420. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.420 Definition of wild and/or undomesticated animal.
For purposes of Sections 7.24.400 through 7.24.460, a “wild and/or undomesticated animal” is defined as an animal which is wild by nature and not customarily domesticated in Sonoma County and which, because of its size, disposition or other characteristics could constitute a danger to human life or property. Such wild and/or undomesticated animals shall be deemed to include but are not exclusive of:
A. Class Mammalia.
1. Order Carnivora.
a. Family Felidae (cat) including but not limited to such members as the tiger, the jaguar, the leopard, the lion, the serval, the mountain lion, the bobcat, the ocelot and the cougar, excepting Felis domesticus (domestic cat);
b. Family Hyenidae (hyena);
c. Family Urisideae (bear);
d. Family Candidae (dog) excepting Canis familiaris (domestic dog) and including but not limited to such members as the wolf, coyote and the jackal;
2. Order Probscidea (elephant);
3. Order Primata (primates), including but not limited to the chimpanzee, the baboon, the orangutan, the gibbon, the macaque and the gorilla, excepting the Family Hominidae (man);
4. Order Artiodactyla, even-toed hoofed mammals such as water buffalo, camels, elk, moose, deer and antelope, excluding the domesticated species of the Family Suidae (domestic pig) and Family Bovidae (cattle, sheep, goats, llamas and alpacas);
5. Order Perissodactyla, odd-toed hoofed mammals including the zebra and rhinoceros, excluding the domesticated species of the Family Equidae (horses, donkeys, etc.).
B. Class Reptilia.
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The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
1. Order Squamata.
a. Sub-order Serpentes, all front and rear-fanged venomous snakes, b. Sub-order Lacertilia, both venomous species of the Family Heloder Matidae (gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard);
2. Order Crocodilia (crocodile, alligator and caiman).
C. Class Aves.
1. Sub-order Ratitae, such as, but not limited to, ostriches, rheas, cassowaries and emus, excluding small caged birds such as parakeets, canaries, love birds and finches.
D. Any other species of the animal kingdom (as opposed to vegetable or mineral) which is venomous to human beings whether its venom is transmitted by bite, sting, touch or other means, except the honey-producing bee. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.440 Remedial measures.
A. Impoundment. Any wild and/or undomesticated animal as defined in Section 7.24.440 of this chapter determined to be in the city may be impounded by the animal control officer.
B. Notice of Removal. Whenever the animal control officer causes the impoundment of such wild and/or undomesticated animal as authorized herein, the animal control officer shall immediately give notice of such impoundment, the grounds thereof and the place to which such animal has been impounded.
C. Penalty. Any person who boards, has, keeps, maintains, or has in his/her possession or control, for any length of time, any wild and/or undomesticated animal in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six months or a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars or both. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.460 Feeding of certain wild animals.
No person shall intentionally feed or in any manner knowingly provide food for noncaptive wild and/or undomesticated animals as defined in Section 7.24.420, including, but not limited to, coyotes, mountain lions, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, opossums and turkeys. This section shall not apply to persons legally engaged in trapping wild animals with devices utilizing food items as bait pursuant to applicable laws. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.480 Disposal of dead animals.
A. Upon the death of any animal, the owner or person in possession thereof shall provide for the burial, incineration or other disposition of the body of such animal.
B. Upon learning that the body of a dead animal has not been disposed of in a safe and sanitary manner, the animal control officer or health officer shall dispose of such body immediately; provided, however, that the animal control officer or health officer shall not be required to remove and dispose of bodies of dead animals on state highways or on state property.
C. The director shall collect a fee in accordance with resolution adopted by the city council which shall be paid by the owner or person in possession, custody or control of the dead animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.500 Control and seizure of diseased animals.
A. No person owning or having possession, custody or control of any animal which he or she knows to be infected with any disease transmittable to man shall permit such animal to be or remain within the city other than at an approved veterinary hospital unless the health officer approves an alternate means of confinement.
B. The animal control officer shall seize any animal he or she reasonably believes to be infected with disease transmittable to man. He or she shall keep such animal in a safe place for a period sufficient to observe, examine and determine whether it is diseased so as to be a menace to public health or safety. 102 of 204
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Chapter 7.24 ANIMAL RESTRICTIONS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
C. Diseased animals which are a danger to public health or safety shall be impounded and may be destroyed. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.520 Poisoning or abusing animals.
In addition to Penal Code Sections 596 and 597, it is unlawful for any person to wilfully administer poison to any dog, cat or other animal or to wilfully place, expose or leave poisonous or harmful substances of any kind in any place with intent to injure or kill any dog, cat or other animal. Further, it is unlawful for any person to maliciously kill, maim, wound, mutilate, torment, torture or physically abuse any animal. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.24.540 Violations
Any animal found in violation of the provisions of this Chapter may be immediately seized and impounded and the owner subject to fines, penalties and/or arrest. Any duly authorized peace officer, or animal control officer shall be entitled to take such other action as may be reasonably necessary for protection of public health or safety. 103 of 204
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Chapter 7.28 DOGS IN PARKS DURING PUBLIC
FESTIVALS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
Chapter 7.28
DOGS IN PARKS DURING PUBLIC FESTIVALS
Sections:
7.28.020 Definitions.
7.28.040 Prohibition of dogs from parks during public festivals – Exceptions.
7.28.060 Public nuisance.
7.28.080 Notice.
7.28.020 Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
“Parks” means and includes any park located within the city and owned by the city. “Public festival” means all events sponsored by or approved by the city that result in the gathering of people in public parks, including, but not limited to, the kids’ day festival, the accordion festival and the Cotati jazz festival. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.28.040 Prohibition of dogs from parks during public festivals – Exceptions.
Any owner or person in possession, custody or control of any dog is prohibited from either wilfully or negligently permitting said dog, whether leashed or unleashed, to be present in any park during public festivals, and during the setup and removal of festival booths and displays except as follows:
A. Assistance dogs and service dogs in the performance of their duties, may be present during public festivals at all times.
B. An owner or person having possession, custody or control of an animal may permit the same to enter upon a public park during a public festival during which specific animals have been specifically permitted by the city as part of such public festival and when such permission is posted at the main entrance to the park upon which the public festival is being held. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.28.060 Public nuisance.
Violation of this chapter shall be considered a public nuisance. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
7.28.080 Notice.
Organizers of public festivals shall post a reasonable number of notices in conspicuous locations warning of the prohibitions set forth herein and shall cite the ordinance codified in this chapter in said notices. (Ord. 788 § 1(part), 2006).
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Chapter 9.33 PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION
AND EXPOSURE
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
Chapter 9.33
PUBLIC URINATION, DEFECATION AND EXPOSURE
Sections:
9.33.010 Public urination or defecation in public places prohibited.
9.33.020 Public exposure in public places prohibited.
9.33.010 Public urination or defecation in public places prohibited.
It is unlawful for any persons to over the age of ten years to wilfullywillfully urinate or defecate in a public place or in a place exposed to public view. (Ord. 371 § 1(part), 1984).
9.33.020 Public exposure in public places prohibited.
It is unlawful for any person over the age of ten years to wilfullywillfully expose themselves his person or private parts for the purpose of urination or defecation in a public place or in a place exposed to public view in such a manner that the genitals, vulva, pubis, pubic symphysis, pubic hair, buttocks, natal cleft, perineum, anus, anal region or pubic hair region is exposed to public view. (Ord. 371 § 1(part), 1984). 105 of 204
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Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,
STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
Chapter 9.36
CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES1 Sections:
9.36.010 Park defined.
9.36.020 Vehicles.
9.36.030 Miscellaneous unlawful acts.
9.36.040 Commercial activity.
9.36.050 Business.
9.36.060 Park Open Hours and Camping.
9.36.070 Fires.
9.36.090 Trailers.
9.36.100 Ban on consumption of alcoholic beverages in certain locations.
9.36.110 Drums and aAmplified instruments and sound.
9.36.120 Skateboards, skates and in-line skates.
9.36.130 Permit Procedure
9.36.010 Park defined.
As used in this chapter, the word “park” means any public park, public recreation area or public plaza. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.020 Vehicles.
No person shall, in any park, drive any vehicle, cycle or automobile except on roads or drives provided for such purpose unless explicitly permitted by the City. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.030 Miscellaneous unlawful acts.
It is unlawful for any person in any park to:
A. Damage, deface or destroy, by any means whatsoever, any public property planted, placed, located or otherwise situated in a park;
B. Cut or remove any wood, turf, grass, soil, rock, sand or gravel; C. Drive or ride any motorized vehicle, cycle, or scooter, or other similar motorized device, except on a road, a trail posted for such use, or in a parking area, provided for such purposeunless explicitly permitted by the City., It is prohibited or to drive or ride the same any motorized or unmotorized vehicle, cycle, scooter or similar device in an erratic or hazardous manner;
D. Engage in archery, the flying of motorized model airplanes, the driving of golf balls, the playing of baseball with a hardball, or other activities in which a projectile may pose a threat to safety, including but not limited to activities such as archery or driving of golf balls, except in any such places as may be provided for such purposes; E. Deposit on or in any park any paper, rubbish, garbage or refuse matter of any kind, except in a receptacle designed for such purpose; provided, however, that in no event shall any person deposit in any park, or in any rubbish or garbage receptacles in any park, rubbish or garbage or refuse matter of any kind generated off the premises of such park. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.040 Commercial activity.
No person shall sell or offer for sale any merchandise, article or thing whatsoever in any park without the prior written consent of the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.050 Business.
No person shall practice, carry on, conduct or solicit for any trade, occupation, business or profession in any park without prior written consent of the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). 106 of 204
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Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,
STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
9.36.060 Park Open Hours and Camping.
Public parks are open during the hours set in accordance with restrictions, rules or policies adopted by the City Council. Use outside of these hours are prohibited unless otherwise allowed by City issued permit. No person shall camp, set up housekeeping or sleep in any park, or upon any publicly owned property overnight, and specifically between the hours of twelve p.m. and six a.m. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.070 Fires.
No person shall make or kindle a fire for any purpose except in barbecue pits or other places provided for that purpose in any park. Outside barbeques or fires may be allowed under permit by the City. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.090 Trailers.
It is unlawful for any person in any park or elsewhere within the city, to cook in, sleep in, or otherwise inhabit any camp car, camptrailer or camphouse, except in campgrounds, trailer parks or mobile home parks maintained pursuant to valid and subsisting authority granted by the city. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995).
9.36.100 Ban on consumption of alcoholic beverages in certain locations.
A. Definition. As used in this chapter:
“Alcoholic beverage” includes alcohol, spirits, liquor, wine, beer, and every liquid or solid containing alcohol, spirits, wine, or beer, and which contains one-half of one percent or more of alcohol by volume, and which is capable of human consumption either alone, when diluted, mixed, or combined with other substances and sales that requires a State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control license.
B. Prohibition on Consumption. The purpose of this section is to prohibit the consumption of alcoholic beverages in public.
1. No person shall consume any alcoholic beverage on any public highway, road, street, alley, lane, way, sidewalk, parking lot, park, or other public place, unless such person has obtained a permit for consumption of alcoholic beverages from the city of Cotati pursuant to Section 9.36.130. For purposes of this section, possession of any can, bottle, or other receptacle containing any alcoholic beverage which has been opened, or seal broken, and the contents of which have been partially removed, or with any other indicia of consumption, shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section;
2. On private property which is intended for public use and open to the public without first having secured the express permission of the owner, the owner’s agent, or the person in lawful possession of the property;
3. On the posted premises of, including the posted parking lot immediately adjacent to, any retail package offsale alcoholic beverage licensee licensed pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 23000) of the Business and Professions Code of California, or on any public sidewalk immediately adjacent to the licensed and posted premises. Visible notices shall be posted on the premises of each retail package off-sale alcoholic beverage licensee and on the parking lot and the public sidewalk immediately adjacent to the licensed premises indicating that the provisions of this subsection are applicable; or
4. In any public park, parkway, playground, any building, recreation center, recreation area, or any parking lot adjacent to any of the foregoing recreation facilities owned, leased or under the control of the city of Cotati, unless such person has obtained a permit for consumption of alcoholic beverages from the city of Cotati pursuant to Section 9.36.130.
C. Penalties. Violation of this section is considered an infraction. (Ord. 834 § 2, 2011).
9.36.110 Drums and aAmplified instruments and sound.
It is unlawful in any park for any person to play or beat on any any amplified musical instrument, or employing amplified sound for any purpose, unless . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary stated above, playing or beating on drums shall be permitted in any park between one p.m. and four p.m. on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. This section shall not apply to cultural and recreational events approved by the city in which a permit or written consent has been granted to engage in such activity, pursuant to Section 9.36.130. Such permit or consent may impose safety and welfare. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). and welfare. (Ord. 639 § 1(part), 1995). 107 of 204
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,
STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
9.36.120 Skateboards, skates and in-line skates.
A. No person shall operate, drive or ride upon any skateboard, skates or in-line skates in any park or park areas except in areas posted and designated for such use.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person riding a skateboard at any city designated public recreation area in which skateboarding is permitted to fail to wear a properly secured helmet, elbow pads and knee pads. (Ord. 729 § 1, 2002).
9.36.130 Permit Procedure
A. Failure to Obtain Permit. No person shall engage in any activity or continue to engage in any activity for which a permit is required without first obtaining a valid permit.
B. Permit Procedures. Whenever any permit is required by this chapter, it shall be issued or denied in accordance with the provisions of this article.
C. Permit Application.
1. Each application for a permit shall be made on forms issued by the City Manager or their designee and shall provide the following information:
a. A description of the proposed use, event or activity. b. The park and the specific area or areas thereof which will be utilized in connection with the proposed use, event or activity.
c. The manner in which the park will be utilized.
d. Name, address and telephone number of the person, entity or organization sponsoring or conducting the proposed use, event or activity.
e. Name and address and telephone number of the person or persons to be contacted regarding the application or permit.
f. The day, date and specific hours and location for which the permit is sought. g. An estimate of the anticipated attendance.
h. Other information which the City Manager or their designee shall determine is necessary in order to provide for fair and orderly processing of each application and for the determination of any necessary conditions of approval.
D. Issuance of Permit. The City Manager or their designee shall review and either issue or deny each permit application within the prescribed timeframe for approval in the applicable adopted City Council policies and satisfaction of all requirements stated herein. Whenever any permit is denied, reasons for its denial shall be explicitly stated in the notice of denial.
E. Grounds for Denial of Permit.
1. The City Manager or their designee shall issue a permit unless it is found that:
a. The proposed activity is illegal or otherwise prohibited in City parks. b. The activity has been determined by the City Manager or their designee to be hazardous or unsafe or likely to cause damage to the park, to property, or to persons pursuant to Section 9.36.030. c. The applicant refuses to comply with conditions of approval attached to the application. d. The park area for which the permit is sought has previously been reserved pursuant to an application received prior to the application in question. e. Due to the anticipated use of adjoining park areas pursuant to prior reservations or agreements, the park cannot accommodate the size or scope of the contemplated use. f. The contemplated use of the park or park area would, due to the use’s noise or activity level, be incompatible with the nature of the park or the park’s surroundings, or the number of persons likely to attend the event exceeds the capacity of the park for which the application has been received.
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Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.36 CONDUCT IN PARKS, PLAZAS,
STREETS AND SIDEWALKS AND OTHER PLACES
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 924, passed March 12, 2024.
1. Prior to denying an application for the reasons set forth in Section 9.36.130(E)(1) (d) through (f), the City Manager or their designee shall determine if the activity proposed could be accommodated in any other park or park area and shall notify the applicant if such accommodation is possible.
F. No Discrimination. No permit shall be denied on account of the sex, race, creed, color, religious or political affiliation of the applicant, or on account of the probable or known content of any speech or public address which such applicant is likely to make or allow to be made.
G. Conditions of Permit Issuance. Before issuing any permit, the City Manager or their designee shall require that the applicant agree to comply with any and all conditions of approval deemed necessary for the protection, health and safety of persons or property or both in light of the nature of the activity for which the permit is sought and the number of persons likely to attend said activity. Such conditions of approval shall pertain only to the time, place and manner of the use of the park by the applicant and those likely to attend the activity for which the permit is sought.
H. Revocation of Permit.
1. A permit shall be revoked when it is determined that the permittee or persons attending the activity are not complying with any or all of the conditions of approval.
2. It shall be unlawful for any person to continue to engage in an activity for which a permit is required after the permit has been revoked pursuant to the section.
1 Prior ordinance history: Ords. 73 and 161.
For fees for use of city facilities, see Ch. 4.04 of this code. 109 of 204
Cotati Municipal Code
Chapter 9.40 OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND
SIDEWALKS
The Cotati Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 932, passed January 14, 2025.
OBSTRUCTING STREETS AND SIDEWALKS
Sections:
9.40.010 Blocking public way prohibited.
9.40.020 Loitering prohibited.
9.40.030 Public way – Sitting, lying upon unlawful.
9.40.040 Public place – Blocking entry prohibited.
9.40.050 Encroachments excepted.
9.40.060 Violation – Misdemeanor.
9.40.010 Blocking public way prohibited.
No person shall stand in or upon any street, sidewalk or other public way open for pedestrian travel, or otherwise occupy any portion thereof in such manner as to annoy or molest any person thereon, or so as to obstruct or unreasonably interfere with the free passage of persons and vehicles. In certain circumstances, streets, sidewalks or the public right of way may be closed under written permit from the City, in accordance with Chapter 4.04 (Fees for Use of City Facilities) or Chapter 11.01 (Encroachments within Public Rights of Way), as applicable in the sole judgement of the city. (Ord. 112 § 1, 1969).
