Agenda, closed session, second session — Hillsborough City Council, December 8, 2025 (part 2 of 3)

FISCAL IMPACT: The proposed rate increases, effective January 1, 2026, will provide sufficient resources for the revenue requirement for the calendar year, assuming the assumptions remain in line with the projection.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines, the increases in the solid waste service charges are exempt from CEQWA pursuant to Section 15378 and Section 15273 of the CEQA Guidelines and Public Resources Code Section 21080(b0(8) because (i) the increase charges are for the purpose of meeting operational and maintenance expenses of the aforementioned services and (ii) the charges constitute the creation of a funding mechanism/other governmental fiscal activity which does not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in potential significant physical impact on the environment.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution

2. HF&H Annual Water Rate Update
PREPARED BY: Jan Cooke, Finance Director
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution approving proposed water rate increases effective January 2026.
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RESOLUTION NO. 25-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH

IMPLEMENTING PREVIOUSLY APPROVED INCREASES TO WATER SERVICE CHARGES AND VOLUME CHARGES EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2026
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2022, the Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) City Council adopted Resolution No. 22-83 approving maximum water service charges and volume charges, with increases scheduled over a five-year period; and
WHEREAS, the Town may implement water service charges and volume charges up to the adopted maximum rate and charges in accordance with Resolution No. 22-83; and
WHEREAS, the Town adopted changes to the water service charges and volume charges up to the adopted maximum rate and charges effective for July 1, 2023, January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Town now wishes to implement increases to water service charges and volume charges to take effect on January 1, 2026, in accordance with Resolution No. 22-83, until amended, and such increased rates for water service charges and volume charges shall not exceed the maximum rates adopted in Resolution No. 22-83.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough hereby implements increases to rates for water service charges and volume charges effective January 1, 2026, to be in effect until amended:

Rates for Bi-Monthly Water Service Charge ($/Meter Size) Meter Size 1/1/2026
¾” $167.63
1" $198.33
1½" $267.40
2" $359.51
3" $581.83
6" $1,648.91
8" $2,569.91
ATTACHMENT 1
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2 Rates for Bi-Monthly Volume Charge ($/HCF)
Customer
Category
Tier
Size 1/1/2026
Residential (HCF) ($/HCF)
Tier 1 0 to 22 $7.87
Tier 2 23 to 44 $10.28
Tier 3 45 to 78 $16.24
Tier 4 79+ $21.78
Non-Residential $10.89

Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough

Attest: City Clerk
This resolution was adopted by the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough at its regular meeting held on the 8th day of December 2025, by the following vote of the members thereof:

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
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HF&H Consultants
590 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Suite 105
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Phone: (925) 977-6950
Web: hfh-consultants.com

TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM
To: Jan Cooke, Finance Director, Town of Hillsborough
Richard Santiago, Assistant Finance Director, Town of Hillsborough From: Rick Simonson, Senior Vice President, HF&H
Alex Santos, Senior Associate, HF&H
Date: September 24, 2025
Subject: Water Rate Confirmation Study – Review Previously Adopted Water Rate Adjustment (effective January 1, 2026)
This technical memorandum reports the results of our analysis to update the Town of Hillsborough’s (Town’s) water rate model using revised financial projections.

I. BACKGROUND
HF&H Consultants (HF&H) completed a water rate study for the Town in September 2022 (2022 study). At a public hearing on November 14, 2022, the City Council adopted the recommended rates from the study. The study projected the Water Enterprise’s operating and capital expense projections, for a five-year planning period, and recommended restructuring the Town’s fixed service charges and tiered volume charges for water service. Five annual rate increases were recommended. The first rate increases were implemented beginning July 1, 2023.

The objective of this water rate update is to provide a recommendation on rate increases for implementation on January 1, 2026. The recommendation relies on reassessing existing rates to ensure rate revenues generated meet the Town’s projected operating, capital, and debt service expenses for the next five-year planning period of FY 2025-26-24 through FY 2029-30.

Note: The Town is currently working on the preliminary stages of a $42 million project that would link the Town’s water system to the Harry Tracy Water Treatment Plant (“Highline Water Project”). The project will benefit the Town by significantly improving water supply reliability and increasing fire suppression resources. The Town originally filed for a Federal BRIC grant, requiring 30% matching funds, and this grant program is currently canceled by the Federal government.

