Item10_2025-Building-Code-Update — Grover Beach City Council, October 14, 2025

CITY OF GROVER BEACH

CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item No. 10
Placement: Public Hearing
Meeting Date: October 14, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council DATE: October 14, 2025 FROM: Matthew Bronson, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Megan Martin, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Public Hearing to Introduce and Conduct a First Reading of an Ordinance to Amend Municipal Code Title XV, Chapter 150 (Building Regulations), to Adopt by Reference the 2025 California Building Standards Codes (California Code of Regulations, Title 24) with Local Amendments, and the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code with Local Amendments; and Resolution Setting Forth Related Findings.

RECOMMENDATION
Conduct a public hearing to introduce and conduct the first reading of an Ordinance to amend the Grover Beach Municipal Code Title XV, Chapter 150 (Building Regulations), to adopt by reference the 2025 California Building Standards Codes with local amendments and the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code with local amendments; and consider a Resolution setting forth the pertinent findings and substantial evidence required by the California Health and Safety Code to support local amendments; and schedule a second reading, by title only, to adopt the Ordinance and Resolution at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) sets forth the California Building Standards Code which provides regulations that govern how buildings and structures are designed, constructed, altered, and maintained throughout California. The code applies to nearly all types of buildings, including but not limited to residential, commercial, schools, hospitals. The State mandates that these codes be updated every three years in all cities and counties, known as the tri-annual update.

The CCR is a package of multiple “parts” that together govern building design, construction, accessibility, energy, and fire and life safety. Each chapter deals with specific aspects of building and safety regulation:

Part 1 – California Administrative Code
Part 2 – California Building Code
Part 7 – California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (new) Part 8 – California Historical Building Code
Part 2.5 – California Residential Code Part 9 – California Fire Code Part 3 – California Electrical Code Part 10 – California Existing Building Code Part 4 – California Mechanical Code Part 11 – California Green Building Standards Code Part 5 – California Plumbing Code Part 12 – California Referenced Standards Code Part 6 – California Energy Code
Staff Report: 2025 Building Code Update Page 2
October 14, 2025
State agencies review the most recent editions of national model codes and standards and make amendments and additions to to the CCR on a triennial basis. The proposed amendments and the full package are finalized mid-cycle and published by the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) on or around July, then become enforceable statewide the following January

1. For the current cycle, the 2025 edition was published by the CBSC on July 1, 2025, and the effective date will be January 1, 2026. A summary of the code changes is published by the CBSC to assist code users as they familiarize themselves with the new edition.

The City adopts the CCR, by reference, by amending the City’s Municipal Code (Title XV). The State allows cities to make local amendments to the 2025 code if local geographic, topographic, or climatic conditions warrant changes. The California Health and Safety Code requires adoption of a resolution setting forth the pertinent findings and substantial evidence to support local code amendments (Attachment 2). Staff is recommending the CCR be adopted by reference along with local amendments (Attachment 1). In addition to the 2025 code, staff is recommending the Council adopt the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) to replace the currently adopted 2021 version. The IPMC is not part of the mandatory code update but is beneficial in addressing code enforcement issues related to property management.

Summary of the State’s Substantive Changes
As with previous tri-annual code changes, the proposed changes to the CCR are relatively minor in nature, except for the addition of a new wildland-urban interface (WUI) code (Part 7) as these changes relocate WUI provisions from previous California Building Code Chapter 7A, California Residential Code CRC R337, and California Fire Code Chapter 49, into a single unified part.

Area / Topic Description of Change Local Impact
Wildland-Urban
Interface
A new California Wildland-Urban Interface
Code (CWUIC) (Part 7) has been adopted,
consolidating and relocating WUI-related
provisions from CBC Chapter 7A, CRC
R337, and CFC Chapter 49 into a single
unified part.

Minimal/None; City of Grover
Beach does not have any high
or very high hazard zones
requiring additional home
hardening.

Local Fire Code
Administrative
Amendments
Additional clarifying administrative
language added for Fire Code Official
roles, fire lane standards, fire hydrant
types, cost recovery for abatement efforts,
and fire department emergency access.

Minimal/None; Provides
additional language for clarity
and consistency to help Fire
Department with emergency
operation response and
enforcement of regulations.

Triggers for
Installation of
Fire Sprinkler
Systems
Providing clarity and alignment with other
existing amendments regarding area of
1,000 square feet; reduction of applicable
date from January 1, 2012, to within the
last five years.

Minimal/None; Removes
ambiguity and subjectiveness
to interpretation of square
footage; provides a reduction
to a more reasonable
application date for
determining if sprinklers are
required.

Assembly Bill 130 – Limitations on Building Code Updates for Residential Buildings Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 130 in June 2025, which limits local agencies’ ability to modify the California Building Standards Code for residential buildings between October 1, 2025, and June 1, 2031. The law prohibits cities and counties from adopting new or more restrictive Staff Report: 2025 Building Code Update Page 3
October 14, 2025
residential building standards beyond those adopted by the State, except under limited circumstances such as emergency standards or home hardening measures.

