replacement or repair in the event that the treatment facility is no longer able to meet performance standards or has deteriorated. Any abatement activity performed on the applicant’s property by City staff will be charged to the applicant at the City’s adopted hourly rate.
c. Label new and redeveloped storm drain inlets with the phrase “No Dumping: Drains to Bay” plaques to alert the public to the destination of storm water and to prevent direct discharge of pollutants into the storm drain. Template ordering information is available at www.flowstobay.org .
d. All process equipment, oils fuels, solvents, coolants, fertilizers, pesticides, and similar chemical products, as well as petroleum-based wastes, tallow, and grease planned for storage outdoors shall be stored in covered containers at all times. e. All public outdoor spaces and trails shall include installation and upkeep of dog waste stations.
Garbage and recycling receptacles and bins shall be designed and maintained with permanent covers to prevent exposure of trash to rain. Trash enclosure drains shall be connected to the sanitary sewer system. (PUBLIC WORKS)
BUILDING DIVISION
105. CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: All conditions of approval shall be included on the first sheet after the cover sheet of the construction drawing submitted for a building permit. 106. PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING: A pre-construction meeting shall be held at a time and location agreed upon by the City and applicant for the purpose of reviewing conditions of approval, pre-occupancy requirements / temporary certificate of occupancy and construction-site procedures. This meeting shall be held prior to the issuance of any permit issued by the building department. The applicant shall be represented by his design and construction staff, which includes any sub-contractors. Departments having conditions of approval for the project will represent the City.
107. TEMPORARY FENCING: Temporary fencing along the perimeter of a building site, during construction is required to ensure security, public safety, and/or noise/dust mitigation. “Temporary” shall mean the placement of fencing in a manner that is not permanently attached to the ground or attached to any other structure or material that is itself permanently attached to the ground. Temporary construction fences consisting of chain-link or plywood, no more that 6-feet in height above the ground and shall not require any permits or special authorization.
Unless letters of permission from adjacent property owners or a City encroachment permit have been obtained, temporary construction fencing shall be placed only on the property that contains the subject construction project. All temporary construction fencing shall be thoroughly removed from the project site upon completion of construction.
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 499 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
108. JOB SITE SIGNAGE: Prior to construction, A 36-inch by 48-inch weatherproof sign shall be posted on the site and located to be clearly readable from the public right-of-way, the sign shall include the following information:
a. Address of the project site.
b. Permitted hours of construction and of deliveries/off-haul. c. Name, e-mail address and direct phone number of the General Contractor. d. Name, e-mail address and direct phone number of the person responsible for managing the project.
e. Name and direct phone number of the party to call in case of an emergency.
City of Gilroy Code Enforcement complaint telephone number (408-846-0264). 109. CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES: The following provisions to control traffic congestion, noise, and dust shall be followed during site excavation, grading and construction:
construction activities shall be limited between the hours of seven am and seven pm Monday through Friday and nine am to seven pm on Saturday.
Construction Activities shall not occur on Sundays or city holidays which include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas.
110. FINAL GRADING AND DRAINAGE PLAN: At the time of building permit plan submittal, the project developer shall submit a final grading and drainage plan prepared by a licensed civil engineer depicting all final grades (with accurate elevations above sea level indicated) and on-site drainage control measures to prevent storm water runoff onto adjoining properties.
111. PAD ELEVATION CERTIFICATION: The applicant and/or developer shall submit a pad elevation certification letter prepared by a licensed land surveyor or registered civil engineer to the Building Official certifying that the pad elevation(s) and building location (setbacks) are pursuant to the approved plans, prior to receiving a foundation inspection for the structure.
112. SITE SURVEY: The applicant shall provide a site survey of entire parcel stamped and signed by a Land Surveyor licensed by the State of California. The survey shall include, but not be limited to, the following: location and dimensions of property line, location of streets and easements, existing buildings, topographic contour lines, trees/landscape, miscellaneous structures, etc. The purpose of the site survey is to accurately verify compliance with items such as setback dimensions, heights of buildings from established contours, compliance with heritage tree ordinance, etc. 113. PERMIT CARD: The stamped, approved, job copy of the plans and permit card shall be located onsite at all times.
114. TITLE 24:The building(s) covered by this approval shall be designed and constructed to
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 500 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
the Title 24 Building Standards, including Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Fire, Green Building and both State and Federal accessibility requirements in effect and as amended by the City of Gilroy at the time of building permit submittal. 115. GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS: The building shall be designed to include the green building measures specified as mandatory in the application checklists contained in the California Green Building Standards Code. The applicant shall incorporate the checklist along with a notation on the checklist to specify where the information can be located on the plans, details, or specifications, etc. All measures will be verified by the Building Inspector at final inspection.
116. GEOTECHNICAL REPORT: The applicant shall provide a stamped, signed, and dated soil investigation report containing design recommendations to the Building Official. The classification shall be based on observation and any necessary tests of materials disclosed by boring or excavations made in appropriate locations. Additional studies may be necessary to evaluate soil strength, the effect of moisture variation on soil-bearing capacity, compressibility, liquefaction, seismically induced soil liquefaction, soil instability, and expansiveness.
Additionally, the applicant shall submit a stamped, signed, and dated letter from the Geotechnical Engineer or Civil Engineer who prepared the soil investigation stating the following:
a. The plans and specifications substantially conform to the recommendations in the soil investigation.
b. The Geotechnical Engineer or Civil Engineer who prepared the soil investigation has been retained to provide soil site observation and provide periodic and final reports to the City of Gilroy.
Prior to final inspection for any building or structure, the Geotechnical Engineer or Civil Engineer who prepared the soil investigation shall issue a final report stating the completed pad, foundation, finish grading and associated site work substantially conform to the approved plans, specifications and investigations.
117. 1. The project developer is responsible for implementing the following BMPs. a) The project developer shall include erosion control/stormwater quality measures on the project grading plan which shall specifically address measures to prevent soil, dirt, and debris from entering the public storm drain system. Such measures may include, but are not limited to, hydroseeding, hay bales, sandbags, and siltation fences and shall be subject to the review and approval of the City Engineer/Building Official. If no grading plan is required, necessary erosion control/stormwater quality measures shall be shown on the site plan submitted for a building permit and shall be subject to the review and approval of the Building Division. The project developer is responsible for ensuring that the contractor is aware of and implements such measures.
b) All cut and fill slopes shall be revegetated and stabilized after completion of
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 501 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
grading, but in no case later than October 15. Hydroseeding shall be accomplished before September 15 and irrigated with a temporary irrigation system to ensure that the vegetated areas are established before October 15. No grading shall occur between October 15 and April 15 unless approved erosion control/stormwater quality measures are in place, subject to the approval of City Engineer/Building Official. Such measures shall be maintained until such time as permanent landscaping is in place.
c) Gather all sorted construction debris on a regular basis and place in the appropriate container for recycling; to be emptied at least on a weekly basis.
When appropriate, use tarps on the ground to collect fallen debris or splatters that could contribute to stormwater runoff pollution.
d) Remove all dirt, gravel, rubbish, refuse, and green waste from the street pavement and storm drains adjoining the site. Limit construction access routes onto the site and place gravel on them. Do not drive vehicles and equipment off paved or graveled areas during wet weather. Broom sweep the street pavement adjoining the project site on a daily basis. Scrape caked on mud and dirt from these areas before sweeping.
e) Install filter materials (such as sandbags, filter fabric, etc.) at the storm drain inlet nearest the downstream side of the project site in order to retain any debris or dirt flowing in the storm drain system. Maintain and/or replace filter materials to ensure effectiveness and to prevent street flooding.
f) Create a contained and covered area on the site for the storage of cement, paints, oils, fertilizers, pesticides, or other materials used on the site that have the potential of being discharged into the storm drain system by being windblown or by being spilled.
g) Never clean machinery, equipment, tools, brushes, or rinse containers into a street, gutter, or storm drain.
h) Ensure that concrete/gunite supply trucks or concrete/plaster operations do not discharge wash water into a street, gutter, or storm drain. i) Concrete wash area:
I. locate wash out area away from storm drains and open ditches II. construct a temporary pit large enough to store the liquid and solid waste III. clean the pit by allowing concrete to set
IV. break up the concrete; and then
V. recycle or dispose of properly
j) The project shall comply with the following:
I. Cleaning all on-site storm drains at least twice a year with one cleaning immediately prior to the rainy season. The City may require additional cleanings.
Sweeping regularly but not less than once a month, driveways, sidewalks and paved areas to minimize the accumulation of litter and debris. Corners and hard to reach areas shall be swept manually. Debris from pressure washing shall be trapped and collected to prevent entry into the storm drain system. Wastewater containing any soap, cleaning agent or
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 502 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
degreaser shall not be discharged into the storm drain. 118. PORTABLE TOILETS: Portable toilets used during construction shall be emptied on a regular basis as necessary to prevent odor. A containment pan is required under all portable toilets.
119. CONSTRUCTION STORAGE: All construction materials, debris and equipment shall be stored on site. If that is not physically possible, an encroachment permit shall be obtained from the Department of Public Works prior to placing any construction materials, debris, debris boxes or unlicensed equipment in the right-of-way. The placing of portable restroom facilities in the City right-of-way will not be permitted. 120. CONSTRUCTION SITE MAINTENANCE: All portions of the job site shall be maintained in an organized and professional condition. All trash, debris, construction scraps and broken/deteriorated machinery shall be removed from the site at the end of each week.
If off loaded construction materials are not used within 2 weeks, they shall be screened from view. All sidewalks, driveways and public/private roadways fronting the subject site shall be broom cleaned at the end of each business day. 121. PLAN MODIFICATIONS: Acceptance of the plans does not release the developer from correction of mistakes, errors, or omissions contained therein. If, during the course of construction, the public interest requires a modification or a departure from these accepted plans, the City shall have the authority to require such modifications or departure and specify the manner in which the same is to be made.
FIRE PREVENTION
122. Fire Department Access – Using Autoturn vehicle pathway tracking software, demonstrate that large vehicles (e.g. fire ladder truck, garbage trucks, school buses) can navigate into, throughout, and out of this development. Show offsite and onsite, ingress, egress, and onsite navigation. Please note that the proposed plans indicate 24 foot wide roads will serve the development. Please review the Engineering Department’s design standards for roadways. Fire Apparatus shall not be required to cross to the opposite side of a street as part of a turn on that street or onto another street. Dead end streets in excess of 150 feet shall be provided with a cul-de-sac of 78’diameter unless they qualify for use of an alternative turn around standard. See the Fire Department approved dead end turn around standards.
123. For roads less than 28 feet in width, no vehicle street parking is allowed. Because of this, the HOA shall develop enforceable conditions such that the garage and driveways shall be available to accommodate all vehicle parking.
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 503 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
124. Gates & Fencing – Gates and fencing were not shown on the plans submitted. There has been some discussion about security for this project. If the project designer decides to install gates and fences, then Fire Prevention and Engineering Department requirements will need to be met.
125. The plan reviewer could only locate one fire hydrant shown on the plans for the proposed 53,946 square feet of new structures. For future plans submitted to the City of Gilroy, show public and private fire hydrants distributed throughout the proposed development in a logical fashion. Fire Hydrants shall be able to flow 1500 gpm with a 20 psi residual pressure. Street Hydrants shall be spaced every 300 ft, and within 150 ft of any building.
Offsite improvement plan shall provide Fire Hydrants per the City Standard. Hydrants shall be installed prior to commencement of construction with combustible materials. 126. All buildings shall be provided with water meters and water laterals sized for the type and size of building being proposed. All buildings shall have a fire sprinkler system using the current and appropriate NFPA standard based on the building type and size. All fire sprinkler systems shall be designed using the hydraulic calculation method. Request a fire hydrant flow test from Deputy Fire Marshal Jonathan Crick by contacting him at [email protected] and/or 408-846-0436.
127. Traffic calming devises shall be prohibited unless approved by the Fire Chief and Fire Marshal.
128. Open Spaces, including storm water detention/retention basins, landscaped and naturally vegetated areas shall have vegetation management to remove dead plants and debris, and to remove, disc or mow weeds during weed abatement season from April to November of each year. In HOA managed areas, the HOA shall be responsible. For privately owned property it shall be performed by the property owner.
VALLEY WATER DISTRICT
The following conditions shall be met prior to the approval of the FINAL MAP or PARCEL MAP, or if another deadline is specified in a condition, at that time. 129. Verify the bearings provided in Sheet 2 of Mid Coast Engineers’ survey map; more specifically, the bearing provided for the southerly property line. This appears to be inconsistent with the bearing provided in Valley Water’s easement deed for the future South County Recycled Water Line. Review the shared property line between the proposed development and Valley Water’s right of way. The Applicant’s response indicating that ALTA was “provided by a licensed surveyor” does not adequately justify the noted inconsistency for the shared property line.
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 504 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
130. Show and label Valley Water’s two easements on the Alta survey and all other plan sheets where there are proposed improvements.
131. Fencing shall be maintained along the property line to prevent people from climbing up onto the existing levee. Show the fence in the cross sections provided on Sheet C1.1; details for the fence should also be provided.
132. Provide details for proposed retaining wall shown on Sheet C1.0. A cross section and detail should be provided to show that the entire retaining wall, including the footing, is within the limits of the subject property.
133. Show existing and proposed grades along the property line to ensure that there are no impacts to the levee, or the drainage pattern next to the levee. 134. Valley Water owns a Temporary Construction Easement (TCE) within portions of APN 799-44-109 and 799-44-110. Please be advised that no construction, grading, or improvements shall take place until such time that the temporary construction easement is extinguished. According to the TCE deeds: “The easement is necessary for the purpose of constructing the South County Recycled Water Pipeline Project and related activities incident to construction. This temporary construction easement shall not be revoked and shall continue in full force and effect until such time the construction of the South County Recycled Water Pipeline Project has been completed at which time the temporary construction shall terminate.”
135. Sheet C1.0 shows a concrete walkway which crosses the length of Valley Water’s water pipeline easement. As per the easement deed, the “easement area shall be kept clear of any type of building, fences, structure, pavement, or trees unless prior written approval is obtained from [Santa Clara Valley Water] District.” Staff would like to reiterate that a Valley Water encroachment permit will need to be issued for the proposed improvements in this area. Issuance of an encroachment permit are subject to the applicant demonstrating the improvements will not adversely impact Valley Water facilities or access for construction, operation, and/or maintenance of its facilities.
136. On Sheet L-1.0, Valley Water recommends the complete removal of the olive trees (Olea europaea) as their seedlings are invasive on creeks. According to the Guidelines and Standards for Land Use Near Streams (G&S), Design Guide 3, Section 1.C.2, Olea europaea is listed as an invasive species that should be avoided. Furthermore, Design Guide 4, Section 1.C, states that invasive, non-native species should not be planted near streams.
137. Sheet L-2.0 of the landscaping plans show Western Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) as one of the proposed tree plantings. Valley Water would like to note that recent studies in Coyote Valley have shown that many Western Sycamores could be a non-local ecotype or
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 505 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
Resolution No. 2022-XX
Architectural and Site Permit AS 21-17; Royal Way Townhomes Project City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
undesirable hybrid species. According to the G&S, Design Guide 2, Sections 1.B and 1.C, plantings that have been “propagated from seeds, cuttings or divisions collected from the same local creek or watershed” should be used.
138. Sheet L-2.0 of the landscaping plans shows proposed plantings within the limits of the TCE and pipeline easement noted in Comment #5 and #6, respectively. Valley Water currently has an ongoing capital project to expand the recycled water line through the subject parcel.
Consequently, the TCE should be kept clear until construction in this area has been completed.
139. Sheet L-2.0 of the landscaping plans currently show a proposed tree planting within Valley Water’s pipeline easement. To avoid potential damage and maximize access to the pipeline, trees should not be planted within the easement area. Plantings within the easement area must be limited to low lying ground cover plants which do not consist of shrubs or trees. A Valley Water approval and permit is required for any proposed improvements within the easement.
140. The lighting plans prepared by AGi32 show trees within Valley Water’s fee title; please clarify if these are existing trees. There should be no proposed trees on Valley Water right of way.
9.3.h
Packet Pg. 506 Attachment: Draft Resolution - AS 21-17 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
9.3.i
Packet Pg. 507 Attachment: Correspondence - Sean Reedy Received 11/15/2022 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
9.3.i
Packet Pg. 508 Attachment: Correspondence - Sean Reedy Received 11/15/2022 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
9.3.i
Packet Pg. 509 Attachment: Correspondence - Sean Reedy Received 11/15/2022 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
9.3.i
Packet Pg. 510 Attachment: Correspondence - Sean Reedy Received 11/15/2022 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
9.3.i
Packet Pg. 511 Attachment: Correspondence - Sean Reedy Received 11/15/2022 (4030 : Royal Way Townhomes)
City of Gilroy
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item Title: Adopt an Ordinance Adopting by Reference the 2022 California Building Codes with Amendments
Meeting Date: November 21, 2022
From: Jimmy Forbis, City Administrator
Department: Community Development Department
Submitted By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director Prepared By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director
Strategic Plan Goals
☐ Develop a Financially
Resilient Organization
☐ Ensure Neighborhood
Equity from City
Services
☐ Promote Economic
Development
Activities
☐ Promote Safe,
Affordable Housing for All
☐ Maintain and Improve
City Infrastructure
RECOMMENDATION
Waive the second reading and adopt an Ordinance amending Sections 6.1, 6.6, and 6.7 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code adopting by reference the 2022 California Building Code, 2022 California Residential Code, 2022 California Electrical Code, 2022 California Mechanical Code, 2022 California Plumbing Code, 2022 California Energy Code, 2022 California Historical Building Code, 2022 California Existing Building Code, 2021 International Property Maintenance Code, and 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, with amendments.
9.4 Packet Pg. 512
BACKGROUND
On November 7, 2022, the City Council introduced an Ordinance adop ting by reference the 2022 California Building Codes with amendments. The City Council set a public hearing on November 21, 2022, for the adoption of the Ordinance, pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.3. Notice of the public hearing was published on November 4 and 11, 2022, pursuant to Government Code Section 6066.
There were no changes to the Ordinance from the first reading.
ANALYSIS
Adoption of the new 2022 codes with local amendments will ensure that buildings and associated facilities and equipment in Gilroy will safeguard the public’s health, safety, and general welfare and provide an increased level of health and safety for Gilroy residents and businesses. Staff recommends that the Council adopt the Ordinance adopting by reference the new codes with amendments. The new codes with any approved local amendments will become effective on January 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT/FUNDING SOURCE
There is no direct cost to the City for adopting the Codes.
Attachments:
1. Draft Ordinance
9.4 Packet Pg. 513
ORDINANCE NO. 2022-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF GILROY AMENDING SECTIONS 6.1, 6.6, AND 6.7 OF
CHAPTER 6 OF THE GILROY MUNICIPAL CODE
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2022 CALIFORNIA
BUILDING CODE, 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
CODE, 2022 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 2022
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2022 CALIFORNIA
PLUMBING CODE, 2022 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE,
2022 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, 2022
CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, 2021
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE,
AND 2021 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND
SPA CODE, WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission has adopted and published an updated Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, also referred to as the 2022 California Building Standards Code, that will become effective statewide on January 1, 2023; 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 building standards than those contained in the California Building Standards Code; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 permit a city to make such local amendments and modifications as the city determines are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 require a city, before making any amendments and modifications to the California Building Standards Code, make an express finding that such amendments and modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, the City of Gilroy has reviewed and intends to adopt the 2022 California Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to amend portions of the California Building Standards Code to better address local conditions and makes express findings that such amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions as set forth in this Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GILROY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
9.4.a
Packet Pg. 514 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4043 : Second Reading - Adopt Building Codes)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION I
The City Council has duly considered the full record before it, which may include but is not limited to the staff report, testimony by staff and the public, and other materials and evidence submitted or provided to the City Council. Furthermore, the recitals set forth above are found to be true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION II
The City Council hereby finds and determines that this Ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Cal. Pub. Res. Code, § 21000 et seq.) (“CEQA”) and the State CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15000 et seq.) and is categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines, § 15061(b)(3), which exempts from CEQA any project 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. Adoption of the proposed Ordinance would not be an activity with potential to cause significant effect on the environment because the changes made to the California Building Standards Code within are enacted to mitigate the threats posed to public peace, health and safety from earthquakes, storms, floods, high winds and fire, and therefore is exempt from CEQA. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance in question may have a significant effect on the environment; accordingly, the Ordinance is categorically exempt from CEQA.
