Ordinance No. 2025-14
1 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-14
(Adoption of the 2025 California Fire Code and Local Amendments)
ORDINANCE OF COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, THE CROCKETT -CARQUINEZ FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, AND THE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT ADOPTING THE 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE WITH AMENDMENTS.
The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, acting in its capacity as the Board of Supervisors for Contra Costa County, and as the Board of Directors of the Crockett -Carquinez Fire Protection District and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, ordains as follows:
SECTION 1. SUMMARY. This ordinance adopts the 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9), subject to the changes, additions, and deletions that are necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Health and Safety Code sections 17922, 17958, 17958.5, and 17958.7, and Government Code sections 50020 through 50022.10.
SECTION 2. 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS. Chapter 722-2 (Adoption) of Division 722 (Fire Code) of the County Ordinance Code is repealed and replaced with new Chapter 722 -2 (Fire Code), to read:
“Chapter 722-2 FIRE CODE
722-2.002. Adoption. The 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9 [based on the 2024 International Fire Code published by the International Code Council]), including Chapters 1-12 and 20-80, Appendix B, Appendix C, Appendix D, Appendix F, Appendix H, Appendix I, Appendix J, Appendix K, and Appendix P, as amended by the changes, additions, and deletions set forth in this chapter, is adopted by this reference as though fully set forth herein as the Fire Code of Contra Costa County, the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. The provisions of this chapter are controlling and enforceable within the limits of each jurisdiction. (Ord. 2025-14 § 2; Ord. 2022-34 § 1; Ord. 2016-13 § 1.)
722-2.004. Local Amendments. The 2025 California Fire Code is amended by the changes, additions, and deletions set forth in this section. Chapter and section numbers used below are those of the 2025 California Fire Code.
(a) Section 101.1 of Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration) is amended to read:
“101.1 Title. This code is the Fire Code of Contra Costa County, the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, and is hereinafter referred to as ‘'this code.’”
(b) Section 102.1 of Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration) is amended to add Item 5, to read:
“5. Where not otherwise limited by law, the provisions of this code shall apply to vehicles, ships, and boats that are permanently affixed to a specific location within the boundaries of this jurisdiction.”
Ordinance No. 2025-14
2 (c) Section 105.5 of Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration) is amended, to read:
“105.5. Required operational permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue operational permits for the operations set forth in Chapter 1, Sections 105.5.1 through 105.5.60.”
(d) New Section 105.5.60 is to Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration) to read:
“105.5.60 Five-year sprinkler test. An operational permit is required to engage in the business of conducting the five-year test of an automatic fire sprinkler systems or standpipe, in accordance with NFPA 25 (Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems), 2013 California Edition.
(e) Section 105.6 is amended to read
“105.6. Required construction permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue construction permits for the operations set forth in Chapter 1, Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.25.”
(f) Section 105.6 is amended by adding Sections 105.6.26 through 105.6.30, to read:
“105.6.26. Access for fire apparatus. Plans shall be submitted and a permit is required to install, improve, modify, or remove public or private roadways, driveways, and bridges for which Fire District access is required by the Fire Code.
105.6.27. Construction, Substantial Alteration, Additions of a building for which a building permit is required. Plans shall be submitted to the fire code official for all land developments or for the construction, substantial alteration, additions or renovation of a building within the jurisdiction where a building permit is required.
Exception: Non-sprinklered Group R -3 Occupancies where work does not involve a substantial addition or substantial alteration.
105.6.28. Land Development, Subdivisions. Plans shall be submitted to the fire code official for all land developments or improvements proposed within the jurisdiction that involve the subdivision of land.
105.6.29. Water supply for fire protection. Plans shall be submitted to the fire code official for the purpose of determining whether adequate water supplies, fire hydrants, and associated systems are provided for all facilities, buildings, or portions of buildings either constructed or moved into the District pursuant to Section 507.
105.6.30. Land Development. Plans shall be submitted to the fire code official for all land developments or improvements proposed within the jurisdiction.”
(g) Section 112.4 is amended to read:
“112.4 Violation penalties. Every person who violates any provision of this fire code is guilty of an infraction or misdemeanor in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 13871 and Government Code Section 53069.4. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the violation or permit to continue; and all such persons sha11 be required to correct or remedy such violations or defects within a reasonable time; and when not otherwise specified, each ten (10) days Ordinance No. 2025-14
3 that prohibited conditions are maintained shall constitute a separate offense. The application of the aforesaid penalty shall not be held to prevent the enforced removal of prohibited conditions.” (h) Section 202 or Chapter 2 (Definitions) is amended to include the following additional defined terms:
“Administrator. Shall mean the Fire Chief.”
“Aerial Pre-Plans. An overhead layout of a parcel that contains structure(s) that identifies specific first responder related items to assist in effectively managing incidents and events for the protection of occupants, responding personnel, property, and the environment. The preplan shall be developed in accordance with a format approved by the AHJ. Preplan symbols shall comply with AHJ or the latest edition of NFPA 170 (Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols), and NFPA 1620 (Standard for Pre-Incident Planning).”
“All-weather driving surface. A roadway with a minimum surface finish that is designed to carry the imposed weight loads of fire apparatus.”
“Board of Directors. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, acting in its capacity as either the governing body of the Crockett -Carquinez Fire Protection District, or the governing body of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, depending which agency has jurisdiction.
“Board of Fire Commissioners. An advisory commission appointed by the Board of Directors to act as set forth in this ordinance and by resolutions of the Board of Directors.”
“Combustible Material. Rubbish, litter or material of any kind other than hazardous vegetation that is combustible and endangers the public safety by creating a fire hazard as determined by the fire code official.”
“Driveway. A private roadway that provides access to no more than two (2) single-family dwellings.”
“Fire Trail. A graded firebreak of sufficient width, surface, and design to provide access for personnel and equipment to suppress and to assist in preventing a surface extension of fires. Must be able to support the safe travel of a Type 3 Fire Apparatus.”
“Hazardous Vegetation. Vegetation that is combustible and endangers the public safety by creating a fire hazard including but not limited to seasonal and recurrent grasses, weeds, stubble, brush, dry leaves, dry needles, dead, dying or diseased trees and any other vegetation as determined by the fire code official.”