The Town has filed for a second federal grant through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, via CalOES, and the application is under review. The estimated timeline is twelve to twenty-four months for approval, resulting in a grant agreement awarded between September 2026 and September 2027. The Town would be the primary project lead, and required matching funds would be shared with the cities of Burlingame and Millbrae. The Town would be responsible for providing the full cost of the project, offset by the grant and partner cities’ contributions. The ATTACHMENT 2
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Jan Cooke
September 23, 2025

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Water Rate Update Memo
Town plans to bridge the construction period cash flow needs with short term financing and fund the Town’s remaining share with long-term financing at the end of construction. The Town has budgeted and funded the costs of getting the project shovel ready in its FY 2024-25 adopted budget. The projections included in this report do not factor in the costs of the Highline project.

If the grant application is advanced, and as additional information is available, the anticipated costs will be refined and addressed in future rate projections. This project will not impact on the recommended rate adjustment for January 1, 2026.

The following sections present the findings, trends, and assumptions from our review and reprojection of revenues, expenses, and the fund balance through June 30, 2028.

Our recommendations to adjust the Town’s current water rates effective for January 1, 2026, as well as other future rate considerations are detailed at the end of this memorandum. While the financial analysis covers a five-year outlook, the analysis is intended to provide a recommendation and support for implementing an increase on January 1, 2026 only, the projected increases that may be necessary beyond 2026 are intended for informational purposes only and will be re-evaluated in the future.

II. ANALYSIS
A spreadsheet model was developed to derive revenue requirements for FY 2025-26 through FY 2029-30. The revenue requirements represent the costs that must be covered by revenue from rates and other sources. For this study, we have relied on the Town’s Operations and Maintenance (O&M) budget provided by the Finance Department covering FY 2025-26 through FY 2029-30; and a recent capital budget provided by Public Works covering FY 2025-26 through FY 2029-30. We worked with Town staff to project expenses for additional years where approved budgets were not available.

The application of these projections to O&M and capital expenses are summarized graphically in Figure 1 and are described below in more detail.
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Jan Cooke
September 23, 2025

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Water Rate Update Memo
Figure 1. Total Annual Projected FY Revenue Requirements Operating & Maintenance (O&M) Expenses
Two of the four expense categories shown in Figure 1 encompass the Town’s O&M expenses.

These categories include Water Purchases, Salaries/Benefits, Materials/Supplies, and Equipment Replacement/Overhead. Water Purchases are projected according to assumed demand and wholesale water rates provided by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), the Town’s water provider. Water Purchases are projected to increase from $7.1 million to $8.2 million over the five-year period, an annual average increase of 3.6%. Assumptions governing water purchase expenses are discussed in the Water Use and Revenues section of this memorandum. The Administrative and O&M expense projections reflect the Town’s estimates and are projected to increase annually by an average of 2.1%.

Debt Service
The Town has existing debt service that was previously issued to fund various capital infrastructure components. The Town currently has two debt service payments, for: 1) a 2023 revenue refunding bond, with an interest rate of 5%, and 2) an Energy Conservation Loan, with an interest rate of 1%. Payments of existing debt service approximating $1.24 million will continue to be made through FY 2026-27 and will drop to approximately $1.18 million once the final payment for the Energy Conservation Loan is paid in FY 2026-27. To comply with existing covenants, the Town must maintain a debt coverage ratio exceeding 1.20, based on net available revenues.
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Jan Cooke
September 23, 2025

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Water Rate Update Memo
Capital Project Costs
Capital improvement expenditures projections average $2.8 million during the five-year planning period. Three of the largest cash-funded projects are the Darrell Pump Line Rehabilitation and Replacement, the Clark Concar Pump Station Generator, and the Marlborough Pump Station & Generator. Since the 2022 study, average annual capital expenses have decreased by approximately $0.5 million due to scheduled timing of the projects. Figure 2 provides a detailed listing of the Water Enterprise five-year Capital Improvement Plan. All project costs shown have been escalated using an assumed Construction Cost Index of 3.3%.

Figure 2. Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan
Water Use Projections
The Town experienced significant reductions to water consumption in FY 2022-23. The Town planned for a reduced water purchase allocation in the previous rate study. However, actual sales were even less than planned. An unusually wet winter further reduced demand and corresponding water sales revenue. As a result, the Town met its calendar year 2022 water purchase allocation, but endured an additional 9% decline in water purchase volumes compared to projections.

Since FY 2022-23, water use has increased year-over-year. In this update, future water purchases and sales projections assume the same levels of actual water demand from FY 2024-25. Under these assumptions, water purchase volumes would increase from the FY 2022-23 low of 1,007,949 hundred cubic feet (HCF) to 1,130,222 HCF per year for FY 2025-26 through FY 2029-

30. Water use is unpredictable from year to year as it depends on precipitation and other weather conditions. Our assumption to keep water demand flat, even though water demand has been increasing over the past couple of years, represents a conservative approach to ensure that the Water Enterprise’s fund balance projections can meet or exceed targets even if the recent trend of increased water use does not continue. Higher water demand than projected in this analysis will result in a higher fund balance, which can be used to keep rates lower in the future than what is currently projected.

