Folsom City Council Meeting
Additional Information
Transmittal
Instructions to staff: Deliver original and 30 stapled/double-sided copies to the City Clerk’s Department; City Clerk’s Department will distribute via email and hardcopy to City Council, City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk.
Updated: Jan 2025
MEETING DATE:
10/28/2025
AGENDA SECTION:
Consent Calendar
STAFF REPORT TITLE Ordinance No. 1353- An Ordinance of the City of Folsom Amending Chapter 17.52 of the Folsom Municipal Code for the Historic District Relating to Design Review, Sign Permits, Demolitions, and Accessory Buildings (Second Reading and Adoption)
FROM: Community Development Department
Staff is providing the attached additional information for the above-referenced agenda item.
1. Comment letter from Mr. Bob Delp.
October 28, 2025
City of Folsom City Council
50 Natoma Street
Folsom, CA 95630
via email to: [email protected] for distribution to City Council
SUBJECT: Comments to City Council re: October 28, 2025, Agenda Item No. 3 – Ord. No. 1353 Amending FMC Chapter 17.52
Dear City Councilmembers:
This letter is to reiterate my opposition to, and provide supplemental information regarding, the proposed amendments to Folsom Municipal Code (“FMC”) Chapter 17.52 the introduction and first reading of which was approved by the City Council on October 14, 2025, and the second reading of which is scheduled for a final Council decision on October 28, 2025, as presented in and attached to the staff report for Agenda Item No. 3 of your October 28, 2025, meeting materials (“10/28/25 Staff Report”).
FMC Chapter 17.52 was adopted by the City Council on July 14, 1998, through Ordinance 8901.
Express purposes of FMC 17.52 include, “[t]o preserve and enhance the historic, small-town atmosphere of the Historic District as it developed between the years 1850 and 1950” (Ordinance 890 p. 3; FMC 17.52.110(B)(1)) and “[t]o ensure that new residential and commercial development is consistent with the historical character of the historic district as it developed between the years 1850 and 1950” (Ordinance 890 p. 3; FMC 17.52.110(B)(5)). In adopting Ordinance 890, the Council established that “in reviewing projects, the Historic District Commission shall consider [] criteria including… B. Conformance with any city-wide design guidelines and Historic District Design and Development Guidelines adopted by the City Council.” (Ordinance 890 p. 14; FMC 17.52.330.)
On October 13, 1998, the City Council adopted by Resolution No. 5757 “Historic District Design and Development Guidelines”2 (“DDGs”). As described in the DDGs Introduction section 1.01, Intent,
In conjunction with the regulations imposed by Chapter 17.52 of the Folsom Municipal Code, the Design and Development Guidelines limit future construction in Historic Folsom to the architectural styles extant in California from 1850 to 1950, a limitation intended to encourage the diversity which is the charm of old Folsom while preventing construction of modem buildings which would be discordant. While there are only a few structures within Historic Folsom which are individual architectural stand-outs, the homes and buildings, when taken together, evoke the feeling of life in small-town America, an aspect often ignored by history books and preservation efforts. By the adoption of Chapter
17.52 and these Design and Development Guidelines, the City Council seeks to preserve that image.
The 10/28/25 Staff Report acknowledges that adoption of the currently proposed amendments to FMC 17.52 is a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) but asserts that “the proposed code amendment is process related and administrative in nature and therefore
1 Ordinance 890 of 1998 is incorporated herein in its entirety through this reference. 2 Resolution No. 5757 of 1998 is incorporated herein in its entirety through this reference.
October 28, 2025
will not have a significant effect on the environment” and that the proposed code amendment is therefore exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) states that a project is exempt from CEQA if, The activity is covered by the common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen 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.
The proposed FMC 17.52 amendments would eliminate important existing design review provisions established to protect the historical character of the Historic District. Among the proposed revisions is a list of “minor modifications” that would be exempt from design review should the proposed amendments be adopted and take effect (proposed section 17.52.300(C)(1) [10/28/25 Staff Report p. 43]). The proposed exempt features include, among other things, d. patio covers, gazebos, pergolas and trellises under 200 square feet in size and located outside of the front, side, and street side yards, e. privacy walls and fencing, excluding chain link, which is not allowed, f. aboveground spas and hot tubs located outside of he [sic] front and street side yards,
g. solar panels,
h. outdoor cooking facilities located outside of the front and street side yards.
Exempting these features from design review would not only eliminate City review or public comment opportunity, but also would eliminate any obligation for individuals undertaking such property modifications to design such features in a manner consistent with the express purposes of FMC 17.52 and DDGs.
Exempting, for example, “privacy walls and fencing” from any design review requirements would have the potential to be detrimental to the historical character of the Historic District.
Even attractively designed privacy walls or fencing could be substantially inconsistent with, and diminish the historical character of, the Historic District. The development of unregulated out-of- character walls and fences would have the potential to result – in individual instances and cumulatively over time - a significant adverse impact on the historical character of the Historic District.
Evidence of the potential effects includes the City-adopted DDGs which, pertaining to “Fences, Landscape Features, and Play Equipment,” explain,
Besides safety, the City's purpose in regulating fences and landscape features is primarily to inform property owners of the impact such construction has on the historical and aesthetic character of a home or neighborhood and to seek voluntary support of the community goal of preserving and enhancing the character of the Historic District. Preference in any required review will be toward granting the property owner's request unless it is unsafe or the effect on the character of the Historic District would be notably deleterious. (DDGs section 4.04.)
October 28, 2025
Pertaining specifically to “Fences” the DDGs explain the City’s 1998 affirmation that, “[f]ences are a significant contributing factor to a home's or neighborhood's character.” (DDGs section 4.04.01.)
Contrary to staff’s recommended CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3) exemption, common sense does not lead to the conclusion that eliminating design review and design requirements for privacy walls and fences would have no possibility of having a significant effect on the environment.
Such a position ignores the fact that the FMC 17.52 and DDGs design review requirements for fences and landscape features were expressly established in light of “the impact such construction has on the historical and aesthetic character of a home or neighborhood.” (DDGs section 4.04.)
Eliminating the design review provisions of FMC 17.52 for the types of projects listed in “d” through “h” above, would have the potential for “notably deleterious” “effect on the character of the Historic District” the avoidance of which effects are specifically described as a purpose of the DDGs and the design review provisions of FMC 17.52.