The local amendments proposed by the City of Grover Beach have been reviewed for consistency with AB 130 and the California Building Standards Code. These updates are administrative and clarifying in nature and do not impose any new or more restrictive requirements on residential development.

Local Changes
The local amendments proposed shown in the Ordinance in Attachment 1 have been reviewed for consistency with State Housing Law and the California Building Standards Code. These amendments are limited in scope, clarifying existing provisions and administrative practices consistent with the substantive changes (listed above) adopted under the current State Code cycle. The updates are minimal in nature, maintain alignment with State standards, and do not establish new or more restrictive requirements for residential development.

General Updates
• Adopts by reference the California Building Standards Code with local amendments • Adopts by reference the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code with local amendments
• Establishes authority, duties, and appointment of the Building Official under the Community Development Director.
• Clarifies permit expiration dates for permits issued to correct code violations.

Local Amendments to Building and Residential Code
• Expands Fire Sprinkler requirements for consistency with existing City amendments and State standards.
• Clarifies thresholds and timelines for determining when fire sprinklers are required for consistent application.
• Incorporates updated definitions and administrative provisions for clarity and alignment with State codes.

Fire Code Local Amendments
• Designates the Five Cities Fire Authority (FCFA) as the Fire Code enforcement agency. • Provides additional clarifying language for fire lane standards, hydrant types, cost recovery, and emergency access.
• Enhances consistency to support FCFA with emergency operations and response, and enforcement of regulations.

Property Maintenance Amendments
• Clarifies maintenance standards and enforcement provisions for improved code compliance.
• Includes minor administrative revisions with no substantive change to requirements.

In accordance with California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5, a Resolution has been prepared to substantiate the City’s local amendments to the Fire Code and Property Maintenance Code. The supporting findings are based upon the City’s topographic, climatic, and geographic conditions and are necessary to ensure the protection of public health, safety, and welfare.

Staff Report: 2025 Building Code Update Page 4
October 14, 2025

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.) Section 15378(b)(5) and is therefore exempt from CEQA because adoption of the building code is an organizational and administrative activity that will not result in any direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

FISCAL IMPACT
Adoption of the Ordinance and Resolution will not have a fiscal impact. The cost to administer the code is recovered through permit fees.

ALTERNATIVES
The Council has the following alternatives to consider:

1. Conduct the first reading and introduce an Ordinance to amend the Grover Beach Municipal Code TItle XV, Chapter 150 – Building Regulations to adopt the 2025 California Building Standards Codes with local amendments and the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code with local amendments; and consider a Resolution setting forth the pertinent findings and substantial evidence required by the California Health and Safety Code to support local amendments; and schedule a second reading, by title only, to adopt the Ordinance and Resolution at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting; or

2. Provide alternative direction to staff

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
A public hearing notice was published in the New Times on October 2, 2025. The agenda was posted in accordance with the Brown Act.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Attachment 1 - Ordinance Adoption for 2025 California Building Standards Code

2. Attachment 2 - Resolution for 2025 Local Amendments
Multi-Year Goals
☒ Public Safety and Community Services ☒ Economic Development and Housing ☐ Community Infrastructure ☐ Financial and Organization Sustainability Council Priorities
☐ Water & Wastewater Infrastructure ☐ Community Engagement ORDINANCE NO. 25-XX

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GROVER BEACH,

CALIFORNIA AMENDING ARTICLE XV OF THE GROVER BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA
PLUMBING CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCE STANDARDS CODE; THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE WITH LOCAL

AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Grover Beach is a municipal corporation organized under the laws of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, every three years the State of California adopts updated building codes referred to as the California Building Standards Code for the protection of the public; and WHEREAS, the State-adopted 2025 California Building Standards Codes become effective on January 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City seeks to amend its Municipal Code to adopt the 2025 California Building Standards Codes, and the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code by reference; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire and intent of the City Council to adopt local amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code that affect the installation of fire sprinklers and common driveway access based on local climatic, geographical or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, the City Council is permitted to make amendments to the California Building and Fire Codes which are necessitated by local climatic, geological or topographic conditions present in the City of Grover Beach;
WHEREAS, the California Health and Safety Code, Section 17958.5 requires the City Council make findings that the amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, the California Building and Fire Codes, as amended herein, regulates and governs (i) the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises in the City and (ii) issuance of permits and collection of fees related, thereto; WHEREAS, the Fire Code, as amended herein, also provides for the issuance of permits and collection of fees.

Attachment 1
Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 2
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that local amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or topographical conditions in the City of Grover Beach as adopted by City Council Resolution No. 25-XX at its (Date)meeting; and
WHEREAS, the City Council introduced the ordinance and conducted the first reading of the ordinance at its October 14, 2025 meeting.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GROVER BEACH AS FOLLOWS:

PART 1. The above recitals and findings are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference.