9.40.020 Loitering prohibited.
No person shall loiter in any tunnel, pedestrian subway, or on any bridge, overpass, or at or near the entrance thereto or exit therefrom, or at or near any abutment or retaining wall adjacent to such entrance or exit, or any retaining wall or abutment adjacent to any freeway, street or highway open and used for vehicular traffic, or adjacent to that portion thereof used for vehicular traffic, or on any public property in the proximity of such bridge, overpass, or retaining wall or abutment. (Ord. 112 § 2, 1969).
9.40.030 Public way – Sitting, lying upon unlawful.
No person shall sit or lie in or upon any street, sidewalk, or other public way in any manner to unreasonably prevent, delay, hinder, obstruct, or interfere with the free passage of any other persons.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to persons sitting on the curb portion of any sidewalk or street while attending or viewing any lawfully conducted parade; nor shall the provisions of this section apply to persons sitting upon benches or other seating facilities lawfully provided for such purpose. (Ord. 112 § 3, 1969).
9.40.040 Public place – Blocking entry prohibited.
No person shall block, impede or obstruct any entrance, exit or approach to any hall, church, school or other public place or to any place of business in such manner to unreasonably prevent, hinder, delay, obstruct or interfere with the free passage of any other person who is entering, occupying or leaving any of the aforesaid places, or who is performing any service or labor, or who is seeking or obtaining employment, or who is purchasing, selling, using, delivering, transporting, or receiving any goods, wares, merchandise, services, entertainment, accommodation, or articles or who is attempting or seeking to do any of the foregoing; provided that nothing contained herein shall apply to lawful picketing. (Ord. 112 § 4, 1969).
9.40.050 Encroachments excepted.
The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to encroachments under permits issued pursuant to ordinances of this city. (Ord. 112 § 5, 1969).
9.40.060 Violation – Misdemeanor.
Every violation of this chapter is a misdemeanor. Any person, whether principal, agent, employee or otherwise, who violates any of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail of the county of Sonoma for a term not exceeding six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Such person is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of this chapter is committed, continued or permitted by such person, and shall be punishable as herein provided. (Ord. 112 § 6, 1969). 110 of 204
Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: PUBLIC HEARINGS (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 14 OF
THE COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE FOR THE ADOPTION OF
THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
WITH AMENDMENTS
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Eric Seabrook, Building Official
Recommendation
It is recommended the City Council hold a public hearing to introduce and conduct the first reading of an Ordinance to amend Title 14 of the Cotati Municipal Code to adopt the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code per the standard three-year cycle, with the updated regulations going into effect January 1, 2026.
Background
The California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) is responsible for adopting the building standards (codes) for the State of California. These standards are typically updated on a “triannual” three year cycle, with individual jurisdictions adopting the updated codes “by reference” after they are adopted at the State level. Very rarely, a need to update the building code more frequently arises, and these updates are generally done through an “intervening code adoption cycle”. The last updates were done in July 2024 as an intervening cycle to accelerate the state’s priorities of reducing greenhouse gas production and increasing the pace of private electric vehicle purchase.
The California Building Standards Code (Title 24) is organized into 13 parts. Local jurisdictions that choose to amend Title 24 are required to adopt this building code by ordinance for local enforcement within 180-days after the updated Title 24 is published by the State, which occurred on July 1, 2025.
In adopting the Title 24 for local enforcement, a local jurisdiction typically may amend the State standards to address local geologic, topographic or climatic conditions, but in no case may these 111 of 204
amendments be less restrictive that the State code. The authority to make such amendments is provided through a combination of Government Code Sections; however each amendment requires specific justification. In addition, there are a number of Appendices which are not required to be adopted by local agencies; however their adoption may serve to simplify or clarify local regulation processes by providing consistent regulations across jurisdictions.
For the 2025 update, the State legislature passed AB 130, which limits the ability of local jurisdictions to make changes to the code. The passage of AB 130 restricts jurisdictions from amending local codes until June 1, 2031, to allow the building industry to address the states housing shortage. The potential impact of new legislation, like AB 306 aims to reduce costs and increase housing supply by temporarily prohibiting certain state and local code updates for residential units. Amendments are only permitted if CBSC deems them necessary as emergency standards. The CBSC published the 2025 cycle update in July 2025, and local implementation of the directed code changes is required to be implemented throughout the state on January 1, 2026.
More information on the building code adoption process is available on their website at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC
Analysis/Discussion
Generally, the main areas of change in the 2025 codes are for clarifications to ensure uniform enforcement of specific requirements and to address changes in the built environment and innovations in technology that had not been addressed in the previous editions of the adopted codes.
To list all changes would be daunting, however a brief list of proposed updates includes;
1. The moderate hazard industrial Group F-1 now includes vehicles that are powered by lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.
2. Low hazard factory industrial group F-2 and Low Storage S-2. facilities has changed the percentage for the storage of alcohol from 16 percent to 20 percent. The increased alcohol percentage has been deemed no more hazardous that other allowed uses listed as acceptable in the F-2 Group.
3. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in private garages.
The ordinance proposes to update the City of Cotati Building Code to meet the requirements and criteria of the 2025 California Building Code Standards. While the 2025 Code is very similar to the 2022 code, it does include several differences which are summarized below:
1. California's 2025 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24), which includes expanded use of heat pumps and strengthened ventilation requirements in the living environments.
2. The California Wildland Urban Interface Code, Title 24 Part 7 is now published as a standalone document and addresses construction in the areas that are considered with high fire spread potential. Maps are continuously updated and this standard gives builders a fire-resistant construction standard that has been vetted in the code adoption process.
Separately, the Ordinance proposes to adopt several Appendices to the 2025 California Building Standards Code with the intent to establish clear and consistent regulation of elements outside of 112 of 204
the typical building code. Specifically, these amendments will establish (or re-establish) local City of Cotati regulations addressing:
Adopted appendices in the 2025 BUILDING CODE, APPENDICES ADOPTED: APP H, SIGNS; APP I, PATIO COVERS; APP J, GRADING; AND APP Q, EMERGENCY HOUSING.
Adopted appendices in the 2025 RESIDENTIAL CODE, APPENDICES ADOPTED: APP BB,
TINY HOUSES, APP BF, PATIO COVERS, APP BG, SOUND TRANSMISSION APP BO, EXISTING BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES, APP CI, the Swimming Pool Safety Act.
Adopted appendices in the 2025 GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, APPENDICES ADOPTED: RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES, Tier 1 for NEW BUILDINGS AND SUBSTANTIAL REMODELS AND ADDITIONS , INCLUDING DIVISIONS A4.1, A4.3, A4.4 and A4.5 ADOPTED NON-RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES A5, NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES TIER 1 FOR NEW BUILDINGS AND SUBSTAINAL REMODELS AND ADDITIONS, INCLUDING DIVISIONS A5.1, A5.3, A5.4 and A5.5
Financial Considerations
There are no specific budget impacts associated with the proposed Ordinance adoption, separate from the staff and consultant time required to draft and implement the specific revisions and updates to the Cotati Building Code and adopted Appendices.
Environmental Issues
The proposed building code update ordinance is a general policy making activity, directed by the State of California, governing ministerial level projects and there is no possibility that implementation of this ordinance will have significant effects on the environment in that specified uses are limited to those expressly permitted under the proposed ordinance, and in that the existing Cotati Zoning Code already regulates land use and the proposed uses are subject to compliance with all applicable state laws including environmental review. Therefore, the proposed Ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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ORDINANCE NO.
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI AMENDING COTATI MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 14.04, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA (CA) CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PARTS 1, 2 (volumes 1& 2),
2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 AND 12 AS PUBLISHED BY THE CA BUILDING (BLDG) STANDARDS COMMISSION, THE CA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE PART 1, CA BUILDING CODE PART 2, VOLUMES 1 AND 2 AND IT’S APPENDIX (APP) H, SIGNS; APP I, PATIO COVERS; APP J, GRADING; AND APP Q, EMERGENCY HOUSING, CA RESIDENTIAL CODE PART 2.5, AND IT’S APPENDIX (APP) BF, PATIO COVERS; APP BF SOUND TRANSMISSION, APP BO EXISTING BLDGS AND STRUCTURES, APP CI SWIMMING POOL SAFETY ACT; CA ELECTRICAL CODE PART 3; CA MECHANICAL CODE PART 4; CA PLUMBING CODE PART 5; AND IT’S IAPMO INSTALLATION STANDARDS, INCLUDING TABLES AND APPENDIX A, RECOMMENDED RULES FOR SIZING THE WATER PIPING SYSTEM; APP B, EXPLANATORY NOTES ON COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEMS; APP C, ALTERNATE PLUMBING SYSTEMS; APP D, SIZING STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS; AND APP I, INSTALLATION STANDARDS FOR PEX TUBING SYSTEMS FOR HOT-AND-COLD-WATER DISTRIBUTION, CA ENERGY CODE PART 6, CALIFORNIA WILDLAND – URBAN INTERFACE CODE PART 7, CA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE PART 8, CA FIRE CODE PART 9, CA EXISTING BLDG CODE PART 10, AND IT’S APP A1, SEISMIC STRENGTHENING PROVISIONS FOR UNREINFORCED MASONRY BEARING WALL BLDGS; APP A3, PRESCRIPTIVE
PROVISIONS FOR SEISMIC STRENGTHENING OF CRIPPLE WALLS AND SILL PLATE ANCHORAGE OF LIGHT, WOOD-FRAMED RESIDENTIAL BLDGS, APP A4,
EARTHQUAKE RISK REDUCTION IN WOOD-FRAME RESIDENTIAL BLDGS WITH SOFT, WEAK OR OPEN FRONT WALLS; AND APPENDIX A5, REFERENCED STANDARDS, CALIFORNIA GREEN BLDG STANDARDS CODE PART 11, INCLUDING IT’S APP A4, RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES DIVISIONS A4.1, A4.3, A4.4, A4.5 AND APP A5, NON-RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES DIVISIONS A5.1, A5.3, A5.4, A5.5, CA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE PART 12, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE REGULATING
AND GOVERNING THE CONDITIONS AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL PROPERTY,
BLDGS AND STRUCTURES, PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS AND
THE COLLECTION OF FEES, TOGETHER WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS AND
ADDITIONS, APPENDICES, ERRATA AND SUPPLEMENTS THEREOF, REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 916 OF THE CITY OF COTATI AND ALL OTHER ORDINANCES
AND PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT THEREWITH
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission has adopted a new Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, also referred to as the 2025 California Building Standards Code, that will become effective on January 1, 2026; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 establish the authority for a city to adopt and make local amendments and modifications to the building standards in the California Building Standards Code to establish more restrictive 114 of 204
building standards than those contained in the California Building Standards Code, and to make such local amendments and modifications as the city determines are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022.2 permits enactment of city ordinances that adopt codes or statutes, including the codes of the State of California by reference; and WHEREAS, the adoption of the state codes with certain local amendments are necessary in order to better address local conditions; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022.3 requires a first reading of the titles of the adopting ordinance and the codes to be adopted thereby, as well as the title of the secondary codes to be adopted by reference, followed by scheduling of a duly noticed public hearing; and WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022.6 requires a copy of the primary code, proposed for adoption to be on file with the office of the City Clerk at least 15 days preceding the hearing and kept for public viewing while the ordinance is in force; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that in order to best protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City of Cotati, the standards of building within the City must conform with state law except where local conditions warrant more restrictive regulations; and WHEREAS, notice of the ordinance was published in accordance with Government Code Sections 50022.3 and 6066; and such notice was sufficient to give notice to interested persons of the purpose of the ordinance and the subject matter contained therein; and WHEREAS, this ordinance amendment is hereby found to be categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) in that the Council finds and determines that there is nothing in these amendments themselves that could foreseeably have any significant effect on the environment and in that the State of California has mandated these amendments be made by local jurisdictions in order to project the health and safety of State residents; and
WHEREAS, the City Council introduced the proposed amendments to Municipal Code Chapter 14.04 and the codes to be adopted by reference on January 1, 2026 and considered public testimony; and
WHEREAS, the City Council found that the modifications would be consistent with the intent of the City of Cotati General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on October 28, 2025, and has reviewed all evidence submitted in connection with the staff report, including public testimony and all other documents and evidence that are part of the City administrative record for the 2025 adoption of the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 together with amendments thereto.
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NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COTATI DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals made Findings. The above recitals are hereby declared to be true and correct findings of the City Council of the City of Cotati.
SECTION 2. Municipal Code Amendments. Chapter 14.04 of the City of Cotati Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows:
14.04.010 Adoption of codes by reference
The uniform codes and the international codes together with any amendments thereof, as hereinafter set forth in this ordinance, are adopted and made part of this ordinance, together with amendments and additions to the various codes; providing penalties for the violation thereof and repealing all ordinances in conflict therewith.
14.04.020 Copies on file
One certified copy of each of the codes so adopted, along with any amendment thereto, shall be kept on file for the use and examination by the public at the city of Cotati Community Development Department.
14.04.025 Findings
The City Council of the City of Cotati finds that in order to best protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens, the standards of building within the City must conform to state law except where local conditions warrant more restrictive regulations. Therefore, the City Council desires to adopt the current state building and fire codes, contained in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, governing the construction and regulation of buildings and structures, along with the International Property Maintenance code, with the modifications and amendments contained herein.
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code section 17958.7, the City Council makes the factual findings hereto and incorporated herein by reference, and finds that the amendments made in this ordinance to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, are reasonably necessary because of the local climatic, geological or topographical conditions described in the following:
The City wishes to adopt by reference the following codes, with such amendments as may be necessary to conform to local climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions and number the adopted codes in the City of Cotati Municipal Code.
California Code of Regulations Title-24
14.04.030 Part 1 – 2025 Administrative Code;
14.04.040 Part 2 – 2025 California Building Code;
14.04.050 Part 2.5 – 2025 California Residential Code;
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14.04.060 Part 3 – 2025 California Electrical Code;
14.04.070 Part 4 – 2025 California Mechanical Code;
14.04.080 Part 5 – 2025 California Plumbing Code;
14.04.090 Part 6 – 2025 California Energy Code;
14.04.100 Part 8 – 2025 California Historical Building Code;
14.04.110 Part 9 – 2025 California Fire Code;
14.04.120 Part 10 – 2025 California Existing Building Code;
14.04.130 Part 11 – 2025 California Green Building Standards Code;
14.04.140 Part 12 – 2025 California References Standard Code;
14.04.150 2024 Edition International Property Maintenance Code;
14.04.160 2025 National Fire Code;
14.04.180 Non-Liability of City of Cotati
14.04.190 Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances
14.04.200 Violations and Penalties
14.04.210 Fees
Under the provisions of Section 17958.5 of the Health and Safety Code, local amendments must be based on climatic, geologic and topographical conditions. The following findings address each of these situations and present the local conditions which, either singularly or in combination, justify the amendments to be adopted:
A. CLIMATE: The City, on average, experiences an approximate annual rainfall of 40 inches. This rainfall can normally be expected between October and April. During the winter months, the City may experience periods of heavy rain, which causes local flooding. Winter storms are often accompanied by high winds, which have uprooted trees and damaged power lines. The City has also experienced periods of heavy fog, which has delayed the responding fire apparatus and prevented early discovery of structure fires. During the dry period, temperatures range from 70 degrees to over 100 degrees. These temperatures are o c c a s i o n a l l y accompanied by light to gusty winds, which when coupled with highly flammable vegetation, can cause uncontrollable fires. Wind driven fires could have severe consequences, as has been demonstrated on several occasions throughout the local region and state.
B. GEOLOGIC: The City is susceptible to seismic hazards resulting from movement along any one of several known faults in the area. The most serious direct earthquake hazard threat is from the damage or collapse of buildings and other structures due to ground movement. In addition to damage caused by earthquakes, there is the possibility of earthquake-induced fires due to damaged gas lines, power lines or heat producing appliances, and the unavailability of water for fire control due to broken water mains.
In the event of a major earthquake many areas of the City may not be accessible to emergency equipment and, if bridges or roads are damaged, the City may be isolated from outside assistance.
C. TOPOGRAPHICAL: The City is divided by Highway 101 which creates a barrier and 117 of 204
can obstruct traffic patterns and increase response time for fire equipment. The City's water supply and sewer system were both designed to work with existing topography but can be adversely affected by loss of normal operation. Sewer lift stations and well equipment can both be compromised by interruption in electrical service.
D. SUMMARY: The above local climatic, geologic and topographical conditions increase the magnitude, exposure, accessibility problems and fire hazards presented to the City of Cotati. A fire following an earthquake has the potential to cause greater loss of life and damage than the earthquake itself. The majority of the City's industrial areas are located in the highest seismic risk zones, which also contain the largest concentration of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials, primarily toxic gases, could pose the greatest threat to the largest number of persons, should a significant seismic event occur.
The City of Cotati's resources would have to be prioritized to mitigate the greatest threat, and may be unavailable for vegetation or structure fires.