Common sense as well as substantial evidence including that contained in the City’s own adopted documents lead to the conclusion that exempting certain types of projects from the established design review process and from design requirements is reasonably anticipated to result in significant impacts on the historical character of the Historic District where historical character of the locally important Historic District resource is a significant impact on the environment.
The CEQA Guidelines 15061(B)(3) exemption can be applied only, “[w]here it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.” In claiming this exemption, the City must provide substantial evidence for how the proposed FMC 17.52 amendments – in particular, the list of proposed design review exemptions – would have no possibility of a significant impact. Staff’s assertion that “the proposed code amendment is process related and administrative in nature and therefore will not have a significant effect on the environment” fails to consider the implications of exempting certain projects from design review and the City has provided no other analysis or evidence for how the proposed revisions would have no possibility of a significant environmental impact.
Substantial evidence demonstrates that the proposed amendments to FMC 17.52 would have the potential to result in significant impacts to the historic character of the City’s Historic District and the City has not demonstrated that the project qualifies for the CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) exemption or any other exemption from CEQA. The City must comply with CEQA prior to approving an FMC 17.52 amendment that would eliminate any of FMC 17.52’s existing design review requirements.
Thank you for considering my comments.
Sincerely,
Bob Delp
Historic District - Folsom, CA 95630 - -
Folsom City Council Meeting
Revised Staff Report Transmittal
Instructions to staff: Deliver original and 30 stapled/double-sided copies to the City Clerk’s Department; City Clerk’s Department will distribute via email and hardcopy to City Council, City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk.
Updated: January 2025
MEETING DATE:
10/28/2025
AGENDA SECTION:
Public Hearing
STAFF REPORT TITLE Ordinance No. 1358 – An Ordinance of the City of Folsom Adding Section 9.37.035 Pertaining to Wildfire Prevention and Amending Certain Sections in Chapter 8.36 and Certain Chapters in Title 14 of the Folsom Municipal Code Pertaining to Adoption of Various Uniform Codes (Introduction and First Reading)
FROM: Community Development Department
Staff prepared amendments and attached a revised Ordinance No 1358 that incorporates the following substantive changes/corrections to reflect Fire Department recommendations:
1. Folsom Municipal Code Chapter 5 - Addition of previously stricken sections 505.3, 505.3.1, 505.3.2, 507.5.7, 509.3 to be consistent with current Folsom Municipal Code requirements.
2. Folsom Municipal Code Section 903.3.5.3 - Revise connection of points of passive purge from furthest toilet on each floor to all toilets to be consistent with current Folsom Municipal Code requirements.
Additionally, several non-substantive changes were made to correct section numbering and titles to correlate with the 2025 Code in Folsom Municipal Code Sections 109, 113, 304.1.3, 317, 903.5.1, D103 and Folsom Municipal Code Chapters 6 and 9.
Ordinance No. 1358
ORDINANCE NO. 1358
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FOLSOM ADDING SECTION 9.37.035
PERTAINING TO WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS IN CHAPTER 8.36 AND CERTAIN CHAPTERS IN TITLE 14 OF THE FOLSOM
MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO ADOPTION OF VARIOUS UNIFORM CODES
The City Council of the City of Folsom does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1 PURPOSE
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend Chapter 8.36 and certain chapters of Title 14, of the Folsom Municipal Code (the “Code”) pertaining t o the adoption by reference of the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to enforce rules and regulations supplemental to this Code as may be deemed necessary to clarify application and provide safeguarding of life, property, and environment from hazardous conditions within the Ci ty of Folsom. Section 9.37.035 is being added to the Code to address wildfire prevention in open spaces in the City.
SECTION 2 FINDINGS
In connection with the amendments enacted by Secti on 8.36.080 relating to the 2022 edition of the California Fire Code and its appendi ces, the Folsom City Council makes the following findings pursuant to Health and Safety Co de Section 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5.
Such changes are reasonably necessary because of lo cal climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. The Folsom City Council hereby adopts, pursuant to Section 18941.5 of the California Health and Safety Code, the following findings of fact:
A. Under this adopting ordinance, specific amendments to building standards are more restrictive than those contained within the 2025 edition of the California Fire Code, based on the 2024 edition of the International Fire Code. These amendments have been recognized by the City of Folsom to address the fir e problems, hazards, concerns, and future direction by which the City can establish an d maintain an environment that will afford an acceptable level of fire and life safety to all who live, work, or visit within its boundaries.
B. The 2025 edition of the California Fire Code and t he 2024 edition of the International Fire Code have been printed and published as a Code in b ook form within the meaning of Section 50022.1 of the Government Code of the State of California.
C. The International Code Council promulgates the Int ernational Fire Code. The International Code Council has conducted open code hearings that permit participation by National, State, and local code officials; as well as industr y representatives, consultants, and other private parties with an interest in the International Fire Code.
Ordinance No. 1358
D. The International Fire Code, being the 2024 editio n thereof, published by the International Code Council is a nationally recognized compilation of proposed rules, regulations and standards promulgated through an open and participatory process.
E. Under the provisions of Section 18941.5 of the He alth and Safety Code, local amendments are based on climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. The findings of fact contained herein address each of these situations a nd present the local situation, which, either singularly or in combination, cause amendments to be adopted.
1. CLIMATIC :
(a.) Climate has one of the greatest impacts to fire beh avior and other major emergency events because it cannot be controlled. Average yearly rainfall for Folsom is approximately 18 inches and typically occurs from October to April.
Low-level fog is present throughout the winter mont hs and frequently causes visibility to be reduced. Fog, in conjunction with cold temperatures, may also cause freezing and slick roadways. These weather-related conditions may cause delays for emergency responders.
(b.) Summers are arid and warm and there is generally no measurable precipitation.
Temperatures for this dry period range from 70 to 1 12 degrees Fahrenheit and are frequently accompanied by light to gusty winds. The relative humidity during summer months ranges from 2 to 30 percent, w hich is arid. The City contains thousands of acres of open space, which, i n conjunction with the dry and windy conditions create hazardous situations cu lminating in grass and brush fires. Wind-driven fires have led to serious consequences in similar areas of the State.
(c.) The Sacramento region has extreme variations in wea ther patterns, too.
Summers are arid and warm, winters are cool to free zing, and fall and spring can bring any combination of weather patterns toget her. It is this cyclical uncertainty that allows weather events such as rapi d melting of the snowpack, which causes flooding in the low-lying valley areas of Sacramento County. The doubling of average rainfall called an "El Nino" ev ent has occurred from time to time and causes the grass to mature and grow in excess of six feet high before it dries out.