ARTICLE XV – BUILDING REGULATIONS
CHAPTER 1 – CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
Sec. 150.001. Building Official. Appointment and Duties. The Building Official shall be appointed by the City Manager of the City of Grover Beach and shall hold office at the pleasure of said City Manager. The Building Official or his/her authorized representative shall work under the direction of the Community Development Director. The Building Official is authorized and directed to administer and enforce all provisions and codes adopted by this Chapter and for such purpose shall have the powers of a police officer.

Sec. 150.002. Adoption of the California Building Standards Administrative Code. The 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Administrative Code, is hereby adopted as the Building Standards Administrative Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.003. Permits Issued to Correct Code Violation. Permits issued to correct code violations pursuant to an active code enforcement case shall be valid for a period of 90 days.

Extensions to the permit may be granted at the discretion of the building official. Performance or approval of a required inspection will not automatically extend the permit.

Sec. 150.015. Adoption of the California Building Code. The 2025 edition of the California Building Code, including Appendix B, G, I, J, and Q is hereby adopted as the Building Code of the City of Grover Beach except for the following revisions.

Section 903.2 through 903.2.11.3 of the 2025 California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Section 903.2. Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in the following locations:

1. In all new buildings and structures that exceed 1,000 square feet.

2. In additions or alterations for all buildings or structures as follows:
a. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage, and results in a total square footage equal or greater than 1,000 square Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 3
feet. Modifications that require addition of an automatic sprinkler system shall include removal, combining or rearrangement of demising or tenant space walls to create a single occupancy or tenant space of 1000 square feet or greater or changes in occupancy or use when the change of occupancy or use results in a requirement for an automatic sprinkler system as specified in Section 903, including, but not limited to, increased occupant load, multiple fire areas, use of hazardous materials and other increased hazards.
b. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.
c. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.
d. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

Table 903.2.1
Hazard Categories
Relative Hazard Occupancy Classifications
1 (Highest Hazard) H
2 I-2, I-2.1, I-3, I-4, L
3 A, E, I-1, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-4
4 B, F-1, R-3, R-3.1, S-1
5 (Lowest Hazard) F-2, S-2, U
e. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years. 903.2.8.1 Group R-3.

An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3, including Section 903.3.1.3 for Group R-3, shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area including all Manufactured, Modular or Mobile single family or Multifamily Homes or sleeping units.
903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages

2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

Sec. 150.016. Adoption of the California Residential Code. The 2025 edition of the California Residential Code, including Appendix AH, AK, and AQ, AX, and AZ is hereby adopted as the Residential Code of the City of Grover Beach except for the following revisions.

A. Sections R309.1 Exception and R309.2, Exception 1 shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 4
Section R309.1 Exception and R309.2, Exception 1. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in additions or alterations for all one- and two-family dwelling buildings or structures as follows:

1. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage and results in a total square footage in excess of 1,000 square feet.

2. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

3. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

4. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

5. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years. Buildings or structures separated by less than ten feet shall be considered as a single building or structure.

B. Section R309.2.2. shall be added as follows:

1. Where an Accessory Dwelling Unit cannot comply with minimum access requirements, a horizontal dry pipe may be installed in lieu of fire sprinklers as approved by the Fire Chief.

Sec. 150.017. Adoption of the California Electrical Code. The 2025 edition of the California Electrical Code, including Annex A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I is hereby adopted as the Electrical Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.018. Adoption of the California Mechanical Code. The 2025 edition of the California Mechanical Code, including Appendix B, C and D, is hereby adopted as the Mechanical Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.019. Adoption of the California Plumbing Code. The 2025 edition of the California Plumbing Code, including Appendix A, B, D, H, I and J, is hereby adopted as the Plumbing Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.020. Adoption of California Energy Code. The 2025 edition of the California Energy Code, including Appendix 1-A, is hereby adopted as the Energy Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 5
Sec. 150.021. Adoption of the California Historical Building Code. The 2025 edition of the California Historical Building Code, including Appendix A, is hereby adopted as the Historical Building Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.022. Adoption of the California Existing Building Code. The 2025 edition of the California Existing Building Code, including Appendix A1, is hereby adopted as the Existing Building Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.023. Adoption of the California Green Building Standards Code. The 2025 edition of the California Green Building Standards Code without appendices is hereby adopted as the Green Building Standards Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.024. Adoption of the California Reference Standards Code. The 2025 edition of the California Reference Standards Code is hereby adopted as the Reference Standards Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.025. Adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code. The 2024 edition of the International Property Maintenance Code is hereby adopted as the Property Maintenance Code of the City of Grover Beach, except for the following revisions.

A. The following Sections of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code shall be revised to delete and insert the following:

Section 101.1 Title. Delete “Name of Jurisdiction” and insert “The City of Grover Beach”.

Section 103.1 Creation of agency. Delete “[Insert Name of Department]” and insert “The City of Grover Beach Community Development Department”.

Section 108.4 Failure to Comply shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

Section 108.4 Failure to Comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines of not less than triple the amount charged for the original permit fee(s), or more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).

Section 302.4 Weeds. Delete “jurisdiction to insert height in inches” and insert “four inches (4 inches)”.

Section 304.14 Insect screens. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “Year-round”.