Other variables that may tend to intensify the situation include:
1. The extent of damage to the water system;
2. The extent of isolation due to bridge and/or freeway overpass collapse;
3. The extent of roadway damage and/or amount of debris blocking roadways;
4. Climatic conditions (hot, dry weather with high winds);
5. Time of day will influence the amount of traffic on roadways and could intensify the risk to life during normal business hours; and,
6. The availability of timely mutual aid or assistance from the neighboring departments which will likely have similar emergencies at the same time.
7. A large number of dwelling units with wood shingle roof coverings, which increase the likelihood of conflagrations.
E. CONCLUSION: Local climatic, geologic and topographical conditions impact fire suppression efforts and the frequency, spread, intensity, and the size of fire involving structures in this community. Further, they impact potential damage to all structures from earthquake and subsequent fire. Therefore, it is found to be necessary that the California Building Standard Code Title 24 be amended to mitigate the effects of these conditions.
14.04.030 California Administrative Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 1: California Administrative Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Code Council.
14.04.040 California Building Code
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Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title-24 Part 2: California Building Code, Volume 1 and Volume 2, 2025 Edition based upon and the 2024 International Building Code, Volumes 1, and 2 thereof as published by the International Code Council with the following amendments:
Appendix Chapter H, Signs, of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted with the following amendments:
Section H101.2 Signs exempt from permits. 1 and 4 are deleted.
Appendix Chapter I, Patio Covers, of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter J, Grading, of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter Q, Emergency Housing, of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
The existing sections of Chapter 14-04.040 of the City of Cotati Municipal Code that are not expressly deleted, repealed or amended by this ordinance are hereby readopted without change, and shall apply, as applicable, to the model codes herein adopted.
California Building Code Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, Building 1, shall be amended to read as follows:
Section 105.2, Building 1 One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, (11m²). The height of the one story detached accessory building shall not exceed 12 feet at any point or as specified by local zoning ordinance.
California Building Code Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, Building 6, shall be amended to read as follows:
Section 105.2, Building 6, Platforms, sidewalks, and driveways not more than 30 inches (762mm) above adjacent grade, not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.
California Building Code Section 105.3.2, Time Limitation of application, is amended to read as follows:
105.3.2, Time Limitation of application, A building permit application and plan review shall expire if the application is deemed to have been abandoned, the application has not been pursued in good faith, or no permit is issued within one year (365 days) of the date the application is filed. The construction plans and support documents submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon written request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing permit issuance and there have been no updates to the State of California adopted building codes or expiration of any other applicable City required permit since the time of initial submittal of the building permit application, the Building Official may extend the application an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and plan review shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall 119 of 204
reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and supporting documents and pay a new plan review fee.
California Building Code Section 105.5 Expiration is amended to read as follows:
105.5, Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid and shall be expired unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 365 days after the time the work is commenced. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon a request by the applicant, in writing, showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing completion of work authorized by the permit the Building Official may extend the issued building permit an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and issued permits shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. A request for permit extension may not be granted for an issued building permit if no work has begun or no inspections have been approved within three years of the date the permit was issued. The construction plans and support documents submitted may thereafter be destroyed by the Building Official. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, the applicant shall reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and support documents and pay a new plan review fee.
California Building Code Section 109.3 Building permit valuation, is amended to read as follows:
109.3 Building permit valuation. The applicant for a permit shall provide an estimated permit value at time of application. Permit valuations shall include total value of work, including materials and labor, for which the permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent systems. If, in the opinion of the building official, the valuation is underestimated on the application, the permit shall be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval of the building official. The valuation for a permit may be determined or modified by the building official as necessary using the latest Building Valuation Data with a X2 multiplier published by the International Code Council in Building Standards Safety Journal and other relevant data as necessary.
California Building Code Section 202, Definitions, is amended to add the following definitions:
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION. An existing building or structure not classified as Group R-3 occupancy, which undergoes any addition of floor area that is greater than twenty-five percent (25%) of the existing gross floor area.
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION, Group R-3. An existing Group R-3 building or structure, which undergoes any addition of floor area that exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area.
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. An existing building or structure, which undergoes any alteration of floor area that is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area or meets the definition of a substantial improvement as defined by this code.
California Building Code Section 502.1, Address identification, is amended to read as follows:
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Section 502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved illuminated or other approved means of 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 numerals or alphabetic letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Character size and stroke shall be in accordance with Section 505.1.1 through 505.1.2.
Where required by the Fire Code Official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response in accordance with this code and Section 505.1.3. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way or when determined by the Fire Code Official, a monument, pole, or other approved illuminated sign or other approved means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.”
California Building Code Section 502.1.2 is added to read as follows:
Section 502.1.2 Numbers for other than one- and two-family dwellings.
Each address identification character shall be not less than twelve (12) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one (1) inch. Suite and unit directional numbers shall be not less than six (6) inches high with a minimum stroke width of three-quarter (0.75) inch. Numbers shall be not less than four(4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch.
California Building Code Section 502.1.3 is added to read as follows:
Section 502.1.3 Complex directory. Where two or more buildings cannot be viewed from the public way or when determined by the Building or Fire Code Official, an approved illuminated complex directory, monument, pole, or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structures at the main entrances to the property.
All Sections of the City of Cotati Municipal Code for California Building Code Sections 903.2.1 through Section 905.9 are deleted.
California Building Code Section 903.6 is amended to read as follows:
Section 903.6 Where Required in Existing Buildings and Structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11 or that undergo a substantial improvement as defined by CBC Chapter 2 in accordance with Table 903.6.
Exception: Alterations made solely for the purpose of providing barrier removal pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as contained in exception # 4 of Section 11B204.2.” California Building Code Section 905.3.1 is amended to read as follows:
Section 905.3.1, Height. In other than Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies, Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout at each floor where any of the following occur:
1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
2. Buildings that are three or more stories in height.
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3. Buildings where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) below the highest level of fire department access.
4. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2. Class I standpipes are allowed in B and E occupancies
3. Class I standpipes are allowed in parking garages.
4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
5. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings where occupant-use hose lines will not be utilized by trained personnel or the fire department.
6. In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider either of the following:
6.1Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less.
6.2Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.
7. When determined by the Fire Code Official a standpipe system is not warranted in three-story buildings.
California Building Code Section 3103.1.2, TEMPORARY STRUCTURES, Permit required, is amended to read as follows:
18-16-3103.1.2 Permit Required. Temporary structures that cover an area greater than 400 square feet (11.16 m2), including connecting areas or spaces with a common means of egress or entrance that are used or intended to use for the gathering together of 10 or more persons, shall not be erected, operated or maintained for any purpose without obtaining a permit from the building official.
California Building Code Section 3306.5.2 is amended to read:, 3306.5.2 Where Required. In buildings of combustible construction required to have automatic sprinkler system by Section 903, automatic sprinkler system shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet (12,192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such automatic sprinkler system shall be extended as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.
California Building Code Section 3306.5.3, is added to read as follows:
3306.5.3 Buildings being demolished. Where a building is being demolished and an automatic sprinkler system is existing within such a building, such automatic sprinkler system shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such 122 of 204
automatic sprinkler system shall be demolished with the building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.
Appendix Chapter J Grading of the California Building Code, 2022 Edition, is hereby adopted with the following amendments:
A. Insofar as they apply to the permitting of work regulated by this Ordinance, the Organization and Enforcement of this Ordinance shall be as set forth in Section 104 Chapter 1 of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, with the exception that the City Engineer shall be the designated code enforcement officer and shall have all the powers and duties ascribed to the building official therein.
B. All references in Appendix Chapter J to the Building Official are hereby amended to refer to the City Engineer.
C. Notwithstanding A. and B. above, demolition permits shall remain under the authority of the Building Official.
D. Appendix Chapter J, Section J 103, is hereby amended to include the Grading Permit Application Requirements adopted by a separate resolution of the City Council. In the case of any discrepancies between the provisions of this Ordinance including the Code sections adopted by reference herein, and the Grading Permit Application Requirements, the latter shall supersede.
With respect to the activities regulated by this Ordinance (i.e., Excavation, Grading and Earthwork Construction, CBC Section 113 (incorporated herein by reference) is hereby amended to include the following language:
The Cotati City Council (or their designee) is hereby designated as the board of appeals for activities regulated by this Ordinance.
14.040.050 California Residential Code
Adoption of California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2.5: California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Conference of Building Officials, with the following amendments:
Appendix Chapter BB, Tiny Houses, of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter BF, Patio Covers, of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter BG, Sound Transmission, of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter BO, Existing Buildings and Structures, of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter CI, Swimming Pool Safety Act, of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
The existing sections of Chapter 14-04.050 of the City of Cotati Municipal Code that are not expressly deleted, repealed or amended by this ordinance are hereby readopted without change, and shall apply, as applicable, to the model codes herein adopted. 123 of 204
Division II Administration
California Residential Code Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit, exception 1 is amended to read as follows:
R105.2, exception 1. One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, (11m²).
The height of the one story detached accessory building shall not exceed 12 feet at any point or as specified by local zoning ordinance.
California Residential Code Section R105.2 exception 10 is amended to read as follows:
R105.2, exception 10. Platforms, and decks not more than 30 inches (762mm) above adjacent grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by Section R311.
California Residential Code Section R105.3.2 Time limitation of application is amended to read as follows:
R105.3.2 Time limitation of application. A building permit application and plan review shall expire if the application is deemed to have been abandoned, the application has not been pursued in good faith, or no permit is issued within one year of the date the application is filed. The construction plans and support documents submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon written request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing permit issuance and there have been no updates to the State of California adopted building codes or expiration of any other applicable City required permit since the time of initial submittal of the building permit application, the Building Official may extend the application an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and plan review shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and support documents and pay a new plan review fee.
California Residential Code Section R105.5 Permits - Expiration is amended to read as follows:
R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid and shall be expired unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 365 days after the time the work is commenced. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon a request by the applicant, in writing, showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing completion of work authorized by the permit the Building Official may extend the issued building permit an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and issued permits shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. A request for permit extension may not be granted for an issued building permit if no work has begun or no inspections have been approved within three years of the date the permit was issued. The construction plans and support documents submitted may thereafter 124 of 204
be destroyed by the Building Official. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, the applicant shall reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and support documents and pay a new plan review fee.
California Residential Code Section R108.3, Building permit valuation is amended to read as follows:
R108.3 Building permit valuation. The applicant for a permit shall provide an estimated permit value at time of application. Permit valuations shall include total value of work, including materials and labor, for which the permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent systems. If, in the opinion of the building official, the valuation is underestimated on the application, the permit shall be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval of the building official. The valuation for a permit may be determined or modified by the building official as necessary using the latest Building Valuation Data with a X2 multiplier published by the International Code Council in Building Standards Safety Journal and other relevant data as necessary.
California Residential Code Section R108.6, Work commencing before permit issuance is amended to read as follows:
108.6 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any person who commences any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a fee established by the building official that shall be in addition to the required permit fees. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, may be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The minimum investigation fee is set forth in the fee schedule adopted by this jurisdiction. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.
California Residential Code Section R202 Definitions is amended to add the following definitions:
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION. An existing building or structure not classified as Group R-3 (one and two family dwelling) occupancy, which undergoes any addition of floor area that is greater than twenty-five percent (25%) of the existing gross floor area.
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION, An existing Group R-3 (one and two family dwelling) building or structure, which undergoes any addition of floor area that exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area.
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. An existing building or structure, which undergoes any alteration of floor area that is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area or meets the definition of a substantial improvement as defined by this code.” Section R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems
California Residential Code Section R309.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems is amended to read as follows:
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R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all townhouses regardless of square footage in accordance with this code. Fire Sprinklers shall be installed in all multi-family manufactured homes with two or more dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
Exceptions:
1. Detached Group U occupancies 1,000 sq. ft. or less.
2. Detached pool houses up to 1,000 sq. ft. in floor area within 50 feet of the pool and limited to a single bathroom.
3. A room above a detached garage used for storage only that does not contain a bathroom, cooking or refrigeration facilities or connections for such facilities.
4. Carports of non-combustible construction.
California Residential Code Section R313.1.2 Substantial remodel is added to read as follows:
R313.1.2 Substantial remodel. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all townhomes that undergo a substantial remodel or substantial improvement.
Exception: Alterations made solely for the purpose of complying with the American Disabilities Act.
California Residential Code Section R313.1.3 Substantial addition is added to read as follows:
R313.1.3 Substantial addition. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all townhomes that undergo a substantial addition.
California Residential Code Section R313.1.4 Substantial alterations is added to read as follows:
R313.1.4 Substantial alterations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all townhomes that undergo any combination of substantial remodel, substantial addition or both that equals fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area. The percentage of work shall be determined and added to any successive remodels that may occur within a subsequent three (3) year period. If the combined percentage totals 50% or more, this work shall constitute a substantial improvement and the building shall be subject to the fire sprinkler requirement.
California Residential Code Section R313.2 One- and two- family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems is amended to read as follows:
R313.2 One- and two- family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all one- and two-family dwellings regardless of square footage in accordance with this code. Fire Sprinklers shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured homes and multi-family manufactured homes with two dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
Exceptions:
1. Detached Group U occupancies 1,000 sq. ft. or less.
2. Detached pool houses up to 1,000 sq. ft. in floor area within 50 feet of the pool and limited to a single bathroom.
3. A room above a detached garage used for storage only that does not contain a bathroom, cooking or refrigeration facilities or connections for such facilities. 126 of 204
4. Carports of non-combustible construction.
California Residential Code Section R313.2.2 Substantial remodel is added to read as follows:
R313.2.2 Substantial remodel. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all one-and two-family dwellings that undergo a substantial remodel or substantial improvement.
Exception: Alterations made solely for the purpose of complying with the American Disabilities Act.
California Residential Code Section R313.2.3 Substantial addition is added to read as follows:
R313.2.3 Substantial addition. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all one-and -two- family dwellings that undergo a substantial addition.
California Residential Code Section R313.2.4 Substantial alterations is added to read as follows:
R 313.2.4 Substantial alterations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all one- and two-family dwellings that undergo any combination of substantial remodel, addition or both that equals fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area. The percentage of work shall be determined and added to any successive remodels that may occur within a subsequent three (3) year period. If the combined percentage totals 50% or more, this work shall constitute a substantial improvement and the building shall be subject to the fire sprinkler requirement.
14.04.060 California Electric Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 3: The California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, as published by National Fire Protection Association.
14.04.070 California Mechanical Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 4: The California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials with the following amendment:
Section 104.4.35 Expiration is amended to read as follows:
Every permit issued shall become invalid and shall be expired unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 365 days after the time the work is commenced. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon a request by the applicant, in writing, showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing completion of work authorized by the permit the Building Official may extend the issued building permit an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and issued permits shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. A request for permit extension may not be granted for an issued building permit if no work has begun or no inspections have been approved within three years of the date the permit 127 of 204
was issued. The construction plans and support documents submitted may thereafter be destroyed by the Building Official. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, the applicant shall reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and support documents and pay a new plan review fee.
14.04.080 California Plumbing Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 5: The California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition and appendices thereof, as published by the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials, with the following amendments:
Appendix Chapter A, Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System, of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter B, Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste and Vent Systems, of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter C, Alternate Plumbing Systems, of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter D, Sizing Storm Water Drainage Systems, of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter I, Installation Standard for PEX Tubing Systems for Hot-and ColdWater Distribution, of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Section 104.4.35 Expiration is amended to read as follows:
Every permit issued shall become invalid and shall be expired unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 365 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 365 days after the time the work is commenced. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period of 180 days upon a request by the applicant, in writing, showing that circumstances beyond the full control of the applicant have prevented any action from being taken. In the event that the applicant is diligently pursuing completion of work authorized by the permit the Building Official may extend the issued building permit an additional 180 days. Fees for extension of permit applications and issued permits shall be in the amounts fixed by resolution of the City Council. A request for permit extension may not be granted for an issued building permit if no work has begun or no inspections have been approved within three years of the date the permit was issued. The construction plans and support documents submitted may thereafter be destroyed by the Building Official. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, the applicant shall reapply for the building permit, resubmit construction plans and support documents and pay a new plan review fee.
14.04.090 California Energy Code
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Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 6: California Energy Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Code Council.
14.04.100 California Historical Building Code
14.04.105 California Wildland- Urban Interface Code Part 7 Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 7: California WildlandUrban Interface Code, 2025 Edition as published by the International Code Council Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 8: California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Code Council.
14.04.110 California Fire Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9: 2025 Edition of the California Fire Code as published by the International Code Council including Appendix Chapters 4, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and N, together with any amendments adopted by the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District Board and as ratified by the Cotati City Council.
14.04.120 California Existing Building Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24 Part 10: California Existing Building Code 2025 Edition, as published by the International Code Council.
Appendix Chapter A, Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings including Chapter A1 Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings; Chapter A3 Prescriptive Provisions for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light, Wood- Frame Residential Buildings; , Chapter A4 Earthquake Risk Reduction in Wood-Frame Residential Buildings with Soft, Weak, or Open Front Walls, is hereby adopted.
14.04.130 California Green Building Standards
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title-24 Part 11: California Green Building Standards Code 2022 edition as published by the International Code Conference with the following amendments;
Appendix Chapter A4, Residential Voluntary Measures, Tier 1 for New Buildings and substantial remodels and additions , including Division A4.1, A4.3, A4.4 and A4.5, of the California Green Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted.