Capital Improvement Projects FY 2025-26 FY 2026-27 FY 2027-28 FY 2028-29 FY 2029-30 Total Water Main Replacement Program $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 Demolish Forrestview Tanks #1 and #2 $0 $250,000 $0 $400,000 $0 $650,000 Water Tank Coating Improvements $500,000 $400,000 $0 $0 $0 $900,000 Clark Concar Pump Station Generator $0 $0 $200,000 $200,000 $1,200,000 $1,600,000 Marlborough Pump Station & Generator $500,000 $700,000 $0 $0 $0 $1,200,000 Earthquake Protection Valves $0 $0 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $300,000 SCADA Improvements $0 $0 $0 $200,000 $200,000 $400,000
Darrell Pump Line Rehab and Replacemen $0 $0 $300,000 $1,150,000 $800,000 $2,250,000 Demolish Major Hayes Tank and Piping $0 $65,000 $300,000 $0 $0 $365,000 Subtotal $2,000,000 $2,415,000 $1,900,000 $3,050,000 $3,300,000 $12,665,000 Construction Cost Index 1.033 1.066 1.101 1.137 1.174
Escalated Total CIP $2,065,165 $2,574,936 $2,091,836 $3,467,356 $3,873,800 $14,073,093 ÷ 5 years
Average Annual PAYGo-Funded CIP $2,814,619
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Jan Cooke
September 23, 2025

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Water Rate Update Memo
Rate Adjustments and Projected Fund Balance
For this update, we analyzed the fund balance projections over the next five-year period under two rate projection sensitivities, with the goal in each rate sensitivity scenario of reaching the Town’s target reserve balance by the end of FY 2029-30:

Sensitivity #1 – Assumes implementing both the 4.0% rate increase effective January 1, 2026 and the 2.0% rate increase effective January 1, 2027, as previously approved by the City Council in November 2022. Under this rate sensitivity scenario, we project 8.0%,

7.5%, 7.5%, rate adjustments would be necessary, effective January 1, 2028, January 1, 2029, and January 1, 2030, respectively, in order to meet the Town’s target reserve fund balance by FY 2029-30.

During 2026, to reduce the projected 7.5%-8.0% rate increases (for 2028-2030) indicated in Sensitivity #1, the Council may want to consider increasing the 2.0% rate increase scheduled for January 1, 2027, which would allow lower increases beyond 2027, as described in Sensitivity #2.

Sensitivity #2 – Assumes implementing the 4.0% rate increase effective January 1, 2026, as previously approved by the City Council in November 2022. However, under this rate sensitivity scenario, we project the 2.0% increase originally adopted by Council for 2027 could be increased to 5.5%, which reduces the remaining increases to 5.5%, 4.0%, 4.0%, effective January 1, 2028, January 1, 2029, and January 1, 2030, respectively. Under this alternative, the Town’s fund balance will also meet the Town’s target reserve fund balance by FY 2029-30.

Figure 3. Projected Year-End Fund Balance
Note: Blue highlighted rate adjustments reflect previously-adopted, but not yet implemented, rate adjustments. -173-
Jan Cooke
September 23, 2025

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Water Rate Update Memo
III. RECOMMENDATIONS
1) We recommend the City Council implement the 2026 water rates previously adopted (including the SFPUC pass-through adjustment to volumetric charges), to become effective January 1, 2026, as shown in Figure 4 (Service Charges) and Figure 5 (Volumetric Chargers). Implementing the previously adopted rates effective January 1, 2026 would not require the Town to conduct a new Proposition 218 process since these rates do not exceed the maximum rates of the previous notice issued in 2022.

Figure 4. Current and Proposed Bi-Monthly Service Charges Figure 5. Current and Proposed Bi-Monthly Volumetric Charges 2) Given the fund balance projections in Figure 3, a larger than 2% rate increase originally adopted by Council for January 1, 2027 may be necessary. We recommend the Town continue to monitor the Water Enterprises’ fund balance in early 2026 to determine whether the 2% increase is still sufficient for 2027. If a higher rate increase is needed, a new water rate study and Proposition 218 process should be conducted prior to January 1, 2027.