Section 602.3 Heat supply. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “year-round”.

Section 602.4 Occupiable workspaces. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “year-round”.

Sec. 150.026. California Wildland Urban Interface Code. The 2025 edition of the California Wildland Urban Interface Code is hereby adopted as the Wildland Urban Interface Code of the City of Grover Beach.

Sec. 150.040. Adoption of California Fire Code. The 2025 edition of the California Fire Code, including Appendix Chapters A, B, BB, C, CC, F, H, and I and is hereby adopted as the Fire Code of the City of Grover Beach except for the following revisions.

Chapter 1 Administration
Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 6
Section 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Grover Beach Code, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
Section 103 – Code Compliance Agency
103.1 Creation of agency. The Five Cities Fire Authority is hereby created and the official in charge therefore shall be known as the Fire Code Official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

Section 104 – Duties and powers of the Fire Code Official. 104.10.2 Fire Department personnel and police. The chief of the fire department and other members of the Five Cities Fire Authority designated by the Chief of the fire department have the authority of peace officers or public officers pursuant to California Penal Code sections 830.2(g), 830.7(d) and 836.5(a) in performing their duties under the California Fire Code.
104.10.3 Fire investigation unit. A fire investigation unit is established within the Five Cities Fire Authority under the direction of the Fire Chief. All members of the fire investigation unit shall, upon completion of requirements as set forth in California Penal Code section 832, or any successor legislation, have the full power, authority, and immunity of a California peace officer to issue citations for violations of this Code. 104.10.4 Arrests. In addition to Five Cities Fire Authority personnel, who are assigned as arson investigators pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.37, any other member of the Five Cities Fire Authority shall have the power to arrest, without a warrant, whenever that member has reasonable cause to believe the person to be arrested has committed the crime of misdemeanor or felony arson, as defined in California Penal Code sections 450 et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Titles 19, 24, and 25, in his/her presence, pursuant to the authority granted by California Penal Code section 836.5. 104.10.5 Citations. The Fire Code Official, or duly authorized agent, is granted the authority as provided in Section 836.5(a) of the California Penal Code to issue citations for violations of this code.

Section 105 – Permits
105.3.3 Occupancy and use prohibited before approval. The building or structure shall not be occupied prior to the fire code official issuing a permit and conducting associated inspections indicating that applicable provisions of this code have been met. No appliance, device, equipment, or system shall be operated or used until the installation has been approved and permitted by the Fire Code Official and all applicable provisions of this code have been met. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant or contractor or both to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes.

Section 113 – Violations
113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or 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 Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 7
a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars $1,000.00, or by imprisonment not exceeding three hundred sixty five (365) calendar days, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each day a violation continues, after due notice has been served, shall be deemed a separate offense.
113.3.5. Citations. The Fire Chief, Fire Marshal and Battalion Chiefs are each authorized to issue a citation to any person operating or maintaining an occupancy or a premises or vehicle subject to this code, and who allow a hazard to exist or fail to take immediate action to abate a hazard on such occupancy, premises or vehicle when ordered or notified to do so by any of those officials.

Chapter 4 Emergency Planning
Section 405 – Emergency Evacuation Drills
405.8 Initiation. Where a fire alarm system is provided, emergency evacuation drills shall be initiated by activating the fire alarm system. Prior to initiating an alarm, the person initiating the alarm shall contact the fire alarm monitoring company and advise the company’s dispatcher of the fire drill. In cases where the fire alarm system is not monitored by a central station, notification shall be provided to the fire department dispatch center.

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features
Section 503 – Fire Apparatus Access Roads
503.3 Marking. Fire lanes and fire apparatus access roads shall be identified by curbs painted red on both the top and face along the entire length of the fire lane or fire apparatus access road, as applicable. Where no curb exists or a rolled curb is installed, an eight-inch wide red (OSHA safety red) strip or approved posted signs applied the full length of the fire lane or fire apparatus access road, as applicable, shall be installed. “FIRE LANE – NO PARKING” shall be painted on top of curb in 3” white lettering at a spacing of 25 feet on center or portion thereof.

Exception: On school grounds, the markings to be implemented shall be as approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.
503.4.2 Removal of Obstructions. The Fire Code Official shall have the power and authority to remove or cause to be removed, without notice, any vehicle, vessel, or thing parked or placed in violation of any or all sections of this code. The owner of any item so removed shall be responsible for all charges connected therewith. 503.6.1 Electrically operated gates. Any electrically operated gate which is installed across any required fire access road or fire lane shall have a Knox brand access switch installed which will open the gate. The switch (with dust cover) shall be installed so it will open the gate, and the gate will remain in the open position until re-set by fire department personnel.