“Key Box or Knox Box. (Underwriters Laboratory) UL "Listed" box, size and style, approved by the Fire Code Official or designee that meets the requirements and uses the same security key code adopted by the Fire District”
“Nuisance Fire Alarm. The activation of any fire protection or alarm system which results in the response of the Fire District and is caused by malfunction, improper maintenance, negligence, or misuse of the system by an owner, occupant, employee, or agent, or any other activation not caused by excessive heat, smoke, fire, or similar activating event.”
“Public Nuisance. A declaration by the fire code official that the presence of combustible materials on any parcel creates a fire hazard or threat to public safety (Health and Safety Code 14875 and Ordinance No. 2025-14
4 14876) or any violation of this code.”
“Response Time. The elapsed time from receipt of call to the arrival of the first unit on scene.”
“Rural Area. An area generally designated for agricultural or open space uses with parcels more than 10 acres (4.046873ha) in size.”
“Rural Residential Area. An area generally designated for single -family residential use with parcels between three (1.21406 l 9ha) and 10 (4.046873ha) acres in size.”
“Sprinkler Alarm and Supervisory System (SASS). A Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System located at the protected premise installed specifically to monitor sprinkler water- flow alarm, valve supervisory, and general trouble conditions where a Building Fire Alarm is not required.” “Streets. Includes alleys, parkways, driveways, sidewalks, and areas between sidewalks and curbs, highways, public right of ways, private road, paper street and, easements.”
Substantial Addition. Any change to an existing building or structure that meets both of the following criteria:
(a) adds gross floor area that exceeds fifty percent of the gross floor area of the existing building or structure; and
(b) results in the building or structure and the addition having a combined new gross floor area of 5,000 square feet or more.
Substantial Alteration. Any change to an existing building or structure that meets both of the following criteria within a one-year period:
(a) The removal of fifty percent or more of the linear length of any interior or exterior wall of the building or structure; and
(b) The removal and replacement of fifty percent or more of the area of the building or structure’s roof.
“Temporary Fire Department Access Road. A temporary, all -weather roadway constructed and maintained for the purpose of providing fire apparatus access to buildings, structures, or portions of a site under development until such time as the permanent fire apparatus access road is installed and approved. Temporary access roads shall be designed, constructed, and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus, provide the required width and vertical clearance, and remain clear and unobstructed at all times during construction.”
(i) Chapter 3 (General Precautions Against Fire) is amended by adding new Section 324 (Exterior Fire Hazard Control), to read:
“324. Exterior Fire Hazard Control.
324.1. Subsurface Fires.
324.1.1. Peat Fire. It is the duty of each person, firm, corporation, or association not to permit a peat fire or a fire involving combustible vegetable matters under the surface of the natural ground to remain upon the property. It is hereby declared that it is the duty of any person as herein defined to take all necessary precautions to extinguish any subsurface fire involving peat or vegetable material Ordinance No. 2025-14
5 at the owner's own cost and expense.
324.1.2 Fire Suppression Costs. If there exists upon the lands or property of any person as herein defined a subsurface fire involving the burning or combustion of peat, vegetable matter, or vegetation, and the owner or occupant thereof has not taken reasonable precautions within a reasonable time to extinguish or minimize such fire or combustion, the Fire District may, in addition to its regular duties to extinguish or minimize such fire or combustion, go upon the lands of any person as herein defined and extinguish such fire or combustion. Any costs incurred by the Fire District in fighting the fire and for the cost of proving rescue or emergency medical services shall be a charge against the property owner. The charge shall constitute a debt of the property owner and is collectable by the jurisdiction incurring those costs in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under a contract, express or implied. (See Health and Safety Code, §13009.)” (j) New Section 401.5.1 is added to Chapter 4 (Emergency Planning and Preparedness), to read:
“401.5.1. Nuisance Fire Alarm. A fee may be charged for false or nuisance fire alarms in accordance with a fee schedule adopted by the Board of Directors.”
(k) New Section 401.10 is added to Chapter 4 (Emergency Planning and Preparedness), to read:
“401.10 Aerial Pre-Plans. For all new construction the fire official is authorized to require a fire aerial pre-plan to be prepared by an approved vendor at the cost of the developer.” (l) New Section 401.11 is added to Chapter 4 (Emergency Planning and Preparedness), to read:
“401.11 Standby Personnel. Where, in the opinion of the fire code official or Fire Chief, it is essential for public safety in a place of assembly, or any other place where people congregate, because of the number of persons, or the nature of the performance, exhibition, display, contest, or activity, the owner, agent, or lessee shall provide standby personnel as required and approved by the fire code official or Fire Chief. If the activity requires fire watch, fire watch shall be provided in accordance with Sections 403.11.1.1 and 403.11.1.2. Standby personnel needed for EMS standby shall be provided in accordance with Contra Costa County EMS Protocols.”
(m) Section 503.1.1 in Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features) is amended, to read:
“503.1.1. Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150 feet of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions:
1. The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension to 250 feet where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
2. Where approved by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be exempted or modified for solar photovoltaic power generation facilities.”
(n) Section 503.1.4 is added to Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features), to read:
Ordinance No. 2025-14
6 “503.1.4. Access to open spaces. When access to open land/space or fire trail systems maintained for public or private use is obstructed by new development of any kind, the developer shall provide alternate acceptable access into the area that is sufficient to allow access for fire personnel and apparatus. The alternate means of access requires the approval of the fire code official.” (o) Section 503.1.5 is added to Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features), to read:
“503.1.5. Existing fire trail systems shall be maintained. When conditions make maintenance of existing trails impractical, alternate means of access shall be provided and requires approval by fire code official.”
(p) Section 503.2.1 in Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features) is amended to include the following exception:
“Exception: A driveway with a minimum width of 16 feet is acceptable for access to one or two single-family dwellings.”
(q) Section 505.3 is added to Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features), to read:
“505.3 Street names and addressing. Street names and addressing shall be submitted for review and approval to the fire code official, whose approval will not be unreasonably withheld. The purpose of the review is to verify that new street names and addressing will not duplicate existing street names and addressing.”