Meter Proposed
Size Current 1/1/2026
3/4" $161.18 $167.63
1" $190.70 $198.33
1 1/2" $257.12 $267.40
2" $345.68 $359.51
3" $581.83 $605.10
6" $1,585.49 $1,648.91
8" $2,471.07 $2,569.91
Customer Proposed
Category Tiers Current 1/1/2026
(HCF) ($/HCF) ($/HCF)
Residential
Tier 1 0 to 22 $7.59 $7.87
Tier 2 23 to 44 $9.91 $10.28
Tier 3 45 to 78 $15.63 $16.24
Tier 4 79+ $20.96 $21.78
Non-Residential All Use $10.49 $10.89
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
5 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Appoint a Town of Hillsborough Representative to the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District Board of Trustees
SUMMARY: Dr. D. Scott Smith serves as the Town's representative to the Board of Trustees of the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District ("District"). Dr. Smith's current term expires December 31, 2025. The District contacted the Town to inquire about appointment or reappointment. Dr. Smith has expressed interest in serving an additional term.

The District offers either a two-year term (January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2027) or four-year term (January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2029). Dr. Smith has expressed interest in serving a four-year term. Terms of office begin at noon on the first Monday in January.

FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this agenda item.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: The proposed action is exempt from environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines sections 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) as ongoing administrative or organizational activities that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

ATTACHMENTS: Letter from the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District PREPARED BY: Lisa Natusch, City Clerk
RECOMMENDATION: Appoint Dr. D. Scott Smith as the Town's representative to the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District Board of Trustees for a four-year term, January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2029.
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
6 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Resolution Establishing the Local Appointments List for Calendar Year 2026
SUMMARY: Government Code Section 54972 requires that on or before December 31 of each year, the City Council shall prepare an appointments list of all regular and ongoing boards, commissions and committees, whose members are volunteer Hillsborough residents that are appointed by the City Council. Government Code Section 54973 requires that the Local Appointments List be made available to the public. Government Code Section 54974 requires that whenever an unscheduled vacancy occurs in any body on the Local Appointments List, a special vacancy notice be posted in the office of the City Clerk and in other places as directed by the City Council. The Local Appointments List shall contain the following information:
(a) A list of all appointive terms which will expire during the next calendar year with the name of the incumbent appointee, the date of appointment, the date the term expires, and the necessary qualifications for the position.
(b) A list of all boards, commissions, and committees whose members serve at the pleasure of the City Council, and the necessary qualifications for each position.

FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this agenda item.

ATTACHMENTS: Resolution and Exhibit A Local Appointments List PREPARED BY: Lisa Natusch, City Clerk
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution establishing the Local Appointments List for calendar year 2026.
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RESOLUTION NO. 25-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH ESTABLISHING THE LOCAL APPOINTMENTS LIST FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026 WHEREAS, Government Code Section 54972 requires that on or before December 31 of each year, the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough prepare an appointments list of all regular and ongoing boards, commissions, and committees that are appointed by the City Council (“Local Appointments List”); and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 54972 further requires that the Local Appointments List contain (a) a list of all appointive terms that will expire during the next calendar year with the name of the incumbent appointee, the date of appointment, the date the term expires, and the necessary qualifications for the position, and (b) a list of all boards, commissions, and committees whose members serve at the pleasure of the City Council and the necessary qualifications for each position; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 54973 requires that the Local Appointments List be made available to the public for a reasonable fee not exceeding actual cost and that the City Council may designate that the list be posted on the Town website; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 54974 requires that whenever an unscheduled vacancy occurs in any body on the Local Appointments List, a special vacancy notice be posted in the office of the City Clerk, on the Town website and other places as directed by the City Council and that such posting and the subsequent appointment be made according to the time tables and procedures set forth in Section 54974.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough that:

1. The Local Appointments List shall be that list attached hereto as Exhibit A and by reference incorporated herein.

2. The Local Appointments List shall be posted on the Town website and made available to members of the public at no charge.

3. Whenever an unscheduled vacancy occurs on one of the committees or board, a special vacancy notice shall be posted in the office of the City Clerk and on the Town’s website; and if time allows, in the Town’s Weekly Bulletin not earlier than 20 days before or not later than 20 days after the vacancy occurs. Appointment to that vacancy must not be made for at least 10 working days after posting of the special notice.
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2 4. The appointment to any such special vacancy shall be made according to the posting and appointing timetables and procedures set forth in Government Code Section 54974 or successor provision.

5. This resolution shall be printed and posted upon the three official bulletin boards of the Town of Hillsborough.

Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES – LOCAL APPOINTMENT LIST
List of boards and committees whose members serve at the pleasure of the City Council and the necessary qualifications for each board or committee.
1 of 2 11/18/2025

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING PANEL (AHP)
Composition and Term Length: Up to five members for 3-year terms Meeting Schedule: monthly as needed
Qualifications: The preferred composition of the board shall be residents of the Town, or persons who own property “directly or indirectly”, familiar with the Town’s government and municipal code, with prior experience serving on committees or boards and an interest in fostering the Town’s beauty and property values.