The key switch shall be placed between 42” and 48” above the roadway surface at the left side of the access gate unless otherwise allowed by the fire code official. The key switch Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 8
shall be clearly labeled “FIRE DEPT”. The gate shall have a manual means of opening in the event of a power failure and shall be accessible from the exterior of the property. 503.6.2 Click to Enter Remotely Operated Gates. For electrically operated gates, a radiocontrolled system “Click to Enter” may be required in addition to the Knox key switch. A gate serving an individual single-family residence or duplex is exempt from this requirement.
503.6.3 Exiting. If there is no sensing device that will automatically open the gates for exiting, then a Knox brand electrical override switch (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) shall be placed on each side of the gate in approved locations. 503.6.4 Manually operated gates. Each manually operated gate which is installed across any required fire access road or fire lane and which is locked shall have a Knox brand (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) padlock installed. The Knox padlock (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) shall be integrated with any other lock in such a manner as to allow the gate to be opened only by unlocking the Knox padlock (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief).

Section 505 – Premises Identification
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high for single family residential buildings and 8 inches (203.2 mm) for R1, R-2 and non-residential buildings, with a minimum stroke of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm), unless otherwise required to be greater in height or of reflective material as determined by the fire code official during the jurisdiction’s development review process for a specific project.

Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
505.1.1 Directories. When required by the Fire Code Official, complexes with multiple buildings may be required to provide directories, premises maps and directional signs. The scale, design and location of directory signs shall be approved by the Fire Code Official and may be required to be illuminated.

Section 506 – Key Boxes
506.1 Knox Box. All new commercial occupancies shall have a Knox brand key box (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) installed as directed by the fire code official. Existing commercial occupancies shall install a Knox brand key box (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief), as directed by the fire code official when a building permit is obtained for any work. The key box shall contain keys which will allow the fire department access to all portions of the building. The keys shall have a tag affixed identifying their purpose. The nominal height of key box installations shall be five (5) feet above grade.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 9
506.4 Electronic Controlled Gates. A final field inspection, by the Fire Code Official or an authorized representative, is required before electronic Knox (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) controlled gates may become operative. Prior to final inspection, electronic gates shall remain in a locked open position.

Section 507 – Fire Protection Water Supplies
507.5.7 Fire Department Connection. All newly installed fire department connections will be required to install Knox brand FDC caps (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief). This also includes existing businesses that perform work to the structure that requires a building permit or any tenant improvement.

Chapter 6 – Building Services and Systems
Section 605 – Fuel Fired Appliances
605.8 Gas meters. Above-ground gas meters, regulators and piping subject to damage shall be protected by a barrier complying with Section 312 or otherwise protected in an approved manner. Gas meters shall be permanently marked identifying the building or system served.

Chapter 9 – Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Section 903.2 through 903.2.11.3 of the 2025 California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Section 903.2. Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in the following locations:

1. In all new buildings and structures that exceed 1,000 square feet.

2. In additions or alterations for all buildings or structures as follows:
a. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage, and results in a total square footage equal or greater than 1,000 square feet. Modifications that require addition of an automatic sprinkler system shall include removal, combining or rearrangement of demising or tenant space walls to create a single occupancy or tenant space of 1000 square feet or greater or changes in occupancy or use when the change of occupancy or use results in a requirement for an automatic sprinkler system as specified in Section 903, including, but not limited to, increased occupant load, multiple fire areas, use of hazardous materials and other increased hazards.
b. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.
c. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.
d. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 10
Table 903.2.1
Hazard Categories
Relative Hazard Occupancy Classifications
1 (Highest Hazard) H
2 I-2, I-2.1, I-3, I-4, L
3 A, E, I-1, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-4
4 B, F-1, R-3, R-3.1, S-1
5 (Lowest Hazard) F-2, S-2, U
e. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years. 903.2.8.1 Group R-3.

2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

Section 907 – Fire Alarm and Detection Systems.
907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is installed.

Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection. The reset switch for the duct detectors shall be in an accessible location acceptable to the fire code official. A copy of the alarm system plan shall be accessible at the alarm panel indicating the location of the duct smoke detectors that correspond with the alarm fault activation name or number.

Exception:

1. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location.

Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.

Section 912 – Fire Department Connections.
912.2.1 Visible locations. Fire department connections shall be located on the front access side of buildings, fully visible and recognizable from the street, or nearest point of fire department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 11
fire code official. The location of fire department connections shall be approved and installed as follows:

1. Within 40 feet from an approved roadway or driveway and arranged so that hose lines can be readily attached to the inlets without interference from any nearby objects including buildings, fences, posts, plantings, or other fire department connections or otherwise approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

2. Within 50 feet from an approved hydrant.

3. Inlet height shall not be less than 18 inches or more than 48 inches above grade.

4. Guard posts or other approved means shall be required to protect fire department inlet connections from vehicular damage.

Appendix D – Fire Apparatus Access Roads.

Appendix D Section D107.1 – Exception 1 shall be deleted in its entirety.

D109 - Fire access residential driveways.