SECTION III
Section 6.1 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced with the text below to read as follows:
6.1 Construction codes adopted.
For the purpose of setting forth proper regulations for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare, regulating the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, conversion, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area and maintenance of buildings and structures in the city, providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor and provisions for the violation thereof, the following construction codes are adopted, as amended, to apply in the City of Gilroy:
(a) 2022 California Building Code;
(b) 2022 California Residential Code;
(c) 2022 California Electrical Code;
(d) 2022 California Mechanical Code;
(e) 2022 California Plumbing Code;
(f) 2022 California Energy Code;
(g) 2022 California Historical Building Code;
9.4.a
Packet Pg. 515 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4043 : Second Reading - Adopt Building Codes)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
(h) 2022 California Existing Building Code;
(i) 2021 International Property Maintenance Code;
(j) 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code;
(k) 2022 California Green Building Standards Code;
(l) 2022 California Fire Code.
SECTION IV
Section 6.6 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced with the text below to read as follows:
6.6 Adoption.
1. This article shall be known and cited as the Gilroy Building Safety Code.
2. The following Codes are hereby adopted by reference for the City of Gilroy:
(a) The 2022 California Building Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 2 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendix J. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(a). The 2022 California Building Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Building Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
(b) The 2022 California Residential Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 2.5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein.
The adoption includes Appendix K. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(b).
The 2022 California Residential Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Residential Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public. (c) The 2022 California Electrical Code, published by the National Fire Protection Agency and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Annexes A, B, C, D, and F. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(c). The 2022 California Electrical Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Electrical Code” for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
9.4.a
Packet Pg. 516 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4043 : Second Reading - Adopt Building Codes)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
(d) The 2022 California Mechanical Code, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 4 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(d). The 2022 California Mechanical Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Mechanical Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
(e) The 2022 California Plumbing Code, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendices A, B, C, D, I, and M.
Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(e). The 2022 California Plumbing Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Plumbing Code” for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
(f) The 2022 California Energy Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 6 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendices 1-A and 1-B. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section
6.7(f). The 2022 California Energy Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Energy Code” for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public. (g) The 2022 California Historical Building Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 8 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(g). The 2022 California Historical Building Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Historical Building Code” for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public. (h) The 2022 California Existing Building Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 10 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendices A1, A2, A3, and A5. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(h). The 2022 California Existing Building Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Existing Building Code” for the City of Gilroy. There
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is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
(i) The 2021 International Property Maintenance Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc., is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendix A. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(i). The 2021 International Property Maintenance Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Property Maintenance Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public. (j) The 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc., is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein.
Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(j). The 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Swimming Pool and Spa Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
SECTION V
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958. 7 and 18941.5, the City Council hereby finds that the amendments are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological or topographical conditions as set forth below.
1. Many of the modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of the following climatic conditions.
(a) The region is within a climate zone that requires compliance with energy efficiency standards for building construction. The amendment adds design flexibility that will add to energy efficiency in construction while maintaining nationally recognized health and safety standards. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Climatic I.”
(b) The region is within a national climate zone that is designated “Very High” on the Termite Infestation Probability Map. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Climatic II.”
2. Many of the modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of the following geological conditions.
(a) The region is located in an area of high seismic activities as indicated by United States Geological Survey and California Division of Mines and Geology. Recent earthquake activities have indicated the lack of adequate design and detailing as a contributing factor to damages that reduced the protection of the life-safety of building occupants. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Geological I.”
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(b) The region is located in an area of high seismic activities as indicated by United States Geological Survey and California Division of Mines and Geology. Recent earthquake activities have indicated the lack of flexibility of materials and/or building systems as a contributing factor to damages that reduced the protection of the life-safety of building occupants and increased the cost of rehabilitation of structures. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Geological II.”
3. Many of the modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of the following topographical conditions.
(a) Portions of the City are in hillside areas that are hazardous fire areas that have only limited fire suppression forces and facilities available for the protection of life and property. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Topographical I” (b) Portions of the City are in hillside areas with extensive hillside construction that is prone to erosion. This reason is hereinafter referred to as “Topographical II”.
4. Some of the modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of other climatic, geological or topographical conditions.
SECTION VI
Section 6.7 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced with the text below to read as follows:
6.7 Amendments.
(a) Amendments to the Building Code
(1) Amend Section 1.8.4.2 to read as follows:
1.8.4.2 Fees. Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the adopted City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
Reason for amendment: The City adopts the Comprehensive Fee Schedule annually. All Building and development fees shall be assessed in accordance with the most current and adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
(2) Amend Section 105.7 to read as follows:
105.7 Placement of Permit. The building permit, along with all plans and documentation approved by the building official, shall be kept on the site of the work until final approval has been granted by the building official.
Reason for amendment: Clarifies that the approved plans and documentations are at the job site for the inspector and contractor to follow.
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(3) Amend Section 109.2 to read as follows:
109.2 Schedule of permit fees. On buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical and plumbing systems or alternations requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required by the adopted current adopted City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
Reason for amendment: The City Council reviews and adopts the City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule. All Building and development fees shall be assessed in accordance with the most current and adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule. (4) Amend Section 109.4 to read as follows:
109.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, the fee for necessary permits shall be double the fee established by the current City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule approved by the city council.
Reason for amendment: The City Council reviews and adopts the City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule. All Building and development fees shall be assessed in accordance with the most current and adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule. Doubling the permit fee is a standard procedure from prior practice and adopted codes. (5) Add Section 109.7 to read as follows:
109.7 Plan review fees. When a plan review requires a plan checking fee, the fee shall be paid at the time of submitting plans, calculation and specifications for checking. When submittal documents are incomplete or changed so as to require additional plan review or when the project involves deferred submittal items an additional plan review fee may be charged as deemed necessary by the building official at an hourly rate established in the City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule adopted by the city council.
Reason for amendment: Provides clarification of when plan review fees are paid and maintains consistency with prior adopted code cycles that additional fees may be charged as deemed necessary by the Building Official at an hourly rate as established in the most current and adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
(6) Add Section 110.7 to read as follows:
110.7 Inspection Record Card. Work requiring a permit shall not be commenced until the permit holder or an agent of the permit holder has posted or otherwise made available the inspection record card issued by the building official such as to allow the building official to conveniently make the required entries thereon regarding
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inspection of the work. This card shall be maintained and available by the permit holder until final approval has been granted by the building official.
Reason for amendment: The building official amends and adds this new section to require that the inspection card be available at the job site. The inspection card contains inspection description and building inspector signoff information to allow the inspector to follow through on each permit.
(7) Amend Section 402.5 as follows:
Delete exception.
Reason for amendment: Geological I and II
(8) Amend Section 403.3 as follows:
Delete exception.
Reason for amendment: Geological I and II
(9) Amend Section 404.3 as follows:
Delete all exceptions.
Reason for amendment: Geological I and II
(10) Amend Section 410.6 as follows:
Delete all exceptions.
Reason for amendment: Geological I and II
(11) Amend Section 903.2 to read as follows:
903.2 Where Required. Approved Automatic sprinkler system in new and existing buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations as set forth in the Gilroy Fire Code and the California Fire Code. If any conflicts occur between the California Building Code and the Gilroy Fire Code, the Gilroy Fire Code shall prevail.
Reason for amendment: Amending the Code to explicitly express that if any conflicts occur between the California Building Code and the Gilroy Fire Code, the Gilroy Fire Code shall prevail.
(12) Amend Section 1505.1.3 to read as follows:
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1505.1.3 Roofing requirements in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
Roofing requirements for structures located in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall comply with Section 705A. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class A.
Reason for amendment: Amending the Code to require that the roof covering for structures in the hillside area is a minimum Class A, and this is necessary due to the climatic conditions of the area. The hillside area has a long history of high winds, with an associated higher risk of accelerated and more significant structure damage and higher potential for related casualties.
(13) Add Section 1505.1.4 to read as follows:
1505.1.4 Roofing. Class A roof covering shall be required for all Hillside Construction.
Reason for amendment: Amending the Code to require that the roof covering for structures in the hillside area is a minimum Class A, and this is necessary due to the climatic conditions of the area. The hillside area has a long history of high winds, with an associated higher risk of accelerated and more significant structure damage and higher potential for related casualties.
(14) Amend Section 1705.3 Exception 1 to read as follows:
1. Isolated spread concrete footings of buildings three stories or less above grade plane that are fully supported on earth or rock, where the structural design of the footing is based upon a specified compressive strength, f’c , no greater than 2,500 pounds per square inch (psi) (17.2 MPa).
Reason for amendment: Amending the Code to require special inspection for isolated spread concrete footings of buildings of three stories or less where the structural design of the footing is based upon a specified compressive strength of concrete greater than 2,500 psi, and this is necessary due to expansive (clay) soils and seismic activity common to this geological area.
(15) Amend Section 1808.1 by adding the following to the end of the section to read as follows:
All new foundations for building additions to R-3 occupancies shall be of the same type of foundation system as the existing structure, unless the foundation system is designed, and plans, calculations, and specifications are prepared, stamped and signed, by a California licensed engineer or architect.
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Reason for amendment: Amending the Code to require all new foundations for building additions to R-3 occupancies shall be of the same type of foundation system as the existing structure, unless the foundation system is designed, and plans, calculations, and specifications are prepared, stamped and signed, by a California licensed engineer or architect, and this is necessary due to expansive (clay) soils and seismic activity common to this geological area.
(16) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix J - Grading
(17) Add subsections to Section J110 Erosion Control to read as follows:
J110.3 Erosion Control.
a. The applicant shall submit an Interim Erosion and Sediment Control Plan. This can be incorporated on the Grading Plan and shall include the following information:
1. Maximum surface runoff from the site as calculated using the method approved by the Building Official.
2. A delineation and brief description of the surface runoff and erosion control measures to be implemented including, but not limited to, types and methods of applying mulches to be used.
3. A delineation and brief description of vegetative measures to be taken, including but not limited to, seeding methods, the type, location and extent of existing and undisturbed vegetation types, and a schedule for maintenance and upkeep.
b. No improvements planned. Where an applicant does not plan to construct permanent improvements on the site, or plans to leave portions of the site graded but unimproved, applicant must:
1. Submit an Interim Plan designed to control runoff and erosion on the site for the period of time during which the site, or portions thereof, remain unimproved.
2. Submit a request for release after the completion of grading. c. Work Schedule. The applicant must submit a master work schedule showing the following information:
1. Proposed grading schedule.
2. Proposed conditions of the site on each July 15, August 15, September 15, and October 15 during which the permit is in effect.
3. Proposed schedule for installation of all interim erosion and sediment control measures including, but not limited to, the stage of completion of erosion
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control devices and vegetative measures on each of the dates set forth in Subsection (2).
4. Schedule for construction of final improvements, if any.
5. Schedule for installation of permanent erosion and sediment devices where required.
d. Season Work (October 15 to April 15).
1. For commencement of the grading during the wet season, applicant must provide special documentation, as required by Building Official, showing the reasons other than financial, for the need to commence at that time.
2. For continuation of activities, other than installation, maintenance or repair of measures in the interim or final plans, during the wet season, permittee must apply for and receive in writing from the Building Official, every five (5) working days, special permission to proceed.
3. The Building Official shall grant permission under this subsection on the basis of weather forecasts, experience and other pertinent factors, which indicate the activity, may occur without excessive erosion occurring.
J110.4 Dust and Mud Control Measures. Contractors performing grading operations within the City where dry conditions or wet conditions are encountered shall adequately and effectively control dust or mud from spreading off site or onto existing structures on site. Prior to commencement of grading operations, contractor shall furnish details of proposed dust or mud control measures to the Building Official for approval. Failure to control dust or mud from grading operations shall result in suspension of grading operations until adequate measures are in place to allow continuance.
J110.5 Archeological Discovery. If in the course of any grading operation, any artifacts, human remains, or substantial fossils are discovered, all grading operations shall cease, and the discovery site shall be suitably marked and protected from further damage. A report of such findings shall be as outlined in the Zoning Ordinance.
Specifically, if human remains are discovered, the Sheriff-Coroner and the Building Official shall be notified. If no human remains are discovered, but artifacts or significant fossils are discovered, the Building Official shall be notified.
J110.6 Administration and Enforcement.
J110.6.1 Work Stoppage. Whenever the Building Official determines that the work does not comply with the terms of the permit or of this Ordinance Section, they may order the immediate cessation of all work hereunder until such corrective measures have been completed.
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J110.6.2 Right of Entry. Whenever the Building Official or designated subordinate(s) have reasonable or probable cause to believe that there exists accelerated erosion and/or a violation of this Ordinance Section, they may enter such site at all reasonable times to inspect the same, to perform any duty imposed upon them by this Ordinance Section; providing that if such premises are occupied, they shall first present proper credentials and request entry, and if the premises are found to be unoccupied, they shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of said premises and request entry. If such entry is refused or the owner or person having charge or control cannot be located after reasonable effort, the Building Official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry and abate the erosion or violation.
J110.6.3 Notification of Violation. Any person found to be in violation of the provisions of this Ordinance Section shall be required to correct the problem upon written notification from the Building Official or designated subordinate(s). Such written notification may require that certain conditions be adhered to in the correction of the problem. These may include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Use of specific erosion control techniques
b. Submittal of plans and specifications to be approved by the Community Development Department, and any other department affected by such work, prior to the commencement of corrective work.
c. Completion of corrective work within a specified time period.
J110.6.4 Abatement of Violation. If the responsible party fails to act in response to written notification of the Building Official, the violation may be declared a public nuisance and be abated as required to restore the site to its original condition. Where there is an emergency condition of erosion or sediment damaging a waterway, marsh, or other body of water, or significant habitat or archeological site, the Building Official may have the necessary corrective work done and bill the property owner or lien the property for repayment.
J110.6.5 Penalties.
a) Any person, whether as principal, agent, employee or otherwise, or firm or corporation violating, or causing or permitting the violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance Section shall be subject to citations and penalties set forth in the Gilroy Municipal Code, Section 1.7, Section 6.16 and Chapter 6A.
b) Each separate day or portion thereof during which any violation occurs or continues without a good faith effort by the responsible person to correct the violation, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.
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c) In addition to the above noted penalties, the Building Official is hereby authorized to attach an investigation fee up to twice the grading permit fee, to any such permit issued for corrective action.
J110.6.6 Enforcement. The Building Official and or their designated subordinate(s) is hereby authorized and directed to enforce all the provisions of this Ordinance Section. For such purpose, the Building Official shall have the powers of a law enforcement officer.
J110.6.7 Appeals. Any person who believes the Building Official has erred in the technical application of this Ordinance Section may appeal such action to the Building Board of Appeals.
Reason for amendment: Geological II.
(b) Amendments to the Residential Code
(1) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix K – Sound Transmission
(c) Amendments to the Electrical Code
(1) Amend Section 230.2 by adding subsection (F) to read as follows:
230.2(F). Underground Service. All new electrical services shall be underground and installed per Section 230.30, Underground Service-Lateral Conductors. In existing commercial and industrial areas, existing overhead utilities shall be placed underground in connection with new development. In existing residential areas of the city in which development has occurred with overhead utilities in or along the frontage of properties, existing utilities shall be placed underground in connection with the development or redevelopment of property consisting of four (4) or more dwelling units.
Reason for amendment: Section is amended to require undergrounding for new electrical services. Section is also amended to remain consistent with the Gilroy Municipal code Chapter 21 Section 21.114 titled Undergrounding required with new streets and development. Many buildings in Gilroy are located in high wind areas. Due to this local climatic condition, amending the Code to provide for elimination of overhead services that are inherently less safe in the event of windstorms will provide a higher level of safety.
(2) Amend Section 230.70(A) by adding subsection (4) to read as follows:
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(4) Main Service Disconnect Location. The building main service disconnect and/or disconnects shall be installed on the first-floor level of the building, in accordance with 230.70(A)(l), (A)(2), and (A)(3).
Reason for amendment: Quick access to the buildings main service disconnect is critical for emergency services. This amendment provides a quicker means of finding the location of the main power disconnects to buildings in the event of seismic events and other emergencies. This critical as Gilroy is located in an area of high seismic activities.
(3) Amend Section 250.50 by adding subsection (A) to read as follows:
Main 250.50(A). Grounding System in New Buildings. Grounding electrode systems in all new buildings shall be an electrode encased by at least 50 mm (two inches) of concrete, located horizontally near the bottom or vertically, and within that portion of a concrete foundation or footing that is in direct contact with earth. The electrode shall consist of at least 6.0 m (20 feet) of one or more steel reinforcing bars or rods, of not less than 13 mm (½ inch) diameter or consisting of at least 6.0 m (20 feet) of bare copper conductor not smaller than 4 AWG. The connection side of this concrete-encased electrode shall be located remotely away from the main electrical service equipment.
Reason for amendment: Amending the Code allows significantly higher assurances that the grounding of the building electrical system will not deteriorate and fail due to the properties of local soils. Other types of grounding, such as rods, maybe subject to deterioration in local soils, whereas an encased electrode will not be in contact with the soils.
Providing a concrete-encased electrode enhances the capability of keeping electrical systems grounded, which is important for electrical services in the City of Gilroy. (4) Adopt the following Annex:
Annex A – Product Safety Standards
Annex B – Application Information for Ampacity Calculation Annex C – Conduit, Tubing, and Cable Tray Fill Tables for Conductors and Fixture Wires of the Same Size
Annex D – Examples
Annex F – Availability for Critical Operations Power Systems; and Development and Implementation of Functional Performance Tests (FPTs) for Critical Operations Power Systems
(d) Amendments to the Mechanical Code
(1) Adopt no amendments.
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(e) Amendments to the Plumbing Code
(1) Amend Section 604.3 to read as follows:
604.3 Copper or Copper Alloy Tube. Copper or copper alloy tube for potable water piping shall have a weight of not less than type “L”.
Reason for amendment: Most of the surface soils in the Santa Clara Valley is relatively young and unconsolidated sedimentary materials formed from a wide variety of parent materials. The varying chemical composition, degree of weathering, and the relatively acid environment have created soils of varying types, which are particularly corrosive in nature.
(2) Add Section 719.1.1 to read as follows:
719.1.1 Clean-outs shall be installed on private property adjacent to property line where the private sewer system connects to the public sanitary sewer lateral. All such line clean-outs shall be extended to grade with materials according to specifications approved by the Administrative Authority and terminate within a listed and labeled box.
Exception: If the lateral does not exceed 12 ft. from the back of sidewalk to the building drain clean-out, the run must be substantially straight.
Reason for amendment: This amendment is to comply with City of Gilroy sewer standard SWR-5B.
(3) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix A – Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System Appendix B – Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste and Vent Systems Appendix C – Alternate Plumbing Systems
Appendix D – Sizing Storm Water Drainage Systems
Appendix I – Installation Standards
Appendix M – Peak Water Demand Calculator
(f) Amendments to the Energy Code
(1) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix 1-A – Standards and Documents Referenced in the Energy Code Appendix 1-B – Energy Commission Documents Incorporated by Reference in Their Entirety
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(g) Amendments to the Historical Building Code
(1) Adopt no amendments.
(h) Amendments to the Existing Building Code
(1) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix A1 – Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings
Appendix A2 – Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced Masonry Wall Buildings with Flexible Diaphragms Appendix A3 – Prescriptive Provisions for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light, Wood-Frame Residential Buildings Appendix A5 – Referenced Standards
(i) Amendments to the Property Maintenance Code
(1) The codes, standards, and references in this code shall be revised as follows:
Delete the following references Insert the following references • International Building Code
• International Mechanical Code
• National Electrical Code
• International Fire Code
• International Plumbing Code
• International Existing Building Code
• International Residential Code
• International Energy Conservation Code
• International Green Construction Code
• International Zoning Code
• International Fuel Gas Code
• Name of Jurisdiction
• Jurisdiction to insert appropriate schedule
• Board of appeals
• 2022 California Building Code
• 2022 California Mechanical Code
• 2022 California Electrical Code
• 2022 California Fire Code
• 2022 California Plumbing Code
• 2022 California Existing Building Code
• 2022 California Residential Code
• 2022 California Energy Code
• 2022 California Green Building Standards Code
• City of Gilroy Zoning Ordinance
• No reference
• City of Gilroy
• City of Gilroy Comprehensive Fee Schedule
• Hearing Officer
(2) Amend Section 102.4 to read as follows:
102.4 Existing remedies. The provisions in this code shall not be construed to abolish or impair existing remedies of the jurisdiction or its officers or agencies relating to the correction of any code violation or the removal or demolition of any structure that is dangerous, unsafe, or insanitary.