(d.) Climate is one of the greatest impacts to fire beha vior and other major emergency events because it cannot be controlled. The drying out of wood and wildland fuels in the summer months allows for easy ignition.
Ordinance No. 1358
2. GEOLOGICAL :
(a.) The City is susceptible to seismic hazards resulting from movement along any one of several known faults in Northern California. 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 starting be cause of damage to gas lines, power lines, or heat producing appliances and the u navailability of water for fire control due to broken water mains.
(b.) In addition, unstable slopes have been identified i n the City, which present a significant potential for landslides. In the event of a major earthquake or landslide, some areas of the City may not be accessible to eme rgency equipment and, if bridges or roads are damaged, the City may be isolated from outside assistance.
3. TOPOGRAPHICAL :
(a.) Several topographical features bisect the City, including the American River, Lake Natoma, and Folsom Lake, as well as creeks, natural parkways, open space, bridges, and railroad tracks. Traffic has to be cha nneled around several of these topographical features and limitations, which create traffic congestion and delays emergency response. These features are located bet ween the fire stations located within the City of Folsom.
(b.) The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, better known as Cal/OSHA, requires two firefighters to be located o utside when two or more firefighters are inside of a burning structure. This is known as the “two in-two out” rule. It is imperative to minimize the impact of delays affecting the timely response of the firefighters.
(c.) Increasingly heavy traffic congestion on the City’s major streets acts as a barrier to timely response for fire and emergency vehicles. Several roadways are expected to have an increased traffic flow as the City continues to increase in population.
(d.) Preservation of wetland areas, natural parkways, ri parian corridors along rivers/streams, vernal pools, open spaces, and endangered species habitats have all contributed to access problems as well as exemption from vegetation abatement programs. These situations, though very environment ally important, do increase the demands on the fire service due to the extreme fire hazard created by fuel loading, limited access, and reduced setbacks.
(e.) The rural geographical areas not yet provided with adequate fire protection are subject to a higher degree of risk without mitigating measures.
F. The City’s proximity to adjoining agencies reduces the amount of fire and medical resources that are typically available within more densely po pulated areas. A seamless fire protection Ordinance No. 1358
system within Sacramento County and mutual-aid agre ements with neighboring county fire agencies allow for additional support but also reduces coverage of fire stations during initial and multiple response incidents either in the City or other jurisdictions. Resources from both El Dorado and Placer Counties are limited mainly by the size of the fire agencies, the rural/urban development, and extended response times.
G. The City is located in the northeastern portion of Sacramento County and is bordered by Folsom Lake, Placer, and El Dorado Counties. The City is made up of several distinct areas, each unique in its own way. Some of these areas are gated communities designed for security, not for expedient emergency response. Some of these access points are remote from main emergency response routes, extending response times. A first alarm residential structure fire assignment draws three fire engines, two ladder trucks, a medic unit, and two battalion chiefs.
Commercial structure fires require one additional f ire engine, therefore emptying all fire stations in the City of Folsom. If the situation intensifies, through simultaneous requests for service, long term commitments to emergencies, out- of-service emergency vehicles, etc., extended response times will occur.
H. The water supply in the City of Folsom makes extens ive use of automatic fire sprinkler systems feasible. The area is favored with sources of high-quality water from private and municipal water companies.
I. The National Fire Protection Association statistics indicate that automatic fire sprinkler systems have established an efficiency record of ap proximately 96% satisfactory performance in the United States since 1925.
J. Based on the aforementioned local climatic, geologi cal, or topographical, conditions, those specific amendments as specified in the amendments to this ordinance for the 2025 California Fire Code, are considered reasonable and necessary modifications to the requirements established pursuant to Section 18941.5. While it i s clearly understood that the adoption of such amendments may not prevent the incidence of fire or other hazards, the implementation of these various amendments to the Code attempt to reduce the severity and potential loss of life, property, and protection of the environment.
Ordinance No. 1358
K. California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7 r equires that modifications or changes to building standards as defined in Health and Safe ty Code Section 18909 be expressly marked and identified as to which each finding refers. Therefore, the City Council finds that the following table provides code sections that hav e been modified, and the associated conditions for modification due to local climatic, geological, and topographical reasons.
Section
Number
Local Climatic/
Geological/Topographical Condition
105 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
107 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
109 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
111 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
112 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
113 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
304 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
317 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
321 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
503 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
504 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
506 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
605 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
903 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
1205 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
Appendix D 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
D102 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
D103 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
D105 1a-d, 2a-b, 3a-f
L. In connection with the amendments enacted by Sectio n 2 relating to the 2025 edition of the California Fire Code, with local amendments, the City Council makes the following findings pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5.
1. The changes are reasonably necessary because of loc al climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. The City Council hereby a dopt pursuant to Section 18941.5 of the California Health and Safety Code, the following findings of fact:
(a.) Under this adopting ordinance, specific amendments have been established which are more restrictive than those adopted by the Stat e of California (California Ordinance No. 1358
Building Standards Code) commonly referred to as Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
(b.) These amendments to the 2025 edition of the Califor nia Fire Code have been recognized by the City of Folsom to address the fire problems, hazards, concerns, and future direction by which the City can establish and maintain an environment which will afford a level of fire and life safety to all who live, work, or visit within its boundaries.
(c.) The Findings of Fact are filed separately with the California Building Standards Commission and City Clerk for the City of Folsom.
SECTION 3 ADOPTION OF THE FOLSOM FIRE CODE
Chapters 8.36 sections 8.36.020, 8.36.040, and 8.3 6.080 of the Folsom Municipal Code are amended to reference the 2025 Fire Code and 2025 Wildland Urban Interface Code to read:
8.36.020 California Fire Code – Adopted by reference
There is hereby adopted by the city council of the city of Folsom for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing the safeguarding of life, pro perty, and the environment from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handlin g, and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises, that certain code known as the 2025 Edit ion of the California Fire Code and the 2025 California Wildland Urban Interface Code with those amendments adopted by the California Building Standards Commission and based on the 2024 Edition of the International Fire Code, in its entirety, and with all other supplements, errat a, and such portions as hereunder deleted, modified, or amended.
Appendix D, Fire Apparatus Access Roads, of the Cal ifornia Fire Code shall be adopted, as amended, by the City of Folsom and made a part of the Folsom Fire Code.