D109.1 Driveways less than 150 feet in length. A driveway that serves one- or two-family residential (occupancy type R-3) up to 5 dwellings shall comply with all of the following:

1. Minimum 12 feet wide driveway.

2. Driveways with a grade of 12% or less shall be paved or approved all weather road base.

3. Driveways with a grade greater than 12% shall be approved paved non-skid surface.

4. Driveways cannot exceed 20% grade.

D109.2 Driveways that exceed 150 feet in length. A driveway that serves one or two family residential (occupancy type R-3) up to 5 dwellings shall comply with all of the following:

1. Minimum 16 feet wide driveway.

Exception: The driveway can be reduced to 12 feet wide with the installation of a Dry Standpipe as per Five Cities Fire Authority standards.

2. Driveways with a grade of 12% or less shall be an approved paved surface.

3. Driveways with a grade greater than 12% shall be approved paved non-skid surface.

4. Driveways cannot exceed 20% grade.

5. Driveway requires a Fire Department turnaround as per Five Cities Fire Authority standards.

6. Driveways in excess of 200 feet shall be provided with turnouts in addition to turnarounds. Turnouts shall be an all-weather road surface not less than 30 feet long and 10 feet wide.

Sec. 150.043. Issuance of Citations. Officers and employees within the City of Grover Beach authorized to issue citations are designated within Article I, Chapter 2 of the Grover Beach Municipal Code.

Sec. 150.055. Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy System Review Process.

A. Definitions.

1. A "solar energy system" means either of the following:
(a) Any solar collector or other solar energy device whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, space cooling, electric generation, or water heating.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 12
(b) Any structural design feature of a building, whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for electricity generation, space heating or cooling, or for water heating.

2. A "small residential rooftop solar energy system" means all of the following:
a. A solar energy system that is no larger than ten (10) kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty (30) kilowatts thermal.
b. A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the city and all state and city health and safety standards.
c. A solar energy system that is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling. d. A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the city.

3. "Reasonable restrictions" on a solar energy system are those restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or significantly decrease its efficiency or specified performance, or that allow for an alternative system of comparable cost, efficiency, and energy conservation benefits.

B. Purpose. The purpose of the section is to adopt an expedited, streamlined solar permitting process that complies with the Solar Rights Act and AB 2188 to achieve timely and costeffective installations of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. The section encourages the use of solar systems by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install solar energy systems. The section allows the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health and safety.

C. Applicability.

1. This ordinance applies to the permitting of all small residential rooftop solar energy systems in the city.

2. Small residential rooftop solar energy systems legally established or permitted prior to the effective date of this ordinance are not subject to the requirements of this ordinance unless physical modifications or alterations are undertaken that materially change the size, type, or components of a small rooftop energy system in such a way as to require new permitting. Routine operation and maintenance shall not require a permit.

D Solar Energy System Requirements.

1. All solar energy systems shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and city.

2. Solar energy systems for heating water in single-family residences and for heating water in commercial or swimming pool applications shall be certified by an accredited listing agency as defined by the California Plumbing and Mechanical Code.

3. Solar energy systems for producing electricity shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

E. Duties of Building Division.

1. All documents required for the submission of an expedited solar energy system application shall be made available on the publicly accessible city website.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 13

2. Electronic submittal of the required permit application and documents by email, the internet, or facsimile shall be made available to all small residential rooftop solar energy system permit applicants.

3. An applicant's electronic signature shall be accepted on all forms, applications, and other documents in lieu of a wet signature. However, the final permit must be signed at the counter until the city develops an electronic permit issuance registration.

4. The building division shall adopt standard plan(s) and checklist(s) of all requirements with which small residential rooftop solar energy systems shall comply to be eligible for expedited review.

5. The small residential rooftop solar system permit process, standard plan(s), and checklist(s) shall substantially conform to recommendations for expedited permitting, including the checklist and standard plans contained in the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research.

6. All fees prescribed for the permitting of small residential rooftop solar energy systems must comply with Government Code Section 65850.55, Government Code Section 66015, Government Code Section 66016, and State Health and Safety Code Section 17951.

F. Permit Review and Inspection Requirements.

1. The city shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary review process to expedite approval of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. The building division should issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit within the recommended timeframes contained in the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan.

2. Review of the application shall be limited to the building official's review of whether the application meets local, state, and federal health and safety requirements.

3. The city shall not condition approval of an application on the approval of an association, as defined in Section 4080 of the Civil Code.

4. If an application is deemed incomplete, a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be sent to the applicant for resubmission.

5. The inspection shall be done in a timely manner and should include consolidated inspections.

6. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized.

Sec. 150.056. Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations Review Process.

A. Definitions.

1. "Electric vehicle charging station" means any level of electric vehicle supply equipment station that is designed and built-in compliance with Article 625 of the California Electric Code, as it reads on the effective date of this section and delivers electricity from outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in electric vehicle.

2. A "feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact" includes but is not limited to, any cost-effective method, condition or mitigation imposed on another similarly situated application in a prior successful application for a permit.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 14

3. "Specific adverse impact" means a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified, and written public health or safety standards, policies or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete.

B. Purpose. The purpose of the section is to adopt an expedited, streamlined electrical vehicle charging station permitting process that complies with the Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations Open Access Law and AB 1236 to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of electric vehicle charging stations. The section encourages the use of electrical vehicle charging stations by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install electrical vehicle charging stations. The section allows the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health and safety.