Reason for amendment: To be consistent with Municipal Code Section 5B.9.
(3) Amend Section 105.3 by adding the following to the end of the section to read as follows:
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Any and all costs incurred by the city in connection with securing lawful entry to a structure or premise including but not limited to, costs of investigation, staffing costs incurred in the preparation of warrants, and all subsequent costs necessary to enforce compliance with the provisions of this Code may be recovered including late payment charges and costs of collection by use of any and all available legal means.
Reason for amendment: To clarify the process of cost recovery where the Right of Entry for inspection of a premise or structure is refused.
(4) Amend Section 107.1 to read as follows:
107.1 Application for appeal. Any person directly affected by a decision of the code official or a notice or order issued under this code shall have the right to appeal to the hearing officer, provided that a written application for appeal is filed within 20 days after the day the decision, notice or order was served. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or the requirements of this code are adequately satisfied by other means.
Reason for amendment: Gilroy Municipal Code Chapter 6A has already established an appeal process through the Administrative Hearing Officer.
(5) Delete Section 107.2 Limitations of authority through Section 108.1 Membership of board.
Reason for amendment: Gilroy Municipal Code Chapter 6A has already established an appeal process through the Administrative Hearing Officer.
(6) Amend Section 109.1 to read as follows:
109.1 Unlawful acts. It is hereby declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish, equip, use, occupy or maintain any premise, building, structure or building service equipment, or cause or permit the same to be done in violation of this code or the technical codes.
Reason for amendment: To agree with 2022 California Building Code Sec. 114.1
(7) Amend Section 109.5 by adding the following to the end of the section to read as follows:
Procedures used and actions taken to correct or abate violations are not limited by this code. Procedures used and actions taken under this code may be utilized in conjunction with or in addition to any other procedure applicable to the regulation of buildings or structures or property.
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Reason for amendment: To be consistent with Municipal Code Section 5B.9.
(8) Amend Section 111.1 to read as follows:
111.1 Unsafe conditions. When a structure or equipment is found by the code official to be unsafe, or when a structure is found unfit for human occupancy, or is found unlawful, such structure shall be posted in accordance with this section and declared to be a public nuisance and the violations shall be abated by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or removal pursuant to the provisions of this code.
Reason for amendment: The section focused on condemnation only. It has been revised to more closely follow the language from Section 202 of the 1997 Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code.
(9) Amend Section 111.1.4 to read as follows:
111.1.4 Unlawful structure. An unlawful structure is one found in whole or in part to be occupied by more persons than permitted under this code, or was erected, altered, occupied or maintained contrary to law; or one that is partially constructed, reconstructed or demolished upon which work is abandoned. Work is deemed abandoned when there is no valid building or demolition permit.
Reason for amendment: Incorporated portions of 1997 Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code Section 302 (18).
(10) Amend Section 111.1.5 by adding the following paragraph to the end of the Section:
12. Whenever exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not fall inside the middle one third of the base.
Reason for amendment: Section 302 (10) of the 1997 Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code clearly establishes this method to determine when a building or its structural elements are excessively and/or dangerously leaning.
(11) Amend Section 111.2 by deleting the words “of condemnation”:
Reason for amendment: The section referenced posting the structure for condemnation only; however, we post several different types of placards.
(12) Amend Section 111.5 to read as follows:
111.5 Unauthorized tampering. Placards, notices, signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the code official shall not be mutilated, destroyed, tampered with, or
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Building Code Adoption
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removed without authorization from the code official. Any person violating this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Reason for amendment: To include the terms “Notices” and “Placards” referenced in 2021 IPMC 111.4 & 111.7 and comply with 1997 Uniform Housing Code Sec. 1104.2 and 1997 Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code Section 404.1.
(13) Amend Section 111.7 to read as follows:
111.7 Placarding. When the code official determines a structure, equipment or premise has been erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, damaged, converted or demolished, equipped, used, occupied or maintained in violation of this code or the technical codes and the structure, equipment or premise constitutes a danger to the life, limb, property or safety of the public or the occupants, the code official shall post a placard on the structure, equipment or premise in a conspicuous place in or about the affected structure, equipment or premise. The placard shall clearly state the code official’s Order regarding the structure, equipment, or premise, and specify the conditions which necessitated the posting.
Reason for amendment: The section focused on posting structures or equipment for condemnation only; however, we use several different types of postings.
(14) Amend Section 111.7.1 to read as follows:
111.7.1 Placard removal. The code official shall remove the placard whenever the defect or defects upon which the placarding action was based has been eliminated.
Any person who defaces or removes a placard without the approval of the code official shall be subject to the penalties provided by this code.
Reason for amendment: The section focused on posting structures or equipment for condemnation only; however, we use several different types of placards/postings.
(15) Amend Section 111.8 to read as follows:
111.8 Prohibited occupancy. It shall be unlawful for any person, owner, owner’s authorized agent or person responsible for the premise to occupy or allow to be occupied a placarded structure or premise or operate placarded equipment in violation of the code officials posted order.
Reason for amendment: The section focused on posting structures or equipment for condemnation only; however, we use several different types of posting.
(16) Add Section 111.10 to read as follows:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
111.10 Recordation of Notices and Orders. If compliance with the order is not achieved within the time specified therein, and no appeal has been properly and timely filed, the code official is authorized to file in the office of the county recorder a certificate describing the property, and that the premise, building, structure or building service equipment is in violation of this code or the technical codes or other regulation applicable to buildings or structures or property.
Whenever the ordered corrections have been completed and the violations no longer exist on the property described in the certificate, and when all fines, fees, penalties, and incurred costs associated with the property have been satisfied, the code official shall issue a new certificate certifying that all required corrections have been made.
Reason for amendment: To comply with the recordation guidelines in the 1997 Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code Section 402.
(17) Amend Section 202 definition for Dwelling Unit to read as follows:
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit, whether part of a multiple unit complex, or a detached individual residential dwelling, that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation. “Recreational vehicles” as defined by Gilroy Zoning Ordinance Section 30.2.20 shall not be used or classified as Dwelling Units and must at all times be stored with pop-outs closed and utilities disconnected in compliance with Gilroy Zoning Ordinance Section 30.33, unless they are located in an approved mobile home park or RV park.
Reason for amendment: To clarify that recreational vehicles are not dwelling units for the purposes of this code.
(18) Amend Section 202 definition for Garbage to read as follows:
GARBAGE. Garbage shall be defined pursuant to Gilroy Municipal Code Section
12.1. Reason for amendment: Gilroy Municipal Code Section 12.1 has already defined this term.
(19) Amend Section 202 definition for Inoperable Motor Vehicle to read as follows:
INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLE. A vehicle which cannot be driven upon the public streets for reasons including but not limited to being unlicensed, wrecked, abandoned, in a state of disrepair, incapable of being moved under its own power or is prohibited from being operated on a public street or highway for any reason pursuant to the provisions of the California Vehicle Code.
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Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: To include the intent of Gilroy Municipal Code Sec. 5C.8(b) and Sec. 15.111.
(20) Amend Section 202 definition for Rubbish to read as follows:
RUBBISH. Rubbish shall be defined pursuant to Gilroy Municipal Code Section
12.1. Reason for amendment: Gilroy Municipal Code Section 12.1 has already defined this term.
(21) Amend Section 301.3 by adding the following paragraph to the end:
The storage of any motor vehicle, special mobile equipment, truck, boat, travel trailer, aircraft, camper, mobile home, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, appliance, furniture or the storage or accumulation of garbage, refuse or rubbish as defined by Gilroy Municipal Code Chapter 12 or the storage of any boxes or similar storage containers, household items or residential belonging or similar objects, materials of any kind or the storage or placement of any building or structure including permit exempt storage buildings or structures, on any vacant parcel without approval of the City of Gilroy is prohibited.
Reason for amendment: To clarify uses and activities that are not allowed on vacant parcels.
(22) Amend Section 302.1 to read as follows:
302.1 Sanitation. Exterior property areas and premises shall be maintained by the property owner in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition. In residential zones, accumulations of building materials, junk, rubbish, garbage, debris, scrap materials, boxes or similar storage containers, household items or residential belonging or similar objects, except items designed for exterior use such as lawn furniture, shall not be stored or maintained in the front yard area or unenclosed patios, porches, carports, or areas visible from any street or public way or accessible to the public for a period of time in excess of seventy-two consecutive hours. Property owners shall remain liable for violations thereof regardless of any contract or agreement with any third party regarding such property. The owner of any building lot or premises within the City where a business, trade or profession has established a fixed place of business pursuant to Gilroy Municipal Code Section 13.1(b) shall also comply with the requirements of Municipal Code Section 5B.2(d)(1).
Reason for amendment: The property owner is always held responsible for the proper maintenance of their property.
(23) Amend Section 302.2 by adding the following sentence at the end of the section:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Excess or concentrated drainage shall be contained on site or directed to the nearest practicable drainage facility approved by the code official.
Reason for amendment: To comply with 2022 California Building Code Section J109.4.
(24) Amend Section 302.3 by adding the following paragraph at the end:
The owner of any building, lot or premises within the city shall maintain the sidewalks and/or walkways located upon such premises that are accessible to the general public and the public sidewalks between such premises and any adjacent public street or alley in a clean, safe and sanitary condition. Maintenance shall include the removal and proper disposal, by methods approved by the City of Gilroy, of any dangerous, unsightly and unsanitary conditions such as accumulations of garbage, refuse, rubbish, litter, dirt, gum or other substances or items, which have been placed, dropped or spilled upon the sidewalks. Where said unsightly or unsanitary conditions have been created or caused by the owner of such building, lot or premises, whether upon the sidewalks and/or walkways located upon his premises or the public sidewalks between such premises and any adjacent public street or alley, or the sidewalks adjacent to buildings, lots or premises in the vicinity, the owner shall immediately restore the sidewalks and/or walkways to a clean, safe and sanitary condition.
Reason for amendment: This amendment clarifies the specific exterior property area requirements referenced by Section 302.1 Sanitation.
(25) Amend Section 302.4 to read as follows:
302.4 Weeds. No owner, agent, lessee or occupant or other person having charge or control of any building, lot or premises within the city shall permit excess weeds or vegetation to remain or accumulate upon such premises or upon public sidewalks or streets or alleys between such premises and the centerline of any public street or alley. Where overgrown weeds, vegetation, shrubbery, vines or trees, create an encroachment, harborage or shelter; the code official shall require the property owner to trim, cut, destroy or remove the overgrowth, and/or raise the vegetation canopy to a height of seven feet above the ground. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined per Municipal Code Section 12.45.
Upon failure of the owner or agent having charge of a property to cut and destroy excess weeds or vegetation after service of a notice of violation, they shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with Section 109.3 and as prescribed by the City of Gilroy. Upon failure to comply with the notice of violation, any duly authorized employee of the City or contractor hired by the City shall be authorized to enter upon the property in violation and cut and destroy the weeds or excess
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
vegetation growing thereon, and the costs of such removal shall be paid by the owner or agent responsible for the property.
Reason for amendment: This section is revised to comply with Municipal Code Section
12.45 and 12.46.
(26) Amend Section 302.8, Exception to read as follows:
Exception: An owner, lessee, or occupant of the property may repair, wash, clean, or service personal property, provided they comply with Gilroy Zoning Ordinance and Municipal Codes requirements.
Reason for amendment: This section is revised to comply with Zoning Ordinance and Municipal Code requirements.
(27) Amend Section 303.2 to read as follows:
303.2 Enclosures. Private swimming pools, hot tubs, spas and ponds containing water more than 18 inches in depth shall be completely enclosed by a fence, wall or other barrier not less than 60 inches in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be self-closing and self-latching. Where the self-latching device is less than 54 inches above the bottom of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate. Self-closing and self-latching gates shall be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of 6 inches from the gatepost. The vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure shall be a maximum of two inches (2”). The maximum vertical clearance at the bottom of the barrier may be increased to four inches (4”) when the grade is a solid surface such as a concrete deck. On wood fences with horizontal members spaced less than forty-five inches (45”) apart, the horizontal members shall be placed on the poolside of the barrier. The outside surface of the enclosure shall be free of protrusions, cavities, or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five years to climb over. Existing pool enclosures shall not be removed, replaced, or changed in a manner that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier.
Exception: Spas or hot tubs with a safety cover that complies with ASTM F1346 shall be exempt from the provisions of this section.
Reason for amendment: To comply with Gilroy Residential Swimming Pool & Spa Guidelines, and California Health and Safety Code Swimming Pool Safety Act, Section 115920-115929.
(28) Delete Section 304.3 Premises identification.
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Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: Gilroy Municipal Code Section 6.24(b)(1) has already established a standard for premises identification.
(29) Amend Section 304.7 to read as follows:
304.7 Roofs and drainage. The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight, and not have defects that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Damaged or deteriorated roofs and flashing shall be repaired as expeditiously as possible. When emergency temporary roof repairs require the installation of tarps or plastic sheeting to prevent leaks, the temporary repairs shall not extend beyond one month, unless approved by the Code Official. Such temporary repairs must have all edges of the material fastened and restrained with sufficient tension to prevent movement or flapping in the wind. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. Roof water shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.
Reason for amendment: To address California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)(14) improper.
(30) Amend Section 304.14 first sentence by deleting the words: “During the period from [DATE] to [DATE],”
Reason for amendment: Insect screens are always required to be in working conditions.
(31) Amend Section 304.15 to read as follows:
304.15 Doors. Exterior doors, door assemblies, including weather stripping, thresholds, closers and operator systems if provided, and hardware shall be maintained in good condition. Locks at all entrances to dwelling units and sleeping units shall tightly secure the door. Locks on means of egress doors shall be in accordance with Section 702.3.
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
(32) Amend Section 304.16 to read as follows:
304.16 Under-Floor areas. Under-floor access doors, hatchways and ventilation openings shall be maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, rain, and surface drainage water. Doors shall be tight fitting and ventilation openings shall be properly screened with corrosion-resistant wire mesh having openings not exceeding ¼ inch in any dimension or alternate approved materials pursuant to 2021 California Building Code Section 1203.
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Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
(33) Amend Section 304.18.2 to read as follows:
304.18.2 Windows. Operable windows that provide access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let shall be equipped with a window sash locking device when they are located in whole or in part within 12 feet above ground level or walking surface or 6 feet horizontally from the ground, a roof, or any other platform.
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Civil Code Section 1941.3(a)2
(34) Amend Section 305.1, first sentence, to read as follows:
305.1 General The interior of a structure and equipment therein including but not limited to cabinets, counters and hardware shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound and in a sanitary condition.
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)14.
(35) Amend Section 305.6 to read as follows:
305.6 Interior Doors. Every interior door, frame and hardware shall be properly installed and maintained in a workmanlike manner and capable of being opened, closed, and latched. Every interior door shall fit reasonably well within its frame and shall be securely attached to the jambs, headers or tracks as intended by the manufacturer of the attachment hardware.
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)14.
(36) Amend Section 308.3.1 to read as follows:
308.3.1 Garbage facilities. The owner of every dwelling unit or the proprietor, manager, owner or lessee of any hotel, restaurant, boardinghouse, rooming house or other place of business in the city shall be responsible for providing approved leak-proof, covered, outside garbage receptacles for each dwelling unit or place of business pursuant to Gilroy Municipal Code Section 12.18. Receptacles and storage areas shall be at all times kept in a sanitary condition. Receptacles shall be placed for collection in the alley behind the premises, or if there is no alley access, then on the front curb in front of the premises being served, or such other place as may be approved by the director of public works or the garbage contractor, so as to be readily accessible for removing and emptying the same. Receptacles shall be placed in the proper area for collection the evening prior to collection and shall be removed and stored at an approved location by the morning after. For dwelling
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
units, receptacles shall be stored in the side yard adjacent to the house or garage.
Where the code official repeatedly finds a site in violation of Municipal code section 5B.2(2) or 5C.7, he or she may require the property owner to provide an additional or larger outside garbage container for the premise to use.
Reason for amendment: To comply with Gilroy Municipal Code Chapter 5 and Section
12.18 and 12.19.
(37) Amend Section 309.1 to read as follows:
309.1 Infestation. All structures shall be kept free from insect, rodent, vermin, or other infestations. When an insect, rodent, vermin or other infestation is brought to the attention of the code official, he or she may require the owner or owner’s authorized agent having charge or control of the building, lot or premise to hire a licensed exterminator or other qualified professional to inspect the building, lot or premise and provide a written report verifying the presence and severity of such infestation including in the report a recommendation for proper extermination or elimination of the infestation. All structures and/or areas in which infestations are found, shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health. After extermination of the infestation is complete, the code official may request a written notice from the licensed exterminator or other qualified professional attesting to the completion and success of the recommended extermination procedures. After the infestation is eliminated, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent reinfestation.
Reason for amendment: California Health and Safety Code Sec 17920.3(12) states “Infestation of insects, vermin, or rodents as determined by the health officer” renders dwelling units substandard. The language has been amended to clarify the process.
(38) Amend Section 309.2 to read as follows:
309.2 Owner. The owner of any structure or premise shall be responsible for extermination within the structure or premise prior to renting or leasing the structure or premise. The owner of a structure or premise containing a dwelling unit, multiple occupancy, rooming house, or a nonresidential structure shall be responsible for maintaining the structure and premise in a rodent and/or pest-free condition. If an infestation is caused by an occupant substantially failing to properly maintain their occupied area of the structure or premise “as clean and sanitary as the condition of the structure or premise permits”. For as long as the occupant’s failure either substantially causes an unlivable condition to occur, or substantially interferes with the owner’s ability to repair the condition, the owner does not have to repair the condition. Where defects in a structure substantially contribute to or cause an infestation, the owner shall be responsible for correction of the defect and extermination of the infestation.
Reason for amendment: To agree with California Civil Code Section 1941.2(a).
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
(39) Delete Section 309.3 Single Occupant through Section 309.5 Occupant.
Reason for amendment: Comply with California Tenants Handbook guidelines.
(40) Delete Section 404.5 Overcrowding through Section 404.6 Efficiency unit.
Reason for amendment: Overcrowding is regulated by 1997 Uniform Housing Code Section 503.2 and Efficiency Units are regulated by California Building Code Section 1208.4.
(41) Amend Section 505.3 by adding the following sentence to the end of the Section:
Where there’s damage or unauthorized modification to or use of a backflow prevention device, the code official may require theft prevention cages or enclosures to be installed.
Reason for amendment: To address California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)(14) improper maintenance.
(42) Amend Section 505.4:
Delete the words: “adequate combustion air is provided” and replace with the words: “the installation complies with Chapter 5 of the California Plumbing Code and Section 904.0 of the 2022 California Mechanical Code”
Reason for amendment: To comply with California Plumbing and Mechanical code requirements.
(43) Amend Section 506.2 by adding the following sentence to the end of the Section:
Sewer line cleanout plugs, or caps shall be of an approved type and shall be securely installed and remain in place at all times except when servicing the drain line.
Reason for amendment: To address California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)(14) improper maintenance.
(44) Amend Section 602.2 to read as follows:
602.2 Residential occupancies. Dwellings shall be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of 68°F in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms. Cooking appliances, fireplaces and portable heaters shall not be used as a means to achieve compliance with this section.
Reason for amendment: To align with the Uniform Housing Code Section 701.1 requirements.
(45) Delete the Exception in Section 602.2.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: The Uniform Housing Code has always used 70 degrees as the standard. The IPMC has revised this standard to 68 degrees and the exception creates a reduction to 65 degrees. This is considered too low for this area.
(46) Amend Section 602.3 by deleting the words “during the period from [DATE] to [DATE],”
Reason for amendment: Ability to heat the dwelling unit is required year-round.
(47) Amend Section 602.3, Exception 1, last sentence to read as follows:
The winter outdoor design temperature for the locality shall be 32oF.
Reason for amendment: The Appendix D reference to the Plumbing Code did not clearly specify the temperature.
(48) Delete Section 602.3 Exceptions 2.
Reason for amendment: The Uniform Housing Code has always used 70 degrees as the standard. The IPMC has revised this standard to 68 degrees and the exception creates a reduction to 65 degrees. This is considered too low for this area.