Members Date Initially
Appointed
Term
Expires
Terms
Served
1 Jim Benton January 2024 December 2026
2 Jerome Hong September 2022 December 2027
3 Lisa Stephenson, Chair January 2022 December 2027 1
4 Katherine Tong January 2025 December 2027
5 David Weinberg January 2016 December 2027 3

ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN REVIEW BOARD (ADRB)
Composition and Term Length: Five members plus two alternates for 3-year terms Meeting Schedule: Tuesday following 2nd Monday of every month Qualifications: Pursuant to Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 2.12, (1) qualified electors from the town and (2) residents of the Town for two or more years and not otherwise serving the town in an elective or salaried capacity. The preferred composition of the board shall be two architects or building designers, two other design professionals, and one resident-at-large; however, other residents from the town may be appointed, if necessary, to complete the five-member board.

Members Date Initially
Appointed
Term
Expires
Terms
Served
1 Kathleen Egan October 2016 December 2027 2
2 April Filer, Chair January 2021 December 2026 1
3 Yuvi Gill October 2020 December 2028 1
4 Breigh McCall January 2025 December 2027
5 Bill Neidig February 2025 December 2028
Alternate 1 – Matt Ken February 2025 December 2026
Alternate 2 – Mia Maddalena February 2025 December 2027

EXHIBIT A
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CITIZENS COMMUNICATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CCAC)
Composition and Term Length: Five members for 3-year terms Meeting Schedule: Tuesday following 2nd Monday of each month Qualifications: Hillsborough residents who are familiar with the Town and possess a desire to assist the Town in its communications with the residents.

Members Date Initially
Appointed
Term
Expires
Terms
Served
1 Mary Ellen Benninger January 2016 December 2027 3
2 Julie Borden, Chair January 2010 December 2027 5
3 Lisa Edwards January 2025 December 2027
4 Ah Huang Chen January 2023 December 2026
5 Amy Jasmer January 2024 December 2026

FINANCIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (FAC)
Composition and Term Length: Seven members for 3-year terms Meeting Schedule: Tuesday following 2nd Monday of every month Qualifications: Hillsborough residents who represent a broad spectrum of expertise from the fields of accountancy, investment management and fiscal control. Preferred qualifications include a familiarity with local government finance, prior experience serving on committees or boards, and an interest in advising the City Council and Town staff on financial matters.

Members Date Initially
Appointed
Term
Expires
Terms
Served
1 Charles F. “Chick” Adams, Chair June 2021 December 2028 1 2 Jeffrey Baxter April 2013 December 2027 4
3 Roger Davis January 2023 December 2026
4 Joel Friedman January 2019 December 2027 2
5 Michele Gutierrez March 2019 December 2027 1
6 Tom Maloney December 2017 December 2026 2
7 Mike Quackenbush July 2024 December 2027
For information about serving on a board or committee, contact the City Clerk at 650-375-7421, [email protected] or visit https://www.hillsborough.net/146/Boards-Committees. -181-
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
7 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Resolution Adopting the Classification Specification for the Position of Code Compliance Coordinator I/II and the Position of Public Works Assistant Superintendent
SUMMARY: This item presents for City Council approval the classification specification for the following two positions:

Code Compliance Coordinator I/II:

As part of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget process, the Code Enforcement Officer position transitioned from the Police Department to the Building & Planning Department. During the past year, the Town utilized contract Code Enforcement services that successfully managed the majority of Code situations, with only one matter presented before the Administrative Hearing Panel.

The Code Compliance Coordinator series was developed by the department to further refine the duties and responsibilities of the position moving forward. The classification is recommended to be included in the Public Works & Clerical Bargaining Unit. Teamsters Local 856 was forwarded the job description and salary range in November for review and comment.

Public Works Assistant Superintendent:

As part of the ongoing Classification and Compensation Study, the Public Works Assistant Superintendent (Assistant Superintendent) job description was identified as needing an update to better reflect the current duties and supervisory responsibilities of the position. The previous job description had not been significantly updated since 2000. Teamsters Local 350 was forwarded the job description in November for review and comment.

FISCAL IMPACT: The salary range for the Code Compliance Coordinator I/II classification is the same as the previous Code Enforcement Officer I/II classification, ranging from $93,724.72 to $125,588.89 annually in the current adopted salary schedule. Although there is no change to the overall Town Personnel budget, the budget for the position will transfer from the Police Department to Building and Planning.