8.36.040 Definitions
A. Whenever the words “fire code” are used in this chapter, it shall mean the 2025 Edition of the California Fire Code and 2025 California Wil dland Urban Interface Code with those amendments adopted by the California Building Standards Commission and based on the 2024 Edition of the International Fire Code, in its entirety, and with all other supplements, errata, and such portions as her eunder deleted, modified, or amended.
B. Wherever the word “municipality” is used in the fir e code, it shall mean the incorporated areas in the city of Folsom.
C. Wherever the words “fire code official” are used in the fire code, they shall mean the fire chief of the city of Folsom, or the designated representatives.
Ordinance No. 1358
8.36.080 Amendments, additions, deletions
Chapter 1
Section 105, Permits, is hereby amended to read:
105.5.60 Activities in hazardous fire areas. An operational permit is required to conduct activities in hazardous fire areas when, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is necessary to preserve the public health, safety, or welfare. Hazardous fire area shall mean land covered with grass, grain, brush, or forest, whethe r privately or publicly owned which is so situated or is of such inaccessible location tha t a fire originating upon such land would present an abnormally difficult job of suppression or would result in great and unusual damage through fire or resulting erosion.
105.5.61 Motion picture and other filming. An operational permit is required to conduct activities related to the production of motion pictures, televisions, commercials, and similar productions.
105.5.62 Christmas tree lots. An operational permit is required to operate a Chr istmas tree lot.
105.6.26 Fire apparatus access roads. A construction permit is required to construct, alter, or remove a private fire apparatus access road or other emergency vehicle access road required by Section 503.1 or Folsom Municipal Code Section 17.57.080. For purposes of this requirement, altering shall include the instal lation of traffic calming systems such as stop signs, roundabouts, traffic circles, diverters, and other traffic delaying measures. 105.6.27 Roof top obstructions. A construction permit is required for the installation of a roof top garden or a landscaped roof when constructed on a building’s roof.
Section 107, Fees, is hereby amended to reference Section 108 and read:
108.7Administrative costs. When a test or inspection is scheduled and the contractor fails to perform to the satisfaction of the fire code off icial or their designee, the contractor will be liable for all costs incurred by the Fire Department for that test or inspection and the fire code official may submit a bill for said costs.
108.8 Fee schedule. Fees for plan reviews, services, and inspections conducted by the fire department shall be charged as set forth in a resolution adopted and amended from time to time by the city council. A copy of the fee schedul e shall be placed on file with the city clerk. For items where there is no specific fee est ablished, the fire code official shall determine the appropriate fee based upon considerat ion of the items listed in the fee schedule that most resemble the work proposed and t he expected staff time involved to perform the required plan reviews, services, and inspections.
Section 109, Maintenance, is hereby amended to reference Section 110 and read:
110.7 Occupant Count. The supervisor of each place of assembly shall hav e an effective system to keep count of the number of occupants pre sent in the assembly area. If at any time, the fire code official determines that an acc urate count of occupants is not being maintained, the occupancy shall be cleared until an accurate count can be made.
Ordinance No. 1358
110.8 Fire Safety Officers. When in the opinion of the fire code official it is necessary for the preservation of life or property, due to the ha zardous nature of an event, production, operation or function, the fire code official shall require the owner or lessee to employ or cause the employment of one or more approved fire s afety officers to be on duty at such place during the hazardous activity.
Section 111, Means of Appeals, is hereby amended to reference Section 112 and read:
112.5 Appeals. Whenever the fire code official, or their designee , disapproves an application, refuses to grant a permit applied for, or when it is claimed that the provisions of this Chapter or the Fire Code do not apply or that the true intent and meaning have been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, the affected party shall follow the procedures set forth in Chapter 1.09 of the Folsom Municipal Code.
Section 112, Violations, is hereby amended to reference Section 113 and read:
113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or w ho shall erect, install, alter, repair, or do work in violation of the approved construction d ocuments or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, may be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both such fine and impriso nment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. 113.5 Citations. The Fire Chief, and his or her duly authorized rep resentative, may issue citations for infractions or misdemeanor violations of the Fire Code pursuant to Chapter 5C (commencing with Section 853.5) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code of the State of California.
Section 113, Stop Work Order, is hereby amended to reference Section 114 and read:
114.4 Failure to comply fees. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to remove a violation or unsafe condition, is guilty of a misde meanor and shall be liable for a fine of not less than $500 or more than $1,000.
Chapter 3
Section 304, Combustible Waste Material, is hereby amended to read:
304.1.2.1 Waste material near ground mounted photov oltaic array. Accumulation of waste material shall not be permitted underneath nor within 10 feet from a ground mounted photovoltaic array.
304.1.3 Vegetation clearance requirements. Weeds, grass, vines, brush, branches, trees, or other growth that is capable of being ignited an d/or endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the pr operty. Vegetation clearance requirements shall also be in accordance the Folsom Municipal Code Chapter 8.37.
Ordinance No. 1358
Section 317, Vegetative and Landscaped Roofs, is hereby amended to read:
SECTION 317 – VEGETATIVE AND LANDSCAPED ROOFS
317.1.1 General. Vegetative roofs and landscaped roofs shall comply with Sections 1505 and 1507.15 of the California Building Code and be inst alled and maintained in accordance with Sections 317.2 through 317.6.
317.5 Access pathways and emergency ventilation. Access and spacing requirements shall be provided in order to ensure firefighter access to the roof, provide access pathways to specific areas of the roof, provide for venting cut out areas, and to provide emergency egress from the roof. For the purpose of access pathways and emergency ventilation, designation of ridge, hip, and valley does not apply to roofs with 2-in-12 or less pitch. All roof dimensions are measured to centerlines.
317.5.1 Alternative materials and methods. Alternative materials and methods per Section 104.9 for access pathways or venting cut outs may b e requested for approval by the fire code official due to:
1. Unique site-specific limitations.
2. Alternative access opportunities (as from adjoining roofs).
3. Ground level access to the roof area in question.
4. Other adequate venting cut out opportunities whe n approved by the fire code official.
5. Adequate venting cut out areas afforded by panel set back from other roof top equipment (for example: shading or structural const raints may leave significant areas open for ventilation near HVAC equipment).
6. Automatic ventilation device.
7. New technology, methods, or other innovations th at ensure adequate fire department access pathways and ventilation opportunities. 317.5.2 Single and two dwelling unit residential bu ildings. Installation of roof gardens and landscaped roofs on single and two dwelling unit re sidential buildings shall be in accordance with Section 317.6.2.1 through 317.6.2.3.