(49) Delete Section 602.4 Occupiable work spaces
Reason for amendment: This is primarily enforced by Cal OSHA.
(50) Amend Section 603.1 to read as follows:
Mechanical equipment, kitchen hoods, appliances, fireplaces, solid fuel-burning appliances, cooking appliances and water heating appliances shall be properly installed and maintained in a safe working condition and shall be capable of performing their intended function. When new mechanical equipment is installed and the old equipment is no longer in use, the old equipment must be removed from the structure. Openings left in the walls, floors or ceilings must be properly repaired and painted. Electrical circuits and gas lines must be properly abandoned and inspected.
Reason for amendment: To address California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3(a)(14) improper maintenance.
(51) Amend Section 604.3 to read as follows:
604.3 Electrical system hazards. Where it is found that the electrical system in a structure constitutes a hazard to the occupants or the structure by reason of inadequate service, improper fusing, insufficient receptacle and lighting outlets, improper wiring or installation, deterioration or damage, or for similar reasons including the improper use of extension cords as permanent wiring, the code official shall require the defects to be corrected to eliminate the hazard.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: To comply with Electrical Code requirements.
(52) Amend Section 605.3 by adding the following sentence to the end of the Section:
No unobstructed beam of exterior lighting shall be directed outward from a site toward any residential use or public right-of-way.
Reason for amendment: To comply with Gilroy Zoning Code Section 30.50.44(c) guidelines.
(53) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix A – Boarding Standard
(j) Amendments to the Swimming Pool and Spa Code
(1) Adopt no amendments.
SECTION VII
Upon adoption of each new California Building Standards Code, the Ordinance adopting the previously adopted California Building Standards Code is superseded in its entirety. This Ordinance does not repeal the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code, nor the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends the 2022 California Fire Code.
SECTION VIII
The provisions of this Ordinance are separable, and the invalidity of any phrase, clause, provision, or part shall not affect the validity of the remainder.
SECTION IX
In accordance with Section 36937 of the Government Code of the State of California, this Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its final adoption by the City Council, but no sooner than January 1, 2023.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of November, 2022 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
APPROVED:
Marie Blankley, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Thai Nam Pham, City Clerk
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City of Gilroy
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item Title: Adopt an Ordinance Adopting by Reference the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code with
Amendments
Meeting Date: November 21, 2022
From: Jimmy Forbis, City Administrator
Department: Community Development Department
Submitted By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director Prepared By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director
Strategic Plan Goals
☐ Develop a Financially
Resilient Organization
☐ Ensure Neighborhood
Equity from City
Services
☐ Promote Economic
Development
Activities
☐ Promote Safe,
Affordable Housing for All
☐ Maintain and Improve
City Infrastructure
RECOMMENDATION
Waive the second reading and adopt an Ordinance amending Sections 6.6 and 6.7 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code adopting by reference the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code with amendments.
BACKGROUND
On November 7, 2022, the City Council introduced an Ordinance adopting by reference the 2022 California Green Building Standar ds Code with amendments. The City Council set a public hearing on November 21, 2022, for the adoption of the Ordinance, pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.3. Notice of the public hearing was
9.5 Packet Pg. 544
published on November 4 and 11, 2022, pursuant to Government Code Section 6066.
There were no changes to the Ordinance from the first reading.
ANALYSIS
Adoption of the new 2022 California Green Building Standards Code with local amendments will ensure that buildings and associated facilities and equipment in Gilroy will safeguard the public’s health, safety, and general welfare and provide an increased level of health and safety for Gilroy residents and businesses. Staff recommends that the Council adopt the Ordinance adopting by reference the 2022 Ca lifornia Green Building Standards Code with amendments. The new code with any approved local amendments will become effective on January 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT/FUNDING SOURCE
There is no direct cost to the City for adopting the Code. The City will receiv e a $10,000 reach code grant from SVCE to help defray costs associated with developing code amendments.
Attachments:
1. Draft Ordinance
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ORDINANCE NO. 2022-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF GILROY AMENDING SECTIONS 6.6 AND 6.7 OF
CHAPTER 6 OF THE GILROY MUNICIPAL CODE
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2022 CALIFORNIA
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE WITH
AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission has adopted and published an updated Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, also referred to as the 2022 California Building Standards Code, that will become effective statewide on January 1, 2023; 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 building standards than those contained in the California Building Standards Code; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 permit a city to make such local amendments and modifications as the city determines are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 require a city, before making any amendments and modifications to the California Building Standards Code, make an express finding that such amendments and modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, the City of Gilroy has reviewed and intends to adopt the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to amend portions of the California Green Building Standards Code to better address local conditions and makes express findings that such amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions as set forth in this Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GILROY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION I
The City Council has duly considered the full record before it, which may include but is not limited to the staff report, testimony by staff and the public, and other materials and evidence submitted or provided to the City Council. Furthermore, the recitals set forth above are found to be true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION II
The City Council hereby finds and determines that this Ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Cal. Pub. Res. Code, § 21000 et seq.) (“CEQA”) and the State CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15000 et seq.) and is categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines, § 15061(b)(3), which exempts from CEQA any project 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. Adoption of the proposed Ordinance would not be an activity with potential to cause significant effect on the environment because the changes made to the California Building Standards Code within are enacted to mitigate the threats posed to public peace, health and safety from earthquakes, storms, floods, high winds and fire, and therefore is exempt from CEQA. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance in question may have a significant effect on the environment; accordingly, the Ordinance is categorically exempt from CEQA.
SECTION III
To adopt the code by reference for the City of Gilroy, Section 6.6 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding the following after 6.6-2(j):
(k) The 2022 California Green Building Standards Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 11 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, also known as the CALGreen Code, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendices A4, A5, and A6.1. Amendments, if any, are set forth in Section 6.7(k). The 2022 California Green Building Standards Code shall be designated and referred to as the “Green Building Standards Code” for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
SECTION IV
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958. 7 and 18941 .5, the City Council hereby finds that the amendments are reasonably necessary due to local climatic conditions as set forth below.
The effects of climate change caused by Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions are increasingly self- evident and costly. Higher temperatures contribute to record heat waves and droughts, rising sea levels, more intense storms, wildfires, and floods.
Climate change is the fundamental design problem of our time. The threat of climate change is existential, and buildings and transportation are significant contributors.
Amending the below-referenced code sections is necessary to combat the ever -increasing harmful effects of climate change. Implementing the proposed reach code amendments will
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
provide an accelerated path to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and carbonization to stem the tide of GHG emissions and the effects of global warming and climate change.
SECTION V
To amend the code, Section 6.7 of Chapter 6 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby amended by adding the following after 6.7(j):
(k) Amendments to the Green Building Standards Code
(1) Add to Section 2 Definitions as follows:
AFFORDABLE HOUSING. Residential buildings that entirely consist of units below market rate and whose rents or sales prices are governed by local agencies to be affordable based on area median income.
LOAD MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (ALMS). A control system designed to manage load across one or more electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), circuits, panels and to share electrical capacity and/or automatically manage power at each connection point.
ALMS systems shall be designed to deliver no less than 3.3 kVa (208/240 volt, 16- ampere) to each EV Capable, EV Ready or EVCS space served by the ALMS, and meet the requirements of California Electrical Code Article 625. The connected amperage to the building site for the EV charging infrastructure shall not be lower than the required connected amperage per California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24 Part 11.
DIRECT CURRENT FAST CHARGING (DCFC). A parking space provided with electrical infrastructure that meets the following conditions:
i. A minimum of 48 kVa (480 volt, 100-ampere) capacity wiring. ii. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) located within three (3) feet of the parking space providing a minimum capacity of 80-ampere.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS). A parking space that includes installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) at an EV Ready space.
An EVCS space may be used to satisfy EV Ready space requirements. EVSE shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code, Article 625.
LEVEL 2 EV CAPABLE. A parking space provided with electrical infrastructure that meets the following requirements:
i. Conduit that links a listed electrical panel with sufficient capacity to a junction box or receptacle located within three (3) feet of the parking space. ii. The conduit shall be designed to accommodate at least 8.3 kVa (208/240 volt, 40- ampere) per parking space. Conduit shall have a minimum nominal trade size of 1 inch inside diameter and may be sized for multiple circuits as allowed by the California Electrical Code. Conduit shall be installed at a minimum in spaces that
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
will be inaccessible after construction, either trenched underground or where penetrations to walls, floors, or other partitions would otherwise be required for future installation of branch circuits, and such additional elements deemed necessary by the Building Official. Construction documents shall indicate future completion of conduit from the panel to the parking space, via the installed inaccessible conduit.
iii. The electrical panel shall reserve a space for a 40-ampere overcurrent protective device space(s) for EV charging, labeled in the panel directory as “EV CAPABLE.”
iv. Electrical load calculations shall demonstrate that the electrical panel service capacity and electrical system, including any on-site distribution transformer(s), have sufficient capacity to simultaneously charge all EVs at all required EV spaces at a minimum of 40 amperes.
v. The parking space shall contain signage with at least a 12” font adjacent to the parking space indicating the space is EV Capable.
LEVEL 1 EV READY. A parking space that is served by a complete electric circuit with the following requirements:
i. A minimum of 2.2 kVa (110/120 volt, 20-ampere) capacity wiring. ii. A receptacle labeled “Electric Vehicle Outlet” or electric vehicle supply equipment located within three (3) feet of the parking space. If EVSE is provided the minimum capacity of the EVSE shall be 16-ampere.
iii. Conduit oversized to accommodate future Level 2 EV Ready (208/240 volt, 40- ampere) at each parking space.
LEVEL 2 EV READY. A parking space that is served by a complete electric circuit with the following requirements:
i. A minimum of 8.3 kVa (208/240 volt, 40-ampere) capacity wiring. ii. A receptacle labeled “Electric Vehicle Outlet” or electric vehicle supply equipment located within three (3) feet of the parking space. If EVSE is provided the minimum capacity of the EVSE shall be 30-ampere.
LOW POWER LEVEL 2 EV READY. A parking space that is served by a complete electric circuit with the following requirements:
i. A minimum of 4.1 kVA (208/240 Volt, 20-ampere) capacity wiring. ii. A receptacle labeled “Electric Vehicle Outlet” or electric vehicle supply equipment located within three (3) feet of the parking space. If EVSE is provided the minimum capacity of the EVSE shall be 16-ampere.
iii. Conduit oversized to accommodate future Level 2 EV Ready (208/240 volt, 40- ampere) at each parking space.
(2) Amend Section 301.1.1 to read as follows:
301.1.1 Additions and alterations.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
[HCD] The mandatory provisions of Chapter 4 shall be applied to additions or alterations of existing residential buildings where the addition or alteration increases the building’s conditioned area, volume, or size. The requirements shall apply only to and/or within the specific area of the addition or alteration. (No change to existing California amendment.)
The mandatory provisions of Section 4.106.4.2 may apply to additions or alterations of existing parking facilities or the addition of new parking facilities serving existing multifamily buildings.
The mandatory provisions of Section 5.106.5.3 may apply to additions or alterations of existing parking facilities or the addition of new parking facilities serving existing nonresidential buildings.
NOTE: Repairs including, but not limited to, resurfacing, restriping, and repairing or maintaining existing lighting fixtures are not considered alterations for the purpose of this section.
(3) Amend Section 4.106.4 to read as follows:
4.106.4 Electric vehicle (EV) charging. Residential construction shall comply with Section 4.106.4.1 or 4.106.4.2, and 4.106.4.3, to facilitate future installation and use of EV chargers. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code, Article 625. For EVCS signs, refer to Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s). Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Exceptions:
1. On a case-by-case basis, where the local enforcing agency has determined EV charging and infrastructure are not feasible based upon one or more of the following conditions:
1.1. Where there is no local utility power supply or the local utility is unable to supply adequate power.
1.2. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 4.106.4, may increase construction cost by an average of $4,500 per parking space for market rate housing or $400 per parking space for affordable housing. EV infrastructure shall be provided up to the level that would not exceed this cost for utility service.
2. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) without additional parking facilities and without electrical panel upgrade or new panel installation. Detached ADUs, attached ADUs, and JADUs without additional
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
parking but with electrical panel upgrades or new panels must have reserved breakers and electrical capacity according to the requirements of 4.106.4.1.
3. Multifamily residential R-2 building projects that have approved entitlements before the code effective date shall provide, based on the total number of parking spaces, at least five percent (5%) with EVCS Level 2 EV Ready, twenty-five percent (25%) with Low Power Level 2 EV Ready, and ten percent (10%) with Level 2 EV Capable according to 2022 California Green Building Standards Code requirements. (4) Amend Section 4.106.4.1 title to read as follows:
4.106.4.1 One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses with private garages. (5) Amend Section 4.106.4.1.1 to read as follows:
4.106.4.1.1 New Construction. One parking space provided shall be a Level 2 EV Ready space.
(6) Add Section 4.106.4.1.2 as follows:
4.106.4.1.2 Existing Building. Parking additions or electrical panel upgrades must have reserved breaker spaces and electrical capacity according to the requirements of
4.106.4.1.1.
(7) Amend Section 4.106.4.2 to read as follows:
4.106.4.2 Multifamily dwellings, with new residential parking facilities. Requirements apply to parking spaces that are assigned or leased to individual dwelling units, as well as unassigned residential parking. Visitor or common area parking is not included. (8) Amend Section 4.106.4.2.1 to read as follows:
4.106.4.2.1 New Construction. Forty percent (40%) of dwelling units with parking spaces shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. ALMS shall be permitted to reduce load when multiple vehicles are charging. Sixty percent (60%) of dwelling units with parking spaces shall be provided with at minimum a Level 1 EV Ready space. EV ready spaces and EVCS in multifamily developments shall comply with California Building Code, Chapter 11A, Section 1109A. EVCS shall comply with the accessibility provisions for EV chargers in the California Building Code, Chapter 11B.
Note: The total number of EV spaces should be one hundred percent (100%) of dwelling units or one hundred percent (100%) of parking spaces, whichever is less. (9) Amend Section 4.106.4.2.2 to read as follows:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
4.106.4.2.2 Existing Buildings.
1. When new parking facilities are added, or electrical systems or lighting of existing parking facilities are added or altered and the work requires a building permit, ten percent (10%) of the total number of parking spaces added or altered shall be EVCS.
Any existing EV Capable spaces on the building property required by the locally adopted codes at the time of building permit shall be upgraded to a minimum of Level 1 EV Ready. Upgrades shall be required at currently designated vehicle parking spaces. Upgrades shall be required for remaining parking spaces after meeting the accessibility requirements of California Building Code Chapters 11A and 11B.
2. When new parking facilities are added and ALMS is installed, the ALMS system must be designed to deliver no less than 2.2 kVa (110/120 volt, 20-ampere). (10) Delete Section 4.106.4.2.2.1.3 Accessible EV spaces. (11) Delete Section 4.106.4.2.3 EV space requirements.
(12) Delete Section 4.106.4.2.4 Identification.
(13) Delete Section 4.106.4.2.5 Electrical vehicle ready space signage. (14) Amend Section 4.106.4.3 to read as follows:
4.106.4.3 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS).
Electric vehicle charging stations required by Section 4.106.4.2, shall comply with Section 4.106.4.3
Exception: Electric vehicle charging stations serving public accommodations, public housing, motels, and hotels shall not be required to comply with this section. See California Building Code, Chapter 11B, for applicable requirements. (15) Add Section 4.106.4.3.1 to read as follows:
4.106.4.3.1 Location.
EVCS shall comply with at least one of the following options:
1. The charging space shall be located adjacent to an accessible parking space meeting the requirements of the California Building Code, Chapter 11A, to allow use of the EV charger from the accessible parking space.
2. The charging space shall be located on an accessible route, as defined in the California Building Code, Chapter 2, to the building.
Exception: Electric vehicle charging stations designed and constructed in compliance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, are not required to comply with Section 4.106.4.3.1 and Section 4.106.4.3.2, Item 3.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
(16) Add Section 4.106.4.3.2 to read as follows:
4.106.4.3.2 Dimensions.
The charging spaces shall be designed to comply with the following:
1. The minimum length of each EV space shall be 18 feet (5486 mm).
2. The minimum width of each EV space shall be 9 feet (2743 mm).
3. One in every 25 charging spaces, but not less than one, shall also have an 8- foot (2438 mm) wide minimum aisle. A 5-foot (1524 mm) wide minimum aisle shall be permitted provided the minimum width of the EV space is 12 feet (3658 mm). a. Surface slope for this EV space and the aisle shall not exceed 1 unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2.083 percent slope) in any direction.
Exception: Where the City’s Municipal or Zoning Code permits parking space dimensions that are less than the minimum requirements stated in this section
4.106.4.3.2, and the compliance with which would be infeasible due to particular circumstances of a project, an exception may be granted while remaining in compliance with California Building Code Section Table 11B-228.3.2.1 and 11B- 812, as applicable.
(17) Add Section 4.106.4.4 to read as follows:
4.106.4.4 Direct current fast charging stations. One DCFC may be substituted for up to five (5) EVCS to meet the requirements of 4.106.4.1 and 4.106.4.2. Where ALMS serve DCFC stations, the power demand from the DCFC shall be prioritized above Level 1 and Level 2 spaces.
(18) Amend Section 5.106.5.3 to read as follows:
5.106.5.3 Electric vehicle (EV) charging.
Construction to provide electric vehicle infrastructure and facilitate electric vehicle charging shall comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 and shall be provided in accordan ce with regulations in the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code.
Accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code Chapter 11B Section 11B-228.3. For EVCS signs, refer to Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s). Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Exceptions:
1. On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
a. Where there is no local utility power supply.
b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcement agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may increase construction cost by an average of $4,500 per parking space.
EV infrastructure shall be provided up to the level that would not exceed this cost for utility service.
2. Parking spaces accessible only by automated mechanical car parking systems are not required to comply with this code section.
(19) Amend Section 5.106.5.3.1 to read as follows:
5.106.5.3.1 Nonresidential Occupancy Class B Offices – Shared PARKING Space.
5.106.5.3.1.1 New Construction. Twenty percent (20%) of parking spaces shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. ALMS shall be permitted to reduce load when multiple vehicles are charging. Thirty percent (30%) of parking spaces provided shall be Level 2 EV Capable.
5.106.5.3.1.2 Existing Buildings. When new parking facilities are added, or electrical systems or lighting of existing parking facilities are added or altered and the work requires a building permit, ten percent (10%) of the total number of parking spaces added or altered shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. Any existing EV Capable spaces on the building property required by the locally adopted codes at the time of building permit shall be upgraded to a minimum of Level 1 EV Ready. Upgrades shall be required at currently designated vehicle parking spaces. Upgrades shall be required for remaining parking spaces after meeting the accessibility requirements of California Building Code Chapters 11A and 11B.
(20) Delete Table 5.106.5.3.1.
(21) Amend Section 5.106.5.3.2 to read as follows:
5.106.5.3.2 Hotel and Motel Occupancies – Shared Parking Facilities.
5.106.5.3.2.1 New Construction. Five percent (5%) of parking spaces provided shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. ALMS shall be permitted to reduce load when multiple vehicles are charging. Twenty-five percent (25%) of parking spaces provided shall be Low Power Level 2 EV Ready space. Ten percent (10%) of parking spaces provided shall be Level 2 EV Capable.
(22) Amend Section 5.106.5.3.3 to read as follows:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
5.106.5.3.3 All Other Nonresidential Occupancies – Shared Parking Facilities.
5.106.5.3.3.1 New Construction. Ten percent (10%) of parking spaces provided shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. ALMS shall be permitted to reduce load when multiple vehicles are charging. Ten percent (10%) of parking spaces provided shall be Level 2 EV Capable.
5.106.5.3.3.2 Existing Buildings. When new parking facilities are added, or electrical systems or lighting of existing parking facilities are added or altered and the work requires a building permit, ten percent (10%) of the total number of parking spaces added or altered shall be EVCS with Level 2 EV Ready. Any existing EV Capable spaces on the building property required by the locally adopted codes at the time of building permit shall be upgraded to a minimum of Level 1 EV Ready. Upgrades shall be required at currently designated vehicle parking spaces. Upgrades shall be required for remaining parking spaces after meeting the accessibility requirements of California Building Code Chapters 11A and 11B.