There is no fiscal impact associated with the proposed Assistant Superintendent classification update.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: The proposed action is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines sections 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) as -183-
Agenda Staff Report - Hillsborough City Council
December 8, 2025

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ongoing administrative or organizational activities that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution

2. Code Compliance Coordinator I/II Job Description

3. Public Works Assistant Superintendent Job Description PREPARED BY: William Li, Administrative Services Manager RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution adopting the Classification Specification for the Position of Code Compliance Coordinator I/II and the Position of Public Works Assistant Superintendent.
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RESOLUTION NO. 25-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH

ADOPTING THE CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION FOR THE POSITION OF CODE

COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR I/II AND THE POSITION OF PUBLIC WORKS

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT
WHEREAS, the Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) has established classification specifications that describe the responsibilities and duties assigned to each position; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to have a range of classification specifications in order to meet its business needs; and
WHEREAS, the Town has created a new classification specification for Code Compliance Coordinator I/II; and
WHEREAS, the Town has updated classification specification for Public Works Assistant Superintendent; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to add the Code Compliance Coordinator I/II classification specification (“Exhibit A”) and the Public Works Assistant Superintendent (“Exhibit B”) to the Town’s established classification specifications.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough hereby adopts the classification specification for the position of Code Compliance Coordinator I/II and the position of Public Works Assistant Superintendent.

Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough
Attest: City Clerk
This resolution was adopted by the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough at its regular meeting held on the 8th day of December 2025, by the following vote of the members thereof:

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
ATTACHMENT 1
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Code Compliance Coordinator I/II

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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
CREATED: TBD

PUBLIC WORKS & CLERICAL UNIT
FLSA: NON-EXEMPT

CODE COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR I/II

DEFINITION
Under general supervision, performs a full range of technical and public contact duties in support of the Town’s code compliance program. This position emphasizes education and prevention by serving as a resource, partner, and guide to residents, contractors, and businesses to promote voluntary compliance and community pride. Responsibilities include proactive community education and outreach, monitoring construction activity, investigating and resolving complaints, and ensuring compliance with the Town’s municipal, fire, building, housing, zoning, and related codes and regulations. When enforcement is necessary, the Coordinator supports individuals through the resolution process by clearly explaining requirements and facilitating corrective action. Work involves extensive collaboration with Town departments and the public, detailed documentation and use of case management systems, and the consistent, fair application of codes and policies. Performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Building Official. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
The Code Compliance Coordinator class series is flexibly staffed; positions are normally filled at the I level, with advancement to the II level based on demonstrated proficiency, possession of required qualifications, and management approval.

Code Compliance Coordinator I (Journey-Level):

This is the fully qualified, journey-level class in the Code Compliance series. Incumbents are responsible for performing the full range of duties related to municipal code compliance, including complaint investigation, construction site monitoring, inspections, case management, and public education. Employees in this class are expected to work independently, apply codes and regulations with discretion, and serve as educators and resources to the community.

Positions at this level may receive direction or instruction as new or unusual situations arise but generally operate with a high degree of independence and responsibility.

Code Compliance Coordinator II (Advanced-Level):

This is the advanced-level class in the Code Compliance series. Positions at this level are distinguished from Code Compliance Coordinator I by the performance of more complex or sensitive compliance cases, the expectation to serve as a subject-matter resource, and potential responsibility for mentoring less experienced staff. Incumbents are expected to exercise greater judgment and may be assigned leadership in high-profile cases, advanced compliance activities, or coordination of multi-departmental enforcement efforts. Progression to this level is typically based on several years of successful performance as a Code Compliance Coordinator I, advanced training and/or certification, and demonstration of proficiency in handling the most complex cases.

ATTACHMENT 2
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Code Compliance Coordinator I/II

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Advancement to the Code Compliance Coordinator II level is typically achieved through progression from the I level and is contingent upon (i) management’s determination that the incumbent is regularly performing the full range of duties of the higher classification; (ii) demonstrated satisfactory job performance; (iii) incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the higher classification; and (iv) management approval for advancement to Code Compliance Coordinator II.

Collaboration & Communication
 Serve as an educator, resource, and ally to residents, contractors, and business owners by explaining the purpose and intent of Town codes and community standards.  Provide responsive customer service by answering questions, explaining processes, and guiding residents and contractors through permit and compliance requirements.  Prepare and maintain educational and process materials like notices, letters, handouts, and web based information.
 Demonstrate professionalism, emotional intelligence, and conflict-resolution skills in working with a variety of individuals and situations.

Investigations & Inspections
 Receive, record, and investigate complaints related to municipal, fire, building, housing, and zoning codes.
 Monitor residential and commercial construction sitesto ensure compliance with permits and conditions of approval, safety standards, and Town regulations.  Proactively identify and address issues related to construction completion timelines, site maintenance, safety hazards, or other potential violations.  Conduct field inspections, research ownership records, review prior complaints, and determine whether violations have occurred.