(r) Section 506.2.1 is added to Chapter 5 (Fire Service Features) read:
“506.2.1 Knox Box upgrade. All current businesses and occupancies with current Knox Boxes shall upgrade their lockbox to the eCore Technology by December 31, 2028.”
(s) Section 901.6.3 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“901.6.3 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests, and maintenance required by the reference standards shall be submitted to a third party electronic record keeping service as chosen by the fire district.”
(t) Section 902.1 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended to include the following definitions:
“Substantial Addition. The addition of new gross floor area exceeds fifty percent of the existing gross floor area and the total new gross floor area is 5,000 square feet or greater.”
“Substantial Alteration. Where fifty percent or greater of the linear length of the wall of the building (exterior and interior) and fifty percent of the roof are removed or replaced within a one- year period.”
(u) Section 903.2.1.1 in in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.1.1. Group A -1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A- 1 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A -1 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
Ordinance No. 2025-14
7 1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
4. The fire area contains a multi-theater complex.”
(v) Section 903.2.1.3 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“
“903.2.1.3. Group A -3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
4. The structure exceeds 10,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing exhibition and display rooms, and is separated into two or more buildings by firewalls of less than 4-hour fire resistance rating without openings.”
(w) Section 903.2.1.4 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.1.4. Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A- 4 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-4 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.”
(x) Section 903.2.2 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.2. Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group B occupancies and intervening floors of the building where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.”
(y) Section 903.2.9.1 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended to include the following exception:
“Exception: Floors classified as an open parking garage are not required to be sprinklered.”
(z) Section 903.2.3 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.3. Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 2,000 square feet in area.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any Group E Day Care Facility less than 5,000 square feet
2. The Group E fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
Ordinance No. 2025-14
8 Exception: In buildings where every classroom has not fewer than one exterior exit door at ground level, an automatic sprinkler system is not required in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that area.
3. The Group E fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
4. In rooms or areas with special hazards such as laboratories, vocational shops, and. other such areas where hazardous materials in quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity are used or stored.
5. Throughout any Group E structure greater than 4,000 square feet in area, which contains more than one fire area, and which is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire resistance rating without openings.
6. For public school state-funded construction projects, see Section 903.2.19.
7. For public school campuses, Kindergarten through 12th grade, see Section 903.2.20.” (aa) Section 903.2.4 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.4. Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group F-1 occupancy used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeding 2,500 square feet (232 m2).”
(ab) Section 903.2.4.4 is added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.2.4.4 Group F-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-2 occupancy greater than 5,000 square feet.”
(ac) Section 903.2.7 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read “903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group M occupancy (is) used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet.
5. The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing a Group M occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4 -hour fire resistance rating without openings.”
(ad) Section 903.2.8.1.1 is added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.2.8.1.1 Group R-3 Substantial Addition or Alteration. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing Group R-3 dwellings where either a substantial addition Ordinance No. 2025-14
9 or alteration occurs.”
(ae) Section 903.2.9 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.9. Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.”
(af) Section 903.2.9.1 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 of the California Building Code, as shown:
1. Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.”
(ag) Section 903.2.10.1 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
903.2.10.1. Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
3. Where the fire area of the open parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code, exceeds 48,000 square feet.
(ah) Section 903.2.10.3 is added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.2.10.3 Group S-2 low hazard storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-2 occupancy exceeding 5,000 square feet.
Exception: Open parking garages, including canopies and photovoltaic panel systems with open parking underneath, shall meet automatic sprinkler system requirements in accordance with the 2025 California Building Code and 2025 California Fire Code without local amendment.” Ordinance No. 2025-14
10 (ai) Section 903.3.1.1.4 is added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.3.1.1.4 Undeclared Use. In buildings of undeclared use with floor to structure height greater than 14 feet, the fire sprinkler system shall be designed to conform to Extra Hazard Group I design density. In buildings of undeclared use with floor to structure height less than .14 feet, the fire sprinkler system shall be designed to conform to Ordinary Group II design density. Where a subsequent occupancy requires a system with greater capability, it shall be the responsibility of the owner 'and/or the occupant to upgrade the system.”
(aj) Section 903.3.5.3 is added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.3.5.3 Non-permissible water supply for automatic sprinkler systems. Water supply for automatic sprinkler systems shall not be supplied by swimming pools or ponds.”
(ak) Section 903.3.9 in Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) is amended, to read:
“903.3.9. Floor control valves. Individual floor control valves and water flow detection assemblies shall be provided for each floor in multi-floor buildings at an approved location. Exception: Group R-3 and R-3.1 Occupancies.”
(al) Section 903.6.1 and 903.6.2 are added to Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems), to read:
“903.6.1 Substantial Addition. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing R-3 Occupancy buildings where a substantial addition occurs and the total new gross floor area of the structure exceeds 5,000 square feet. Group R-3 substantial additions or alterations shall comply with Section 903.2.8.1.1.
903.6.2 Change of occupancy classification. Any existing building that undergoes a change of occupancy classification into a higher hazard category shall comply with the requirements of Section 903.2. Relative hazard categories of occupancy groups shall be established based upon the Heights and Areas Hazard Categories of Table 1011.5 of the current edition of the International Existing Building Code, as published by the International Code Council. The requirements of Section 903.2 shall not be required when a change of occupancy classification is made to an equal or lesser hazard category. Group L occupancies shall be considered a relative hazard of 1 (highest hazard).”
(am) Section 3303.1.2 is added to Chapter 33 (Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition), to read:
“3303.1.2 Amendments. Amendments may be required to an approved site safety plan if deemed necessary by both the building official and fire official, based on previous fires or hazards that occurred on site or occurring within the jurisdiction.” (an) Section 3303.1.3 is added to Chapter 33 (Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition), to read:
“3303.1.3 Site Security requirements. Site security requirements shall include the following if deemed necessary by both the building official and fire official:
1. Controlled access points
2. Site fencing, up to 12 feet in height with tamper sensors and security wires on top
3. Security guards, full-time 24/7 presence on-site, to perform fire watch and patrols Ordinance No. 2025-14
11 4. Detection check points located throughout the buildings for fire watch and patrol verification
5. Security camera coverage throughout the site with motion detection notification.
6. Identify measures taken to prevent tampering with security cameras and motion sensors
7. Necessary lighting throughout the project site.”
(ao) Section 4104.2 in Chapter 41 (Temporary Heating and Cooking Operations) is amended, to read:
“4104.2 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. Residential occupancies
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2 1/2 pounds.”