Appendix Chapter A5, Non-Residential Voluntary Measures, Tier 1 for New Buildings and substantial remodels and additions , including Division A4.1, A4.3, A4.4 and A4.5, of the California Green Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted. 129 of 204
with the following amendments Appendix Chapters A4 Tier 1 and Appendix Chapter A5 Tier 1.
California Green Building Standards Code Appendix A4 Residential Voluntary Measures Section A4.601.1is amended to read as follows:
A4.601.1 The Tier 1 measures contained in this appendix, Division A4.1, A4.3, A4.4, A4.5 and A4.6 are adopted as mandatory provisions for new buildings only.
California Green Building Standards Code Appendix A5 Nonresidential Voluntary Measures Section A5.601.1is added to read as follows:
A5.601.1 The Tier 1 measures contained in this appendix, Division A5.1, A5.3, A5.4, A5.5 and A5.6 are adopted as mandatory provisions for new buildings only.
14.040.140 California Reference Standards Code
Adoption of the California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 12: California Reference Standards Code, 2025 Edition as published by the International Code Council.
14.040.150 International Property Maintenance Code
Adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code 2024 Edition as published by the International Code Council, with the following amendments:
PART 1 – SCOPE AND APPLICATION: Any and all references throughout this code to any International Code shall be considered to reference the California Fire Code, California Building Code, or California Residential Code or any other California Code of Regulations, Title 24, asapplicable.
14.040.160 Adoption and Enforcement of National Fire Codes Adoption of the current edition of the National Fire Code 2025 edition, as published by the National Fire Protection Association.
14.04.180 Non-Liability of City of Cotati
This Ordinance shall not be construed as imposing upon the City of Cotati (or any official or employee thereof) any liability or responsibility for damages to any property or injuries to any person resulting from defects in building construction, defective plumbing, or drainage systems (or installations thereof), electrical or gas installations, or by installations of containers for the use of flammable products, nor shall the City of Cotati (or any official or employee thereof) be held as assuming any such liability or responsibility for property damage from any cause whatsoever which may have been caused by a gas leakage, fire or explosion of any gas appliance or house gas piping, electrical application or electrical wiring or from the storage or use of flammable and/or hazardous materials.
14.04.190 Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances
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All other Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
14.04.200 Violations and Penalties
Any person violating any of the provisions of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of an infraction and any person violating the same section or a portion of an Ordinance on a second or subsequent occasion shall thereafter be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction of either an infraction or a misdemeanor shall be punishable by law.
14.04.210 Fees
The City Council of the City of Cotati may establish permit fees as set forth by resolution.
SECTION 3. Findings of Fact
Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7, the Finding of Fact, as detailed in Section
14.04.025 of this Ordinance, are made in connection with the adoption of revisions or additions to the 2025 editions of the California Code of Regulations Title 24 Parts 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5,7, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.
SECTION 4. Effective Date
This Ordinance shall become effective January 1, 2026, or thirty (30) days after adoption if later. 131 of 204
RANCHO ADOBE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT – FIRE SAFETY ORDINANCE 2025-02 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-02
An Ordinance of the Board of Directors of the Rancho Adobe Fire District, County of Sonoma, State of California, Adopting by Reference Chapter 13 and with Local Amendments, Selected Provisions, Chapters and Appendices of Title 24 Part 9 of the California Code of Regulations, 2025 Edition of The California Fire Code.
This ordinance of the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, in the County of Sonoma, County Code shall read as follows:
RANCHO ADOBE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
FIRE SAFETY ORDINANCE
Article I. General Provisions.
Sec. 1-1. Short title.
This chaptershall be known and may be cited asthe Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District Fire Safety Ordinance.
Sec. 1-2. Administrative regulations.
(a) The District fire chief may adopt amend or repeal administrative regulations to implement, interpret or make specific provisions ofthis chapter. Notice ofthe proposed adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to thissection shall be posted for a period of thirty (30) days in the public lobby of the Fire Protection District's office and shall be mailed to every person who has filed a request for notice ofsuch actions with the Fire Protection District fire chief. Every notice shall include a copy of the express terms of the proposed action and a statement that the public may submit written comments on the proposed action prior to the close of the posting period. The Fire Protection District fire chief may approve, modify, or withdraw the proposed adoption, amendment or repeal of a regulation following the posting period.
(b) The adoption, amendment or repeal of a regulation pursuant to this section shall take place not less than fifteen (15) nor more than one hundred eighty (180) days following the close of the posting period specified in subsection (a) and shall be effective upon posting of an order of adoption, amendment or repeal in the public lobby of the District's offices. Each such order shall include a concise and clear summary of the action taken by the Fire Protection District fire chief and shall remain posted for a period of thirty (30) days.
(c )The regulations adopted or amended pursuant to thissection shall have the same force and effect as provisions of this chapter. Failure by any person to comply with any regulation adopted or amended pursuant to this section shall be a violation of this chapter. 132 of 204
(d)The regulations adopted or amended pursuant to this section shall be periodically compiled and copies thereof made available to the public for purchase at cost or review free of charge at the office of Fire Protection District.
Article II. Definitions.
Article II, definitions, Section 13-6 “California Fire Code” is amended to read:
"California Fire Code" means the regulations in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, 2025 California Fire Code, which incorporate by adoption of the 2024 Edition of the International Fire Code of the International Code Council with necessary California amendments.
Article III. Appeals.
Sec. 3-1. Board of Appeals.
The Sonoma County Board of Building Appeals shall function as the Board of Appeals under this chapter.
Except where inconsistent with the provisions of Sonoma County Code Sections 7-3 and Section 13-12 of the Sonoma County Fire Safety Ordinance the duties of the Board of Appeals shall be as prescribed in Chapter 1, Division II, Section 108 of the California Fire Code.
Sec. 3-2. Appeals.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), any applicant, permit holder or other interested person dissatisfied with a decision of the fire chief may appeal the decision to the Board of Appeals, provided, however, that such appeal may not be made more than thirty (30) days after the decision from which the appeal is being made has been rendered. All interested persons shall be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard and present evidence to the Board of Appeals on any appeal. Decisions of the Board of Appeals shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the appellant and the applicant or permit holder, if different from the appellant, either in person or by mailing to the address stated on the appeal or application. Decisions of the Board of Appeals are final. Should no decision be rendered within twenty (20) days after the filing of the appeal, such appeal shall be deemed to be denied unless time is extended by action of the Board of Appeals. (b) Appeals of notice and orders issued pursuant to violations of this chapter shall be conducted and determined by a hearing officer pursuant to Section 1-7.3 and Chapter 7 of Sonoma County Code. 133 of 204
Article IV. District Fire Code.
Article IV, Section 4-1, County Fire Code, Section 13-15 is amended to read:
Sec 4-1. 13-15. County Fire Code designated - Administration and Enforcement – Amendment by local Fire Protection Districts.
The 2025 California Fire Code as adopted by reference and amended in this article, shall constitute the County Fire Code and the District Fire Code.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c), the administration and enforcement of the county fire code within a local fire protection district shall be the responsibility of the local fire chief. The county fire warden/fire marshal shall be responsible for the administration and enforcement of the county fire code within those portions of the unincorporated area of the county not in a local fire protection district. (c) The county fire warden/fire marshal shall be responsible for plan checking and inspection of new construction and alterations subject to the county fire code, Chapter 13 within both those portions of the unincorporated area of the county not in a local fire protection district and those portions of the unincorporated area of the county in a local fire protection district . Unless a local fire protection district notifies the county fire warden/fire marshal in writing that it has elected to have the local fire chief exercise those responsibilities within its jurisdictional area, whether according to the county fire code or the district's amendment of the county fire code adopted per subsection (d). Any such action shall be effective if it is thereafter approved by the board of directors of the local fire protection district.
Exceptions:
(1) Development applications subject to enforcement of Title 14 of the Natural Resources Code, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2. Buildings shall receive final approval and inspections by the county Fire Prevention and Hazardous Materials Division as delegated by California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
(2) Residential construction classified as Group R-3 as delegated by the chief building official to the county Fire Prevention and Hazardous Materials Division pursuant to the California Building and California Residential Codes.
(3) Sonoma County Fire Prevention Division shall be responsible for record keeping and inspection reports submitted by the local fire protection district to the chief building official. (d) Pursuant to Health and Safety Code, Section 13869.7, a local fire protection district may amend all or any part of the county fire code for application within its jurisdictional area. Any such amendment shall first be referred to the County Fire Prevention Officers Association for review and recommendation and shall only be effective if it is thereafter approved by the board of directors of the local fire protection district and ratified by the board of supervisors. The board of supervisors shall not ratify such amendment if it includes provisions that are less restrictive than the provisions of the county fire code.
Sec. 4-2. Conflicting regulations.
The provisions ofthis chaptershall prevail over any inconsistent provision contained in the California Fire Code or the National Fire Codes; provided, in the case of inconsistent regulations, no regulation shall prevail thatislessrestrictive than the regulations established by the State of California unless otherwise authorized by the State.
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Article IV, Section 4-3, County Fire Code, Section 13-17 is amended to read:
Sec. 4-3. 13-17 California Fire Code adopted -Local amendments. (a) The portion of the California Building Standards Code that imposes substantially the same requirements as are contained in the California Fire Code, 2025 Edition published by the International Code Council and the California Building Standards Commission with Errata, including Appendices, 4, B, BB, C, CC, D, E, F, G, H,N and O; published by the International Code Council, save and except such portions as are hereinafter deleted, modified, or amended by subsection (b) of this section, are adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length herein for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire, hazardous materials or explosions within the boundary of the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District. (b) The California Fire Code, 2025 Edition, is hereby amended asfollows:
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
(1) California Fire Code Section 101.1 is amended to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District, hereinafter referred to as "this Code."
(2) California Fire Code Section 101.6 is added to read as follows:
101.6 Policy manual. The Sonoma County Fire Prevention Policy Manual shall serve as a supplemental instruction and interpretation manual for this code and is hereby adopted by reference. The fire code official is responsible to amend this manual as necessary to maintain current instruction and interpretations. The information contained in the policy manual shall not be construed to make new code requirements not authorized by this ordinance.
(3) California Fire Code Section, Division II Section 103.1. is amended to read as follows:
103.1 Creation of Agency. The Rancho Adobe Fire Prevention Bureau is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code. (4) California Fire Code Section, Division II Section 103.3.1 is added to read asfollows:
103.3.1 Authority to issue citations. The fire chief, the fire code official and his or her designees who have the discretionary duty to enforce a statute or ordinance, pursuant to Section 836.5 of the California Penal Code and subject to the provisions thereof may arrest a person without a warrant whenever the fire chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau has reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed a violation in the presence of the fire chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau which he or she has discretionary duty to enforce, and to issue a notice to appear and to release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court, pursuant to the provisions of Section 853.5. of the California Penal Code. 135 of 204 (5) California Fire Code, Division II, Section 105.1.1.1 is added to read:
105.1.1.1 Permit Fees. Permit fees will be based on the Rancho Adobe Fire District’s adopted fee schedule at the time of permit application
(6) California Fire Code Section, Division II Section I05.5.1 is added to read as follows:
105.4.1 Revocation procedure. Revocation of any permit issued under this Code shall only occur after written notice of the violation has been given by the Fire Chief to the permittee at his or her last place of residence asshown on the permit or certificate, which notice shall order the permittee to either correct the violation within ten (10) days or appear before the local Fire Chief, unless the local fire protection district issues a written notice electing to have the County Fire Chief I Fire Marshal hear the matter, at a date and time certain to show cause why the permit or certificate should not be modified, revoked or suspended. At the hearing before the Fire Chief the permittee shall have an opportunity to appear and be heard on the question of whether the permit issued to him should be revoked or suspended. Upon conclusion of the hearing or as soon thereafter as practicable, the chief shall issue a decision in writing to the permittee determining whether to modify, revoke or suspend the permit. Any interested person may appeal the Fire Chiefs decision to the Board of Appeals. All appeals shall be filed in writing with the Fire Chief within ten (10) calendar days of the date of the decision being appealed. (7) California Fire Code Section 105.5.59 is amended to read asfollows:
105.5.59 Additional operational permits. In addition to the operational permitsrequired by Section 105.6, the following permits shall be obtained from the Bureau of Fire Prevention/Division of fire prevention prior to engaging in the following activities, operations, practices or functions:
1. Production facilities. To change use or occupancy, to allow the attendance of a live audience, or for parties.
2. Pyrotechnics and special effects. To use pyrotechnic special effects, open flame, use of flammable or combustible liquids and gasses, welding, and the parking of motor vehicles for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
3. Live audiences. To install seating arrangements for live audiences in approved production facilities, production studios, and sound stages. See Chapter 48.
4. Apartment, hotel, motel. An operational permit isrequired to operate an apartment house, hotel, or motel.
5. Bonfires orrubbish fires. An operational permit isrequired to kindle or authorize the kindling or maintenance of bonfires or rubbish fires.
6. Emergency responder radio coverage system. An operational permit is required for buildings and/orfacilities with emergency responderradio coverage systems and related equipment.
7. High-rise building. An operational permit isrequired to operate a high-rise building as defined in the California Building Code.
8. Cannabis. An operational permit is required to operate a medical cannabis facility or Cannabis operation listed below when allowed by state law and Local ZoningOrdinance:
a. Cultivation
b. Distribution
c. Manufacturing
9. Organized camps. An operational permit isrequired to operate an organized camp (Group C 136 of 204 occupancy).
10. 10. Special Event Permit. An operational permit isrequired for any organized procession or assemblage of 50 or more people, which could significantly impact vehicular traffic or create a safety problem. Examples include, but are not limited to: music festivals, outdoor markets, circus, walkathons, runs, marathons, trail rides, bicycle races, celebrations, parades and other similar activities.
11. 11. Winery caves- publicly accessible. An operational permit isrequired to operate a Type-2 or Type-3 winery cave that is accessible to the public.
12. 12. Certified Unified Program Agency Permit. An operational permit is required to operate any facility described in Chapter 29 and shall be required by the local fire chief from the County of Sonoma CUPA Division.
(8) California Fire Code Section 105.6.26 is added to read as follows:
105.6.26 Additional construction permits. In addition to the permits required by Section 105.7, the following construction permits shall be obtained from the division of Fire Prevention prior to starting construction:
1. Vegetation Management Plan. A construction permit is required to implement and Vegetation management plan.
2. Fire Protection Plan. A construction permit is required to implement a fire protection plan. (9) California Fire Code Section 108.7is added to read asfollows; 108.7 Cost Recovery. Fire suppression, investigation or emergency medical costs are recoverable in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and 13009.1, as may be amended from time to time.
Additionally, any person(s) who negligently, intentionally or in violation of law causes an emergency response, including, but not limited to, a traffic accident, spill of toxic or flammable or combustible fluids or chemicals is liable for the costs of securing such emergency, including those costs pursuant to Government Code Section 53150, et seq, as may be amended from time to time. Any expense incurred by the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District for securing such emergency shall constitute a debt of such person(s) and shall be collectable by the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, expressed or implied.
(10) California Fire Code Section, Section 113.4 is amended to read asfollows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code orshall fail to comply with any ofthe requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions ofthis code,shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both such fine and imprisonment. or administratively of not less than one thousand dollars ($1000.00) Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. (11) California Fire Code, Section 113.5 is added to read as follows:
113.5 Authority to issue citations. The Chief and members of the Fire Prevention Bureau who have the discretionary duty to enforce a statute or ordinance may, pursuant to Section 836.5 of the California Penal Code and subject to the provisions thereof: arrest a person without a warrant whenever the Chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau has reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed a violation in the presence of the Chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau which he or she has 137 of 204 discretionary duty to enforce, and to issue a notice to appear and to release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court, pursuant to the provisions of Section 853.5 et seq. of the California Penal Code. (12) California Fire Code Chapter 1, Division II, Section 114.4 is amended to read asfollows:
114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work asthat person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to a fine of not less than $100.00 dollars or more than $500.00 dollars.
A person shall be fined for each day he or she continues to work after having been served with a stop work order.
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
(13) California Fire Code Section 202 is amended to add the following:
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATIONismodified to include:
[BG} Factory Industrial F-1 Moderate-hazard occupancy is amended to add to the list of Moderatehazard factory industrial groups the following:
Agricultural crop production including cultivation, drying, processing and/or storage.
RECREATIONAL FIRE. An outdoor fire burning materials otherthan rubbish where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, portable outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purposes.
UNWARRANTED ALARM. The giving, signaling or transition of an alarm notification to a public fire station or emergency communication center when such alarm is the result of a defective condition of an alarmsystem, system servicing testing, construction activities, ordinary household activities, false alarm or other cause when no such danger exists.
CHAPTER 3
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
(14) California Fire Code Section 307.1 is amended to read asfollows:
307.1 General.Open burning shall be conducted in accordance with thissection and Article VII of this Code.
(15) California Fire Code Section 307.2 is amended to read asfollows:
307.2 Permitrequired. Priorto commencement of open burning, a burning permitshall be obtained pursuant to section 13-71 of this Code.
(16) California Fire Code Section 311.3.1 is added to read asfollows:
311.3.1 Removal of debris afterfire. All rubble, waste, rubbish, and other materials 138 of 204 lying upon any premises within the jurisdictional area; having been accumulated thereon by reason of a fire and having been rendered useless thereby shall be removed within ten (10) days after notice has been given to do so in writing by the Fire Chief to the owner, lessee, or other person in charge or control of the premises.