(23) Amend Section 5.106.5.3.4 to read as follows:
5.106.5.3.4 Direct current fast charging stations. One DCFC may be substituted for up to five (5) EVCS to meet the requirements of 5.106.5.3.1, 5.106.5.3.2, and 5.106.5.3.3.
Where ALMS serve DCFC stations, the power demand from the DCFC shall be prioritized above Level 1 and Level 2 spaces.
(24) Amend Section 5.106.5.4 to read as follows:
5.106.5.4 Electric vehicle charging readiness: medium-duty and heavy-duty. [N] Construction shall comply with Section 5.106.5.4.1 to facilitate future installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Construction for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores with planned off-street loading spaces shall also comply with Section
5.106.5.4.1 for future installation of medium- and heavy-duty EVSE. Accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code Chapter 11B Section 11B-228.3. For EVCS signs, refer to Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).
Exceptions:
1. On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions:
a. Where there is no local utility power supply.
b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may increase construction cost by an average of $4,500 per parking space. EV infrastructure shall be provided up to the level that would not exceed this cost for utility service. (25) Amend Section 5.106.5.4.1 title to read as follows:
5.106.5.4.1 Warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores with planned off-street loading spaces.
(26) Adopt the following Appendix:
Appendix A4 – Residential Voluntary Measures
Appendix A5 – Nonresidential Voluntary Measures
Appendix A6.1 – Voluntary Standards for Health Facilities (27) Amend Section A4.106.9.2 to read as follows:
A4.106.9.2 Long-term bicycle parking for multifamily buildings. Provide on-site bicycle parking for at least one bicycle per every one dwelling unit. Acceptable parking facilities shall be conveniently reached from the street and may include, but not be limited to:
1. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored racks for bicycles.
2. Lockable bicycle rooms with permanently anchored racks.
3. Lockable, permanently anchored bicycle lockers.
(28) Amend Section A4.106.9.3 to read as follows:
A4.106.9.3 Long-term bicycle parking for hotel and motel buildings. Provide one on- site bicycle parking space for every 25 rooms (for employees and guests).
Acceptable parking facilities shall be conveniently reached from the street and may include, but not be limited to:
1. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored racks for bicycles.
2. Lockable bicycle rooms with permanently anchored racks.
3. Lockable, permanently anchored bicycle lockers.
SECTION VI
Upon adoption of each new California Building Standards Code, the Ordinance adopting the previously adopted California Building Standards Code is superseded in its entirety. This Ordinance does not repeal the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends parts of the 2022 California Building Standards Code, nor the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends the 2022 California Fire Code.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Green Building Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION VII
The provisions of this Ordinance are separable, and the invalidity of any phrase, clause, provision, or part shall not affect the validity of the remainder.
SECTION VIII
In accordance with Section 36937 of the Government Code of the State of California, this Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its final adoption by the City Council, but no sooner than January 1, 2023.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of November 2022 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
APPROVED:
Marie Blankley, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Thai Nam Pham, City Clerk
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City of Gilroy
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item Title: Adopt an Ordinance Adopting by Reference the 2022 California Fire Code with Amendments
Meeting Date: November 21, 2022
From: Jimmy Forbis, City Administrator
Department: Community Development Department
Submitted By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director Prepared By: Sharon Goei, Community Development Director
Strategic Plan Goals
☐ Develop a Financially
Resilient Organization
☐ Ensure Neighborhood
Equity from City
Services
☐ Promote Economic
Development
Activities
☐ Promote Safe,
Affordable Housing for All
☐ Maintain and Improve
City Infrastructure
RECOMMENDATION
Waive the second reading and adopt an Ordinance amending Sections 10.9 and 10.10 of Chapter 10 of the Gilroy Mu nicipal Code adopting by reference the 2022 California Fire Code with amendments.
BACKGROUND
On November 7, 2022, the City Council introduced an Ordinance adopting by reference the 2022 California Fire Code with amendments. The City Council set a public h earing on November 21, 2022, for the adoption of the Ordinance, pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.3. Notice of the public hearing was published on
9.6 Packet Pg. 558
November 4 and 11, 2022, pursuant to Government Code Section 6066. There were no changes to the Ordinance from the first reading.
ANALYSIS
Adoption of the new 2022 California Fire Code with local amendments will ensure that buildings and associated facilities and equipment in Gilroy will safeguard the public’s health, safety, and general welfare and provide an increased level of health and safety for Gilroy residents and businesses. Staff recommends that the Council adopt the Ordinance adopting by reference the 2022 California Fire Code with amendments. The new code with any approved local ame ndments will become effective on January 1, 2023.
FISCAL IMPACT/FUNDING SOURCE
There is no direct cost to the City for adopting the Code.
Attachments:
1. Draft Ordinance
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ORDINANCE NO. 2022-XX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF GILROY AMENDING SECTIONS 10.9 AND 10.10 OF
CHAPTER 10 OF THE GILROY MUNICIPAL CODE
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2022 CALIFORNIA
FIRE CODE WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission has adopted and published an updated Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, also referred to as the 2022 California Building Standards Code, that will become effective statewide on January 1, 2023; 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 building standards than those contained in the California Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 permit a city to make such local amendments and modifications as the city determines are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 require a city, before making any amendments and modifications to the California Building Standards Code, make an express finding that such amendments and modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Gilroy has reviewed and intends to adopt the 2022 California Fire Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to amend portions of the California Fire Code to better address local conditions and makes express findings that such amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions as set forth in this Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GILROY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION I
The City Council has duly considered the full record before it, which may include but is not limited to the staff report, testimony by staff and the public, and other materials and evidence submitted or provided to the City Council. Furthermore, the recitals set forth above are found to be true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION II
The City Council hereby finds and determines that this Ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Cal. Pub. Res. Code, § 21000 et seq.) (“CEQA”)
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
and the State CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15000 et seq.) and is categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines, § 15061(b)(3), which exempts from CEQA any project 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. Adoption of the proposed Ordinance would not be an activity with potential to cause significant effect on the environment because the changes made to the California Building Standards Code within are enacted to mitigate the threats posed to public peace, health and safety from earthquakes, storms, floods, high winds and fire, and therefore is exempt from CEQA. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance in question may have a significant effect on the environment; accordingly, the Ordinance is categorically exempt from CEQA.
SECTION III
Section 10.9 of Chapter 10 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced with the text below to read as follows:
10.9 Fire Code Adoption.
1. This article shall be known and cited as the Gilroy Fire Code.
2. The 2022 California Fire Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc. and the California Building Standards Commission in Part 9 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, is hereby adopted and referred to, and by this reference expressly incorporated and made a part of this Chapter as though fully set forth herein. The adoption includes Appendices B, BB, C, and D. Amendments are set forth in Section 10.10. The 2022 California Fire Code shall be designated and referred to as the "Fire Code" for the City of Gilroy. There is one copy of said Code on file in the Office of Fire Prevention for use and examination by the public.
SECTION IV
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958. 7 and 18941.5, the City Council hereby finds that the amendments are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, or to impose proper more stringent standards for fire and panic safety, as set forth below.
(1) Climatic Findings. The precipitation averages 13.86 inches per year. Approximately 90% of the precipitation falls during the months of November through April, and 10% from May through October. Relative humidity drops to 20 or lower during the dry months (summer). Temperatures have been recorded as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit. This area has been subject to drought. It is anticipated that drought conditions will continue to occur in the future. Such conditions allow natural vegetation and outdoor combustible materials to be in a dry state for a large portion of the year, making them more susceptible to ignition and rapid burning. These conditions combined create high fire danger during the summer and fall months.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
(2) Geological Findings. The region is located in an area of high seismic activities as indicated by United States Geological Survey and California Division of Mines and Geology. Recent earthquake activities have indicated the lack of adequate design and detailing as a contributing factor to damages that reduced the protection of the life-safety of building occupants. This is especially critical in the facilities housing hazardous materials or occupancies requiring safe and quick evacuation in order to get to a safe location. Early warning of fire, early fire suppression and control of spread are important. (3) Topographical Findings. A major rail corridor through the central portion of town divides the City. There are no overpasses available within the City boundaries. This can impair response and can serve to isolate the City’s Fire Response capability. A major highway also divides the City. There are portions of the City where there is only one overpass to access a substantial geographical area. There are no alternate routes within City boundaries; and
The highway is also part of a major truck transportation route. If an ac cident, or earthquake makes the overpass un-crossable this will isolate the area and impact response times; and the City has a substantial industrial area within a flood plain. Flooding in the area would isolate the area from the City’s Fire Response capability; and The City has areas that are within hillside and open spaces defined as State Response Areas. The grade and narrow and/or lack of roadways impair the Fire Response to these areas. The presence of large areas of natural vegetation that is dry and highly ignitable during the dry and hot summer and fall months can create increase fire responses and impair fire response to other incidents. Water flow in the hillside areas is impacted as fire flows fall below 1500 gpm; and
The City is a great distance from any large metropolitan area. Response times from the nearest metropolitan fire department is a minimum of half an hour and during traffic periods in excess of 45 minutes. This serves to further isolate the City and impair Fire Response as there are fewer fire responders in the immediate area. Information on the nature of an incident in a timely manner is of greater importance than in a metropolitan area where a first alarm sends more personnel than the entire on-duty staffing of the Gilroy Fire Department. Measures which provide early fire detection, suppression and prevention of fire spread are warranted based on these findings.
(4) Fire and Panic Safety Findings – Hazardous Materials. Hazardous Materials use, handling and storage present unique emergency response requirements. The Gilroy Fire Department does not have its own hazardous materials team and the nearest mutual aid team is in excess of 45 minutes response time; and
The City of Gilroy relies solely on ground water for water supply and much of the area of Gilroy is in a recharge area. Hazardous Materials Spills can threaten that supply and additional measures are needed to ensure that these materials do not threaten that supply; and
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Because Gilroy is remote from the main metropolitan areas, there are fewer ambulance and hospital services available to provide for large numbers of persons with injuries. Hazardous Materials and other intensive industrial uses place a competing burden on the delivery of fire services. Hazardous Material and/or facilities using, storing hazardous materials require additional controls to ensure that such hazards can be controlled; and
(5) Fire and Panic Safety Findings – Automatic Fire Sprinklers. The City’s water system is reliable and capable of providing adequate pressures and reliability to allow the use of automatic fire sprinkler systems to be economical and practical to be included in all new construction. Response to fires, medical aid and other disasters can result in fire responders to be called to multiple calls or to calls that require more suppression resources than may be on duty. Therefore, fire sprinkler systems are relied upon to provide for quick and reliable fire suppression or control. To this end, these systems are needed at a lower threshold than the International Codes provide. These systems also need to be designed to provide quick effective and complete fire protection in their activation in order to minimize the effects of fire and panic.
SECTION V
Section 10.10 of Chapter 10 of the Gilroy Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced with the text below to read as follows:
10.10 Fire Code Amendments.
Chapter 1 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 101.1 TITLE. AMENDED
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the City of Gilroy Fire Code, hereinafter referred to as “THIS CODE”.
Reason for amendment: The International Fire Code provides for the local agency to insert appropriate language to identify this as the City of Gilroy Fire Code.
SECTION 103.2 APPOINTMENT. AMENDED
103.2.1 Appointments. The Fire Marshal Carries out the functions of the fire code official on behalf of and under the direction of the Fire Chief and implements, administers, and enforces the provisions of this code. The Fire Marshal’s Office is established within the City of Gilroy as the Office of Fire Prevention.
Reason for amendment: The International Fire Code creates a department of fire prevention and the term “fire code official” is used throughout. The amendment inserts
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Packet Pg. 563 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
language that describes how the Fire Marshal carries out the functions as the “fire code official” within the structure of the Fire Marshal’s Office within the City of Gilroy.
SECTION 112.4 VIOLATIONS. AMENDED
112.4 Violation Penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the 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 the provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor; provided, however, that where the City Attorney or his or her duly authorized agents has determined that such action would be in the best interest of justice, the City Attorney may specify in the accusatory pleading, citation or amendment thereto that the violation shall be prosecuted as an infraction. Infraction fines are implemented pursuant to Gilroy City Code Section 1.7. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offence.
Reason for amendment: To identify the method and types of enforcement processes to be used to enforce the code. The model code requires the local agency to insert appropriate language. The language provided is consistent with the current code and procedures.
Chapter 2 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 202 GENERAL DEFINITIONS. ADDED
Corrosive Liquid. Corrosive liquid is:
1. any liquid which, when in contact with living tissue, will cause destruction or irreversible alteration of such tissue by chemical action; or
2. any liquid having a pH of 2 or less or 12.5 or more; or
3. any liquid classified as corrosive by the U.S. Department of Transportation; or
4. any material exhibiting the characteristics of corrosivity in accordance with Title 22, California Code of Regulations §66261.22.
MODERATELY TOXIC GAS. A chemical or substance that has a median lethal concentration (LC50) in air more than 2000 parts per million but not more than 5000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor, when administered by continuous inhalation for an hour, or less if death occurs within one hour, to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The amendment consolidates definitions and allows the city to maintain the current standard used by the Gilroy CUPA Program.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Chapter 3 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 4 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 5 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 503.1 WHERE REQUIRED. AMENDED
503.1 Where Required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3 and in accordance with the fire departments access standards.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The amendment allows the city to maintain the current standard used by the Gilroy Fire Department and the Gilroy City Streets.
SECTION 503.1.2 ADDITIONAL ACCESS. AMENDED
503.1.2 Additional Access. The Fire Chief is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.
Fire apparatus access roadways to buildings or building projects shall be reviewed and approved by the fire code official. All emergency vehicle accesses (EVA’s) shall meet engineering design standards similar to a public roadway or public driveway and be maintained by the property owner.
Thresholds for additional access are as follows:
a. For residential developments, there shall be a minimum of two approved fire access roadways when there are more than 30 one-family, two-family residential units, or more than 100 multi-family residential units. The Fire Chief will determine secondary access needs for dwellings in the Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area. In no case will more than 10 dwellings exist without a secondary fire access roadway in a Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area.
b. Where there is an individual building exceeding 3 stories in height or exceeds 62,000 sq. ft. in area, there shall be two separate access roadways to access the structure.
c. Where a building complex exceeds 120,000 sq. ft. of total building area it shall be provided with two separate and approved access roadways to the complex.
Reason for amendment: Pursuant to Section 503.1.2 the fire code official is authorized to determine when more than one fire apparatus access road is required. Due to variability in local traffic conditions, alternate routes of ingress and egress are needed, particularly in circumstances where the hazard is increased (e.g. large subdivision, large multi-family
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Packet Pg. 565 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
residences, residences in a WUI environment, large buildings, etc.). This amendment provides maintains the secondary access threshold previously used, which is consistent with jurisdiction in Santa Clara County.
SECTION 503.2.1 DIMENSIONS. AMENDED
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) for engines, and 26 feet (7925 mm) for aerial fire apparatus exclusive of shoulders, except for approved gates or barricades in accordance with Sections 503.5.1 and 503.6. The unobstructed vertical clearance shall be a minimum of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm), or as determined by the fire code official.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The amendment allows the city to maintain the current standard used by the Gilroy Fire Department and the Gilroy City Streets.
SECTION 503.2.4 TURNING RADIUS AMENDED
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official and a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) inside, and a minimum of 50 feet (15240 mm) outside.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The amendment allows the city to maintain the current standard used by the Gilroy Fire Department and the Gilroy City Streets.
SECTION 503.2.5 DEAD ENDS. AMENDED
503.2.5 Dead Ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45m720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved turn-around area for turning around the fire apparatus. The turn-around shall consist of a bulb shaped cul-de-sac that accommodates the fire apparatus turning radius. Parking of vehicles within the fire apparatus turning radius shall not be permitted. Obstructions by fences or gates that may interfere with the use of turn-around are not permitted. Fire Turn-Around parking restrictions shall be identified by painting the curb red. On private property signage shall be provided indicating that it is a Fire Turnaround Dead end roads in excess of 750 ft. require special approval and may be required to have additional apparatus turn outs or greater width.
Exceptions:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
1. An alternative design turn-around may be approved when the number of units served by the turn-around is less than 10 and the design is one of the published fire apparatus turn-around templates.
2. In the Residential Hillside Zone alternative designs are allowed when they can be shown to provide a minimum 3 point turn and when approved by the Fire Chief.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy Fire amendment to maintain the current standard used by Gilroy Fire Department and Gilroy City Street Standards. Pursuant to Section 503 the Fire Chief is authorized to approve the type of turn around to be provided.
SECTION 503.2.7 GRADE. AMENDED
503.2.7 Grade. The maximum grade of the fire department apparatus road shall not exceed 15%, unless approved by the fire code official.
Reason for amendment: The Fire Chief is authorized to establish the grade for fire apparatus access roads. This is a Gilroy Fire amendment to maintain the current standard used by Gilroy Fire Department and Gilroy City Street Standards.
SECTION 503.5 REQUIRED GATE OR BARRICADES
503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails, or other accessways, not including the public streets, alleys, or highways. The minimum width for commercial applications is 20 feet (6096 mm), and 14 feet (4268 mm) for single-family dwellings. Electric gate operators, where provided shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed, and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
SECTION 503.6 SECURITY GATES. AMENDED
503.6 Security Gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. When electronic gates are installed across one or more of the fire access roadways they shall be provided with automatic opening devices that can be activated by the fire department during a response to the location (e.g. Click 2 Enter or approved equivalent for gated communities). They shall also be provided with KNOX key over-ride switches. Electric gate operators, where
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Packet Pg. 567 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
provided shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200. The minimum width for commercial applications is 20 feet (6096 mm), and 14 feet (4268 mm) for single-family dwellings.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy amendment continued from the last code cycle and it is to maintain consistency with current Gilroy Fire Department Policies and practices for use of automatic opening devices for new gate installations and for gates in new gated communities where response time is impeded by lack of guard shacks/security staffing.
This is a Gilroy Fire amendment to maintain the current standard used by Gilroy Fire Department and Gilroy City Street Standards. This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
SECTION 503.7 AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS. ADDED
503.7 Aerial fire apparatus access roads. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest roof surface exceeds 30 ft. (9144m), approved aerial fire apparatus access roads shall be provided. For a pitched roof the measurement of the highest roof surface is to the intersection of the roof to the exterior wall, or the top of a parapet wall, whichever is greater. At least one of the access routes shall be located a minimum of 15 ft. and a maximum of 30 ft. from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located over the aerial fire apparatus road and the building. When adequate aerial access cannot be provided other means shall be provided by alternate methods and /or materials to compensate for the inadequate access. Such shall include but not be limited to: non-combustible construction components, area separation walls, and specialized access components.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy amendment to provide for adequate aerial access for tall structures for the Fire Department. It is based on model language from the International Fire Code.
SECTION 504.5 ACCESS CONTROL DEVICES. ADDED
Section 504.5 Access Control Devices. When access control devices including bars, grates, gates, electric or magnetic locks or similar devices, which would inhibit rapid fire department emergency access to within and throughout the building, are installed, such devices be approved by the fire code official. All electrically powered access control devices shall be provided with an approved means for deactivation or unlocking from a single location or as otherwise approved by the fire code official. Access Control devices must also comply with Chapter 10 Egress.
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Packet Pg. 568 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The amendment represents no change from the current standard used by Gilroy for maintaining access to buildings that have security devices (bars etc.) that impede emergency access.
SECTION 505.1.1 ILLUMINATION. ADDED
505.1.1 Illumination. New buildings shall have illuminated address numbers.
Illumination shall be provided throughout the entire period of darkness.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy amendment to maintain consistency with current Gilroy Security Ordinance for requiring illuminated addresses for new construction. The amendment represents no change from the current standard used by Gilroy.
SECTION 505.3 COMPLEX PREMISE IDENTIIFICATION. ADDED
Section 505.3 Complex Premises Identification. When there are several multi-family units within a development, or single family units do not face a street or where units have an alley as the only driveable access (paseo frontage), an illuminated site diagram shall be installed at each driveway entrance to the development that shows the location and addresses of all units and the fire system device locations.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy amendment to maintain consistency with current Gilroy Security Ordinance for signage for complexes where addressing is confusing due to building and/or street design. Alley type access developments have the units addressed from a street, but the alley is typically perpendicular to the street. This makes identification of the address difficult without having a complex diagram. This amendment represents no change from the current standard used by Gilroy.