(ap) Section 5001.5.1 in Chapter 50 (Hazardous Materials – General Provisions) is amended to add item numbers 10 and 11, to read:
“10. A Site Fire/Explosion/Hazardous Material Release Analysis Assessment.
11. A Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) stamped risk assessment is required for each possible hazard risk associated with fire, explosion, smoke, and toxicity associated with the possible incident at a facility that is identified as a bulk transfer/process/storage facility. Refer to NFPA 550 & 551 for references.”
(aq) Section 5001.5.3 is added to Chapter 50 (Hazardous Materials – General Provisions), to read:
“5001.5.3 Emergency response support information. Floor plans, material safety data sheets, Hazardous Materials Management Plans (HMMP), Hazardous Material Inventory Statements (HMIS), and other information must be stored at a readily accessible location; as determined by the fire code official. This location may be in cabinets located outside of facilities or buildings.
Information may be required to be maintained in a specific electronic media format to facilitate computer aided dispatching.”
(ar) Section 5003.9.1.2 is added to Chapter 50 (Hazardous Materials – General Provisions), to read:
“5003.9.1.2 Documentation. Evidence of compliance with provisions of this chapter as well as with state and federal hazardous material regulations shall be maintained on site and available for inspection by fire department personnel.”
(as) Section 5601.1.3 in Chapter 56 (Explosives and Fireworks) is amended, to read:
“5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited. Exceptions:
1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section 5604
2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of firework as allowed in Section 5605 and Health and Safety Code Division 11.
3. The use of fireworks for fireworks displays pyrotechnics before a proximate audience and Ordinance No. 2025-14
12 pyrotechnic special effects in motion pictures, television, theatrical or group entertainment productions as allowed in Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6 Fireworks, reprinted in Section 5608 and Health and Safety Code Division 11.”
(at) Sections 5601.1.3.1 through 5601.1.3.3 are added to Chapter 56 (Explosives and Fireworks), to read:
“5601.1.3.1 Definitions. "Responsible party'' means any of the following:
(a) A person that owns, rents, leases, or otherwise has possession of, or is in immediate control of, a residence or other private property or a vessel.
(b) A person that organizes, supervises, sponsors, conducts, allows, controls, or controls access to, the possession, manufacture, sale, offer for sale, use, or discharge of fireworks at a residence or other private property or on a vessel.
Exception: If a residence or other private property is rented or leased for a period of more than 30 consecutive days, the landlord or lessor is not a responsible party unless the landlord or lessor: has possession of, or is in immediate control of, the residence or other private property; or has knowledge of the possession, manufacture, sale, offer for sale, use, or discharge of fireworks at the residence or other private property.
5601.1.3.2 Responsible party liability. A responsible party shall maintain, manage, and supervise the residence or other private property, or vessel, for which they are responsible to prevent violations of this chapter. A responsible party violates this chapter if any person possesses, manufactures, sells, offers to sell, uses, or discharges, any fireworks at the residence or other private property, or on the vessel, for which the responsible party is responsible, regardless of whether the responsible party is present when the violation occurs.
5601.1.3.3 Infraction arrest and citation. Any Fire Official and any City, County, or State Peace Officer, shall have and are hereby vested with the authority to arrest any person who violates the following provisions of the Code and other codes an indicated, punishable as an infraction or an administrative citation.”
(au) Section 5601.2.2 in Chapter 56 (Explosives and Fireworks) is amended, to read:
“5601.2.2 Sale and retail display. Persons shall not construct a retail display nor offer for sale explosives, explosive materials or fireworks on highways, sidewalks, public property or in Group A or E occupancies within the jurisdiction.”
(av) Section 5601.2.4 in Chapter 56 (Explosives and Fireworks) is amended, to read:
“5601.2.4 Financial responsibility. Before a permit is issued pursuant to Section 5601.2, the applicant shall file with the jurisdiction a corporate surety bond in the principal sum of $2,000,000 or a public liability insurance policy for the same amount, for the purpose of the payment of all damages to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct of any act authorized by the permit upon which any judicial judgment results. The fire code official is authorized to specify a greater or lesser amount when, in his or her opinion, conditions at the location of use indicate a greater or lesser amount is required. Government entities shall be exempt from this bond requirement.
Ordinance No. 2025-14
13 Exception: Fireworks in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6. See Section 5608.”
(aw) Section 5703.3 in Chapter 57 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids) is amended, to read:
“5703.3 Facility site Fire/Explosion/Hazardous Material Release Analysis Assessment. A Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) stamped risk assessment is required for each possible hazard risk associated with fire, explosion, smoke, and toxicity associated with the possible incident at a facility that is identified as a bulk transfer/process/storage facility when required by the fire official. Refer to NFPA 550 & 551 for references.”
(ax) Section 5704.2.9.6.1 in Chapter 57 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids) is amended, to read:
“Section 5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. The storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited in all zoning districts except districts zoned for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.
Exception: Above-ground tanks for the purpose of emergency power generator installations in areas zoned commercial, industrial, agricultural, business district, rural or rural residential, and for facilities on an individual basis consistent with the intent of this provision.” (ay) Section 5706.2.4.4 in Chapter 57 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids) is amended, to read:
“Section 5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. The storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited in all zoning districts except districts zoned for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.
Exception: Above-ground tanks for the purpose of emergency power generator installations in areas zoned commercial, industrial, agricultural, business district, rural or rural residential, and for facilities on an individual basis consistent with the intent of this provision.” (az) Section 5806.2 in Chapter 58 (Flammable Gasses and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids) is amended, to read:
“5806.2 Limitation. The storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is prohibited in any area which is zoned for other than industrial use.