C. Applicability.

1. This ordinance applies to the issuance of building permits for electric vehicle charging stations in the city. All requirements of building permit applications in Title 24 for electric vehicle charging stations that are not addressed in this section shall remain in effect.

2. Electric vehicle charging stations legally established or permitted prior to the effective date of the ordinance are not subject to the requirements of this ordinance unless physical modifications or alterations are undertaken that materially change the size, type, or components of an electronic vehicle charging station in such a way as to require new permitting. Routine operation and maintenance shall not require a permit.

D. Electric Vehicle Charging Station Requirements.

1. All electric vehicle charging stations shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and the city.

2. Electric vehicle charging stations shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

E. Duties of Building Division.

1. All documents required for the submission of an expedited electric vehicle charging station building permit application shall be made available on the city website.

2. Electronic submittal of the required building permit application and documents by email, the internet, or facsimile shall be made available to all electric vehicle charging station permit applicants.

4. The building division shall adopt a checklist of all requirements with which electric vehicle charging stations shall comply to be eligible for expedited review.

5. The electric vehicle charging stations permit process and checklist shall substantially conform to recommendations for expedited permitting, including the checklist contained in the most current version of the Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist of the "Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook" adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 15
F. Permit Review and Inspection Requirements.

1. The city shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary review process to expedite approval of electrical vehicle charging stations. The building division should issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit as expeditiously as possibly upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan.

2. Review of the application shall be limited to the Building Official's review of whether the application meets local, state, and federal health and safety requirements.

3. If an application is deemed incomplete, a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be sent to the applicant for resubmission.

4. The Building Official may require an applicant to apply for a Use Permit if the Official finds, based on substantial evidence, that the electric vehicle charging station could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety. Such decisions may be appealed to the Planning Commission pursuant to Article IX Chapter 7.

5. If a Use Permit is required, the Planning Commission may deny such application if it makes written findings based upon substantive evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon public health or safety and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the adverse impact. Such findings shall include the basis for the rejection of the potential feasible alternative for preventing the adverse impact.

6. Any condition imposed on an application shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon health and safety at the lowest possible cost.

PART 3. That each of the changes or modifications to measures referred to herein are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or topographical conditions in the area encompassed by the boundaries of the City of Grover Beach and the findings set forth in a separate Resolution are hereby adopted and support the local necessity for the changes or modifications.

PART 4. This ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to the General Rule (14 C.C.R. Section 15061(b)(3)) because it can be seen with certainty that the project will have no possibility for causing a significant effect on the environment.

PART 5. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be in violation of the law, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared in violation of the law.

PART 6. This Ordinance shall take effect January 1, 2026. Within fifteen (15) days after its adoption, it shall be published in full, together with the names of the Council Members voting in favor, in a newspaper of general circulation within the City.

Ordinance No. 25-XX Page 16
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on October 14, 2025, and PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED by the City Council on [DATE] on the following roll call vote, to wit:

AYES: Council Members –
NOES: Council Members –
ABSENT: Council Members –
ABSTAIN: Council Members –
RECUSED: Council Members –

KASSI DEE, MAYOR
Attest:
_________________________________
WENDI B. SIMS, CITY CLERK
Approved as to Form:
_________________________________

ROBERT LOMELI, CITY ATTORNEY
RESOLUTION NO. 25-

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GROVER BEACH,

CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS SUPPORTING

AMENDMENTS AND CHANGES TO THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING

STANDARDS CODES PURSUANT TO HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE
SECTIONS 17958.5, 17958.7 AND 18941.5
WHEREAS, the Grover Beach City Council intends to pass an ordinance adopting the 2022 California Building Standards Codes and making modifications; and WHEREAS, the California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 require the governing body of a city, before making any modifications or changes to the California Building Standards Code to make expressed findings that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographic, or topographic conditions; and
WHEREAS, the Grover Beach City Council finds that a departure from the California Building Standards Codes is reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographic, or topographic conditions.

NOW, THERFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Grover Beach, California, does hereby :

The City Council has determined that local amendments to the 2025 California Building and Fire Codes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or topographical conditions in the City of Grover Beach and the following legislative findings support the local necessity for the amendments:

1. Climate – The City of Grover Beach is located in a semi-arid Mediterranean type climate.

It annually experiences extended periods of high temperatures with little or no precipitation.

Hot, dry winds, are also common to the area. These climatic conditions cause extreme drying of vegetation and common building materials. In addition, the high winds generated often cause road obstructions such as fallen trees, similar to that experienced during the Category 1 event from February 7, 2024. Frequent periods of drought and low humidity add to the fire danger. This predisposes the area to destructive fires. There are approximately 2980 properties in the Grover Beach area that are subject to some exposure from wildfires. This represents approximately 61% of the properties in Grover Beach. In addition to directly damaging or destroying buildings, these fires also disrupt utility services throughout the area. Nearby areas in the county have a history of such fires, including the Avila Fire, Camp Indonico Fire, and the Las Pilitas Fire.