CHAPTER 4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
(17) California Fire Code, Section 401.3.2.1 is added to read as follows:
401.3.2.1 Unwarranted or Nuisance Alarm Notification. Notification of emergency responders based on an unwarranted or nuisance alarm may be punishable by a fine in accordance with the adopted fee schedule or requirements. In addition, the responsible party may be liable for the operational and administrative costs, incurred from the emergency response or mitigation procedures resulting from an unwarranted or nuisance alarm notification.
(18) California Fire Code, Section 401.3.2.2 is added to read as follows:
401.3.2.2 Multiple Nuisance or Unwarranted Alarm Activations. Any occupancy that has more than four nuisance alarms, causing emergency response within a 12-month period may be required to modify, repair, upgrade or replace their system and/or monitoring station as determined by the fire code official. (19) California Fire Code, Section 402.1 is amended to add the following:
NUISANCE ALARM AND UNWARRANTED ALARM
(20) California Fire Code Section 403.1 is amended to read as follows:
403.1 General. In addition to the requirements of Section 401, occupancies, uses and outdoor locations shall comply with the emergency preparedness requirements set forth in Section 403.2 403.4, 403.9.2.1.1, 403.10.6 through 403.12.3. Where fire safety and evacuation plans are required by Section 403.2 through 403.10.6, evacuation drills shall be in accordance with Section 405 and employee training shall be in accordance with Section 406.
CHAPTER 5
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
(21) California Fire Code Section 503.1 is amended to read:
503.1 Where Required. Fire apparatus access roads shall comply with the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards when applicable, and otherwise shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3.
(22) California Fire Code Section 503.2 is amended to read:
503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed per the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards when applicable, and otherwise shall be installed or arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8. (23) California Fire Code, Section 503.2.6.1 is added to read:
503.2.6.1 Evaluation and Maintenance. All existing private bridges and elevated surfaces that are a part of the fire department access roadway shall be evaluated by a California licensed civil engineer experienced in structural engineering or a California licensed structural engineer, for safety and weight rating, in accordance with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Manual: ''The Manual for Bridge Evaluation,'' Second Edition, or other approved standard. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges. All 139 of 204
bridges and elevated structures providing fire department access shall be routinely maintained in accordance with Section 503.2.6 or when directed by the fire code official or authorized designee. (24) California Fire Code Section 503.3 is amended to read:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or markings that include the words NO PARKING - FIRE LANE in accordance with the California Vehicle Code, shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility. (25) California Fire Code Section 503.6.1 is added to read:
503.6.1 Width. All gate entrances and similar structures shall be at least two feet (2') wider than the width of the traffic lane(s) serving the gate or structure.
(26) California Fire Code Section 503.6.2 is added to read:
503.6.2 Setbacks. All gates providing access from a public road to a private road or private driveway shall be located at least thirty feet (30') from the roadway and shall open to allow a vehicle to stop without obstructing traffic on the roadway.
(27) California Fire Code Section 505.1 is amended to read:
505.1 Address Identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved illuminated or other approved means of address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in apposition that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabetic letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out.
Character size and stroke shall be in accordance with Section 505.1.1 through 505.1.2. 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.
(28) California Fire Code Section 505.1.1 is added to read:
505.1.1 Numbers For One- and Two- Family Dwellings. Each address identification character shall be not less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch. (29) California Fire Code Section 505.1.2 is added to read:
505.1.2 Numbers For Other Than One and Two-Family Dwellings. Each address identification character shall be not less than twelve (12) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one (1) inch. Suite and unit directional numbers shall be not less than six (6) inches high with a minimum stroke width of three-quarter (0.75) inch. Numbers shall be not less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch. (30) California Fire Code Section 505.1.3 is added to read:
505.1.3 Complex Directory. Where two or more buildings cannot be viewed from the public way or when determined by the fire code official, an approved illuminated complex directory, monument, pole, or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structures at the main entrances to the property. (31) California Fire Code Section 505.1.4 is added to read:
505.1.4 Installation, Location and Visibility of Addresses. All buildings shall have a permanently posted address, which shall be placed at each driveway entrance and visible from both directions of travel along the road. In all cases, the address shall be posted at the beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter, and the address shall be visible and legible from the road on which the address is located. (32) California Fire Code Section 505.1.4.1 is added to read:
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505.1.4.1 Signs Posted One-Way Roads. Address signs along one-way roads shall be visible from both the intended direction of travel and the opposite direction. (33) California Fire Code Section 505.1.4.2 is added to read:
505.1.4.2 Multiple Addresses. Where multiple addresses are required at a single driveway, they shall be mounted on a single post.
Where a roadway provides access solely to a single commercial or industrial business, the address sign shall be placed at the nearest road intersection providing access to that site. (34) California Fire Code Section 505.2.1 is added to read:
505.2.1 Size of Letters, Numbers and Symbols or Street and Road signs. Size of letters, numbers, and symbols for street and road signs shall be a minimum of three inches (3") for letter height with a three-eighths inch (3/8") stroke, reflectorized, and contrasting with the background color of the sign. (35) California Fire Code Section 505.2.2 is added to read:
505.2.2 Visibility and Legibility of Street and Road Signs. Street and road signs shall be visible and legible from both directions of vehicle travel for a distance of at least one hundred feet (100'). (36) California Fire Code Section 505.2.3 is added to read:
505.2.3 Height of Street and Road Signs. Height of street and road signs shall be uniform countywide, and meet the visibility and legibility standards of this section. (37) California Fire Code Section 505.2.4 is added to read:
505.2.4 Names and Numbers on Street and Road Signs. Newly constructed or approved public and private roads and streets must be identified by a name or number through a consistent countywide system that provides for sequenced or patterned numbering and/or non-duplicating naming within the county. All signs shall be mounted and oriented in a uniform manner. This section does not require any entity to rename or renumber existing roads or streets, nor shall a roadway providing access only to a single commercial or industrial occupancy require naming or numbering.
(38) California Fire Code Section 505.2.5 is added to read:
505.2.5 Intersecting Roads, Streets and Private Lanes. Signs required by this article identifying intersecting roads, streets and private lanes shall be placed at the intersection of those roads, streets and/or private lanes. (39) California Fire Code Section 505.2.6 is added to read:
505.2.6 Signs Identifying Traffic Access Limitations. A sign identifying traffic access or flow limitations, including, but not limited to weight or vertical clearance limitations, dead-end road, one-way road (or single land conditions) shall be placed: (a) at the intersection preceding the traffic access limitation, and (b) no more than one hundred feet (100') before such traffic access limitation. (40) California Fire Code Section 507.2.2 is amended to read:
507.2.2 Water Tanks. Water tanks for private fire protection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22.
Exception: For Group R-3 occupancies, equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, and associated accessory structures up to 3,000 square feet in area, plastic water tanks up to 5,000 gallons in volume may be used. A flammable vegetation clearance of not less than thirty feet (30') shall be maintained around all poly-plastic or similar water tanks.
(41) California Fire Code Section 507.2.3 is added to read:
507.2.3 Urban Water System. For one- and two-family dwellings, and accessory structures associated with one- and two-family dwellings. If the water supply to the parcel is provided by a public or community water system (urban parcel - see Definitions) the emergency water supply for residential buildings shall consist of a permanent hydrant located on the road within two hundred fifty feet (250') of the driveway measured from where the driveway 141 of 204
intersects with the public or private road. Distance measurements shall be determined by hose lay along the road, not horizontal distance.
(42) California Fire Code Section 507.2.4 is added to read:
507.2.4 Non-Urban Water System. If the water supply to the parcel is provided by a private water well (nonurban parcel - see Definitions) the fire code official is authorized to utilize NFPA 1142 or the International WildlandUrban Interface Code.
Exception: When authorized by the authority having jurisdiction, the emergency water supply requirements for one- and two-family dwellings, and accessory structures associated with one- and two-family dwellings, may be waived when sufficient evidence is proven that the Emergency Water Standards of Title 14 of the Natural Resources Code, Division 1.5, Article 4 have been met. (43) California Fire Code Section 507.5.1.2 is added to read:
507.5.1.2 Other Areas. Fire hydrant systems shall be required where a public water system, regardless of type of ownership, provides water for human consumption to fifteen (15) or more service connections. (44) California Fire Code Section 507.5.7 is added to read:
507.5.7 Fire Hydrant Size and Outlets. New commercial and industrial development shall have a minimum of two 4.5 inch connections and one 2.5 inch connection per Appendix D 104 unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(45) California Fire Code Section 507.5.8 is added to read asfollows:
507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in accordance with the County standards or as approved by the fire code official, as may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor, developer or person responsible for removal or damage.
CHAPTER 9
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
(46) California Fire Code Sections 901.7.7 - 901.7.7.2 are added to read:
901.7.7 Notice of Nuisance or Unwarranted Alarm. The officer in charge of fire units responding to a fire alarm signal shall determine whether a true emergency exists. If the officer determines that an emergency does not exist, the chief of the local fire agency or the County Fire Warden / Fire Marshal may issue a written notice of nuisance alarm or unwarranted alarm to the owner or person in charge or control of the facility where the alarm signal originated.
901.7.7.1 Unreliable/unwarranted fire alarm system. The Fire Chief of the local fire agency or the County Fire Warden/ Fire Marshal may determine that a fire alarm system is unreliable or unwarranted upon receipt of more than four (4) alarms within a twelve (12) month period. Upon finding that an alarm system is unreliable or unwarranted, the chief of the local fire agency or the County Fire Warden/ Fire Marshal may order the following
1. For any nuisance alarm where the system is not restored, the Fire Chief may require the system owner to provide standby personnel as defined in Chapter 4, Section 403.1 or take such other measures, as the Fire Chief deems appropriate. Persons or activities required by the Fire Chief shall remain in place until a fire department-approved fire alarm maintenance firm certifies in writing to the Fire Chief that the alarm system has 142 of 204
been restored to a reliable condition. The chief may require such tests, as he deems necessary to demonstrate the adequacy of the system.
2. Upon the fifth (5th) and sixth (6th) alarms from the alarm system within a twelve (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $150.00, plus the cost of fire engine response, for each occurrence.
3. Upon the seventh (7th) and eighth (8th) alarms from the alarm system within a twelve (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $300.00, plus the cost of fire engine response.
4. Upon the ninth (9th) and following alarms from the alarm system within a twelve (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $500.00, plus the cost of fire engine response, for each occurrence.
901.7.7.2 Hearing on Notice. Any person receiving a notice of nuisance alarm who contends that the Fire Chief erroneously determined that the fire alarm system was not functioning as designed, may file a written request with the Fire Chief for a hearing on the determination within ten (10) days after receipt of the notice of nuisance alarm. The Fire Chief shall give the requesting party a hearing on the determination within thirty (30) days of receipt of the request. The request shall set forth:
1. That the system functioned as designed, or
2. That the nuisance alarm resulted from an act of God, flooding, or other violent natural condition without fault and beyond the control of the requesting party. Within ten (10) days following the hearing, the chief shall give written notice of his or her decision to the requesting party. (47) California Fire Code Section 902.1 is amended to add the following:
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT (Sonoma County Code 7-19)
(48) California Fire Code Section 903.2 is amended to read:
903.2 Where Required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12 and sections 903.2.14 through 903.2.21.
Approved automatic sprinkler systems in existing buildings and structures shall be provided in locations described in Section 903.6.
Exceptions:
1. Agricultural and Greenhouse buildings as approved by the fire code official when not required in other sections of the California Building Code.
2. Detached accessory structures to Group R-3 not classified as a dwelling unit and not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279m2 ) in gross floor area (See California Residential Code).
3. Detached non-combustible motor vehicle fuel dispensing canopies.
4. Detached group U occupancies not greater than 3,000 square feet (279m2 ), OR WHEN APPROVED BY THE Fire Code Official where the entire structure is not to exceed 5,500 sq ft (510m2).
5. Special occupancy aircraft hangar shade structures as approved by the fire code official, unless required in NFPA-409.
(49) California Fire Code Section 903.2.1 is amended to read:
903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group A occupancy exceeding 1,500 square feet or when required per 903.2.1.1 through 903.2.1.6. 143 of 204
(50) California Fire Code Section 903.2.1.6 is amended to read:
903.2.1.6 Assembly Occupancies on Roofs. Where an occupied roof has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2 and 300 for other Group A Occupancies, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the building in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exception deleted.
(51) California Fire Code Section 903.2.1.7 is amended to read. 903.2.1.7 Multiple Fire Areas. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided where multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components and the combined occupant load of these fire areas is 100 or more.
(52) California Fire Code Section 903.2.2 is amended to read. 903.2.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in Group B occupancies when the Fire Area exceeds 3000 sq ft or as required in903.2.2.1 and 903.2.2.2 (53) California Fire Code Section 903.2.2.1 is amended to read:
903.2.2.1 Ambulatory Care Facilities. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing an ambulatory care facility.
(54) California Fire Code Section 903.2.3 is amended to read:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group E occupancies. For public school state-funded construction projects or for public school campuses, Kindergarten through 12th grade, see Section 903.2.19 through 903.2.20. (55) California Fire Code Section 903.2.4 is amended to read:
903.2.4 Group F. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group F occupancy where gross floor area exceeds 1000 square feet (93m2 ).
Exceptions:
1. Canopied winery crush pads less than 12,000 square feet in area, provided that all of the following conditions are met:
a. The canopy and supporting structure are constructed of non-combustible materials. b. If attached, the crush pad is separated from other portions of the building by one-hour fireresistive walls. c. The crush pad is not used for storage of combustible materials. d. The canopy and supporting structure are incapable of trapping heat, smoke or other byproducts of combustion.
2. Dairy milking facilities less than 12,000 feet in area. (56) California Fire Code, Section 903.2.5.1 is amended to read:
903.2.5.1 Group H. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group H occupancies.
(57) California Fire Code, Section 903.2.6.1 is deleted. (58) California Fire Code Section 903.2.7 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where gross floor area exceeds 1000 square feet (93m2 ). 144 of 204
(59) California Fire Code Section 903.2.8.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.8.1 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 occupancies and shall be provided throughout all one- and two-family dwellings regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in all mobile homes, manufactured homes and multi-family manufactured homes with two or more dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations. (60) California Fire Code Section 903.2.9 is amended to read:
903.2.9 Group S. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S occupancy where the gross floor area exceeds 1000 square feet (93m2 ).
Exceptions:
1. Agricultural and Greenhouse buildings as approved by the fire code official.
2. Detached accessory structures to Group R-3 not classified as a dwelling unit and not exceeding 3000 square feet (279m2 ) in gross floor area.
3. Special occupancy aircraft shade structures as approved by the fire code official, unless required in NFPA-409.
4. Volunteer Fire Department vehicle storage barn not exceeding 3000 sq. ft. (279m2 ) or when approved by the Fire Code Official not exceeding 5,500 sq ft (510m2).. (61) California Fire Code Section 903.2.9.1 is amended to read 903.2.9.1 Repair Garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. (62) California Fire Code Section 903.2.9.4 Exception is amended to read. 903.2.9.4 Exception: Self-service storage facilities not greater then 1 story above grade plane where all storage spaces can be accessed directly from the exterior can meet the following.
1. Fire Apparatus access is within 150 feet to all sides of the structure
2. Fire area is less then 3000 sq. ft. and of non-combustible construction
3. Is provided Fire Flows in accordance with Appendix B or NFPA 1142 for non-sprinklered buildings (63) California Fire Code Section 903.2.10 is deleted.
(64) California Fire Code Section 903.2.11 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.11 Specific Buildings Areas and Hazards. In all occupancies other than detached Group U occupancies not greater than 3,000 square feet (279m2 ), an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazard in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.9. (65) California Fire Code Section 903.2.11.3 exception is deleted. (66) California Fire Code Section 903.2.11.7 is added to read:
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing high-piled combustible storage.
(67) California Fire Code, Section 903.2.11.8 is added to read as follows:
903.2.11.8 Undetermined Use Design. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in buildings or structures of undetermined use shall be designed and installed to have a minimum density of .3 gallons per minute per square foot over a minimum design area of 2,000 square feet.
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(68) California Fire Code, Section 903.6 is amended to read as follows:
903.6 Where Required in Existing Buildings and Structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11 or that undergo a substantial improvement as defined by CBC Chapter 2 in accordance with Table 903.6.
Exception: Alterations made solely for the purpose of providing barrier removal pursuant to the requirements of the American Disabilities Act (ADA) as contained in exception #4 of CBC Section 11B204.2. (69) California Fire Code, Table 903.6 is added to the California Fire Code, to read:
TABLE 903.6
EXISTING BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Existing Gross Floor Area(d) Allowable Gross Floor Area Increase 0—1,000 sq. ft.: 200%(c)
1,001—4,000 sq. ft.: 100%(a)(c)
Greater than 4,000 sq. ft.: 50%(a)(b)(c)
(a) A 2,000 sq. ft. maximum of an increase is allowed.