Exception: Liquid hydrogen fuel systems in compliance with Section 5806.3 or 5806.4.” //
//
//
//
Ordinance No. 2025-14
14 (ba) Table B105.2 in Appendix B (Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings) is amended, to read:
“TABLE B105.2
Required Fire-Flow for Buildings Other Than One- and
Two-Family Dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses
AUTOMATIC
SPRINKLER
SYSTEM (DESIGN
STANDARD)
MINIMUM FIRE-FLOW
(GALLONS PER MINUTE)
FLOW DURATION (HOURS)
No automatic
sprinkler system
Value in Table B105.1(2) Duration in TableB105.1(2)
Section 903.3.1.1 of the
California Fire Code
50% of the value in Table
B105.1(2)a
Duration in Table Bl05.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of the
California Fire Code
50% of the value in Table
B105.1(2)a
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
For SJ: 1 gallon per minute= 3.785 Lim
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.”
(bb) Table C102.1 in Appendix C (Fire Hydrant Locations and Distributions) is amended, as follows:
(i) The title is amended to read: “TABLE Cl02.l REQUIRED NUMBER AND SPACING OF FIRE HYDRANTS (footnote hand J)”
(ii) The heading of the fourth column of Table C102.1 is amended to read: “MAXIMUM
DISTANCE FROM ANY POINT ON STREET OR ROAD FRONTAGE TO A HYDRANT (d, f, g, i)”
(iii) Footnotes “i” and “j” are added to Table C102.1, to read:
“i. A fire hydrant shall be provided within 250 feet of a fire trail access point off a public or private street.
j. For infill projects within existing single-family residential developments, Section 507.5.1 applies.”
(bc) Section D102.1 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
“D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).
Exception: Driveways serving one or two single -family dwellings may be constructed of an alternate surface material, providing the imposed weight load design minimums are met and the grade does not exceed 10 percent.”
(bd) Section D103.2 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
Ordinance No. 2025-14
15 .
“D103.2 Grade. Fire department access roadways having a grade of between 16 percent and 20 percent shall be designed to have a finished surface of grooved concrete sufficient to hold a 44,000 pound (19 958 kg) traction load. The grooves in the concrete surface shall be½ inch (13 mm) wide by½ inch (13 mm) deep and 1 ½ inch (38 mm) on center and set at a 30 to 45-degree angle across the width of the roadway surface. No grade shall exceed 20 percent, nor shall the cross slope exceed 8%, unless authorized in writing by the fire code official.” (be) New Section D103.2.1 is added to Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads), to read:
“D103.2.1 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for any means of access shall not exceed 10 percent at 10 feet of the grade break.”
(bf) Section D103.3 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
“D103.3 Turning radius. Based on a minimum unobstructed width of 20 feet, a fire apparatus access roadway shall be capable of providing a minimum standard turning radius of25 feet (7620 mm) inside and 45 feet (13 716 mm) outside.”
(bg) Figure D103.1 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is deleted and replaced with following new Figure D103.1:
Ordinance No. 2025-14
16 (bh) Table D103.4 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
“Table D103.4 REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH
(feet)
MINIMUM WIDTH
(feet )
TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0-150 20a None required
151 -
750 20a 100-foot Hammerhead, SO-foot "Y", 75-foot Shunt or 90-foot- diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with
figure D103.1
Over 750
Special Approval
Required
Special approval required
Ordinance No. 2025-14
16 a. A driveway with a minimum width of 16 feet is acceptable for access to no more than two single-family dwellings.
b. Any fire apparatus access roadway or driveway that is approved to be less than 20 feet wide and to exceed 750 feet in length shall have outsets or turnouts every 300 feet along the length of the road or driveway, or at locations approved by the fire code official. Each outset or turnout shall be of the following dimensions: an 8-foot-wide turnout that extends at least 40 feet in length.”
(bi) Criterion 1 in Section D103.5 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
“1. The minimum clear width shall be 20 feet (6096mm).
Exception: For access to one or two single-family dwellings, 16 feet clear width is acceptable.” (bj) Criterion 9 is added to Section D103.5 of Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads), to read:
“9. All gates shall be installed and located a minimum of 30 feet off the street.” (bk) Criterion 10 is added to Section D103.5 of Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads), to read:
“10. At the discretion of the Fire District, a Click2Enter system shall be installed for emergency access.”
(bl) Section D 103.6 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads), is amended to read:
“D103.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent “NO PARKING—FIRE LANE” signs.
1. Roadways 20 feet wide. Fire lane signs shall be posted on both sides of the road.
2. Roadways 21 to 28 feet wide. Fire lane signs shall be posted on one side of the road, as determined by the fire code official.
3. Emergency evacuation routes. As adopted by the local governing body as part of the local emergency evacuation plan, Fire lane signs shall be posted as designated by the fire code official, regardless of roadway width.
4. Enforcement. Fire lane restrictions established under this section shall be enforceable by both the fire code official and local law enforcement. Local law enforcement agencies are authorized to issue citations, order the removal of vehicles, and take other enforcement actions necessary to maintain fire apparatus access roads clear of obstructions. Vehicles parked in violation of this section may be cited and towed at the owner’s expense.” (bm) Section D106.1 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended, to read:
“D106.1 Projects having more than 100 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 100 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads and shall meet the requirements of Section D104.3.”
(bn) Section D106.2 in Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is deleted in its entirety. (Ord. 2025-14 § 2; Ord. 2022-34 §§ 2-3; Ord. 2016-23 § 2.) Ordinance No. 2025-14
17 722-2.006. References to Prior Code. Unless superseded and expressly repealed, references in city forms, documents, and regulations to the chapters and sections of the Fire Code of Contra Costa County, the Crockett- Carquinez Fire Protection District, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, 2022, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the Fire Code of Contra Costa County, the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, 2025.
Ordinance 2022-34 and all other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby superseded and expressly repealed.
(Ord. 2025-14 § 2; Ord. 2022-34 § 4; Ord. 2016-23 § 2.) 722-2.008. Validity. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors declares that if any section, paragraph, sentence, or word of this chapter, or of the 2025 California Fire Code as adopted and amended herein, is declared for any reason to be invalid, it is the intent of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors that it would have passed all other portions or provisions of this ordinance independent of the elimination herefrom of any portion or provision as may be declared invalid. (Ord. 2025-14 § 2; Ord. 2022-34 § 5; Ord. 2016-23 § 5.) 722-2.010. More Restrictive Requirements. If requirements more restrictive than those in this chapter are adopted by the city of Antioch, Bay Point, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Clayton, Concord, Discovery Bay, Hercules, Knightsen, Lafayette, Martinez, Oakley, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, San Pablo, or Walnut Creek, or the County of Contra Costa, the more-restrictive requirements will apply only within the jurisdiction adopting those more-restrictive requirements.