2. Climate – Water demand in this area challenges the quantity supplied by natural precipitation and, although the population continues to grow, the already-taxed water supply does not. The estimated population of California in 2006 was more than 36 million people. The state is projected to increase in population by nearly 10 million by the year 2030, with 50 percent of that growth centered in Central and Southern California. Due to storage capacities and consumption, and a limited amount of rainfall, future water allocation may not be fully dependable in many areas of the state. Additional alternatives would further reduce the amount of water required for housing units created within an infill Attachment 2
Resolution No. 25- Page 2
community such as Grover Beach. The City's core area continues to become more concentrated, with new mixed-use structures whose occupants, along with the structures themselves, could be vulnerable to uncontrolled fires due to lack of available water. This necessitates the need for additional on-site fire protection features, and alternatives that do not consume as much water.

3. Climate - These dry climatic conditions and winds contribute to the rapid spread of even small fires originating in high-density housing or vegetation. These fires spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels of fire protection. The added protection of fire sprinkler systems and other fire protection features will supplement normal fire department response by providing immediate protection for the building occupants and by containing and controlling the fire spread to the area of origin. Fire sprinkler systems also reduce the use of water for firefighting by extinguishing fires at an early stage. A typical on-site fire sprinkler system will use less than 10% of the water used by a fire department by the time a fire engine unit is dispatched and has the ability to extinguish the fire.

According to the Scottsdale Report, which was a 15-year study of fire sprinkler effectiveness, a fire sprinkler uses an average of 341 gallons of water to control a fire.

Firefighters utilize an average of 2,935 gallons of water when compared to the use of sprinklers.

4. Topographical - Geographic, land use and recent state legislation, such as but not limited to SB 35, SB 330, State ADU Law, SB 684, SB 9 have imposed greater impacts on the City’s limited available land and have resulted in greater density along with a large number of mixed-use projects, combining residential with commercial occupancies, therefore causing a need for on-site suppression systems that utilize both water and other materials to reduce fire hazards.

5. Topographical - Traffic and circulation congestion is an ongoing problem throughout the region. Traffic flow in and through Grover Beach is limited by the transverse by the Grover Heights Hills, which provide limited passage to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The narrow corridor that Highway 101 occupies is subject to traffic delays under normal conditions and emergency events can render the highway impassable. This has the double effect of preventing traffic from leaving the City and potentially preventing emergency workers, who often live out of town, from entering. At various times, Highway 101 has also been closed north or south of the City due to significant traffic congestion, accidents, and vegetation fires. In addition, roads in the foothills are narrow, and vulnerable to emergency conditions. Some of the older roadways are below current access standards and pose challenges to responding emergency vehicles, especially fire engines. These challenges are exacerbated in the event of an evacuation.

6. Topographical – These topographical conditions combine to create a situation which places fire department response time to fire occurrences at risk, and makes it necessary to provide automatic on-site fire-extinguishing systems and other protection measures to protect occupants and property.

7. Geological – These topographical conditions as stated in findings 4 through 6 combine to create a situation which places fire department response time to fire occurrences at risk and makes it necessary to provide automatic on-site fire-extinguishing systems and other protection measures to protect occupants and property. Previous earthquakes have been accompanied by disruption of traffic flow and fires. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely Resolution No. 25- Page 3
to create obstacles similar to those indicated under the high wind section above. With the probability of strong aftershocks there exists a need to provide increased protection for anyone on upper floors of buildings. In addition to gas mains, individual gas and electric service connections to residences may provide both fuel and ignition sources during a seismic event. This situation creates the need for both additional fire protection and automatic on-site fire protection for building occupants.

8. Geographical – The climatic, topographical, and geological conditions described above make it prudent to rely upon automatic fire sprinkler systems and other fire protection measures to mitigate extended fire department response times. Automatic sprinklers and other measures specified in this Ordinance are intended to lessen life safety hazards and keep fires manageable with potentially reduced fire flow (water) requirements for a given structure. How long does it take for a single fire sprinkler to extinguish a fire? According to the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, sprinklers can extinguish small fires in as little as 90 seconds using less than one tenth as much water as a fire hose, greatly limiting water damage. Additional fire protection is also justified to match the current resources of firefighting equipment and personnel within the Five Cities Fire Authority which is the fire department for the City of Grover Beach. As California is subjected to the ongoing effects of climate change, local changes to climatic, topographic and geological conditions will likely pose a greater threat to disruption of services and loss of life and property in the event of a disaster.

On motion by Council Member _____, seconded by Council Member ____, and on the following roll-call vote, to wit:

AYES: Council Members –
NOES: Council Members –
ABSENT: Council Members –
ABSTAIN: Council Members –
RECUSED: Council Members –
the foregoing Resolution was PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Grover Beach, California this 14th day of October 2025.

KASSI DEE, MAYOR
Attest:

WENDI B. SIMS, CITY CLERK

Grover Beach City CouncilOctober 14, 2025

Grover Beach City Council
October 14, 2025