(b) Maximum cumulative allowable gross floor area is 6,000 sq. ft. (c) Fire sprinklers are required when additions to Limited Density Owner-Built Rural Dwellings (as described in California Wildland Urban Interface Code Title 24 Part 7) exceed 640 sq. ft. in gross floor area. (d) Remodels that are greater than 50% of the original gross floor area. (70) California Fire Code, Section 905.3.1 is amended to read:
905.3.1 Height. In other than Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies, Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout at each floor where any of the following occur:
1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet (9,144 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
2. Buildings that are three or more stories in height.
3. Buildings where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet (9,144 mm) below the highest level of fire department access.
4. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2. Class I standpipes are allowed in Group B and E occupancies.
3. Class I standpipes are allowed in parking garages.
4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
5. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings where occupant-use hose lines will not be utilized by trained personnel or the fire department.
6. In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider either of the following:
6.1. Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less.
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6.2. Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.
7. When determined by the Fire Code Official a standpipe system is not warranted in threestory buildings. (71) California Fire Code, Section 912.2 is amended to read:
912.2 Location. With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the system will not obstruct access to the buildings for other fire apparatus. The location of the fire department connections shall be within 100 feet of a fire hydrant or approved by the fire code official.
(72) California Fire Code, Sections 914.12 through 914.12.2 are added to read:
914.12 Type 3 winery caves as defined in Section 446 of the California Building Code and Sections 914.12.1 and 914.12.2 of the California Fire Code.
914.12.1 Fire Alarm System. An approved manual fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with section 907.2 in new and existing Type 3 winery caves unless equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 903.3.1.1. The fire alarm system shall activate the occupant notification system in accordance with 907.5 when the occupant load exceeds 100 or more.
914.12.2 Automatic Sprinkler System. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in accordance with 903.3.1.1 in all new Type 3 winery caves when the occupant load exceeds 100 or more, or existing winery caves when a change of use is approved by the fire code official.
CHAPTER 33
FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
(73) California Fire Code, Section 3306.5.2 is amended to read:
3306.5.2 Where Required. In buildings of combustible construction required to have automatic sprinkler system by Section 903, automatic sprinkler system shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such automatic sprinkler system shall be extended as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring. (74) California Fire Code, Section 3306.5.3 is added to read:
3306.5.3 Buildings Being Demolished. Where a building is being demolished and an automatic sprinkler system is existing within such a building, such automatic sprinkler system shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such automatic sprinkler system shall be demolished with the building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.
CHAPTER 39
PROCESSING AND EXTRACTION FACILITIES
(75) California Fire Code, Section 3901.6 is added to read:
3901.6 Technical Assistance Report. A Technical Assistance Report (TAR) shall be required for all new extraction and processing facilities as set forth in Section 104.8.2 to provide a complete analysis of the facility and 147 of 204
operations. Additional Technical Reports are required for extraction equipment not listed I accordance with UL 1389 as set forth in Section 3904.2.
(76) California Fire Code, Section 3903.2 is amended to read:
3903.2 Prohibited Occupancies. Extraction processes utilizing flammable gasses or flammable liquids shall not be located in a building containing a Group A, E, I or R occupancy, or occupancies regulated by the California Residential Code.
(77) California Fire Code, Section 3903.3 is added to read:
3903.3 Location. The extraction equipment and extraction processes utilizing hydrocarbon solvents shall be located in a room or area dedicated to extraction. For other than CO 2 and nonhazardous extraction process, the extraction equipment and process shall be separated from other occupancies and uses with fire barriers where required by CBC Section 508.4.
(78) California Fire Code, Section 3903.5 is amended to read:
3903.5 Use of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. Extraction and post oil processing operations using flammable liquids or combustible liquids heated above their flashpoint, including dispensing of flammable liquids between containers, shall be performed in one of the following locations:
1. An exhausted chemical fume hood installed in accordance with the California Building Code and California Mechanical Code.
2. A room or approved exhausted enclosure with an approved exhaust system installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code.
Electrical equipment used within the chemical fume hood shall be rated for use in flammable atmospheres. Heating of flammable or combustible liquids over an open flame is prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. The use of a heating element not rated for flammable atmospheres, where documentation from the manufacture, or approved testing laboratory indicates the element is rated for heating of flammable liquids.
2. Unheated processes at atmospheric pressure using less than 16 oz. (473 ml) of flammable liquids shall not be required to comply with 3903.5(1) or 3903.5(2). (79) California Fire Code, Section 3903.5.1 and 3903.5.2 are added to read:
3903.5.1 Electrical Components. All electrical components within the chemical fume hood, room, or exhausted enclosure shall be approved permanent wiring, interlocked such that the exhaust system shall be in operation for lighting and components to be used.
3903.5.2 Refrigerators, Freezers, and Cooling Equipment. Refrigerators, freezers, and other cooling equipment used to store of cool flammable liquids shall be listed for the storage of flammable/combustible liquids or shall be listed for Class I, Division 1 locations, as described in the California Electrical Code. (80) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6 is amended to read:
3903.6 Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Liquefied petroleum gases (LPG) shall not be released to the atmosphere except when released in accordance with Section 7.3 of NFPA 58. LPG liquid piping systems shall be in compliance with California Fire Code Chapter 61.
(81) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.1 is added to read:
3903.6.1 Exhaust. An approved exhaust system shall be provided for LPG extractions. 148 of 204
(82) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.1.1 is added to read:
3903.6.1.1 Installation. The exhaust systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the California Mechanical Code.
(83) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.1.2 is added to read:
3903.6.1.2 Processes. All LPG extraction operations, including processes for off-gassing spent plant material and oil retrieval, shall be conducted within a chemical fume hood, enclosure, or room in compliance with the California Mechanical Code.
(84) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.2 is added to read:
3903.6.2 Electrical Systems. Electrical equipment shall be in accordance with Section 3903.6..2.1 through 3906.2.5.
(85) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.2.1 is added to read:
3903.6.2.1 Electrical Bonding and Grounding. All conductive equipment and conductive objects within the exhaust room shall be bonded and grounded in accordance with California Electrical Code. (86) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.2.3 is added to read:
3903.6.2.2 Classified Areas. The area within a hood or enclosure used for LPG extractions shall be classified as a Class 1, Division 1 hazardous location in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Areas adjacent to Class 1, Division 1 locations shall be classified in accordance with the California Electrical Code. (87) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.2.4 is added to read:
3903.6.2.4 Emergency Power. An automatic emergency power system shall be provided for the following items, when installed:
1. Extraction room lighting
2. Extraction room ventilation system
3. Solvent gas detection system
Exception: Except where required by other sections of this code, extraction room ventilation systems in existing facilities are not required to have a secondary power source, such as emergency or standby power until such time that the medium of extraction or solvent is changed. (88) California Fire Code, Section 3903.6.2.5 is added to read:
3903.6.2.5 Gas Detection Systems. Gas detection systems shall be provided with constant noninterlocked power. (89) California Fire Code, Section 3903.7 is added to read:
3903.7 Means of Egress. For extraction rooms using hazardous materials, each room shall be provided with at least one exit access door complying with the following:
1. The door shall swing in the direction of egress travel.
2. The door shall be provided with a self-closing or automatic closing device.
3. The door shall be equipped with panic or fire exit hardware.
4. The exit access travel distance cannot be increased as allowed in CFC Section 1017.2.2 for extraction/cultivation facilities.
(90) California Fire Code, Section 3903.8 is added to read:
3903.8 Carbon Dioxide Extraction. Carbon dioxide extraction shall comply with sections 3903.8.1, 3903.8.2, and 3903.8.3.
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(91) California Fire Code, Section 3903.8.1 is added to read:
3903.8.1 Storage and Handling. All carbon dioxide compressed gas cylinders shall be secured in approved method to prevent falling.
(92) California Fire Code, Section 3903.8.2 is added to read:
3903.8.2 Carbon Dioxide Gas Detection. An approved, listed carbon dioxide detection system complying with CFC Section 5307.4 shall be installed in the carbon dioxide extraction room. Auto-calibrating and selfzeroing devices or detectors shall be prohibited. (93) California Fire Code, Section 3903.8.3 is added to read:
3903.8.3 Carbon Dioxide Discharge. The extraction equipment pressure relief devices and blow-off valves shall be piped to the exterior of the building.
(94) California Fire Code, Section 3903.9 is added to read:
3903.9 Signage. The NFPA 704 hazard rating diamond sign, minimum 10" in size, and no smoking signs shall be posted on the exterior of the extraction room door. (95) California Fire Code, Section 3903.9.1 is added to read:
3903.9.1 Safety Data Sheets. All applicable safety data sheets (SDS) shall be posted in the approved location.
(96) California Fire Code, Section 3903.9.2 is added to read:
3903.9.2 Warning Signage. Applicable hazard warning signage shall be posted throughout the facility as applicable for emergency equipment.
(97) California Fire Code, Section 3904.2.2.3 is amended to read:
3904.2.2.3 Site Inspection. Prior to the operation of the extraction equipment, the engineer of record or approved professional, as approved in Section 3904.2, shall inspect the site of the extraction process once equipment has been installed for compliance with the technical report and the building analysis. The engineer or approved professional shall provide a report of findings and observations to the fire code official prior to the approval of the extraction process. The field inspection report authored by the engineer of record shall include the serial number of the equipment used in the process and shall confirm that the equipment installed is the same model and type of equipment identified in the technical report.
(98) California Fire Code, Section 3904.3 is added to read:
3904.3 Change of Extraction Medium. Where the medium of extraction or solvent is changed from the material indicated in the technical report or as required by the manufacturer, the technical report shall be revised at the cost of the facility owner and submitted for review and approval by the fire code official prior to the use of the equipment with the new medium or solvent.
CHAPTER 53
COMPRESSED GASES
(99) California Fire Code, Section 5307.2 is amended to delete exception #1. (100) California Fire Code, Section 5307.3.2.1 is added to read:
5307.3.2.1 Gas Detection System. Indoor storage and use areas and storage buildings shall be provided with a gas detection system complying with Section 916
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CHAPTER 56
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
(101) California Fire Code, Section 5608.1.2 is added to read:
5608.1.2 Permit Required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with this code, prior to the performance of any firework display. Application for such approval shall be made in writing no less than twenty (20) days prior to the proposed display. The application shall be considered and acted upon by the fire code official or authorized designee pursuant to this Chapter and Title 19, Chapter 6, Article 3 - Licenses of the California Code of Regulations. Any permit for a fireworks display may be suspended or revoked at any time by the Fire code official or authorized designee.
(102) California Fire Code, Section 5608.2 is added to read:
5608.2 Limitations. Possession, storage, offer or expose for sale, sell at retail, gift or give away, use, explode, discharge, or in any manner dispose of fireworks is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the district and City of Cotati in which such possession, storage, offer or exposure for sale, retail sale, gifting, use, explosion, discharge, or disposal of fireworks is prohibited (see Section 13-66 of Sonoma County Fire Safety Ordinance.)
Exception: Firework displays authorized pursuant to section 5608.1 for which a permit has been issued.
CHAPTER 57
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
(103) California Fire Code, Section 5704.2.9.6.1 is amended to read:
5704.2.9.6.1 Locations Where Above-Ground Tanks Are Prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the districts in which such storage is prohibited in any area as established by applicable land-use and zoning standards. (104) California Fire Code, Section 5706.2.4.4 is amended to read:
5706.2.4.4 Locations Where Above-Ground Tanks are Prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the districts in which such storage is prohibited in any area as established by applicable land-use and zoning standards. (105) California Fire Code, Section 5707 is deleted.
CHAPTER 58
FLAMMABLE GASES AND FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
(106) California Fire Code, Section 5806.2 is amended to read:
5806.2 Limitations. Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the districts in which such storage is prohibited in any area as established by applicable land-use and zoning standards. 151 of 204
CHAPTER 61
LP GASES
(107) California Fire Code, Section 6104.2 is amended to read:
6104.2 Maximum Capacity Within Established Limits. Within the limits established by law restricting the storage of liquefied petroleum gas for the protection of heavily populated or congested areas, the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons in any area as established by applicable land-use and zoning standards.
Exception: The capacity limit may be reduced by the fire code official, based on evaluating special features such as topographical conditions, nature of occupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed LP-gas containers, degree of fire protection to be provided and capabilities of the local fire department.
(108) California Fire Code, Section 6107.5 is added to read:
6107.5 Anchoring. An approved anchoring system shall be installed on all permanently installed, propane/LPG gas containers.
APPENDIX B
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
(109) California Fire Code Section Appendix B, Section B101.1 is amended to read:
B101.1 Scope. The procedure for determining fire-flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be in accordance with this Appendix. This Appendix does not apply to structures other than buildings. This section applies to residential and commercial developments. One- and two-family residential dwellings in unincorporated areas shall comply with Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official in accordance with Chapter 1, Division II, Section 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods. (110) California Fire Code Section Appendix B Table B105.2 is amended to read:
TABLE B105.2
Required Fire-Flow for Buildings Other Than One- and Two-Family Dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
(Design Standard)
MINIMUM FIRE-FLOW
(gallons per minute)
FLOW DURATION
(hours)
No automatic sprinkler system Value in Table B105.1(2) Duration in Table B105.1(2) Section 903.3.1.1 of the California
Fire Code
50% of the value in Table
B105.1(2)a
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California
Fire Code
50% of the value in Table
B105.1(2)a
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute. 152 of 204
APPENDIX C
FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION
(111) California Fire Code Section Appendix C, Section C101.1 is amended to read:
C101.1 Scope. In addition to the requirements of Section 507.5.1 of the California Fire Code fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with this Appendix for the protection of buildings, or portions of buildings, hereafter constructed or moved into the jurisdiction. This section applies to residential and commercial developments. One- and two-family residential dwellings and buildings accessory to one- and two-family residential dwellings in rural areas may comply with the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official in accordance with Chapter 1, Division II, Section 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods.
Exception: Group B, S-2 and U occupancies having a floor area not exceeding 1,000 square feet, primarily constructed of noncombustible exterior walls with wood or steel roof framing, having a Class A roof assembly, with uses limited to the following or similar uses:
1. California State Parks buildings of an accessory nature (restrooms).
2. Safety Roadside Rest Areas (SRRA), public restrooms.
3. Truck Inspection Facilities (TIF), CHP office space, and vehicle inspection bays.
4. Sand/salt storage buildings, storage of sand and salt.
5. Volunteer fire facilities, including office space and vehicle storage bays. (112) California Fire Code Section C103.1 is amended to read:
C103.1 Hydrant Spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 of the California Fire code shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants, as determined by Section C102.1. Where more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be approved by the fire code official.
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
(113) California Fire Code Section Appendix D, Section D101.1 is amended to read:
D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this Appendix as amended and all other applicable requirements of the California Fire Code. This section applies to residential and commercial developments. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official in accordance with 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods.
Exception: One- and two-family residential dwellings; detached U occupancy buildings less than 1,000 square feet in area accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling; and agricultural exempt buildings less than 8,000 square feet in area may comply with the fire apparatus access road requirements of the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards.
(114) California Fire Code Section Appendix D, Section D102.1 is amended to read:
D102.1 Access and Loading Commercial. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds or as approved by the fire code official. 153 of 204
(115) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.1 is deleted. (116) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.2 is amended to read:
Dl03.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards or as approved by the fire code official.
(117) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.3 is amended to read:
D103.3 Turning Radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards or as approved by the fire code official.
(118) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.4 is amended to read:
D103.4 Dead Ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45,720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with the Sonoma County Fire Safe Standards or as approved by the fire code official.
(119) California Fire Code Appendix D Table D103.4 is deleted. (120) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.6 is amended to read:
Dl03.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent NO PARKING-FIRE LANE signs complying with the California Vehicle Code. (121) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.6.1 is deleted. (122) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D103.6.2 is deleted. (123) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D104.3 is amended to read:
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(124) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D106.1 is amended to read and the exception deleted as follows:
D106.1 Projects Having More Than 50 Dwelling Units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 50 dwelling units shall be equipped throughout with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads. (125) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D106.2 is deleted. (126) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D106.3 is amended to read:
D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(127) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D107.1 exceptions #1 and #2 are deleted. (128) California Fire Code Appendix D Section D107.2 is amended to read:
D107.2 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
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Article V. Fire Safe Standards
Article V is reserved to reference Chapter 13 of the Sonoma County Code as adopted by the County Board of Supervisors for Public Resource Code requirements areas of the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District not within the City of Cotati boundaries.
Article VI. Chapter 13 of the Sonoma County Code as adopted by the County Board of Supervisors is added as reference:
Article VI. Fireworks.
Sec. 13-66. Sale, use or discharge of fireworks prohibited--Exception. (a) Except for public displays of fireworks authorized pursuant to this section, it is unlawful for any person to possess, store, offer or expose for sale, sell at retail, give away or in any manner dispose of any fireworks, or to use, explode, or otherwise discharge any fireworks within the unincorporated area of the county.
(b) Any person or group desiring to perform a public display of fireworks within the unincorporated area of the county shall first make written application for a permit to the local fire chief if the display is to be held within a local fire protection district, or the County fire chief if the display is to be held within a portion of the unincorporated area of the county not in a local fire protection district. Application for a permit shall be made in writing at least twenty (20) days prior to the proposed display. The application shall be considered and acted upon by the local fire chief or County fire chief: as appropriate, pursuant to Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations.
Any permit for a public display of fireworks may be suspended or revoked at any time by the local fire chief or the County fire chief, as appropriate. (Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
NOTE: The sale of fireworks within the City limits of the City of Cotati are prohibited by the City of Cotati Municipal Code.