Compliance & Resolution
 Promote voluntary compliance through education, prevention, and proactive communication.
 Partner with planning, building, engineering, police, public works, and legal staff to resolve compliance matters and ensure consistent application of codes.  Guide individuals who are out of compliance through the resolution process, ensuring they understand what is required and how to achieve compliance.  Prepare and issue notices of violation, citations, and related correspondence in accordance with applicable laws and ordinances, while maintaining a solution-oriented approach.
 Coordinate and monitor compliance and abatement activities, including site visits, correspondence, and follow-up inspections.

Documentation & Technology
 Maintain accurate case files, inspection notes, and compliance records using the Town’s land use permit tracking software.
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Code Compliance Coordinator I/II

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 Input inspection results, notices, and case updates into databases to ensure timely tracking and resolution.
 Prepare clear, professional reports, memoranda, correspondence, and hearing documentation.
 Prepare and present compliance cases at hearings;send required notifications; testify and provide supporting evidence.
 Attend and document hearings, meetings, and related proceedings.

Professional Effectiveness
 Apply codes and policies fairly, consistently, and with discretion to achieve safe, equitable, and lasting compliance.
 Manage time effectively to balance proactive patrols, investigations, compliance assistance, and administrative responsibilities.
 Contribute to the effectiveness of the division by being conscientious, detail-oriented, and professional.
 Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
 Principles, practices, and procedures of municipal code compliance, inspection, case management, and community education.
 Methods of conducting investigations, inspections, and research related to property ownership, land use, permits, and compliance history.
 Municipal, fire, building, housing, zoning, and related codes, ordinances, and regulations, including how they interact with applicable federal, state, and local laws.  Principles of construction site safety, maintenance standards, and permit compliance monitoring.
 Techniques for clearly explaining complex codes, ordinances, and regulatory requirements in ways that foster understanding, encourage prevention, and support voluntary compliance.  Methods and procedures for code compliance, including issuance of citations, inspection warrants, preparation of legal documents, and guidance through resolution steps.  Recordkeeping, report writing, and case management practices, including effective use of land use permit tracking software and databases.
 Principles of conflict resolution, negotiation, and effective communication to support fair, solution-oriented outcomes.
 Public relations and customer service practices, including methods for working professionally with residents, contractors, vendors, business representatives, and Town staff in a variety of situations.
 Research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures to support thorough case analysis and documentation.
 Roles and responsibilities of related municipal departments (planning, building, public works, police, fire) and how to coordinate with the appropriate staff for specific compliance issues.

Ability to:
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Code Compliance Coordinator I/II

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 Methodically investigate, analyze, and document potential violations with accuracy and attention to detail.
 Interpret, apply, explain, and enforce municipal, building, housing, zoning, and related codes, ordinances, and regulations.
 Educate and guide property owners, contractors, residents, and other stakeholders through application, review, and compliance processes.
 Create educational materials like handouts, and update information on the Town’s website pertaining to code compliance.
 Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with diverse audiences; prepare clear, concise, and accurate correspondence, reports, and other written materials.  Use land use permit tracking software and related systems to enter data, monitor case progress, and generate reports; maintain accurate logs, records, and case files.  Establish and maintain positive working relationships with residents, contractors, community groups, and Town staff.
 Exercise professionalism, emotional intelligence, tact, prudence, and sound judgment in challenging or conflict-driven situations.
 Represent the department and the Town effectively in meetings.  Identify and respond to issues and concerns raised in a fair, tactful, and timely manner.  Organize work, set priorities, meet deadlines, and follow up on assignments while managing multiple cases and responsibilities.
 Work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively as part of a team.  Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.  Contribute to a culture of community pride through proactive, fair, and solution-oriented compliance.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Code Compliance Coordinator I/II: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

Code Compliance Coordinator I: Two (2) years of experience involving enforcement of codes, construction site monitoring, building inspection, planning/zoning compliance, or a related field is required. Coursework or training in planning, construction management, building inspection, or public administration is desirable.

Code Compliance Coordinator II: In addition to the qualifications of Code Compliance Coordinator I, three (3) or more years of increasingly responsible experience in code compliance or related regulatory work is required. Demonstrated ability to handle complex or sensitive cases, provide mentorship, or coordinate multi-departmental enforcement activities is required.

Licenses and Certifications:
 Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a valid California Driver’s License.  Possession of a certification as a Code Enforcement Officer issued by the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO), is desirable, but not required. -190-
Code Compliance Coordinator I/II

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Other Requirements:
 Ability to perform fieldwork in a variety of environmental and weather conditions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
When working in an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.