317.5.2.1 Hip roof design. Planted sections shall be located in a manner that provides a three (3') foot wide clear access pathway from the eave t o the ridge on each roof slope where the planted sections are located. The access pathway sh all be located at a structurally strong location on the building such as a bearing wall.
317.5.2.2 Single ridge roof design. Planted sections shall be located in a manner that provides two three (3') foot wide access pathways from the e ave to the ridge on each roof slope where the planted sections are located.
317.5.2.3 Hips and valleys. Planted sections shall be located no closer than o ne and one half (1.5') feet to a hip or a valley if planted sections are to be placed on both sides of a hip or valley.
If the planted sections are to be located on only o ne side of a hip or valley that is of equal length, then the planted sections may be placed dir ectly adjacent to the hip or valley. Planted sections shall not be located closer than three feet (3') below the ridge. 317.5.3 Commercial and industrial buildings and mul ti-residential buildings containing three or more dwelling units required access pathwa ys and venting cut outs. Access pathways and venting cut outs for commercial and in dustrial buildings and multi-residential Ordinance No. 1358
buildings containing three or more dwelling units. Access pathways shall be provided in accordance with Section 317.6.3.1 through 317.6.3.6.
EXCEPTION:
1. If the fire code official determines that the ro of configuration is similar to that found in single and two dwelling unit residential buildings, the design requirements found in section 317.6.2 may be utilized.
317.5.3.1 Planted dimension. Planted sections shall be no greater than 150 feet by 150 feet in distance in either axis.
317.5.3.2 Access pathways. Access pathways shall be established in the design of the roof garden or landscaped roof installation. Access path ways shall meet the requirements of this section.
317.5.3.2.1 Access pathways perimeter of the roof. There shall be a minimum six (6') foot wide clear perimeter around the edges of the roof.
EXCEPTION:
1. If either axis of the building is 250 feet or le ss, there shall be a minimum four (4') feet wide clear perimeter around the edges of the roof. 317.5.3.2.2 Access pathway location. The center line axis of access pathways shall run on structural members or over the next closest structural member nearest to the center lines of the roof.
317.5.3.2.3 Access pathway center line. The center line axis of the access pathways shall be provided in both axis of the roof.
317.5.3.2.4 Access pathway alignment. Access pathways shall be in a straight line and provide not less than four (4') feet clear to skylights, ventilation hatches or roof standpipes. 317.5.3.2.5 Access pathway around roof access hatches. Access pathways shall provide not less than four (4') feet of clearance around roof access hatch with at least one not less than four feet (4') clear pathway to parapet or roof edge.
317.5.3.2.6 Venting cut out areas. Venting cut outs between planted sections shall be either:
1. An access pathway eight (8') feet or greater in width.
2. An access pathway that is four (4') feet or grea ter in width and bordering on existing roof skylights or ventilation hatches.
3. An access pathway that is four (4') feet or grea ter in width and bordering four (4') feet by eight (8') feet venting cut outs every twenty (20') feet on alternating sides of the access pathway.
317.5.4 Roof garden or landscaped roof maintenance plan. The fire code official is authorized to require an approved maintenance plan for vegetation placed on roofs due to the size of the garden or landscaping area, or if materials and plants used may create a fire hazard to the building or exposures.
Section 321, Rooftop Gardens and Landscaped Roofs, is hereby amended to read:
SECTION 321 – ARTIFICAL COMBUSTIBLE VEGETATION
321.2 Defensible space around structures. Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining any building or structure upon or adjoining any grass- or brush- covered land or land covered with flammable growth, and any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such structures, shall at all times:
Ordinance No. 1358
1. Maintain around and adjacent to such building, s tructure, or apiary an effective fire protection or firebreak made by removing and cleari ng away, for a distance of not less than 30 feet on each side thereof, all flammable vegetat ion or other combustible growth. This includes ornamental plants and trees known to be fl ammable, including but not limited to:
Acacia, Cedar, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Pine, and Pampas Grass.
EXCEPTIONS:
A. Ornamental plants and trees that are individuall y planted, spaced, and maintained in such a manner that they do not form a means of transmitting fire from native growth to the structure.
B. Cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy , succulents, or similar plants provided that they are maintained in a condition th at does not form a means of transmitting fire from native growth to the structure.
2. Maintain any tree adjacent to or overhanging any building or structure free of dead wood.
3. Maintain the roof of any building or structure f ree of leaves, needles, or other dead vegetative growth.
321.3 Extra hazard. When the fire code official finds that because of extra hazardous conditions, a firebreak of only 30 feet around such building or structure is not sufficient to provide reasonable fire safety, the person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining the building or structure shall maintai n around or adjacent to any building or structure an additional fire protection or firebrea k made by removing all brush, flammable vegetation, or combustible growth located from 30 to 100 feet from such building or structure, as may be required by the fire code official. Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet from such building or structure, and less than 18 inches in height above the ground, may be maintained where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. 321.4 Roadway clearance. The fire code official may require removal and cle arance of all flammable vegetation or other combustible growth fo r a minimum of 10 feet on each side of every roadway, whether public or private. The fire code official may enter upon private property to inspect, remove and clear vegetation an d growth as required by this section and may charge the responsible party for the cost of su ch action. This section shall not apply to single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery, or cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents, or similar plants used as ground cover, provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire. As used in this section, “roadway” means that portion of a highway, private street, or paved trail improved, d esigned, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel. The minimum clearance of 10 feet may be increased if the fire code official determines additional distance is required to provide reasonable fire safety. 321.5 Fuel modification plan. A fuel modification plan shall be submitted and ha ve preliminary approval prior to the construction of a structure or any subdivision of land where the structure or subdivision of land is located wit hin areas designated as a Very High Hazard Severity Zone or where a structure is located withi n 30 feet of an open space area or natural area. The fuel modification plan shall have final approval prior to the issuance of a permit for any new construction, remodeling, modification, or reconstruction. 321.6 Notice to correct. All notices to clear flammable vegetation and othe r combustible growth shall be in writing and in accordance with Folsom Municipal Code Chapter 8.37. 321.7 Abatement and penalties. The procedures for the abatement of hazardous vege tation and penalties thereof shall be in accordance with Folsom Municipal Code Chapter 8.37.
Ordinance No. 1358
Chapter 5 is amended to read:
503.2.8 Angles of Approach: The angle of approach and angle of departure of fir e apparatus access roads shall not exceed 12.5 percent or as approved by the fire code official. 503.2.9 Center Median Islands: When drive lanes are required through a center med ian island, the drive lane shall be a minimum 13 feet 6 inches in each direction. 504.1.1 Required Access Walkways for R-3 Subdivisio ns: Access via an alley or other means shall be provided to the rear of the property or a minimum 5 foot wide clear path shall be provided on the parcel excluding building archit ectural features or as approved by the fire code official.