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Article VII. Chapter 13 of the Sonoma County Code as adopted by the County Board of Supervisors is added as reference:
Article VI - Open Burning
Sec. 13-71. Burning permits required.
It is unlawful for any person to undertake or authorize the undertaking of any open burning within the unincorporated area of the county at any time between May 1st and the date the director of Forestry and Fire Protection declares, by proclamation, that the hazardous fire conditions have abated for that year or at any other time when the director of Forestry and Fire Protection has declared, by proclamation, that unusual fire hazard conditions exist within the region wherein the County is located without first obtaining a written burning permit as follows:
(a) Within those portions of the unincorporated area of the county in a fire protection district, burning permits shall be obtained from the fire protection district. If a fire protection district does not require a burning permit then subsection (c)shall apply to such areas by obtaining a permit from the appropriate air quality control district.
(b) Within those portions of the unincorporated area of the county in a state responsibility area, burning permits shall be obtained first from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection or, if the location of the open burning is also in a fire protection district and the district is authorized by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to issue such permits, from the fire protection district. (c) Within those portions of the unincorporated area of the county not in a fire protection district or State Responsibility Area, burning permits shall be obtained fromtheNorthern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District, and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
Sec. 13-72. Hours and days for burning.
All burning permits issued pursuant to this article shall restrict open burning to the hours and days specified by the air pollution control district having jurisdiction. (Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
Sec. 13-72.1 Suspension.
(a) If the County Fire Warden/ Fire Marshal determines that conditions of high fire hazard exist within any or all of the unincorporated area of the county, the County Fire Warden/ Fire Marshal may suspend the issuance of any burning permit authorized by section 13-71 orstay the effect of any such permit already issued or both for such period as the County Fire Warden / Fire Marshal deems necessary, not to exceed one hundred fifty (150) days. The County Fire Warden/ Fire Marshal shall notify the 156 of 204
board ofsupervisors of any such suspension orstay by memorandum within twenty-four (24) hours following its commencement.
(b) A burn suspension in the State Responsibility Area (SRA)shall also apply to all areas in the unincorporated area of Sonoma County known as Local Response Area (LRA). This shall be made effective twenty-four (24) hours following its commencement in the SRA. (Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
Sec. 13-73. Burning of land of another.
No burning permit shall be issued pursuant to this article for open burning by the applicant upon land owned by another person unless the applicant has the written consent of the owner, lessee or other person in charge or control of the land on which the open burning is to be done. (Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
Sec. 13-74. Effect of article on fire protection districts and state responsibilities.
Nothing in this article shall be construed as preventing any fire protection district within the county from adopting an ordinance or ordinances regulating burning containing more restrictive regulations, nor shall anything herein be construed as limiting or releasing the state or the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection of any responsibility forfire prevention and suppression under the laws of this state. (Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
Sec. 13-75. Effect of issuance of permit.
The issuance of any burning permit pursuant to this article shall not be deemed to be a waiver of noncompliance within or authorize violation of any zoning or other law whatsoever or constitute a sanction of or permit for any public or private nuisance.
(Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
Sec. 13-76. Burning to be under supervision of responsible person.
All burning for which a permit isrequired pursuant to this article shall be done underthe direction and constant surveillance of a responsible person.
(Ord. No. 5373 § 2, 2002: Ord. No. 4905 § 1, 1995.)
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Article VIII. Fees and Charges.
Sec. 8-1. Schedule of fees and charges.
(a) The Board of Supervisors may from time to time establish a schedule of fees and charges following the procedure set forth in California law (currently Government Code Section 66016 et seq.) to recover the reasonable cost of providing services, issuing permits and enforcing regulations pursuant to the Sonoma County Fire Code.
(b) The Board of Directors of any fire protection district may from time to time establish a schedule of fees and charges following the procedure set forth in California Law to recover the reasonable cost of providing services, issuing permits and enforcing regulations pursuant to this Chapter. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13916, no such fee or charge on new construction or development shall be for construction of public improvements or facilities or the acquisition of equipment.
Article IX. Enforcement.
Sec. 9-1. Responsibility for enforcement.
Except as otherwise provided herein, the fire chiefshall be responsible for enforcing the provisions of this chapter.
Sec. 9-2. Issuance of citations.
The fire chief, or his/her designated representatives,may pursuant to Section 836.5 ofthe California Penal Code, arrest a person without a warrant whenever they have reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed a misdemeanor in their presence which is a violation of this chapter or any other ordinance orstatute which they have a duty to enforce, and to issue a written notice to appear and to release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court, as prescribed by Chapter 5C (commencing with section 853.6) of the California Penal Code.
Article X. Violations.
Sec.10-1. Violation--Penalty.
Any person who violates or fails to comply with any provision of the California Fire Code as adopted, or this chapter, or who violates or fails to comply with any order or regulation made thereunder, or who acts in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans submitted and approved thereunder, or who violates any provisions of a certificate or permit issued thereunder, is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable as provided by law. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the violation or permit it to continue; all such persons shall be required to correct or remedy such violations or defects within a reasonable time; and when not otherwise specified in any citation or notice of violation, each day or portion thereof that prohibited conditions are maintained shall constitute a separate offense. The application ofthe provisions of this section shall not be held to prevent the enforced removal of prohibited conditions.
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Article XI. Findings.
SECTION 11-1. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code, Section 13143.5 and 17958.7, the Board of Directors expressly finds that this ordinance and the changes or modifications made herein to the 2025 California Fire Code, including the adoption of fire protection sprinkler and fire alarm standards, are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions. The Board of Directors further finds in connection therewith as follows:
1. Sonoma County has climatic conditions which are unique in character. The county is subject to year-round coastal winds. Average yearly rainfall for the county is approximately 30 inches. This rainfall generally occurs from October to April. During the summer months (July, August, September), the prevalent Pacific High Cell creates early morning fog, which assists the natural vegetation in growth. During the summer months, dry winds and vegetation mix to create a hazardous fuel condition. This condition causes grassland and brush land fires each year. While normal temperatures do not exceed 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit (85-900
F) during the summer months, temperatures can climb to higher than 110 degrees Fahrenheit (1100
F) in parts of the county. Afternoon winds can move a fire quickly in any part of the county, particularly during times of high temperatures and low humidity.
Drought conditions occur periodically in the County and when they occur, they often last for several years. When drought conditions occur, they result in reduced available water. Groundwater as wetI assurface supplies are affected. When drought conditions occur, they create a situation where lowered water tables, water contamination, and increased demand on water systems due to population growth all negatively impact water availability for fire protection. These impacts degrade the quality of fixed fire protection as well asfire suppression activities.
2. Sonoma County has geological and geographic characteristics which have scenic appeal for residents and visitors alike. The County issituated in a primarily rural setting with rugged coastline forming its western boundary, rugged mountainous areas forming its northern and eastern boundaries, and forested areas and grasslands making up much of the county. These features establish the roadways and building sites in the county as well as create barriers to accessibility for emergency fire equipment and personnel.
The forested areas in the County create windbreaks from oncoming winds, but also produce fuel through the annual fall needles and leaves which drop to the ground along with decayed trees and branches which contribute to the fuel load. The dry vegetation and low water availability create a terrain which causes access problems and other problems for emergency fire equipment and personnel.
The grassland areas in the County have easily ignitable fuels which are subject to high winds. A southern exposure and unbroken fuel create a potential for major conflagrations.
The County has potentially active seismic hazards within its boundaries (the San Andreas Fault and several other fault traces have been identified within the county). Large portions of the county are within the Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zones. While systems have been developed to study and monitor the activity of earthquakes, science has not yet been able to predict (with reliability) the potential for activity on active faults. Seismic activity within the county occurs yearly with little or no damage although the very real potential for damage exists with the active faults within the county. While new construction may be limited by their respective distances to faults, existing structures and replacement of these structures present a serious problem. 159 of 204 The mixture of developed and undeveloped areas within the county creates hazardous conditions when a storm of gale force winds causes trees to fall onto roadways used for access by emergency fire equipment and personnel. In addition, flooding occurs in certain areas ofthe county during heavy winter storms limiting or eliminating accessfor emergency fire equipment and personnel.
Landslides have been experienced in various areas of the county. While stabilization can sometimes be provided, heavy winterstorms cause failures. These failures have closed roadways within the county making access for emergency fire equipment and personnel impossible until properly cleared.
3. Sonoma County hastopographical conditions which are closely associated with the geological and geographic characteristics noted above. The topographical conditions are the result ofthe design and construction of development within the county based on elevation changes in the county as well as the hills, canyons, lakes and streams which exist in the county.
The sources of water within the County are directly affected by its topographical layout. The water sources consist of on-site water storage tanks, lakes, pools, wells, mutual water systems, and the Sonoma County Water Agency distribution network. Water supplies within the county vary from less than ten (10) gallons per minute to flows in excess of four thousand (4,000) gallons per minute. This wide variation causes major problems to development as well as fire suppression forces.
The roadway system through most of the county is designed around the topographical lay of the land and consists in many cases of narrow, winding roads, steep grades, and overhanging tree branches.
The grades on roadway surfaces sometimes exceed 25% and widths of less than twelve feet (12') are not uncommon.
The topographical conditions also make construction more restricted to the level and semilevel portions of the county, with high concentrations of building within these areas. The exposure created by these structures poses a significant problem. For practical and cost reasons,these structures are built of wood (Type V) construction. The potential of conflagration exists with the high buildout of certain areas in the county. The concentrated commercial, industrial, and residential occupancies in these areas cause concern when considering the "exposure" of building-to-building and building-to-grassland areas of the county.
The topographical nature of the county also lends itself to power failures caused when fallen trees and limbs tear out sections of electrical transmission lines which run throughout the County. These power failures cause electrical pumps to become inactive and, thus, watersupplies are interrupted. Vehicular accidents also have been known to interrupt this pumping operation. Due to the narrow roads which are congested with residents and visitors alike, this situation occurs more than could be normally expected.
4. The preceding findings identify the local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions which the Board has considered in adopting this ordinance. The Board finds that these conditions make the modifications or changes to the requirements published in the California Building Standards Code contained herein reasonably necessary. This Board further finds that it has amended the 2025 California Fire Code to assist in mitigating such conditions. 160 of 204
SECTION 11-2. Except as added, revised, amended or deleted herein, the remaining provisions of this code, as previously adopted shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 11-3. The provisions of this Code shall not be construed as imposing upon the Fire Protection District any liability or responsibility for damages to persons or property resulting from defective work, norshall the Fire Protection District, or any official, employee or agent thereof, be held as assuming any such liability or responsibility by reason of the review or inspection authorized by the provisions ofthis Code of any permits or certificationsissued under this Code.
SECTION 11-4. The Board of Directors finds and determines that this ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.
SECTION 11-5. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional and invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this ordinance. The Board of Directors hereby declares that it would have passed this ordinance and every section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared unconstitutional or invalid.
SECTION 11-6. This ordinance shall be and the same is hereby declared to be in full force and effect on January 1, 2026. The ordinance shall be published once before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its passage, with the names of the Directors voting for or against the same, in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the County of Sonoma.
SECTION 11-7. This ordinance shall be and the same is hereby declared to be in full force and effect on January 1, 2026, or thirty (30) following adoption, if later. The ordinance shall be published once before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its passage, with the names ofthe Directors voting for or against the same, in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the County of Sonoma.
History
(Ordinance No. 2022-01)
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: PROVIDE DIRECTION TO THE CITY'S WATER ADVISORY
COMMITTEE MEMBER ON THE WATER ADVISORY
COMMITTEE TO SONOMA COUNTY WATER AGENCY
STATEMENT OF INTERESTS RELATED TO THE PROPOSED
NEW EEL-RUSSIAN FACILITY AND THE ASSOCIATED
WATER DIVERSION AGREEMENT UNDERTAKEN BY THE
EEL RUSSIAN PROJECT AUTHORITY
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Craig Scott, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Recommendation
It is recommended the City of Cotati City Council provide direction to the City’s Water Advisory Committee member supporting the Statement of Interests related to the proposed New Eel-Russian Facility and the associated Water Diversion Agreement undertaken by the Eel Russian Project Authority
Background
The City receives wholesale water from Sonoma Water and is represented on the Water Advisory Committee (WAC) and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). The TAC meets monthly and the WAC every other month and receives reports on Sonoma Water planning, management, and operating activities. These activities are to ensure the continued reliable delivery of safe drinking water that meets all applicable regulatory and permitting requirements.
One effort of Sonoma Water which is concerning for the WAC/TAC is its involvement in the Eel Russian Project Authority and commitments that agency has and is making to continue Potter Valley Project Diversions. The TAC has drafted a Statement of Interest on these efforts and is to be considered by the WAC at its November 3rd, 2025 meeting.
In response to PG&E’s decision to decommission the Potter Valley Project (PVP), the Eel Russian Project Authority (ERPA) was formed and consists of the following agencies: Round Valley Indian Tribe, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission, Sonoma County, 162 of 204
and Sonoma Water. ERPA is a Joint Powers Authority to manage the purchase agreement of water rights and facilities related to the PVP and the future of water diversions from the Eel River to the Russian River following the decommissioning of the PVP by PG&E. A New EelRussian Facility (NERF) has been planned by ERPA and ERPA has entered into a Water Diversion Agreement which commits that agency to making very large payments for the rights to use the water and mitigation efforts of the Eel River.
Analysis/Discussion
The Draft Statement of Interests (SOI) has been drafted by the TAC for consideration of approval by the WAC at their meeting on November 3rd, 2025. The SOI is attached and is a statement from the WAC to Sonoma Water of the WAC’s interests related to the proposed New Eel-Russian Facility (NERF) and the Associated Water Diversion Agreement undertaken by the Eel Russian Project Authority (ERPA).
Arguably the questions of most concern to the Water Contractors is how the tens of millions of dollar commitment for the continued diversions will be paid for and by whom, and the amount of water that will actually be allowed to be diverted and will it be of benefit to those customers south of the Russian River confluence with Dry Creek. The draft Statement of Interests addresses the very large cost commitments of the WDA with several provisions (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 17). In addition to the funding question, the SOI emphasizes the importance of continued reliability, that significant investments of the Contractors of the Russian River supply and ecosystem is maintained, and decisions regarding the PVP and NERF are consistent with the 2006 Restructured Agreement (water supply agreement between Sonoma Water and its Contractors).
Statements 9, 10 and 11 make the point there are many parties signatory to the WDA and the Water Contractors are not one of them and therefore the WDA does not bind them. Also, the Water Contractors have many State-mandated obligations to provide continuous high quality drinking water and the State Constitution requires a nexus between what the water contractors charge customers and the benefit received.
In addition to the funding commitments by ERPA, the Water Diversion Agreement define strict limitations on when and how much water can be diverted through the tunnel and these restrictions, along with funding commitments by ERPA, are defined in the recently executed Water Diversion Agreement. However, it is an open question on what if any water will be available during times when it can be stored in Lake Mendocino and during drought years when it is needed the most. There are scenarios when no water would be allowed to be diverted in a given year if the hydrologic conditions meet certain criteria. The diversions have historically helped fill Lake Mendocino in late Spring as demands are ramping up and natural stream flows drop off. However, the limitations are very narrow for allowing diversions during this time.
Sonoma Water makes the case that continued flows would reduce the amount of water needed to be released from Lake Sonoma to maintain regulatory minimum summer flows in the lower river. A calculation of this amount of water over the years with these restrictions has not been provided but would be helpful in determining an estimated benefit to water users in the Russian River basin.
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Attached to this staff report is a letter sent in by Neil Hancock, who requested that it be attached to this item when it is published.
Financial Considerations
The action of providing direction to the City’s WAC member does not in itself have a financial impact on the City but does help define the City’s position, as a Water Contractor, in future discussions with Sonoma Water on how the NERF and WDA costs will be paid for. Although only one of several members of ERPA, Sonoma Water has been providing the vast majority of the resources for the Authority. To the extent these costs have been passed on to the Water Contractors is not explicitly known but, as they are not directly related to the Transmission System fund, it should not be borne by the Water Contractors but by other Sonoma Water funding sources.
Environmental Issues
The proposed action of providing direction on the Statement of Interest to its Water Advisory Committee member, where it can be determined with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review. This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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Water Advisory Committee to Sonoma County Water Agency
Statement of Interests related to the proposed New Eel-Russian Facility and the Associated Water Diversion Agreement undertaken by the Eel Russian Project Authority
The Water Advisory Committee (WAC) and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) represent the municipal water suppliers (Water Contractors) located in central and southern Sonoma County and Marin County that receive wholesale water supply from Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water), which receives its water from the Russian River System. The WAC and TAC support and request Sonoma Water continue to identify and implement water supply resiliency solutions in response to the planned Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license surrender and decommissioning of Pacific Gas & Electric’s (PG&E) Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project (PVP). The WAC has adopted the following Statement of Interests to guide Sonoma Water’s participation in the Eel-Russian Project Authority (ERPA):
1. Recognize that Russian River water supply is significantly different north and south of the Russian River confluence with Dry Creek (Confluence). Water supplies north of the Confluence are almost entirely reliant on the PVP diversion, runoff, and Lake Mendocino storage, while supplies south of the Confluence principally rely on Lake Sonoma storage.