(Ord. 2025-14 § 2; Ord. 2022-34 § 6; Ord. 2016-23 § 6.)”
SECTION 3. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance becomes effective 30 days after passage. This ordinance becomes operative January 1, 2026, or 30 days after passage, whichever is later. Within 15 days of passage, this ordinance shall be published once in the East Bay Times, a newspaper published in this County. This ordinance shall be published in a manner satisfying the requirements of Government Code Section 25124, with the names of supervisors voting for and against it.
PASSED on , by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: MONICA NINO,
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Board Chair
and County Administrator
By: [SEAL]
Deputy
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, AND
CROCKETT-CARQUINEZ
FIRE
PROTECTION
DISTRICT
FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF AMENDMENTS TO THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
STANDARDS
CODE,
TITLE
24,
PART
9,
CALIFORNIA
FIRE
CODE
The California Building Standards Commission has adopted and published the 2025 California Fire
Code.
The
purpose
of
the
code
is
to
regulate
and
govern
the
safeguarding
of
life
and
property
from
fire
and
explosion
hazards
arising
from
the
storage,
handling,
and
use
of
hazardous
substances,
materials,
and
devices,
and
from
conditions
hazardous
to
life
or
property
in
the
occupancy
of
buildings
and
premises.
Health and Safety Code section 13869.7, 17958.5, and 18941.5 authorize a local jurisdiction to modify
or
change
the
statewide
codes
and
establish
more
restrictive
building
standards
if
the
jurisdiction
finds
that
the
modifications
and
changes
are
reasonably
necessary
because
of
local
climatic,
geological,
or
topographical
conditions.
Ordinance No. 2025-14 adopts the 2025 California Fire Code and amends it to address local conditions.
Pursuant
to
Sections
13869.7, 17958.5, and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code, the
Contra
Costa
County
Board
of
Supervisors,
in
its
capacity
as
the
Board
of
Supervisors
and
the
Board
of
Directors
of
the
Contra
Costa
County
Fire
Protection
District
and
the
Crockett-Carquinez
Fire
Protection
District,
finds
that
the
more
restrictive
standards
contained
in
Ordinance
No.
2025-14
are
reasonably
necessary
because
of
certain
local
climatic,
geological,
and
topographic
conditions
that
are
described
below.
Local Conditions A. Climatic 1. Precipitation and Relative Humidity (a) Conditions Precipitation ranges from 15 to 24 inches per year with an average of approximately
20 inches
per
year.
96%
of
precipitation
falls
during
the
months
of
October
through
April
and
four
percent
from
May
through
September.
This
is
a
dry
period
of
at
least
five
months
each
year.
Additionally,
the
area
is
subject
to
occasional
drought.
Relative
humidity
remains
in
the
middle
range
most
of
the
time.
It
ranges
from
45-65%
during
spring,
summer,
fall,
and
from
60-90%
in
the
winter.
It
occasionally
falls
as
low
as
15%.
(b) Impact Locally experienced dry periods cause extreme dryness of untreated wood shakes
and
shingles
on
buildings
and
non-irrigated
grass,
brush,
and
weeds,
which
are
often
near
buildings
with
wood
roofs
and
sidings.
Such
dryness
causes
these
materials
to
ignite
very
readily
and
burn
rapidly
and
intensely.
Because of dryness, a rapidly burning grass fire or exterior building fire can
quickly
transfer
to
other
buildings
by
means
of
radiation
or
flying
brands,
sparks,
and
embers.
A
small
fire
can
rapidly
grow
to
a
magnitude
beyond
the
control
capabilities
of
the
Fire
District
resulting
in
an
excessive
fire
loss.
2. Temperature (a) Conditions Temperatures have been recorded as high as 114° F. Average summer highs
are
in
the
90°
range,
with
average
maximums
of
105°
F.
(b) Impact High temperatures cause rapid fatigue and heat exhaustion of firefighters, thereby
reducing
their
effectiveness
and
ability
to
control
large
building
and
wildland
fires.
Another impact from high temperatures is that combustible building material
and
non-irrigated
weeds,
grass,
and
brush
are
preheated,
thus
causing
these
materials
to
ignite
more
readily
and
burn
more
rapidly
and
intensely.
Additionally,
the
resultant
higher
temperature
of
the
atmosphere
surrounding
the
materials
reduces
the
effectiveness
of
the
water
being
applied
to
the
burning
materials.
This
requires
that
more
water
be
applied,
which
in
turn
requires
more
Fire
District
resources
in
order
to
control
a
fire
on
a
hot
day.
High
temperatures
directly
contribute
to
the
rapid
growth
of
fires
to
an
intensity
and
magnitude
beyond
the
control
capabilities
of
the
Fire
District.
3. Winds (a) Conditions Prevailing winds in the area are from the south or southwest in the mornings
and
from
the
north
or
northwest
in
the
afternoons.
However,
winds
are
experienced
from
virtually
every
direction
at
one
time
or
another.
Velocities
are
generally
in
the
14 mph
to
23 mph
ranges,
gusting
to
25 to
35 mph.
40 mph
winds
are
experienced
occasionally
and
winds
up
to
55 mph
have
been
registered
locally.
During
the
winter
half
of
the
year,
strong,
dry,
gusty
winds
from
the
north
move
through
the
area
for
several
days
creating
extremely
dry
conditions.
(b) Impact Winds such as those experienced locally can and do cause fires, both interior
and
exterior,
to
burn
and
spread
rapidly.
Fires
involving
non-irrigated
weeds,
grass,
and
brush
can
grow
to
a
magnitude
and
be
fanned
to
intensity
beyond
the
control
capabilities
of
the
Fire
District
very
quickly
even
by
relatively
moderate
winds.