504.5 Building Projections. Cornices, parapets, eave openings, and similar pro jections from a building shall be designed to support a 330-pound horizontal and vertical load to the leading edge of the projection. This represents a 250-pound firefighter carrying 80 pounds of equipment stepping off of a ladder placed against the projection onto the top of the projection. 505.3 Numbers for one- and two-family dwellings. Numbers for one- and two-family dwellings shall be a minimum of 4 inches high. Numb ers for all other buildings shall be no less than 6 inches high. The fire code official may require an increase in building address or number size, when necessary, due to building size or arrangement, or due to distance from the public way.
505.3.1 Multiple tenant buildings. Multiple tenant spaces serviced by vehicular access to the rear through any driveway, alleyway, or parking lot shall have numbers or addresses placed prior to occupancy on all new and existing building s as to be plainly visible and legible from the rear access way when deemed necessary by the fi re code official. Multiple tenant spaces serviced by rear access through a corridor, exit court, or exit yard shall have approved numbers or addresses displayed on the rear of the tenant space, when deemed necessary by the fire code official.
Multiple tenant spaces that front on interior walkways or pedestrian malls shall have approved numbers or addresses placed over the entrance door in all new and existing buildings. An illuminated annunciator or directory board shall be required at every entrance where deemed necessary by the fire code official.
505.3.2 Illumination. Address numbers shall be illuminated at night in a ll new buildings.
Signs shall be internally or externally illuminated. When the luminance or the face of a sign is from an external source, it shall have an intensity of not less than 5.0 foot-candles. Internally illuminated signs shall provide equivalent luminance.
506.1.3 Knox Box Location. An approved knox box shall be located at the front of the building and outside the FACP room.
507.5.7 Fire hydrant markers. Fire hydrants and other firefighting water sources shall be identified by the installation of blue raised refle ctive pavement markers or identified by other approved means.
509.3 Fire control room. Fire sprinkler risers and fire alarm control panel s shall be located inside a room with minimum dimensions of five feet by seven feet. The room shall only be accessible from the exterior and provided with a do or with a clear width of not less than 32 inches and height of not less than 80 inches. A dur able sign shall be affixed to the exterior of the door with the words “FIRE CONTROL ROOM” in letters not less than 3 inches in height.
A key box complying with Section 506 shall be installed adjacent to the door.
Ordinance No. 1358
The room must be capable of maintaining a minimum t emperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
A clearance of 12 inches shall be provided from the fire sprinkler risers to any adjacent walls.
This room can be shared with other building utiliti es or fire protection equipment that is not incompatible. An approved cabinet or container shal l be provided to store record plans of the fire sprinkler system and other fire protection equipment. This room shall not be used for any other storage.
Chapter 6
Section 603, Electrical Equipment, Wiring, and Hazards, is hereby redacted.
Section 605, Fuel Fires Appliances, is hereby amended by adding the following to read:
605.2.1.6 Spark arrestors. Chimneys used with fireplaces or heating appliances in which soli or liquid fuel is used shall be maintained with a s park arrestor as required for incinerators by the Mechanical Code.
Chapter 9
Section 903, Automatic Sprinkler Systems, is hereby amended to read:
903.3.5.3 Passive Purge Systems. A residential sprinkler system designed to NFPA 13 D standard shall be installed as a looped system (mul ti-purpose system) and have all toilets connected as a point of passive purge. No dead arm shall be longer than 6 ft maximum. A standalone residential sprinkler system without poi nts of passive purge may be installed with approval of the fire code official
903.5.1 Water Supply Test Adjustment. A water supply test required for the design of a fire protection system shall be adjusted to 90% to accou nt for seasonal and daily pressure fluctuations. The adjustment percentage may be furt her reduced by the Fire Code Official for areas expected to have a significant water supply demand in the future.
For residential single family homes and duplexes lo cated in the Folsom Plan Area, design of the fire protection system shall be based on the hy drostatic pressure derived from the pad elevation relative to the tank elevation provided i n the Table 903.5.1A. The design pressure shall be adjusted to 90% to account for seasonal an d daily pressure fluctuations. The adjustment percentage may be further reduced by the fire code official for areas expected to have a significant water supply demand in the future.
Table 9.3.5.1A
Zone Tank Elevation
2 482 ft
3 565 ft
4 665 ft
5 765 ft
6 855 ft
The static pressure shall be calculated as the Tank Elevation minus the pad elevation and divided by 2.31.
Section 1032, Maintenance of means of egress, is hereby redacted.
Ordinance No. 1358
Section 1205, Solar Photovoltaic Power Systems, is hereby amended to read:
1205.6 Remote electrical disconnect. Photovoltaic circuits shall be equipped with a mea ns for remote electrical disconnect located with ten f eet and within sight of the building’s main electrical panel. The remote electrical disconnect shall be listed and meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code.
Section 3311, Access for Firefighting, is hereby redacted.
Chapter 49, Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Areas is hereby redacted.
Chapter 90, Suppression and Control of Wildfire Risk Areas, is hereby redacted.
Addition of 9.37.035 Trespassing
Chapter 9, Section 9.37.035 added to read as:
9.37.035 Trespassing
A. When the fire chief determines that a specific a rea within a wildfire risk presents an exceptional and continuing fire danger because of t he density of natural growth, difficulty of terrain, proximity to structures or accessibility t o the public, such areas shall be closed until changed conditions warrant termination of closure. Such areas shall be posted as hereinafter provided.
B. Approved signs prohibiting entry by unauthorized persons shall be placed on every closed area.
C. Entering and remaining within areas closed and posted is prohibited.
EXCEPTION: Owners and occupiers of private or public property within closed and posted areas, their guests or invitees, and local, state, and federal public officers and their authorized agents acting in the course of duty.
Appendix D
Section D102, Required Access, is amended to add:
D102.2 Temporary Access and Identification. When approved, temporary fire and emergency vehicle access roads may be used until pe rmanent roads are installed. Temporary access roads shall be provided with an all-weather road surface of 2 inches of asphalt concrete over 6 inches of 95% compacted aggregate base from October 1st through April 30th each year. Temporary access roads may be provided with an all-weather road surface of 6 inches of 95% compacted aggregate base from May 1st through September 30th each year.