2. Recognize the continued diversion of water from the PVP and planned through the proposed New Eel-Russian Facility (NERF) into the Russian River watershed supports overall water supply reliability, fisheries, and operations of Lake Mendocino, as well as, particularly during dry periods, providing water volume to supplement releases from Lake Sonoma thereby preserving storage.
3. Recognize that with the surrender of the PVP license, Sonoma Water will need to modify its water rights to no longer rely on cumulative inflow into Lake Pillsbury to determine the type of hydrologic year. Support Sonoma Water in modifying its Russian River water rights to align with water supply sources and by reflective of how the Russian River system operates.
4. As outlined in the Water Diversion Agreement, support ERPA in evaluating all possible alternatives to a continued diversion from the Eel River to the Russian River. The analysis should be transparent, include representation from the Water Contractors, identify cost effective, resilient, and environmentally beneficial solutions to ensure the reliability of the fisheries, recreation and water supply for agriculture, domestic and municipal purposes.
5. Ensure any outcomes or recommendations by the ERPA Board maintain water supply reliability of the Russian River, support the significant investments made by Sonoma Water and the Water Contractors in Russian River ecosystem and fishery restoration initiatives, and costs are allocated based on benefit received.
6. Provide ongoing opportunities for meaningful input and representation in any forum that evaluates water supply resiliency solutions for the Russian River.
October 6, 2025 TAC Meeting
Agenda Item 11
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7. Ensure any decisions regarding the PVP and NERF are consistent with the 2006 Restructured Agreement for Water Supply between Sonoma Water and the Water Contractors (Restructured Agreement) including, but not limited to, Section 2.4, Potter Valley Project. Request Sonoma Water, as a member of ERPA, advocate for decisions consistent with the Restructured Agreement.
8. Support the actions stipulated in Section 2.4 of the Restructured Agreement and do not support reopening the Restructured Agreement prior to the current term date of 2040.
9. Recognize that the parties to the Water Diversion Agreement (WDA) represent multiple interests and include California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), California Trout, ERPA, County of Humboldt, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission (IWPC), Round Valley Indian Tribes (RVIT), County of Sonoma, Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water), and Trout Unlimited (Parties).
10. Recognize that the Water Contractors are not a party to the WDA and therefore any obligations under the WDA do not bind the Water Contractors.
11. Recognize that the Water Contractors have significant, state-mandated obligations to continuously provide safe and reliable water supplies for the communities that they serve.
12. Recognize that certain water rights currently used by PG&E for PVP will be ultimately transferred to the RVIT (Project Water Rights) and the use of those Project Water Rights for NERF diversions will come at a significant cost (Lease Payments) both annually and in total for the duration of the Initial and Renewal Terms of the WDA.
13. Recognize that in addition to the significant costs associated with Lease Payments, the Parties (except CDFW) to the WDA have committed to raise $50 million during the Initial Term and have an aspirational goal of $100 million during the Renewal Term for the restoration of the Eel River as well as $100 million to enhance water supply reliability in the Russian River. These amounts are significant, and the source of the funding is unknown.
14. Recognize that the combination of capital costs, operations & maintenance costs, future decommissioning costs, and the lease and restoration payments paid by ERPA will have a profound effect on the overall cost of the diverted water. It is critical that Sonoma Water, and ERPA, recognize the multiple beneficiaries and proportionality of their demand when devising a revenue plan. The Contractors would not support a revenue scheme that has a disproportionate financial effect on a beneficiary, or group of beneficiaries and support a fair distribution, based on benefits received, amongst all the various Russian River water users (recreation, environment, agriculture, residential, municipal and industrial) who will benefit from the NERF.
15. Recognize that the California Constitution places limits on the amounts that may be charged by Sonoma Water to the Water Contractors, and on the amounts that each Water Contractor is authorized to include in its retail water 166 of 204
rates. Accordingly, any costs to the Water Contractors related to the continued diversion of water through the planned NERF must be proportionate to the benefit received by each Water Contractor.
16.Ask Sonoma Water and ERPA to request that the State Water Board enforce limits on water use, especially in the upper Russian River (north of the Dry Creek confluence), in order to maintain the benefits of any future Eel River Diversions.
17. Recognize that since 2006, the Water Contractors (and thereby the residents and businesses of those cities and districts in Sonoma and Marin Counties) have, through their water purchases from Sonoma Water, collectively contributed approximately $50.6 Million to the restoration of the Russian River watersheds, and compliance with the Biological Opinion, both of which have benefits well beyond that of municipal water supply and that these contributions will continue accruing significantly throughout the full duration of the 2006 Restructured Agreement.
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Upper Russian River Ecological Integrity Position Paper – Neil Hancock 1.0b I would like to raise issues of the Upper Russian River ecological integrity while you are considering the “Statement of Interests” at Nov 3, 2025 Sonoma Water WAC/TAC meeting.
With expected changes in the diversion from the Eel to the Russian River and the recent 2025 NMFS Russian River Biological Opinion, now is the opportunity to update the goals for managing the Upper Russian River (URR) so that there is an increased focus on resilient water supplies for all use types and improving the ecological integrity of the river. The primary challenges are:
• how do we refocus efforts on the need to restore the ecological integrity of the natural systems for all, while balancing growing demands on a limited water supply; • how do we manage a limited water supply when there is limited transparency and accountability in use; and
• who pays for water infrastructure that might be needed? While all physical infrastructure has a maintenance life, green infrastructure where appropriate can be less costly and is typically multi-benefit. For a fly over of the RR click here.
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) declared the Russian River as fully appropriated in 1989. A variety of complicated interests rely on water flows of the URR, particularly in the hot, dry months—an issue exacerbated by poor accounting of water availability and little transparency in water needs. One tool that has been tested by the SWRCB is the voluntary water sharing program. A better understanding of water demands, community education, and other changes are still necessary before such a program can operate without Emergency Declarations. Flows during our driest periods could be better managed with a broader portfolio of tools. Options could include:
• A better water extraction demand forecasting tool for flow management from Hopland to Healdsburg, possibly using more transparent water rights with the new Waterboard Upward system. Large users could forecast their usage in a tool that informs water releases;
• monitoring by river section of underground storage (gaining or losing) during proposed water release changes or flow pulses;
• more onsite storage ponds to capture winter precipitation for summer use, and • improved water use monitoring, metering, and reporting requirements, to name a few.
Specific Water Cities and Districts Published Use
Potter Valley Irrigation District (Pop. 1,700): This district serves more than 272 agricultural customers and 6,960 acres. It has a SWRCB license to divert 22,670AF between April 1 & Nov 168 of 204
15. A Nov 2021 study suggested alternative supply options to help address reliability in the face of a two-basin solution.
Ukiah (Pop. 16,072 ): UWMP documents show the city’s total water consumption was 3,030AF in 2020. It documents a RR water right of 16,507AF. The Ukiah Valley Ground Water basin, a Holocene alluvium, receives an annual aquifer recharge of about 25,300AF per year, and size in excess of 400,000AF. Ukiah identifies 30,000
neighbors and 8 water agencies including
Hopland in Ukiah Valley.
Cloverdale (Pop. 8964): UWMP documents
show the city used 1,320AF in 2020 for a
population of 9,213 people. It documents
water rights of 27,92AF from RR and
73,653AF from Big Sulfur Creek.
Sonoma Water Contractors
For a comparison Sonoma Water UWMP,
Sonoma Water Contractors with 600,000+
customers, used 44,530AF in 2024, and have
water right to RR of 75,000AF/yr. This supply
is drawn principally from Lake Sonoma, and
is withdrawn at the Wohler-Mirabel
collector. See #1 Statement of Interest.
Lake Sonoma’s water storage is 250,000AF.
Lake Mendocino storage is 125,000AF and it
is ~68 river miles upstream of the Dry Creek
confluence.
The information in this brief has been
obtained from public-domain sources. If any
information is used for public policy, its
validity should be verified separately. Any
opinions expressed are those of Neil
Hancock
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Cotati City Council
Agenda Staff Report
Item type: REGULAR AGENDA (ACTION)
To: City Council
Subject: FISCAL YEAR 2025/26 -FIRST QUARTER FINANCIAL
UPDATE - REPORT FOR SUMMARY OF REVENUE
SOURCES, CASH AND INVESTMENTS, AND FISCAL
RESILIENCE
Date: October 28, 2025
Written by: Angela Courter, Director of Administrative Services Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council receive the presentation on the un-audited financial position for the City as of the First Quarter Fiscal Year 2025/26.
Background
City staff are committed to continued financial updates to report on receipts of key revenues and the overall City cash position.
Analysis/Discussion
The financial results for the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025/26 reflect a stable fiscal position and overall performance consistent with historical trends. As is customary for this stage of the fiscal year, several General Fund revenue categories are below proportionate year-to-date expectations, primarily due to the timing of major receipts such as property tax and sales tax.
Expenditure levels across all funds remain largely within budgetary parameters, with variances primarily attributable to the timing of payments and one-time obligations incurred early in the fiscal year.
General Fund:
Revenues:
General Fund operating revenues for the first quarter were approximately $99,000, or 9.1%, lower than the same period in Fiscal Year 2024/25, representing 8.8% of the annual budget. This performance is consistent with the prior year’s results, when revenues totaled 9.9% of the annual 170 of 204
budget through September 30, 2024. The percent of receipts at this point in the fiscal year remains below 25% due to the timing of key revenue sources. Property tax revenues, which comprise more than $2 million of the annual General Fund budget, will not be received until December and April.
Sales tax, the City’s largest General Fund revenue source, is currently approximately 18.3% below the same period in the prior year. When adjusted for the pending October remittance, total sales tax receipts are estimated to represent approximately 23% of the annual budget, which is consistent with historical collection patterns. Staff will continue to monitor sales tax receipts closely and will present any material changes to projections during the mid-year financial review. Other revenue categories, including Other Taxes, Licenses and Permits, and Franchises, reflect typical collection timing variations, while Rents and Charges for Services have increased due to expanded community programming and continued development activity. Investment earnings have decreased modestly due to lower invested balances, reduced pooled cash subject to allocation, and a decline in market interest rates.
Expenditures:
Cumulative first-quarter General Fund expenditures increased approximately $826,000, or
34.4%, compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year. Most of this increase is attributable to the timing of transfers for capital projects, increased contract services for information technology and program operations, and one-time costs such as tree removals for public safety purposes. Departmental spending remains generally consistent with prior years, with notable increases due to allocations for insurance, data management, and professional services. As of September 30, 2025, total expenditures represent approximately 23.1% of the annual budget, which is within the expected range for the first quarter.
Enterprise Funds:
Revenues within the Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds continue to perform favorably. Increases are primarily the result of rate adjustments implemented in accordance with the City’s adopted rate studies, as well as one-time connection fees related to the 902 E. Cotati Avenue development. Water Fund revenues are tracking at 35.8% of budget and are approximately
25.9% higher than the prior year, while Sewer Fund revenues are tracking at 28.7% of budget and 29.7% higher than the same period last year.
Water Fund expenditures are at 29.6% of the budget, primarily reflecting payments to the Sonoma County Water Agency for aqueduct water usage, early-year costs for contract services and insurance, and one-time maintenance and repair expenses. Sewer Fund operating expenditures decreased by approximately $56,000, or 5.4%, compared to the prior year, largely due to lower banking and merchant fees and fewer one-time repairs. Both enterprise funds remain financially sound, and staff will continue to monitor their performance throughout the fiscal year.
City-Wide Cash and Investments:
As of September 30, 2025, the City’s cash and investment balances are consistent with the City’s adopted Investment Policy and sufficient to meet anticipated expenditure obligations for the remainder of the fiscal year. Liquidity and reserve levels continue to align with the City’s long171 of 204 term fiscal sustainability objectives.
Financial Considerations
There is no immediate fiscal impact or budget action necessary. City Staff will continue to report to Council and the community quarterly.
Environmental Issues
The presentation of recurring financial position has been identified to have no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA review. This general rule can be applied to activities which could be subject to the CEQA process, but which logic dictates should not be subject to CEQA review. Therefore, based on the information provided above, the proposed resolution is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 14.03.021 of the CEQA Guidelines in that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant impact on the environment.
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UN-AUDITED
FIRST QUARTER
BUDGET & ACTUALS REVIEW
First Quarter Fiscal
Year 2025/26
Period Ending
September 30, 2025
City of Cotati
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FINANCIAL
REPORTING
• Citywide Overview
• General Fund
• Enterprise Funds
• Cash and Investments
Portfolio
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CITYWIDE
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CITYWIDE - REVENUES & EXPENSES
Fund Un-Audited
Actual
Annual
Budget
%
Budget
Un-Audited
Actual
Annual
Budget
%
Budget
General $ 989,615 $ 11,256,042 8.8% $ 3,230,605 $ 14,002,277 23.1% Wastewater 1,076,602 3,753,900 28.7% 987,313 3,889,909 25.4% Water 950,006 2,654,560 35.8% 750,164 2,538,615 29.6%
Other Special Revenues * 213,911 5,271,130 4.1% 602,620 5,824,257 10.3% Capital Projects 279,532 2,583,000 10.8% 644,681 2,583,000 25.0% Internal Service 134,171 559,398 24.0% 132,186 587,910 22.5% Total For All Funds $ 3,643,837 $ 26,078,030 14.0% $ 6,347,568 $ 29,425,968 21.6% Revenues Expenses
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
General
Wastewater
Water
Other Special Revenues *
Capital Projects
Internal Service
Expenses Revenues
Revenues and Expenses
On Target
•General Fund – Due to timing of
Receipts for major revenue sources.
•Other Special Revenues – Due to
Timing of Receipts for Revenues.
•Capital Projects funding transfers and
billing for grants are subject to timing
anticipated to be in line with budget.
Revenues are at 14.0% of
Budget
•Water & Wastewater – Expenditures
for water purchases and wastewater
treatment are increasing. Includes full
year of insurance and one-time
unanticipated emergency repairs.
•Capital Projects and Special Revenue
Funds– are subject to timing of the
projects in place and related activity
incurred during the fiscal year.
Expenses are at 21.6% of
Budget
*Other Special Revenues consists of the following funds: Grants, CDBG Grants, Gas Tax, MTC Streets, RMRA, Traffic Mitigation Fees, Park-In-Lieu, PEG, Public Safety, K-9 Program, Inclusionary Housing, Linkage Affordable Housing, Community Facilities Districts, Measure M Parks, PEG, Bed Tax, and all Local Landscaping and Maintenance Districts. 176 of 204
GENERAL FUND
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COMPARATIVE
REVENUES & EXPENDITURES
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PROPORTION OF
GENERAL FUND REVENUES
Sales Tax, $436,846
Other Taxes, $75,140
Licenses, Permits & Franchises,
$88,692
Rent, $41,489
Other Agencies,
$65,326
Community Development Charges,
$142,792
Public Works
Charges, $22,295
Public
Safety
Charg…
Other Revenues,
$73,349
Investment
Earnings,
$29,648
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ENTERPRISE FUNDS
S U M M A R Y O F W A T E R & W A S T E W A T E R F U N D S 180 of 204
ENTERPRISE FUNDS ANALYSIS
Revenues and
Expenses On Target
• General Fund – Due to timing of
Receipts for major revenue
sources.
• Other Special Revenues – Due to
Timing of Receipts for Revenues.
• Capital Projects funding transfers
and billing for grants are subject
to timing anticipated to be in line
with budget.
Revenues are at 35.8% and 28.7%
of Annual Budget
• .
Expenses are at 29.6% and 25.4%
of Budget
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CASH & INVESTMENTS
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SUMMARY OF
CASH AND
INVESTMENTS AT
SEPTEMBER 30,
2025 • Total approximately $14.9M. • In line with the City updated adopted investment policy. • Investments for quarter
earned $165K in returns • Overall cash is enough to
meet operational needs for
next 6 months in fiscal year
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FISCAL RESILIENCE
General Fund
• Cash coverage temporarily reduced due to early-year expenditures for subscriptions and projects. • Rolling twelve-month revenues to budget decreased from target at -15% due to decreased sales, and other taxes. • Combined sales tax revenues (Bradley Burns & Measure S) down 18% from prior year and 11% from budget. • Revenues-to-expenditures ratio at 35% vs. 110% goal, and from 45% in the prior year. Primarily due to timing of receipts.
Water Fund
• Operating expenditures up 27% vs. budget, due to early-year spending on repairs and contract services. • Sonoma County Water Agency rate increase is 3% higher than budgeted (15% vs. 12%). • Note: Revenues stronger but will be watched in relation to cost escalation.
Sewer Fund
• Expenditures 20% below budget, indicating timing of project or operational costs. • Revenues increased 30% over prior year, aided by monthly billing transition. • Revenues-to-expenditures ratio slightly below the 110% target at 109%, but increased from prior years 85% 185 of 204
CONCLUSION
Fiscal Year was primarily on
track with Budget with a
need to monitor changes in
revenues and track expenses
in alignment with revenues to
maintain cashflows.
No Additional Budget
Requests for Adjustments.
City staff will continue to
update the Council with
quarterly financial reports as
well as the audited financial
reports for Fiscal Year
2024/25
City staff are committed to
exercising prudence and
integrity in the management
of public funds and provide
transparent accountability for
its use
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Quarterly Financial Report
Fiscal Year to Date: July 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025 Administrative Services 10/21/25 Q1 2025/26
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