SECTION 507.5 FIRE HYDRANT SYSTEMS. AMENDED
507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrants systems shall comply with sections 507.5.1 through 507.5.6 . Hydrants on public streets shall be installed to the City of Gilroy Public Works Standard Details. Private Fire Hydrant systems shall be installed pursuant to NFPA 24 and maintained and tested pursuant to NFPA 25 by the property owner. Private fire hydrant systems shall not share the same water supply lines with a private domestic supply and shall be on its own separate fire water mains.
Reason for amendment: The Gilroy amendment maintains consistency with current Gilroy policies and practices.
Chapter 6 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
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Packet Pg. 569 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION 603.11 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, WIRING AND HAZARDS.
ADDED
603.11 Immersion Heaters. All electrical immersion heaters used in dip tanks, sinks, vats and similar operations shall be provided with approved over-temperature controls and low liquid level electrical disconnects. Manual reset of required protection devices shall be provided.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It maintains the current standard required for immersion heaters.
Such heaters without emergency shut off were the cause of several fires.
SECTION 605 FUEL-FIRED APPLIANCES
Amend Section 605.5 as follows:
605.5 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupancies in Groups A, B, E, I, R-1, R-2, R2.1, R2.2, R-3, R3.1 and R- 4 and ambulatory care facilities.
Exceptions:
1. Portable unvented fuel-fired heaters listed in accordance with UL 647 are permitted to be used in one and two-family dwellings, where operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances in accordance with Section 605.5.2.
Amend Section 605.5.2.1.1 as follows:
605.5.2.1.1 Prohibited locations. The storage or use of portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances is prohibited in any of the following locations:
1. Inside of any occupancy where connected to the fuel gas container.
2. Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.
3. On exterior balconies, and rooftops.
Exceptions: As authorized by the fire code official.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
Chapter 7 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 8 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 9 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
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Packet Pg. 570 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION 901.6.3. RECORDS. AMENDED
Section 901.6.3 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the referenced standard shall be maintained on the premises for a minimum of five years. Inspections and tests performed on fire alarm systems shall be documented on NFPA 72 forms.
Reason for amendment: This amendment maintains the current standard required for record keeping per NFPA standards.
SECTION 903.2 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS - WHERE REQUIRED.
AMENDED
903.2 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new and existing buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this Section or in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12 whichever is the more restrictive. For the purposes of this section, firewalls and fire barriers used to separate building areas shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and shall be without openings or penetrations.
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all new buildings and structures greater than 1,000 square feet.
Exception: Group S-2 or U occupancies used exclusively for vehicle parking or solar arrays that do not exceed 5,000 square feet.
2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing Group A, B, E, F, I, L, M, R, S and U buildings and structures, when additions are made that increase the building area by more than 1,000 square feet or the where the resulting area exceeds 3,600 square feet.
3. Any change of occupancy or change in use of any building when that change in use would place the building into a more hazardous division of the same occupancy group.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. Additionally, the California Residential Code requires all new residential structures, regardless of size to have automatic fire sprinklers. This amendment also maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 903.1.1 NFPA 13 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS. AMENDED
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
903.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1 and local standards. For new buildings having no designated use or tenant, the minimum sprinkler design density shall be Ordinary Hazard Group 2. Where future use or tenant is determined to require a higher density, the sprinkler system shall be augmented to meet the higher density.
Reason for amendment: This amendment maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D SPRINKLER SYSTEMS. AMENDED
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 congregate living facilities and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and local water supply standards. An approved signaling device shall be installed on the exterior (e.g. bell) and interior (e.g. horn or alarm) of the dwelling. The riser shall be located inside of the garage or an approved protective enclosure, a pilot head installed in attic spaces to protect the force air unit and attic access and a spare head box with one of each type of fire sprinkler shall be provided.
Reason for amendment: This amendment maintains the current local standards used in Gilroy. Residential sprinkler systems do not need to be monitored, however, if there is not a signaling device to warn the occupant or community of the fire sprinkler activation, the fire sprinkler system can operate for an extended period of time creating significant water damage to the structure. To protect the riser from damage or tampering they have been approved only in a protected area. This amendment maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 907.1.6 FIRE ALARM CERTIFICATION. ADDED
907.1.6 Certification. New fire alarm systems shall be UL-Certified. A Certificate of Completion and other documentation as listed in NFPA 72 shall be provided for all new fire alarm system installations. It is the responsibility of the building owner or owner's representative to obtain and maintain a current and valid Certificate. The protected premise shall be issued a UUFX type certification from Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Reason for amendment: This amendment maintains the current standard required for record keeping per NFPA standards.
SECTION 909.22.1 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS. AMENDED
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Section 909.22.1 Schedule. A routine maintenance and operational testing program shall be initiated immediately after the smoke control system has passed the acceptance tests. A written schedule for routine maintenance and operational testing shall be established and operational testing must occur at least annually.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
Chapter 10 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 11 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 12 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapters 13 through 19 reserved for future use.
Chapter 20 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 21 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 22 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 23 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 24 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 25 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 26 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 27 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 28 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 29 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 30 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 31 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 32 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 33 is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
SECTION 3305 PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
Amend Section 3305.5 as follows:
3305.5 Fire watch. Where required by the fire code official or the site safety plan established in accordance with Section 3303.1, a fire watch shall be provided for building demolition and for building construction. Fire watch is not intended to facilitate occupancy during ongoing construction in a new building.
Add Section 3305.6 to read:
3305.6 Fire Walls. When firewalls are required in combustible construction, the wall construction shall be completed (with all openings protected) immediately after the building is sufficiently weather-protected at the location of the wall(s).
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Packet Pg. 573 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs to provide a consistent standard for ensuring that fire walls are completed during building construction to provide exit stairways during the construction of any multi-story building. This maintains the same requirement from prior code adoption cycle.
SECTION 3311 ACCESS FOR FIRE FIGHTING
Add Section 3311.1 to read:
3311.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for firefighting shall be provided to all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of temporary or permanent fire department connections. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under all weather conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are available.
Add Section 3311.1.1 to read:
3311.1.1 Fire Department Access Roadways: All construction sites shall be accessible by fire department apparatus by means of roadways having an all-weather driving service of not less than 20ft. of unobstructed width. The roads shall have the ability to withstand the live loads of fire apparatus, and have a minimum 13ft. 6 in. of vertical clearance. Dead end fire access roads in excess of 150 ft. in length shall be provided with approved turnarounds.
When approved by the Fire Code Official, temporary access roadways may be utilized until such time that the permanent roadways are installed. As a minimum, the roadway shall consist of a compacted sub base and six (6) inches of road base material (Class 2 aggregate base rock) both compacted to a minimum 95% and sealed. The perimeter edges of the roadway shall be contained and delineated by curb and gutter or other approved method.
The use of geotextile reinforcing fabric underlayment or soils lime-treatment may be required if so determined by the project civil engineer. Provisions for surface drainage shall also be provided where necessary. The integrity of the roadway shall be maintained at all times.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
SECTION 3312 MEANS OF EGRESS
Amend Section 3312.1 as follows:
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Packet Pg. 574 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
3312.1 Stairways Required. Each level above the first story in multi-story buildings that require two exit stairways shall be provided with at least two usable exit stairways after the floor decking is installed. The stairways shall be continuous and discharge to grade level.
Stairways serving more than two floor levels shall be enclosed (with openings adequately protected) after exterior walls/windows are in place. Exit stairs in new and in existing, occupied buildings shall be lighted and maintained clear of debris and construction materials at all times.
Exception: For multi-story buildings, one of the required exit stairs may be obstructed on not more than two contiguous floor levels for the purposes of stairway construction (i.e., installation of gypsum board, painting, flooring, etc.).
Add Section 3312.4 to read:
Section 3312.4 Required Means of Egress. All buildings under construction shall have at least one unobstructed means of egress. All means of egress shall be identified in the written fire safety plan as required by Section 3303.1.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
SECTION 3315 AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Add Section 3315.1 to read
3315.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the California Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved.
In new buildings of combustible construction where, automatic fire sprinkler systems are required to be installed, the system shall be placed in service as soon as possible.
Immediately upon the completion of sprinkler pipe installation on each floor level, the piping shall be hydrostatically tested and inspected. After inspection approval from the Fire department, each floor level of sprinkler piping shall be connected to the system supply riser and placed into service with all sprinkler heads uncovered. Protective caps may be installed on the active sprinklers during the installation of drywall, texturing and painting, but shall be removed immediately after this work is completed. For system activation notification, an exterior audible waterflow alarm bell shall be installed and connected to the sprinkler waterflow device prior to installation of the monitoring system.
For buildings equipped with fire sprinkler systems that are undergoing alterations, the sprinkler system(s) shall remain in service at all times except when system modifications are necessary. Fire sprinkler systems undergoing modifications shall be returned to service
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
at the end of each workday unless otherwise approved by the fire department. The General contractor or his/her designee shall check the sprinkler control valve(s) at the end of each workday to confirm that the system has been restored to service.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
Chapter 34 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 35 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 36 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 37 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 38 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption (not adopted by State).
Chapter 39 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 40 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapters 41 through 48 reserved for future use.
Chapter 49 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 4901 GENERAL
Add Section 4901.3 to read:
4901.3 Where applicable. These requirements shall apply to all areas within the City of Gilroy as set forth and delineated on the map entitled "Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area" which map and all notations, references, data and other information shown thereon are hereby adopted and made a part of this Chapter. The map properly attested, shall be on file in the Office of the Gilroy City Clerk’s Office.
Add Section 4901.4 to read:
4901.4 Exemptions. These requirements shall not apply to any land or water area acquired or managed for one or more of the following purposes or uses:
1. Habitat for endangered or threatened species, or any species that is a candidate for listing as an endangered or threatened species by the state or federal government.
2. Lands kept in a predominantly natural state as habitat for wildlife, plant, or animal communities.
3. Open space lands that are environmentally sensitive parklands.
4. Other lands having scenic values, as declared by the local agency, or by state or federal law.
SECTION 4905 WILDFIRE PROTECTION BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
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Packet Pg. 576 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Amend Section 4905.3 as follows:
4905.3 Established limits. The establishment of limits for the Wildland-Urban Interface Area’s required construction methods shall be designated pursuant to the California Public Resources Code for State Responsibility areas, and in the City of Gilroy the areas designated as Residential Hillside (RH) zoning are so designated based on their topography, vegetation, climatic and proximity to State Responsibility areas which make these methods necessary for effective fire protection within this area. The Residential Hillside Zoning areas are designated as the “City of Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area” and subject to the construction methods of Section 4905.2.
Reason for amendment: The model code requires the local agency to insert appropriate language to identify the area designated as Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area. The city zoning code establishes the RH – Residential Hillside Zoning District. These areas are adjacent to the State Responsibility Areas (SRA), are in heavily vegetated, steep and limited access areas, with large areas of unmanaged vegetation. This amendment maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
Add Section 4905.4 to read:
4905.4 Fire sprinkler systems and fire protection water supplies. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed or relocated into or within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall be provided with a fire sprinkler systems and fire protection water supplies in accordance with Chapter 5 and the sprinkler requirements in Chapter 9 as amended.
Exception: Buildings used as carports, sheds and agricultural uses with a building area of not more than 500 square feet (56 m2).
Reason for amendment: This section is part of the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Countywide amendments. It also maintains the prior Hillside sprinklering requirement in Gilroy.
SECTION 4906 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT. AMENDED
Add Section 4906.1.1 to read:
4906.1.1 Hazardous vegetation and fuels shall be managed to reduce the severity of potential exterior wildfire exposure to buildings, to reduce the risk of fire spreading to buildings, and provide for safe access for emergency wildland fire equipment and civilian evacuation concurrently, as required by applicable laws and standards.
Add Section 4906.1.2 to read:
4906.1.2 Maintenance required. Maintenance is required to ensure conformance with these standards and measures, and to assure continued availability, access, and utilization, of the defensible space during a wildfire.
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Packet Pg. 577 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Add Section 4906.1.3 to read:
4906.1.3 Additional measures. No person subject to these regulations shall permit any fire hazard, as defined in this chapter, to exist on premises under their control, or fail to take immediate action to abate a fire hazard when requested to do so by the enforcing agency.
Add Section 4906.1.4 to read:
4906.1.4 Exemption. For the purposes of this chapter, vegetation removal or management, undertaken in whole or in part, for fire prevention or suppression purposes shall not be deemed to alter the natural condition of public property.
Add Section 4906.2.1 to read:
4906.2.1 Application. Buildings and structures located in the following areas shall maintain and manage fuel and vegetation.:
1. All unincorporated lands designated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as State Responsibility Areas (SRA) including:
1.1. Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones
1.2. High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
1.3. Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
2. Land designated as a Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zone or designated “City of Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area” as established in Section 4905.3.
3. Areas designated as High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and adjacent to “City of Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area” may be subject to all or part of the hazardous vegetation and fuel management requirements when determined necessary by the fire code official.
Reason for amendment: Sections 4906.1.1 through 4906.1.4 are county-wide amendments recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. The model code requires the local agency to insert appropriate language to identify the areas where vegetation and fuel management is applicable. This amendment maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 4906.3.1 PROHIBITED PLANTS. ADDED
4906.3.2 Prohibited Plants. The fire code official may designate plants that are prohibited from being used in landscaping in the City of Gilroy Wildland Urban Interface Fire areas or areas adjacent to those areas pursuant to Section 4906.2. The prohibited plants list shall
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
be available from the Fire Prevention Office. The list shall be updated from time to time by the fire code official.
Reason for amendment: This is a Gilroy Fire amendment to include the existing list of Prohibited Plants that has been in effect in the Residential Hillside Areas. This amendment maintains the same list and procedure for limiting vegetation that can create an unmanageable fire protection situation during a wildfire.
SECTION 4907 DEFENSIBLE SPACE. AMENDED
4907.1 General. Defensible space will be maintained around all buildings and structures in Sate Responsibility Area (SRA) as required in Public Resources Code 4290 and “SRA Fire Safe Regulations” California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chap ter 7, Subchapter 2, Section 1270.
Buildings and structures within the Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones of a Local Responsibility Area (LRA) and in the City of Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall maintain defensible space as outlined in Government Code 51175 – 51189 and any local ordinance of the authority having jurisdiction.
Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining buildings or structures in the locally adopted Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area but that are not within the Very- High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and persons owning, leasing or controlling land adjacent to such buildings or structures, shall at all times:
1. Maintain an effective defensible space by removing and clearing away flammable vegetation and combustible growth areas within 30 feet (9144mm) of such buildings or structures.
Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or similar plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from the native growth to any structure.
2. Maintain additional effective defensible space by removing brush, flammable vegetation and combustible growth located 30 feet to 100 feet (9144 mm to 30480 mm) when required by the fire code official due to steepness of terrain or other conditions that would cause a defensible space of only 30 feet (9144 mm) to be insufficient.
Exception: Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from buildings or structures and less than 18 inches (457 mm) in height above the ground need not be removed where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
3. Remove portions of trees, which extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the outlet of a chimney.
4. Maintain trees adjacent to or overhanging a building free of deadwood; and
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
5. Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles or other dead vegetative growth.
6. Defensible space shall also be provided around water tank structures, water supply pumps and pump houses.
7. Remove flammable vegetation a minimum of 10 feet around liquefied petroleum gas tanks/containers.
8. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under eaves, canopies or other projections or overhangs. The storage of firewood and combustible material within the defensible space shall be located a minimum of 30 feet (6096 mm) from structures and separated from the crown of trees by a minimum horizontal distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).
Exception: Firewood and combustible materials not for consumption on the premises shall be stored as approved by the Fire Chief.
9. Clear areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to of non-fire-resistive vegetation growth.
10. Comply with current weed abatement, vegetation management, and waste management standards listed in Gilroy City Codes, and the Santa Clara County Weed Abatement Program.
Exception: Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from buildings or structures and less than 18 inches (457 mm) in height above the ground need not be removed where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
Reason for amendment: The model code provides for the local agency to insert appropriate language to identify the location and criteria for maintaining defensible space areas where vegetation and fuel management is applicable. Portions of this were part of the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Countywide amendments. This amendment maintains the current standard used in Gilroy.
Amend Section 4907.3 to read:
4907.3 Requirements. Hazardous vegetation and fuels around all buildings, roads, driveways, and structures shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations:
1. Public Resources Code, Sections 4291 through 4296.
2. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 3, Article 3, Section 1299.03.
3. California Government Code, Sections 51175 - 51189.
4. California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Section
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
5. Any local ordinance of the City of Gilroy or the County of Santa Clara.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs
SECTION 4911 IGNITION SOURCE CONTROL. ADDED
4911.1 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in the Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area or in those areas designated pursuant to 4906.2(3) as presenting a proximity to Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Areas.
4911.2 Wood Burning. Wood shall not be used in outdoor fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, or outdoor BBQ’s in the Gilroy Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
4911.3 Off Road Motorized Vehicles. Motorized vehicles shall not be operated on unpaved paths or roadways and going through brush covered areas in Gilroy Wildland- Urban Interface Fire Areas. The Fire Chief may require that access to open spaces by off road vehicles be managed by property owners.
Exception: Local, State and Federal Agency Vehicles on official business in the areas, or property owners or contractors that are provided consent by a property owner in order to conduct property maintenance or construction activities. Such activities shall be done with care to prevent hot vehicle parts from contacting dry or dead grass or brush.
Reason for amendment: This amendment includes the policies that had been in effect in Gilroy for Residential Hillside Hazardous Fire areas. Clarifies prohibitions stated in 10A.11.(d) of the Gilroy Municipal Code regarding the use of fireworks. The Hazardous Fire Area is now replaced with the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Area. This amendment maintains the same policies for limiting sources of ignition that can create an unmanageable fire risk in the WUI areas. It also includes a prohibition for off-road vehicles that are often found to be using the undeveloped areas in the Residential Hillside areas for recreational purposes, creating a fire risk in areas where there is limited or no water supply or access to the Fire Department. This amendment maintains the current standard in Gilroy.
Chapter 50 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 5001 GENERAL. AMENDED
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
5001.2.2.2 Health Hazards. The material categories listed in this section are classified as health hazards. A material with a primary classification as a health hazard can also pose a physical hazard.
1. Highly toxic and toxic materials.
2. Corrosive materials.
3. Moderately toxic gas.
4. Other health hazards.
SECTION 5003.1.3.1 TOXIC, HIGHLY TOXIC, MODERATELY TOXIC AND SIMILARLY USED OR HANDLED MATERIALS. ADDED
5003.1.3.1 Toxic, Highly Toxic, Moderately Toxic Gases and Similarly Used or Handled Materials. The storage use and handling of toxic, highly toxic and moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding Table 5003.1.1(2), Table 5003.1.1(4) and/or Table 6004.2.1.4 shall be in accordance with this chapter and Chapter 60. Any toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic material that is used or handled as a gas or vapor shall be in accordance with the requirements for toxic, highly toxic or moderately toxic gases.
SECTION 5003.1.5 OTHER HEALTH HAZARDS. ADDED
5003.1.5 Other Health Hazards. The storage, use and handling of materials classified as other health hazards including carcinogens, irritants and sensitizers in amounts exceeding 810 cubic feet for gases, 55 gallons for liquids and 5,000 pounds for solids shall be in accordance with Section 5001 and Section 5003.
SECTION 5003.1.6 ADDITIONAL SPILL CONTROL AND SECONDARY CONTAINMENT REQUIREMENTS. ADDED
5003.1.6 Additional Spill Control and Secondary Containment Requirements. In addition to the requirements set forth in Section 5004.2. An approved containment system is required for any quantity of hazardous materials that are liquids or solids at normal temperature, and pressure (NTP) where a spill is determined to be a plausible event and where such an event would endanger people, property or the environment. The approved containment system may be required to include a combination of spill control and secondary containment meeting the design and construction requirements set forth in Section 5004.2.
SECTION 5003.2.2.1 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION. AMENDED
5003.2.2.1 Design and Construction. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related components used for hazardous materials shall be in accordance with the following:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
1. Piping, tubing, valves, fittings and related components shall be designed and fabricated from materials compatible with the material to be contained and shall be of adequate strength and durability to withstand the pressure, structural and seismic stress, and exposure to which they are subject.
2. Piping and tubing shall be identified in accordance with ASME A13.1 and the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs Marking Requirements and Guidelines for Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste to indicate the material conveyed.