During
wood
shake
and
shingle
roof
fires,
or
exposure
fires,
winds
can
carry
sparks
and
burning
brands
to
other
structures,
thus
spreading
the
fire
and
causing
conflagrations. When such fires are not controlled, they can extend to nearby
buildings,
particularly
those
with
untreated
wood
shakes
or
shingles.
In
building
fires,
winds
can
literally
force
fires
back
into
the
building
and
can
create
a
blow
torch
effect,
in
addition
to
preventing
“natural”
ventilation
and
cross-ventilation
efforts.
Winds of the type experienced locally also reduce the effectiveness of exterior
water
streams
used
by
the
Fire
District
on
fires
involving
large
interior
areas
of
buildings,
fires
which
have
vented
through
windows
and
roofs
due
to
inadequate
built-in
fire
protection
and
fires
involving
wood
shake
and
shingle
building
exteriors.
Local
winds
will
continue
to
be
a
definite
factor
towards
causing
major
fire
losses
to
buildings
not
provided
with
fire
resistive
roof
and
siding
materials
and
buildings
with
inadequately
separated
interior
areas
or
lacking
automatic
fire
protection
systems.
National
statistics
frequently
cite
wind
conditions,
such
as
those
experienced
locally,
as
a
major
factor
where
conflagrations
have
occurred.
B. Geological and Topographic 1. Seismicity (a) Conditions Contra Costa County is located in Seismic Risk Zone 4, which is the worst earthquake
area
in
the
United
States.
Buildings
and
other
structures
in
Zone
4 can
experience
major
seismic
damage.
Contra
Costa
County
is
in
close
proximity
to
the
San
Andreas
Fault
and
contains
all
or
portions
of
the
Hayward,
Calaveras,
Concord,
Antioch,
Mt.
Diablo,
and
other
lesser
faults.
A
4.1 earthquake
with
its
epicenter
in
Concord
occurred
in
1958,
and
a
5.4 earthquake
with
its
epicenter
also
in
Concord
occurred
in
1955.
The
Concord
and
Antioch
faults
have
a
potential
for
a
Richter
6 earthquake
and
the
Hayward
and
Calaveras
faults
have
the
potential
for
a
Richter
7 earthquake.
Minor
tremblers
from
seismic
activity
are
not
uncommon
in
the
area.
The fire environment of a community is primarily a combination of two factors:
the
area’s
physical
geologic
characteristics
and
a
historic
pattern
of
urban-suburban
development.
These
two
factors,
alone
and
combined,
create
a
mixture
of
environments
which
ultimately
determines
the
area’s
fire
protection
needs.
The
Fire
District
has
3 distinct
areas.
They
are:
the
West,
which
includes
the
Cities
of
San
Pablo,
Pinole,
and
Hercules
and
the
communities
of
North
Richmond,
El
Sobrante,
and
East
Richmond
Heights:
the
Central,
which
includes
the
Cities
of
Lafayette,
Martinez,
Pleasant
Hill,
Concord,
Walnut
Creek,
Clayton,
and
the
communities
of
Clyde,
Pacheco,
Alhambra
Valley,
and
Alamo;
and
the
East,
which
includes
the
Cities
of
Antioch,
Pittsburg,
Brentwood
and
Oakley
and
the
unincorporated
communities
of
Bay
Point,
Bethel
Island,
Discovery
Bay,
Knightsen,
Byron
and
Marsh
Creek
and
Morgan
Territory.
Because of the size of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (733
square
miles),
the
characteristics
of
the
fire
environment
changes
from
one
location
to
the
next.
Therefore
the
District
has
not
one,
but
a
number
of
fire
environments,
each
of
which
has
its
individual
fire
protection
needs
from
two
major
oil
refineries,
to
heavy
industrial
facilities,
freeways,
rail
lines,
waterways,
port
facilities,
wildland
areas,
urban
and
suburban
town
settings,
and
major
downtown
areas.
Interstates 80 and 680, State Highways 4, 24, and 242, Bay Area Rapid Transit
District
(BART),
and
major
thoroughfares
travel
throughout
the
District.
There
are
2 major
rail
lines
which
run
through
the
District.
An
overpass
or
underpass
crossing
collapse
would
alter
the
response
route
and
time
for
responding
emergency
equipment.
This
is
due
to
the
limited
crossings
of
the
major
highways
and
rail
lines.
Earthquakes of the magnitude experienced locally can cause major damage
to
electrical
transmission
facilities,
which,
in
turn,
cause
power
failures
while
at
the
same
time
starting
fires
throughout
the
Fire
District.
The
occurrence
of
multiple
fires
will
quickly
deplete
existing
fire
district
resources;
thereby
reducing
and/or
delaying
their
response
to
any
given
fire.
Additionally,
without
electrical
power,
elevators,
smoke
management
systems,
lighting
systems,
alarm
systems,
and
other
electrical
equipment
urgently
needed
for
building
evacuation
and
fire
control
in
large
buildings
without
emergency
generator
systems
would
be
inoperative,
thereby
resulting
in
loss
of
life
and/or
major
fire
losses
in
such
buildings.
(b) Impact A major earthquake could severely restrict the response of the Fire District and
its
capability
to
control
fires
involving
buildings
of
wood
frame
construction,
with
ordinary
wood
shake
and
shingle
exteriors,
or
with
large
interior
areas
not
provided
with
automatic
smoke
and
fire
control
systems.
2. Soils (a) Conditions The area is replete with various soils, which are unstable, clay loam and alluvial
fans
being
predominant.
These
soil
conditions
are
moderately
to
severely
prone
to
swelling
and
shrinking,
are
plastic,
and
tend
to
liquefy.
Throughout the Fire District, the topography and development growth has created
a
network
of
older,
narrow
roads.
These
roads
vary
from
gravel
to
asphalt
surface
and
vary
in
percent
of
slope,
many
exceeding
twenty
(20)
percent.
Several
of
these
roads
extend
up
through
the
winding
passageways
in
the
hills
providing
access
to
remote,
affluent
housing
subdivisions.
Many
of
these
roads
are
private
with
no
established
maintenance program. During inclement weather, these roads are subject to
rock
and
mudslides,
as
well
as
down
trees,
obstructing
all
vehicle
traffic.