D102.2.1 Identification. Prior to and during construction, an approved addr ess sign shall be provided at each fire and emergency vehicle access road entry into the project.
Section D103, Minimum Specifications, is amended to read:
Ordinance No. 1358
D103.2.1 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 per cent in grade or 12.5 percent to accommodate natural grade
EXCEPTION: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the f ire code official.
D103.3.1 Turning Radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus acc ess road shall have a minimum dimension of 25 feet on the inside and 50 feet on the outside.
D103.5.1 Apparatus Access Road Gates:
9. Gates shall not be obstructed in any manner, inc luding parking of vehicles. A “FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS – DO NOT BLOCK” sign shall be pos ted on the gate or barricade when required by the fire code official.
10. The gates and barricades shall be in accordance with the Sacramento County Emergency Access Gates and Barriers Standard.
Section D105, Aerial Fire Apparatus Access Roads, is amended to add:
D105.5 Access Road Locations, Aerial apparatus access roads shall be located in relation to buildings as follows:
a. Buildings up to 40 feet in height, located a minimum of 14 feet from building b. Buildings 41 to 50 feet in height, located a minimum of 20 feet from building c. Buildings 51 to 60 feet in height, located a minimum of 27 feet from building d. Buildings 61 feet in height and greater, located at 33 feet from building e. At no point shall aerial apparatus access roads be located more than 33 feet from the building.
Modifications to Title 14, Buildings and Construction
Chapter 14.02.015 and 14.02.040 of the Folsom Muni cipal Code are amended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
14.02.015 Definitions
For purpose of this chapter, the following terms shall have the meaning set forth in this section.
“Building codes” or “code” shall mean the Folsom co nstruction codes and each and every ordinance codified therein as adopted by the city c ouncil of the city of Folsom by ordinance, including, but not limited to, the Folsom Building Code, the Folsom Residential Code, the Folsom Electrical Code, the Folsom Mechanical Code, the Folsom Plumbing Code, the Folsom Energy Code, the Folsom Fire Code, the Folsom Green Standards Building Code (CALGreen), the Folsom Referenced Standards Code, the Folsom Pr operty Maintenance Code, the Folsom Historical Building Code, Folsom Existing Building Code, Folsom Wildland Urban Interface Code and the Folsom Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code. This shall also apply to references to the “Uniform Codes” found within the Folsom Municipal Code.
14.02.040 Adoption by reference
Ordinance No. 1358
Subject to the additions, amendments, or deletions set forth in Section 14.02.050, the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, based on th e 2024 International Building Code, including Appendix Chapter I, published as Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the International Code Council, is ado pted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical require ments and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom Bui lding Codes. One copy of the Folsom Building Code and any and all amendments thereto sh all be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Section 101.4, Referenced codes, is hereby amended to read:
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this Code shall be considered part of the requirements of this Code to the prescribed extent of each reference. If another code is referenced elsewhere in this Code and has not been adopted, then that section shall be considered invalid. Where there is a conflict between the administrative requirements in this Cod e and those in other adopted technical codes, the more restrictive or specific requirements shall apply.
Exception: Administrative requirements in the City of Folsom Fire Code.
Any references to the International Residential Cod e, Residential Code for One- and Two- family Dwellings, or California Residential Code sh all be deleted and the words “Folsom Residential Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the National Electrical Code or C alifornia Electrical Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Electrical Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Fuel Gas Code s hall be deleted and the words “Folsom Plumbing Code adopted by the City of Folsom and ame nded from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Plumbing Code o r California Plumbing Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Plumbing Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Mechanical Code or California Mechanical Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Mechanical Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Property Maintenance Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Property Maintenance Code adopted by the Ci ty of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Fire Code or California Fire Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Fire Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Zoning Code sha ll be deleted and the words “Folsom Zoning Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Energy Conservation Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Energy Code adopted by the City of Folsom a nd amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Ordinance No. 1358
Any references to the California Historical Buildin g Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Historical Building Code adopted by the Cit y of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the California Existing Building Code shall be deleted and the words “Folsom Existing Building Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time” shall be inserted in lieu thereof.
Any references to the International Private Sewage Disposal Code shall be deleted. 101.4.1 Electrical. The provisions of the Electrica l Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time shall apply to the instal lation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appli ances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto.
101.4.2 Plumbing and Gas. The provisions of the Plumbing Code adopted by the City of Folsom and amended from time to time shall apply to the installation alterations, repairs and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipmen t, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all applicable aspects of a medical gas system. The provisions shall also apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories. 101.4.3 Mechanical. The provisions of the Mechanical Code adopted by t he City of Folsom and amended from time to time shall apply to the in stallation, alterations, repairs, and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cool ing, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators, and other energy-related systems. 101.4.4 Property maintenance. The provisions of the Property Maintenance Code, a dopted by the City of Folsom, and amended from time to tim e shall apply to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilat ion, space heating, sanitation, life and fire safety, hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures and shall be enforced along with the requirements of Title 8, “Health, Sanitation and Welfare”, of the Folsom Municipal Co de. Where there is a conflict between Title 8 of the Folsom Municipal Code and` the Folsom Property Maintenance Code, the more restrictive shall apply.
101.4.5 Fire prevention. The provisions of the Fire Code adopted by the Cit y of Folsom and amended from time to time shall apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the hazard of fire or explosion a rising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; from conditions h azardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and fro m the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
101.4.6 California Energy Code and California Green Building Standards Code. The provisions of the California Energy Code and Califo rnia Green Building Standards Code adopted by the City of Folsom shall apply to all matters governing the sustainable and energy efficiency design and construction of those structu res regulated by the Folsom Construction Codes as adopted by the City of Folsom.
101.4.7 California Historical Building Code. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code adopted by the City of Folsom are intended to facilitate, by means of alternative solutions, the restoration of change of occupancy s o as to preserve their original or restored architectural elements and features, to encourage e nergy conservation, disabled access and a Ordinance No. 1358
cost-effective approach to preservation, and to provide for the safety of the building occupants of those structures regulated by the Folsom Constru ction Codes as adopted by the City of Folsom.
101.4.8 California Existing Building Code. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code adopted by the City of Folsom are int ended to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, ac cess to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
101.4.9 California Wildland Urban Interface Code. The provisions of the California Urban Interface Code adopted by the City of Folsom are intended to establish minimum requirements to reduce the likelihood of life and property loss due to a wildfire.
Section 105.3.2, Time of application, is hereby redacted.