3. Readily accessible manual valves or automatic remotely activated fail-safe emergency shutoff valves shall be installed on supply piping and tubing at the following locations:
3.1.1. The point of use.
3.1.2. The tank, cylinder or bulk use.
4. Manual emergency shutoff valves and controls for remotely activated emergency shutoff valves shall be identified and the location shall be clearly visible accessible and indicated by means of a sign.
5. Backflow prevention or check valves shall be provided when the backflow of hazardous materials could create a hazardous condition or cause the unauthorized discharge of hazardous materials.
6. Where gases or liquids having a hazard ranking of:
Health hazard Class 3 or 4
Flammability Class 4
Reactivity Class 4
In accordance with NFPA 704 are carried in pressurized piping above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig)(103 Kpa), an approved means of leak detection, emergency shutoff or excess flow control shall be provided. Where the piping originates from within a hazardous material storage room or area, the excess flow control shall be located within the storage room or area. Where the piping originates from a bulk source, the excess flow control shall be located as close to the bulk source as practical.
Exceptions:
1. Piping for inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
2. Piping for pressure relief devices.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
7. Secondary containment or equivalent protection from spills or leaks shall be provided for piping for liquid hazardous materials and for highly toxic and toxic corrosive gases above threshold quantities listed in Tables 6004.2.1.4. Secondary containment includes, but is not limited to double-walled piping.
Exceptions:
1. Secondary containment is not required for toxic corrosive gases if the piping is constructed of inert materials.
2. Piping under sub-atmospheric conditions if the piping is equipped with an alarm and fail-safe-to-close valve activated by a loss of vacuum.
8. Expansion chambers shall be provided between valves whenever the regulated gas may be subjected to thermal expansion. Chambers shall be sized to provide protection for piping and instrumentation and to accommodate the expansion of regulated materials.
SECTION 5003.2.2.2 ADDITIONAL REGULATION FOR SUPPLY PIPING FOR HEALTH HAZARD MATERIALS. AMENDED
5003.2.2.2 Additional Regulation for Supply Piping for Health Hazard Materials.
Supply piping and tubing for gases and liquids having a health hazard ranking of 3 or 4 shall be in accordance with ASME B31.3 and the following:
1. Piping and tubing utilized for the transmission of toxic, highly toxic, or highly volatile corrosive liquids and gases shall have welded or brazed connections throughout except for connections within an exhausted enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or containment is provided for connections if the material is a liquid.
2. Piping and tubing shall not be located within corridors, within any portion of a means of egress required to be enclosed in fire-resistance-rated construction or in concealed spaces in areas not classified as Group H Occupancies.
3. All primary piping for toxic, highly toxic and moderately toxic gases shall pass a helium leak test of 1x10-9 cubic centimeters/second where practical, or shall pass testing in accordance with an approved, nationally recognized standard.
Tests shall be conducted by a qualified "third party" not involved with the construction of the piping and control systems.
Exception: Piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed space above other occupancies when
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
installed in accordance with Section 415.11.7.4 of the California Building Code as required for Group H-5 Occupancies.
SECTION 5003.3.1 UNAUTHORIZED DISCHARGES. AMENDED
5003.3.3.1 Unauthorized discharges. In the event hazardous materials are released in quantities reportable under state, federal or local regulations or when there is release or a threatened release that presents a threat to health, property or the environment, the fire code official shall be notified immediately in an approved manner and the following procedures required in accordance with Sections 5003.3.1.1 through 5003.3.1.4.
SECTION 5003.5.2 VENTILATION DUCTING. ADDED
5003.5.2 Ventilation Ducting. Ducts venting hazardous materials operations shall be labeled with the hazard class of the material being vented and the direction of flow.
SECTION 5003.5.3 “H” OCCUPANCIES. ADDED
5003.5.3 “H” Occupancies. In "H" occupancies, all piping and tubing may be required to be identified when there is any possibility of confusion with hazardous materials transport tubing or piping. Flow direction indicators are required.
SECTION 5003.10.4 ELEVATORS USED TO TRANSPORT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. AMENDED
5003.10.4.3 Highly toxic, toxic, moderately toxic gases, asphyxiate gases, and corrosive gases shall be limited to a container of a maximum water capacity of 1 lb.
SECTION 5004.2.1 STORAGE. AMENDED
5004.2.1 Spill Control for Hazardous Material Liquids. Rooms, buildings or areas used for storage of hazardous material liquids shall be provided with spill control to prevent the flow of liquids to adjoining areas. Floors in indoor locations and similar surfaces in outdoor locations shall be constructed to contain a spill from the largest single vessel by one of the following methods:
1. Liquid-tight sloped or recessed floors in indoor locations or similar areas in outdoor locations.
2. Liquid-tight floors in indoor and outdoor locations or similar areas provided with liquid-tight raised or recessed sills or dikes.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
3. Sumps and collection systems, including containment pallets in accordance with Section 5004.2.3.
4. Other approved engineered systems.
Except for surfacing, the floors, sills, dikes, sumps and collection systems shall be constructed of noncombustible material, and the liquid-tight seal shall be compatible with the material stored. When liquid-tight sills or dikes are provided, they are not required at perimeter openings having an open-grate trench across the opening that connects to an approved collection system.
SECTION 5004.2.2. INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS
5004.2.2. Incompatible Materials. Incompatible shall be separated from each other in independent secondary containment systems.
Reason for amendments: These are county-wide amendments recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It maintains the current standards adopted as part of the Santa Clara County Hazardous Materials Ordinance and maintains consistency with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Regulations in the California Health and Safety Code. It will maintain the current standard used in Gilroy.
Chapter 51 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 52 is reserved for future use.
Chapter 53 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 54 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 5402 DEFINITIONS
Amend Section 5402.1 to read:
5402.1 Definition. The following term is defined in Chapter 2:
CORROSIVE.
CORROSIVE LIQUIDS.
Chapter 55 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 56 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 5601.1.3 FIREWORKS. AMENDED
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Packet Pg. 586 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks, including those fireworks classified as Safe and Sane by the California State Fire Marshal, are prohibited.
Exception: The use of fireworks for fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608 and the sale and use of Safe and Sane Fireworks pursuant to Gilroy City Code Section 10.A.
Reason for amendment: This exception maintains that safe and sane fireworks may be stored, used and sold during the 4th of July and in conformance to Chapter 10A of the Gilroy City Code.
Chapter 57 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 5704 STORAGE. AMENDED
5704.2.7.5.8 Overfill Prevention. An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent the overfill of all Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage tanks in refineries, bulk plants or terminals regulated by Sections 5706.4 or 5706.7 shall have overfill protection in accordance with API 2350.
An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent the overfilling of Class IIIB liquid storage tanks connected to fuel-burning equipment inside buildings.
Exception: Outside aboveground tanks with a capacity of 1320 gallons (5000 L) or less need only comply with Section 5704.2.9.7.5.1 (1.1)
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It maintains the current standards adopted as part of the Santa Clara County Hazardous Materials Ordinance and maintains consistency with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Regulations in the California Health and Safety Code. The amendment consolidates the requirement from different codes into one text. It will maintain the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 5704.2.7.5.9 AUTOMATIC FILLING OF TANKS. ADDED
5704.2.7.9 Automatic Filling of Tanks. Systems that automatically fill flammable or combustible liquid tanks shall be equipped with overfill protection, approved by the fire code official that sends an alarm signal to a constantly attended location and immediately stops the filling of the tank. The alarm signal and automatic shutoff shall be tested on an annual basis and records of such testing shall be maintained on-site for a period of five (5) years.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It maintains the current standards adopted as part of the Santa Clara County Hazardous Materials Ordinance and maintains consistency with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Regulations in the California Health and Safety Code. The amendment consolidates the requirement from different codes into one text. It will maintain the current standard used in Gilroy.
SECTION 5707.3.3 SITE PLAN. AMENDED
5707.3.3 Site Plan. A site plan shall be developed for each location at which mobile fueling occurs. The site plan shall be in sufficient detail to indicate: all buildings, structures, lot lines, property lines, electric car chargers, solar photovoltaic parking lot canopies, and appurtenances on site and their use and function; all uses adjacent to the lot lines of the site; fueling locations, the locations of all storm drain openings and adjacent waterways or wetlands; information regarding slope, natural drainage, curbing, impounding and how a spill will be kept on the site property; and the scale of the site plan.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It provides a regulatory process for the new business mo del of mobile on demand personal motor vehicle fueling.
Chapter 58 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 5809.3.4 SITE PLAN. AMENDED
5809.3.4 Site Plan. For other than emergency roadside service, a site plan shall be developed for each location at which mobile gaseous hydrogen fueling occurs. The site plan shall be in sufficient detail to indicate: all buildings, structures, lot lines, property lines and appurtenances on site and their use and function, and the scale of the site plan.
Reason for amendment: This is a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It provides a regulatory process for the new business model of mobile on demand personal motor vehicle fueling.
Chapter 59 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 60 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 6001.1 GENERAL. AMENDED
6001.1 Scope. The storage and use of highly toxic, toxic and moderately toxic materials shall comply with this chapter. Compressed gases shall also comply with Chapter 53.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
Exception:
1. Display and storage in Group M and storage in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.1 1.
2. Conditions involving pesticides or agricultural products as follows:
2.1 Application and release of pesticide, agricultural products and materials intended for use in weed abatement, erosion control, soil amendment or similar applications when applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction and label directions.
2.2 Transportation of pesticides in compliance with the Federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and regulations thereunder.
2.3 Storage in dwellings or private garages of pesticides registered by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency to be utilized in and around the home, garden, pool, spa and patio.
SECTION 6004.1 GENERAL. AMENDED
6004.1 General. The storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall comply with this section.
6004.1.1 Special limitations for indoor storage and use by occupancy. The indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases in certain occupancies shall be subject to the limitations contained in Sections 6004.1.1.1 through 6004.1.1 .3.
6004.1.1.1 Group A, E, I or U occupancies. Moderately toxic, toxic and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used within Group A, E, I or U occupancies.
Exception: Cylinders not exceeding 20 cubic feet (0.566 m3) at normal temperature and pressure (NTP) are allowed within gas cabinets or fume hoods. 6004.1.1.2 Group R occupancies. Moderately toxic, toxic, and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used in Group R occupancies. 6004.1.1.3 Offices, retail sales, and classrooms. Moderately toxic, toxic, and highly toxic compressed gases shall not be stored or used in offices, retail sales, or classroom portions of Group B, F, M, or S occupancies.
Exception: In classrooms of Group B occupancies, cylinders with a capacity not exceeding 20 cubic feet (0.566 m3) at NTP are allowed in gas cabinets or fume hoods.
SECTION 6004.2 INDOOR STORAGE AND USE. AMENDED
6004.2 Indoor Storage and Use. The indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with Sections 6004.2.1 through 6004.2.4.
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION 6004.2.1 APPLICABILITY. AMENDED
6004.2.1 Applicability. The applicability of regulations governing the indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be as set forth in Sections 6004.2.1.1 through 6004.2.1.4.
SECTION 6004.2.1.4 QUANTITIES EXCEEDING THE MINIMUM THRESHOLD
QUANTITIES BUT NOT EXCEEDING THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE
QUANTITIES PER CONTROL AREAS. ADDED
6004.2.1.4 Quantities exceeding the minimum threshold quantities but not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area. The indoor storage or use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases in amounts exceeding the minimum threshold quantities per control area set forth in Table 6004.2.1.4 but not exceeding maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Table 5003.1.1(2) shall be in accordance with Sections 5001, 5003, 6001, 6004.1, and 6004.4
ADD TABLE 6004.2.1.4 MINIMUM THRESHOLD QUANTITIES FOR HIGHLY
TOXIC, TOXIC AND MODERATELY TOXIC GASES FOR INDOOR STORAGE
AND USE
Minimum Threshold Quantities for Highly Toxic, Toxic, and Moderately Toxic Gases for Indoor Storage and Use
Highly Toxic 20 cubic feet
Toxic 405 cubic feet
Moderately Toxic 405 cubic feet
SECTION 6004.4 GENERAL INDOOR REQUIREMENTS. ADDED
6004.4 General Indoor Requirements. The general requirements applicable to the indoor storage and use of highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gases shall be in accordance with Sections 6004.4 through 6004.4.8.2
SECTION 6004.4.1 CYLINDER AND TANK LOCATION. ADDED
6004.4.1 Cylinder and Tank Location. Cylinders shall be located within gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures, or gas rooms. Portable and stationary tanks shall be located within gas rooms or exhausted enclosures.
Exceptions:
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
1. Where a gas detection system is provided in accordance with 6004.4.8
SECTION 6004.4.2 VENTILATED AREAS. ADDED
6004.4.2. Ventilated Areas. The room or area in which gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures are located shall be provided with exhaust ventilation. Gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures shall not be used as the sole means of exhaust for any room or area.
SECTION 6004.4.3 PIPING AND CONTROLS. ADDED
6004.4.3. Piping and Controls. In addition to the requirements of Section 5003.2.2, piping and controls on stationary tanks, portable tanks, and cylinders shall comply with the following requirements:
1. Stationary tanks, portable tanks, and cylinders in use shall be provided with a means of excess flow control on all tank and cylinder inlet or outlet connections.
Exceptions:
1. Inlet connections designed to prevent backflow.
2. Pressure relief devices.
SECTION 6004.4.4 GAS ROOMS. ADDED
6004.4.4 Gas rooms. Gas rooms shall comply with Section 5003.8.4 and both of the following requirements:
1. The exhaust ventilation from gas rooms shall be directed to an exhaust system.
2. Gas rooms shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system. Alternative fire- extinguishing systems shall not be used.
SECTION 6004.4.5 TREATMENT SYSTEMS. ADDED
6004.4.5 Treatment systems. The exhaust ventilation from gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures and gas rooms, required in Section 6004.4.1 shall be directed to a treatment system. The treatment system shall be utilized to handle the accidental release of gas and to process exhaust ventilation. The treatment system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 6004.2.2.7.1 through 6004.2.2.7.5 and Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code.
Exceptions:
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Packet Pg. 591 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
1. Highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gas storage. A treatment system is not required for cylinders, containers, and tanks in storage where all of the following controls are provided:
1.1 Valve outlets are equipped with gas-tight outlet plugs or caps.
1.2 Hand-wheel-operate dated valves have handles secured to prevent movement.
1.3 Approved containment vessels or containment systems are provided in accordance with Section 6004.2.2.3.
2. Highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases-use. Treatment systems are not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases supplied by stationary tanks, portable tanks, or cylinders where a gas detection system complying with Section 6004.4.8 and listed or approved automatic-closing fail-safe valves are provided. The gas detection system shall have a sensing interval not exceeding 5 minutes. Automatic- closing fail-safe valves shall be located immediately adjacent to cylinder valves and shall close when gas is detected at the permissible exposure limit (PEL) by a gas sensor monitoring the exhaust system at the point of discharge from the gas cabinet, exhausted enclosure, ventilated enclosure or gas room.
SECTION 6004.4.5.1 DESIGN. ADDED
6004.4.5.1 Design. Treatment systems shall be capable of diluting, adsorbing, absorbing, containing, neutralizing, burning, or otherwise processing the contents of the largest single vessel of compressed gas. Where a total containment system is used, the system shall be designed to handle the maximum anticipated pressure of release to the system when it reaches equilibrium.
SECTION 6004.4.5.2 PERFORMANCE. ADDED
6004.4.5.2. Performance. Treatment systems shall be designed to reduce the maximum allowable dis- charge concentrations of the gas to one-half immediate by dangerous to life and health (IDLH) at the point of discharge to the atmosphere. Where more than one gas is emitted to the treatment system, the treatment system shall be designed to handle the worst-case release based on the release rate, the quantity and the IDLH for all compressed gases stored or used.
SECTION 6004.4.5.3 SIZING. ADDED
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
6004.4.5.3. Sizing. Treatment systems shall be sized to process the maximum worst-case release of gas based on the maximum flow rate of release from the largest vessel utilized.
The entire contents of the largest compressed gas vessel shall be considered.
SECTION 6004.4.5.4 STATIONARY TANKS. ADDED
6004.4.5.4 Stationary Tanks. Stationary tanks shall be labeled with the maximum rate of release for the compressed gas contained based on valves or fittings that are inserted directly into the tank. Where multiple valves or fittings are provided, the maximum flow rate of release for valves or fittings with the highest flow rate shall be indicated. Where liquefied compressed gases are in contact with valves or fittings, the liquid flow rate shall be utilized for computation purposes. Flow rates indicated on the label shall be converted to cubic feet per minute (cfm/min) (m3/s) of gas at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
SECTION 6004.4.5.5 PORTABLE TANKS AND CYLINDERS. ADDED
6004.4.5.5 Portable Tanks and Cylinders. The maximum flow rate of release for portable tanks and cylinders shall be calculated based on the total release from the cylinder or tank within the time specified in Table 6004.2.2.7.5. Where portable tanks or cylinders are equipped with approved excess flow or reduced flow valves, the worst-case release shall be determined by the maximum achievable flow from the valve as determined by the valve manufacturer or compressed gas supplier. Reduced flow and excess flow valves shall be permanently marked by the valve manufacturer to indicate the maximum design flow rate.
Such markings shall indicate the flow rate for air under normal temperature and pressure.
SECTION 6004.4.6 EMERGENCY POWER. ADDED
6004.4.6. Emergency Power. Emergency power shall be provided for the following systems in accordance with Section 604:
1. Exhaust ventilation system
2. Treatment system
3. Gas detection system
4. Smoke detection system
SECTION 6004.4.6.1 FAIL-SAFE SYSTEMS. ADDED
6004.4.6.1. Fail-Safe Systems. Emergency power shall not be required for mechanical exhaust ventilation and treatment systems where approved fail-safe systems are installed and designed to stop gas flow.
SECTION 6004.4.7 AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTION SYSTEMS. ADDED 6004.4.7. Automatic Fire Detection System. An approved automatic fire detection system shall be installed in rooms or areas where highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
compressed gases are stored or used. Activation of the detection system shall sound a local alarm. The fire detection system shall comply with Section 907.
SECTION 6004.4.8 GAS DETECTION SYSTEMS. ADDED
6004.4.8. Gas Detection System. A gas detection system complying with Section 916 shall be provided to detect the presence of gas at or below the PEL or ceiling limit of the gas for which detection is provided.
Exceptions:
1. A gas detection system is not required for toxic and moderately toxic gases when the physiological warning threshold level for the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL for the gas.
2. A gas detection system is not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic gases where cylinders, portable tanks, and all non-continuously welded connects are within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosures.
SECTION 6004.4.8.1 ALARMS. ADDED
6004.4.8.1 Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to an approved location.
SECTION 6004.4.8.2 SHUT OFF OF GAS SUPPLY. ADDED
6004.4.8.2. Shut off of gas supply. The gas detection system shall automatically close the shut-off valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for whichever gas is detected.
Exceptions: Automatic shutdown is not required for highly toxic, toxic, and moderately toxic compressed gas systems where all of the following controls are provided:
1. Constantly attended/supervised.
2. Provided with emergency shutoff valves that have ready access.
Reason for amendments: These are county-wide amendments for Chapter 60 recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
Chapter 61 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 62 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 63 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 64 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION 6405.3.1 SILANE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS AUTOMATIC
SHUTDOWN. ADDED
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Packet Pg. 594 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
6405.3.1 Silane Distribution Systems Automatic Shutdown. Silane distribution systems shall automatically shut down at the source upon activation of the gas detection system at levels above the alarm level and/or failure of the ventilation system for the silane distribution system.
Reason for amendment: All the amendments to Section 6004 that follow are part of a county-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. It maintains the current standards and accepted practices within the County of Santa Clara and maintains consistency with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Regulations in the California Health and Safety Code. The International Fire Code does not include provisions for gases that are moderately toxic. This amendment preserves the original Toxic Gas Ordinance Provisions. It will maintain the current standard used in Gilroy.
Chapter 65 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 66 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapter 67 is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
Chapters 68 through 79 reserved for future use.
Chapter 80 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
Add the following reference standard to read:
855 – 20: Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
APPENDIX A NOT ADOPTED BY THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL.
APPENDIX B is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION B105 FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
Amend Section B105.2 to read:
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.1(2) and B105.2.
Exceptions: [SFM] 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).