It
is
anticipated
that
during
an
earthquake,
several
of
these
roads
would
be
practically
impassable.
3. Topographic (a) Conditions (i) Vegetation
The service area of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
has
a
varied
topography
and
vegetative
cover.
A
conglomeration
of
flat
lands,
hills,
and
ridges
make
up
the
terrain.
Development
has
occurred
on
the
flat
lands
in
the
District
and
in
the
past
15 years
development
has
spread
into
the
hills,
valleys,
and
ridge
lands
of
the
District.
Highly combustible dry grass, weeds, and brush are common in the hilly
and
open
space
areas
adjacent
to
built-up
locations
six
to
eight
months
of
each
year.
Many
of
these
areas
frequently
experience
wildland
fires,
which
threaten
nearby
buildings,
particularly
those
with
wood
roofs,
or
sidings.
This
condition
can
be
found
throughout
the
Fire
District,
especially
in
those
fully
developed
areas
and
those
areas
marked
for
future
development.
(ii) Surface Features The arrangement and location of natural and manmade surface features,
including
hills,
creeks,
canals,
freeways,
housing
tracts,
commercial
development,
fire
stations,
streets,
and
roads,
combine
to
limit
efficient
response
routes
for
Fire
District
resources
into
and
through
many
areas.
(iii) Buildings, Landscaping and Terrain Many of the “newer” large buildings and building complexes have access
and
landscaping
features
or
designs
which
preclude,
or
greatly
limit,
efficient
approach
or
operational
access
to
them
by
Fire
District
vehicles.
In
addition,
the
presence
of
security
gates,
roads
of
inadequate
width
and
grades
which
are
too
steep
for
Fire
District
vehicles
create
an
adverse
impact
on
fire
suppression
efforts.
When Fire District vehicles cannot gain access to buildings involved
with
fire,
the
potential
for
complete
loss
is
realized.
Difficulty
reaching
a
fire
site
often
requires
additional
fire
personnel
and
resources
to
successfully
and
safely
mitigate
the
event.
Access
problems
often
result
in
severely
delaying,
misdirecting,
or
making
fire
and
smoke
control
efforts
unsuccessful.
(b) Impact The above local geological and topographical conditions increase the magnitude,
exposure,
accessibility
problems,
and
fire
hazards
presented
to
the
Contra
Costa
County
Fire
Protection
District.
Fire
following
an
earthquake
has
the
potential
of
causing
greater
loss
of
life
and
damage
than
the
earthquake
itself.
Hazardous
materials,
particularly
toxic
gases,
could
pose
the
greatest
threat
to
the
largest
number,
should
a
significant
seismic
event
occur.
Public
Safety
resources
would
have
to
be
prioritized
to
mitigate
the
greatest
threat,
and
may
likely
be
unavailable
for
smaller
single
dwelling
or
structure
fires.
Other variables may intensify the situation: 1. The extent of damage to the water system. 2. The extent of isolation due to bridge and/or freeway overpass collapse.
3. The extent of roadway damage and/or amount of debris blocking the
roadways.
4. Climatic conditions (hot, dry weather with high winds). 5. Time of day will influence the amount of traffic on roadways and could
intensify
the
risk
to
life
during
normal
business
hours.
6. The availability of timely mutual aid or military assistance. 7. The large portion of dwellings with wood shake or shingles coverings
could
result
in
conflagrations.
Necessity for More Restrictive Standards Because of the conditions described above, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, in its capacity
as
the
Board
of
Supervisors
and
the
Board
of
Directors
of
the
Contra
Costa
County
Fire
Protection
District
and
the
Crockett-Carquinez
Fire
Protection
District,
finds
that
there
are
building
and
fire
hazards
unique
to
Contra
Costa
County
that
requires
the
increased
fire
protection
requirements
set
forth
in
Ordinance
No.
2025-14.
The ordinance amends Chapter 1 (Scope and Administration) of the statewide Fire Code by
requiring
a
permit
for
certain
activities
and
operations
that
pose
fire
hazards.
The
ordinance
amends
the
statewide
Fire
Code
by
incorporating
into
Chapter
3 (General
Precautions
Against
Fire)
the
fire
districts’
exterior
fire
hazard
control.
The
ordinance
amends
Chapter
4 of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
(Emergency
Planning
and
Preparedness)
to
require
standby
EMS
personnel
for
large
events
as
well
as
standby
fire
personnel
to
account
for
the
fact
that
the
fire
district
is
both
the
local
fire
and
EMS
provider.
The
ordinance
amends
Chapter
5 (Fire
Service
Features)
and
Appendix
D
(Fire
Apparatus
Access
Roads)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
establish
requirements
for
fire
apparatus
access
roads
to
include
protection
of
designated
emergency
evacuation
routes
as
adopted
by
the
local
governing
body
as
part
of
their
emergency
evacuation
plan.
The
ordinance
amends
the
statewide
Fire
Code
by
reducing
the
square
footage
thresholds
found
in
Chapter
9 (Fire
Protection
Systems)
for
installation
of
automatic
fire
sprinkler
systems
in
most
commercial
buildings
and
in
private
and
charter
schools.
The
ordinance
amends
Chapter
50 (Hazardous
Materials
-
General
Provisions)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
enhance
fire
service
response and information available to occupancies in the District. The ordinance amends Chapter 56 (Explosives
and
Fireworks)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
prohibit
all
fireworks
in
the
District
without
a
permit
and
an
increase
to
the
financial
liability
for
permitted
events.
The
ordinance
amends
Chapter
57 (Flammable
and
Combustible
Liquids)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
amend
where
above
ground
storage
tanks
may
be
located.
The
ordinance
amends
Chapter
58 (Flammable
Gasses
and
Flammable
Cryogenic
Fluids)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
amend
where
storage
may
be
located.
The
ordinance
amends
Appendixes
B
and
C
(Fire-Flow
Requirements
for
Buildings,
Fire
Hydrant
Locations
and
Distribution)
of
the
statewide
Fire
Code
to
amend
the
reduction
of
fire
flow
needed
and
the
location
of
where
hydrants
are
required.