Chapter 14.04.040 and 14.04.050 of the Folsom Munic ipal Code are amended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
14.04.040 Adoption by reference.
Subject to the additions, amendments, or deletions set forth in Section 14.04.050, the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 International Residential Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings, including Append ix Chapters AH and AJ published as Part 2.5, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the Intern ational Code Council, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of th e provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom Residential Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
14.04.050 Additions, amendments, or deletions to Folsom Residential Code.
Table R301.2—Shall read as follows:
2025 CRC TABLE R301.2
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND
SNOW
LOAD
WIND DESIGN SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORY Speed
(MPH) Exposure Topographic
Effects
Special
Wind
Region
Wind
Borne
Debris
N/A
110 ult
C No No No
CRC: C
85 asd CBC: D 1
1When designing with the CBC per Section 1613.3.5. Reference Table 1613.3.5 (2)
Ordinance No. 1358
2025 CRC TABLE R301.2 (cont.)
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
SUBJECT TO DAMAGING
FROM
WINTER
DESIGN
TEMP ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYMENT
REQUIRED
FLOOD
HAZARDS
AIR
FREEZING
INDEX
MEAN
ANNUAL
TEMP
Weathering
Frost
Line
Depth
Termite
Moderate 12” Heavy 30 F No Reference <1500 60.6 F
1When designing with the CBC per Section 1613.3.5. Reference Table 1613.3.5 (2)
Appendix AJ Existing Buildings and Structures, is amended to read:
a. AJ 102.4.1 Energy efficiency. Replacement windows shall comply with the 2025 California energy Code and the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen). b. AJ301.2 Water closets. Where any water closet is replaced with a newly manufactured water closet, the replacement water closet shall co mply with the requirements of the 2025 California Plumbing Code and 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen). c. AJ301.3 Electrical. Exceptions 1, 2 and 3. The w ords ‘Chapters 34 through 43’ shall be replaced with the words ‘2025 California Electrical Code’. d. AJ501.5.1 Materials and methods. In this section and in the Exception to this section, the words ‘Chapters 34 through 43’ shall be replaced wi th the words ‘2025 California Electrical Code’.
e. AJ501.5.3.3 Ground-fault circuit-interrupter. The words ‘Chapters 34 through 43’ shall be replaced with the words ‘2025 California Electrical Code’. f. AJ501.5.3.5 Clearance. The words ‘Chapters 34 th rough 43’ shall be replaced with the words ‘2025 California Electrical Code’.
Chapter 14.04.080 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2023 National Electrical Code, published as Part 3, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the National Fire Protection Agency, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom E lectrical Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.12.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
Subject to the additions, amendments, or deletions set forth in Section 14.12.050, the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, based on th e 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code, including Appendix Chapters A, B, D, and G published as Part 5, Title 24, C.C.R., published Ordinance No. 1358
by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of th e provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom Plumbing Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.16.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
Subject to the additions, amendments, or deletions set forth in Section 14.16.050, the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code published as Part 4, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedure s for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. On e copy of the Folsom Mechanical Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.19.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Energy Code, 2025 Edition, published as Part 6, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the International Code Council, is adopted and m ade part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom constru ction codes. One copy of the Folsom Energy Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.20.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGr een Code), 2025 Edition, excluding Appendix Chapters A4, A5 and A6.1, published as Par t 11, Title 24, C.C.R., is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth h erein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement o f the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom Green Bu ilding Standards Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.22.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition, published as Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R., is adopted and made part of this title as though fu lly set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Ordinance No. 1358
Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom H istorical Building Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.23.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Existing Building Code, 2025 Edition , published as Part 10, Title 24, C.C.R., is adopted and made part of this title as though fu lly set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom E xisting Building Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.24.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
Subject to the additions, amendments, or deletions set forth in Section 14.24.050, the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom P roperty Maintenance Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.26.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The California Referenced Standards Code, 2025Editi on, published as Part 12, Title 24, C.C.R., is adopted and made part of this title as t hough fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for admin istration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One co py of the Folsom Referenced Standards Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on fi le in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.27 of the Folsom Municipal Code is added to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
14.27.010 Title
This chapter shall be known and cited as the “Folsom Wildland Urban Interface Code”.
14.27.020 Authority having jurisdiction
The chief building official of the city is designat ed to be the authority having jurisdiction of the Folsom Wildland Urban Interface Code. The chie f building official shall administer, enforce, and render interpretations of all the prov isions of the Folsom Wildland Urban Interface Code and other referenced technical codes.
Ordinance No. 1358
14.27.030 Purpose
The purpose of this code is to establish minimum regulations for the safeguarding of life and for property protection. Regulations in this code are intended to mitigate the risk to life and structures from intrusion of fire from wildland fire exposures and fire exposures from adjacent structures and to mitigate structure fires from spr eading to wildland fuels. The extent of this regulation is intended to be tiered commensurate with the relative level of hazard present.
This code shall supplement the City’s building and fire codes to provide for special regulations to mitigate the fire and life safety hazards of the wildland-urban interface areas.
14.27.040 Adoption by reference
The California Wildland Urban Interface Code, 2025 Edition, published as Part 7, Title 24, C.C.R., published by the International Code Council, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom Wildland Urban Interface and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be a vailable for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 14.28.040 of the Folsom Municipal Code is a mended to reference the 2025 California Code of Regulations Title 24 to read:
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2024 Edition, is adopted and made part of this title as though fully set forth herein to provide technical requirements and the procedures for administration and enforcement of the provision s of the Folsom construction codes. One copy of the Folsom Swimming Pool and Spa Code and any amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the community development department and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
SECTION 4 SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or p hrase in this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, inva lid, or ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the va lidity or effectiveness of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Co uncil declares that it would have passed each section irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase be declared unconstitutional, invalid, or ineffective.
SECTION 5 EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) d ays from and after its passage and adoption, provided it is published in full or in summary within twenty (20) days after its adoption in a newspaper of general circulation in the City.
Ordinance No. 1358
This ordinance was introduced and the title thereof read at the regular meeting of the City Council on October 28, 2025, and the second reading occurred at the regular meeting of the City Council on November 12, 2025.
On a motion by Councilmember seconded by Counci lmember , the foregoing ordinance was passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Folsom, State of California, this 12th day of November, 2025, by the following roll-call vote:
AYES: Councilmember(s):
NOES: Councilmember(s):
ABSENT: Councilmember(s):
ABSTAIN: Councilmember(s):
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Sarah Aquino, MAYOR
ATTEST:
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Christa Freemantle, CITY CLERK