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Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
2. Safety roadside rest areas (SRRA) and public restrooms.
3. Truck inspection facilities (TIF), CHP office space, and vehicle inspection bays.
4. Sand/salt storage buildings, storage of sand and salt.
The maximum fire flow reduction for all commercial buildings greater than 30,000 square feet and residential podium buildings shall not exceed 25 percent of the fire flow specified in Table B105.1(2). The maximum fire flow reduction for all other buildings shall not exceed 50 percent of the fire flow specified in Table B105.1(2).
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs. These amendments limit the amount that fire flow can be reduced.
APPENDIX BB is adopted consistent with the State’s adoption.
APPENDIX C is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION C102 NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS
Amend Section C102.1 to read:
C102.1 Minimum number of fire hydrants for a building. The number of fire hydrants available to a building shall be not less than the minimum specified in Table C102.1, utilizing the base fire flow without fire sprinkler reduction.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
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Packet Pg. 596 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
SECTION C103 FIRE HYDRANTS SPACING
Amend Section C103.1 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 in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3, but in no case shall the average spacing be more than 300 feet on center.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs and is consistent with the City of Gilroy’s existing standards and specifications.
APPENDIX D is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
SECTION D103 MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS
Amend Section D103.2 as follows:
D103.2 Grade. The maximum grade of a fire department apparatus access road shall not exceed 15 percent unless approved by the fire code official.
Amend Section D103.3 as follows:
D103.3 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access roads shall be a minimum of 30 inside, and a minimum of 50 outside.
Amend Section D103.4 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 Table D103.4, as approved by the fire code official.
Amend Table D103.4 to read:
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Packet Pg. 597 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
TABLE D103.4
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
Length (feet) WIDTH (feet) TURAROUDS REQIURED
0 – 150 26 Not required, unless determined necessary
by the fire code official
151 – 500 26 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y”
or 96-foot-diameter cul-de-sac in
accordance with Figure D103.1
500– 750 26 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y”
or 96-foot-diameter cul-de-sac in
accordance with Figure D103.1
Over 750 Special approval required
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria: the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:
1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
2. Gates shall be of the horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift or vertical pivot type.
3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.
4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.
5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the fire code official.
6. Methods of locking shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official.
7. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
8. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
Reason for amendment: This is a County-wide amendment recommended by the Santa Clara County Fire Chiefs.
SECTION VI
Upon adoption of each new California Building Standards Code, the Ordinance adopting the previously adopted California Building Standards Code is superseded in its entirety. This Ordinance does not repeal the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends parts of the
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Packet Pg. 598 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
Ordinance No. 2022-XX
Fire Code Adoption
City Council Regular Meeting | November 21, 2022
2022 California Building Standards Code, nor the 2022 Ordinance that adopts by reference and amends the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code.
SECTION VII
The provisions of this Ordinance are separable, and the invalidity of any phrase, clause, provision, or part shall not affect the validity of the remainder.
SECTION VIII
In accordance with Section 36937 of the Government Code of the State of California, this Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its final adoption by the City Council, but no sooner than January 1, 2023.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of November 2022 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
APPROVED:
Marie Blankley, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Thai Nam Pham, City Clerk
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Packet Pg. 599 Attachment: Draft Ordinance (4045 : Second Reading - Adopt Fire Code)
City of Gilroy
STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item Title: Agricultural Zoning Districts and Establishment of Agricultural, Resource, and Open Spaces Uses Including
Beekeeping
Meeting Date: November 21, 2022
From: Jimmy Forbis, City Administrator
Department: Administration
Submitted By: Jimmy Forbis, City Administrator
Prepared By: Bryce Atkins, Assistant to the City Administrator
Strategic Plan Goals
☐ Develop a Financially
Resilient Organization
☐ Ensure Neighborhood
Equity from City
Services
☐ Promote Economic
Development
Activities
☐ Promote Safe,
Affordable Housing for All
☐ Maintain and Improve
City Infrastructure
RECOMMENDATION
Council direction not to proceed with pursuing policies permitting agriculture operations, including beekeeping, outside of agriculture districts.
BACKGROUND
On July 5, 2022, a Council-initiated item was requested and approved to bring back to Council to assess Council’s interest in allowing beekeeping in the City outside of the agriculture zoning district and other such agricultural activities, to take place within the City of Gilroy.
11.1 Packet Pg. 600
ANALYSIS
Agricultural Operations – Not Just Beekeeping
Although the Council-initiated item was based on beekeeping, the issue pertains to agricultural operations, and the benefits and impacts of allowing such activity outside of the agriculture zoning district. The challenge with just permitting beekeeping and not addressing agricultural operations comprehensively is the tendency to generate inconsistent, spotty regulations that form over time, as opposed to strategically planned .
The allowance of beekeeping will likely trigger a call for the allowance of other agriculture operations within develop ed areas, such as chickens, pigs, or others. Once one type of agricultural operation is allowed, anyone with interest in expanding the list of permitted types may also come before Council requesting similar concessions, citing that if one is allowed, theirs must be too.
In a survey of the 15 cities in Santa Clara County, only tw o (Gilroy and Milpitas) don’t have allowances for beekeeping expressly stated in their codes. They are also the only two cities that do not permit livestock animals, such as cows, horses, goats and sheep in residential areas, with conditions. Each city tha t has a code section allowing beekeeping in non-agricultural districts, there are allowances for other farm animals to be in residential or other districts, with only two not allowing these animals in residential areas, but allowances in other districts. T here are conditions that are in place, such as minimum lot sizes and setbacks, etc. but the animals are allowed in the district if the lot conditions are met. Further requirements exist in their zoning codes.
There will likely be interest in expanding the scope to include livestock and other agriculture-based animals and insects (collectively, “farming animals”). This will require any effort to regulate beekeeping to also analyze and address other farming animals and agriculture operations to help fully regulate and establish firm lines of permission and prohibition. If beekeeping is directed to be pursued, it is critical to take a comprehensive approach to the issue.
Initial Scoping of Analysis Needs
The Search for Example Ordinances
Staff has commenced looking for ordinances from cities that are allowing, in some form, for agricultural activities to take place within their city limits , outside of agriculture zoning districts (“ag districts”). Ag districts are zoning areas that allow for, in limited capa city, agriculture operations. Ag districts, and what are allowed on them, vary from city to city.
Gilroy already has an ag district designation in the zoning ordinance (attached).
The issue, as staff understands, is having beekeeping or other agriculture operation in areas with other land uses (such as residential, commercial, industrial, public areas, etc.). Staff began searching for ordinances that authorize that type of activity in areas outside of ag districts. So far, staff has found many beekeeping code sections.
11.1 Packet Pg. 601
However, cities vary in regulations relating to other animals in addition to bees, such as horses, donkeys, and chickens.
Surface Level Assessment of Analysis Needs
If direction is given to proceed, there are a host of considerations to be made and issues to analyze as part of this project. Those that have already been identified are below. This is only an initial list, as staff has not fully engaged the cross -departmental and cross-functional teams that would be necessary to undertake this project fully.
• Inter-lot impacts
o Sound: In the case of farming animals, there are limits to the amount of sound control that are possible within existing development. There will likely be issues of excessive noise claims if farming animals are introduced into more populated development than in agriculture districts. o Smell: farming animals well emanate odors that will not respect lot lines or changes in property ownership. Although some intensive , noxious odors can be regulated, currently there is not a simple and objective measure of smell available for code enforcement or animal control to use to help address issues that arise relating to this impact.
o Animal waste pollution: farming animals will produce waste as a function of living. Proper and regulated disposal in non-agricultural settings will be essential in the protection of health and safety. While the keeping of farming animals in agriculture districts within the City can be done safely within existing requirements, animal wastes in urbanized area s can cause health issues due to its proximity to higher population densities. o Water quality: water quality issues can become critical as well. Within the city limits, storm drains and surface drainage systems can collect discharge if it washes into the system. This could expand pollution beyond the immediate area of a lot with farming animals. The waste would also eventually pass through the soils. Depending upon level of use, and proximity to drinking water wells, this could impact both waterways and the City’s water treatment system.
o Farming animals traversing across lots: Farming animals will escape their containment from time to time. Some farming animals, such as bees, will require travel to other areas to forage. Although one lot owner may be fine with it, others may not want to live immediately adjacent to beehives, or other farming animals. By allowing the use outside of agriculture zone districts, there would likely be turmoil and complaints that will rise through staff up to Council regarding farming animals moving into or through areas where the property owner does not consent to their presence. This will breed conflict between property owners, but also disagreements with the City for permitting them.
11.1 Packet Pg. 602
• City Activities
o Wastewater: The City would also need to monitor wastewater discharges to maintain compliance with discharge requirements from various permits from the State Water Resources Control Board, among others. It is possible that those interested in having farming animals on their lots may try to dispose of waste through the sewer system, which may cause clogging and discharge concentration issues in the wastewater collection and treatment systems.
o Potable drinking water demand: any agricultural operation on developed property would necessitate a higher use of treated drinking water, with the exception of any locations utilizing recycled/reclaimed water. The higher demand of water use individually may be a minor amount, but could in the aggregate be a noticeable increase in usage. This would need higher levels of analysis and projection based on possible participation of property owners.
o Land-use permitting and review workload: The City’s Planning Division would be undertaking a large portion of the project workload if staff is directed to proceed. This heavy requirement of staff hours could draw out this project, or require resources pulled from other community development activities to fulfill this project at the expense of other projects that are submitted with cost recovery payments.
o Animal Control: The roles and responsibilities of Animal Control would need to be analyzed to ensure that the City’s role in enforcing animal care within the city limits is being performed correctly. New training, legal interpretations, and equipment might be needed to handle newly permitted animals in the community.
• Regulatory Issues
o City’s liability: an analysis will need to be done to determine what, if any, liability will be added to the City in the case of allowing farming animals and agricultural operations to be located within non-agriculture zones. o Permitted farming animals: An analysis and plan on how to determine what farming animals and/or agriculture operations are deemed “acceptable” vs. “unacceptable” will be needed. This would be required to help differentiate and justify allowing certain animals and operations, while prohibiting others.
o Animals raised for slaughtering/butchering: There will have to be a review of restrictions on butchering and slaughtering animals within the City, depending upon what farming animals are allowed, and if they will be allowed to be raised for consumption (chickens laying eggs vs. chickens for eating in mature form).
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Workload Analysis and Legislative Agenda
As mentioned previously, this is a preliminary list. It can be expected that more issues may be identified if this work is to proceed. The workload lift is significant to conduct a full analysis and try to deliver function al options to Council for adoption. If directed to proceed, staff will conduct the work, but will need to assess and remove items from the current workload to gain the capacity to carry it out. This could be one or more items from the Council Legislative Agenda, and/or one or more items from various department workplans. If the instruction is to proceed, staff will return to Council to recommend what items may be recommended for delay or cancellation.
Given the effort required to perform comprehensive policy that addresses all agricultural uses, staff is rendering a recommendation to not pursue beekeeping or agriculture operations outside of ag districts. There are several challenges associated with agricultural uses in and around residential, commercial, and industrial zones that on a surface-level review will demand significant resources not currently available without making sacrifices.
ALTERNATIVES
Council may direct staff to pursue a llowing agriculture operations to occur within the City. Given the need to analyze the various impacts, including environmental, operational, and legal, as well a s the process to address zoning, the general plan, and other procedural demands to implement such a change, one or more of the Council’s legislative agenda items, as well as likely some departmental work plan items, would have to drop off or be paused for a significant length of time.
FISCAL IMPACT/FUNDING SOURCE
No fiscal impact is anticipated if direction is to cease pursuit of allowing agriculture operations to occur within the City. If there is direction to proceed, any fiscal impact associated with future actions shall be identified and analyzed in such future staff reports.
CONCLUSION
There may be some private benefit, and some minor environmental enhancements from encouraging agricultural operations within the City . The level of benefit would depend upon the quality of the endeavor and effort applied by the resident. However, providing the option to have agriculture within the City presents a lot of challenges and risk while also demanding a heavy lift by the City to develop , implement, and enforce any new regulations adopted relating to agriculture operations.
Attachments:
1. Ag District Code Sections
11.1 Packet Pg. 604
4.20 Swine, bees, chickens, roosters, peafowl, ostriches and other “Ratitae,” and livestock prohibited except in agricultural zones.
(a) It is unlawful for any pers on to k eep, maintain or permit to be maintained bees, swine, llamas, roos ters, chic kens , pigeons, turkey s, pea fowl, water fowl, ostric hes and other “Ratitae,” or livestock on any premises within the city that hav e not been zoned for agricultural us e, except as otherwis e provided in s ection 4.23. The term “s wine” as used herein does not include pot-bellied pigs harbored in stric t accordance with restrictions related to noise or sanitation as provided in this chapter.
(b) It is unlawful for any pers on to c ons truct, establish, conduct or maintain or c ause to be construc ted, es tablis hed or maintained, or engage in, exc ept as otherwis e prov ided for in this chapter, any dairy , s toc k y ard or stock c orral, cattle ranch, rabbit or poultry ranch, or public s table, on any premises not zoned for agricultural use. Where s uch uses are ex is ting on the effec tive date of this ordinance, then suc h us e s hall be allowed to continue as a nonc onforming us e. (Ord. No. 95- 9, §§ 2, 3, 5-1-95; Ord. No. 98-1, § II, 1-5-98; Ord. No. 2012-03, § 1, 3-5-12) The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
Gilroy C i ty Code 4.20 Swine, bees, chi ckens, roosters, peafow l , ostri ches and other “Ratitae,” and livestock prohibited except in agricultural zones.
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Packet Pg. 605 Attachment: Ag District Code Sections (3976 : Beekeeping with the City)
30.4.10 A1 agricultur e district.
(a) Statement of Intent. This section of the Zoning Ordinance is intended to provide for areas within the city that may be us ed for agricultural purposes. The lands in the A1 agric ulture distric t are expected to be urbanized ultimately in ac cordance with the general plan. In the interim, thes e lands prov ide areas for agricultural ac tivities . The minimum lot s ize is intended to preserve lots in sizes suitable for agricultural us e and potential urban dev elopment. The following regulations, ex c ept to the ex tent that they may be modified by a c ombining distric t, shall apply to ev ery lot and building in an A1 agriculture dis trict.
(b) Permitted Us es and Conditional Uses . Land in the A1 agriculture dis trict may be us ed as prov ided in the res idential us e table, sec tion 30.11.10(c). Conditional uses may be permitted with a conditional us e permit, which may be is s ued by the planning commis sion in ac cordance with the regulations in s ection 30.50.30.
(c) Site and Building Requirements. The lot, y ard, height, and additional requirements in the A1 agriculture district shall be as established in the res idential site and building requirement table, sec tion 30.11.20(c).
(d) Dens ity. The max imum dens ity in the A1 agric ulture distric t s hall be one (1) dwelling unit per lot.
This density limitation is intended to prov ide for an av erage density of less than one (1) unit per twenty (20) ac res. (Ord. No. 2013-08, § 2 (Ex h. A), 8-5-13; Ord. No. 2018-02, § 4, 1-8-18) The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
Gilroy C i ty Code 30.4.10 A1 agriculture di strict.Page 1 of 1
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Packet Pg. 606 Attachment: Ag District Code Sections (3976 : Beekeeping with the City)
30.11.10 Residential use table.
(a) Statement of Intent. The intent of this residential use table is to clearly and precis ely designate permitted uses and conditional us es within each of the following dis tricts :
A1 Agriculture Distric t
RR Rural Residential Distric t
R1 Single-Family Res idential
Distric t
R2 Two (2) Family Residential
Distric t
R3 Medium Density Residential
Distric t
R4 High Dens ity Res idential
Distric t
RH Res idential Hillside Dis trict
ND Neighborhood Dis trict
(b) Designation of Residential Us es. The residential use table indic ates whether a variety of uses are unconditionally permitted, permitted only with a conditional use permit from the planning commis sion, or permitted only under s pec ial conditions. The planning commission, or its des ignee, shall determine, upon written request, whether any use not listed in the res idential us e table is similar in c harac ter to a des cribed us e for the purpose of applying the distric t regulations and conditions .
(c) Residential Us e Table.
A1 RR R1 R2 R3 R4 RH ND
Acc essory Building X X X X X X X *
Temporary Building X X X X X X X *
Agricultural Uses
Agriculture X X C5 C5 C5 C5 C5 *
Animal Hus bandry C C *
Animal Services *
Animal Boarding X X *
The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
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Veterinary Hospital X X *
Commercial Uses
Bed/Break fas t Establis hment
(1—2 Rooms )
C C C C C C *
Boarding or Rooming House X C C C C C *
Day Care Center C C C C C C *
Family Day Care Home X X X X X X *
Home Oc c upation2 D D D D D D *
Landsc ape Nurs ery C *
Sale of Farm Produc ts (Grown
on Site)
X C *
Subdivision Sales Office T T T T T *
Public and Semi-Public Uses
Community Garden X X X X X X *
Emergency Shelter7 C C C C C C C *
Golf Course or Country Club C C C C C C *
Hospital C C *
Neighborhood Baz aar T T T T T *
Open Space (Recreational) X X X X X X *
Private Neighborhood Park,
Recreation Facility
C4 C4 C4 C4 C4 C4 *
Public ly Owned Building or
Facility
X X X X X X *
Religious Ins titution X X X X X X *
Schools (Priv ate ≤ 12
Students or Public )
X X X X X X *
Schools (Priv ate > 12
Students)
C C C C C C *
Supportiv e and Trans itional
Housing6
X X X X X X X *
Residential Uses
X X X X X X *
The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
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Acc essory Dwelling Unit1 X X X X X X *
Condominiums X X X *
Duplex X3 X X X *
Mobile Home Park C C X X *
Multiple-Family Building X X *
Residential Care Homes
(More Than 6 Res idents)
C C C C C C *
Residential Care Homes (Up
to and Including 6 Residents)
X X X X X X *
Single-Family Dwelling or
Modular Home
X8 X X X X X X *
Townhouse X X X *
X = Unc onditionally permitted.
C = Permitted only with conditional us e permit granted by planning commis s ion.
D = Permitted s ubjec t to the approv al of the planning manager.
T = Temporary use—see Article XLVII.
* = Refer to the mas ter plan or specific plan adopted for the neighborhood dis trict area in which the property is located.
1 Accessory dwelling unit(s ) and/or junior ac ces s ory dwelling units may be allowed subject to compliance with the regulations presc ribed in Artic le LIV. 2 Permitted only if the regulations of Artic le XL are met. 3 A duplex dwelling is permitted when all of the following c onditions are met:
(a) The duplex dwelling shall be loc ated on a corner lot only ; and (b) The c orner lot s hall have a minimum area of eight thous and (8,000) s quare feet and be s o des ignated for a duplex unit on a tentativ e and final map; and (c) The duplex shall not increase the ov erall density within any given land subdivis ion beyond the maximum of seven and one-fourth (7 1/4) dwelling units per net ac re. 4 Conditional us e permit required unless otherwis e allowed through an approved planned unit The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
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dev elopment.
5 Planning c ommiss ion approval of a c onditional use permit is required for all new agric ultural us es.
6 Supportive and/or trans itional hous ing that serv es more than s ix (6) individuals, provides on- site serv ices and is lic ensed by the s tate as a group home shall only be allowed upon the granting of a c onditional use permit.
7 Emergenc y s helters shall be subject to the performance standards listed in section 30.41.32.
Additionally , emergenc y shelters in the agriculture and residential z oning distric ts shall only serv e families . For the purpose of this sec tion, a “family” is defined as having one (1) or more indiv iduals under eighteen (18) years of age who reside with a parent or with another person with c are and legal custody of that individual (including foster parents ) or with a des ignee of that parent or other person with legal c ustody. Family als o inc ludes a pregnant woman or a person who is in the proc ess of adopting or otherwise sec uring legal c ustody of any individual under eighteen (18) years of age.
8 One (1) residential dwelling unit may be permitted on an A1 z oned parc el that has a minimum size of twenty (20) ac res or more. Subdiv ision of land for further development is not permitted without rez oning to another zoning district that implements the general plan land use map. (Ord. No. 2013-08, § 2 (Exh. A), 8-5-13; Ord. No. 2014-06, § 2, 5-5-14; Ord. No. 2018-02, § 7, 1-8- 18; Ord. No. 2019-08, § 4 (Att. A), 10-7-19; Ord. No. 2020-03, § 3, 7-6-20) The Gilroy City Code is current through Ordinance 2022-05, passed July 5, 2022.
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