When working in the field, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, orslippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various Town sites; vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 15 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.

ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
Employees work partially in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. -191-

TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
CREATED: TBD

PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR UNIT
FLSA: EXEMPT

PUBLIC WORKS ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

DEFINITION
Under general direction, assists in planning, organizing, overseeing, coordinating, and managing the staff and operations of the Operations Division within the Public Works Department including the construction, maintenance, and repair of Town streets, water, sewer, and drainage systems and facilities and the maintenance and repair of parks, buildings, vehicles, and equipment; assists in the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the division; provides support to the Public Works Superintendent in areas of expertise; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from the Public Works Superintendent. Exercises direct supervision over supervisory, technical, and maintenance support staff through subordinate levels of supervision.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is a mid-management classification responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of assigned maintenance programs in the Public Works Operations Division. The incumbent is responsible for performing diverse, specialized, and complex work involving significant decision-making responsibilities, which includes assisting in the development and implementation of policies and procedures, completion of state mandated regulatory reporting, and maintenance program evaluation to meet division goals and objectives. The incumbent serves as a resource for special projects, research, and studies. Performance of the work requires the use of independence, initiative, and discretion within broad guidelines.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
 Assists in planning, managing, and overseeing the daily functions, operations, and activities of the Operations Division, including the construction, maintenance, and repair of Town streets, water, sewer, and drainage systems and facilities and the maintenance and repair of parks, buildings, vehicles, and equipment.
 Participates in the development of goals, objectives, work plans, policies, and priorities for the division; recommends within division policy, appropriate service and staffing levels; recommends and administers policies and procedures.
 Monitors activities of assigned staff and identifies opportunities for improving service delivery and procedures; provides recommendations concerning process changes; reviews with appropriate management staff; implements improvements.
 Participates in the selection of, trains, motivates, and evaluates assigned personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; recommends discipline procedures.

ATTACHMENT 3
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Public Works Assistant Superintendent

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 Participates in the development, administration, and oversight of the division budget; assists with determining funding needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; ensures compliance with budgeted funding.
 Provides support for the request for proposal process for professional and/or contracted services; drafts scope of work and any technical specifications; implements approved contracts to ensure compliance with Town specifications and service quality.  In collaboration with Town engineers and consultants, participates in planning, prioritizing, scheduling, and constructing capital improvement and maintenance projects; reviews plans and specifications and recommends changes as appropriate to meet operational needs; overseesthe work of contractors to ensure compliance with Town standards.  Performs project management responsibilities; develops logical and efficient project plans; establishes priorities; monitors and managestask completion; anticipates and avoids problems; works collaboratively and cooperatively with team members and user groups to ensure project accountability.
 Monitors and responds to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) notifications and alerts; communicates and addresses issues.
 Inspects and supervises the repair of booster pumping stations, reservoirs, meters and other water system components to ensure the water distribution system is functioning properly.  Participates in developing and planning and assists in managing various public works programs including, but not limited to, preventive and predictive maintenance, asset management, and regulatory compliance and reporting.
 Serves as liaison for assigned functions with other Town departments, divisions, and outside agencies .  Prepares and presents reports and correspondence to Town Council, commissions, committees, and task forces as required.
 Supervises the establishment and maintenance of working and official division files; ensures the proper documentation of operations and activities.
 Stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of public; researches emerging products and enhancements and their applicability to Town needs.
 Answers questions and provides information to the public; investigates and responds to complaints and inquiries from citizens, other departments, and agencies.  Ensures staff observe and comply with all Town and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.  Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
 Principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment review and evaluation, discipline, and the training of staff in work procedures.  Principles and practices of leadership.
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Public Works Assistant Superintendent

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 Administrative principles, practices, and methods including goal setting, program development, implementation and evaluation, policy and procedure development, quality control, and work standards.
 Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
 Principles and practices of budget and contract administration and monitoring.  General principles of risk management related to the functions of the assigned area.  Principles, practices, tools, and materials as they relate to the construction, maintenance, and repair of public works, utilities, parks, buildings, vehicle, equipment, and related facilities.  Operational characteristics, use of, and maintenance/calibration requirements of a wide variety of hand and power tools and equipment common to the field.  Occupational hazards and safety standardsrelated to conducting maintenance work, including driving rules and practices.
 Principles of mathematics and the application to assigned work.  Principles and procedures of record keeping, report writing, and preparation of correspondence.  Applicable federal,state, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and organizational policies and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.  Town and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols  Techniques for providing a high level of customer service, by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and Town staff.
 The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
 Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:
 Select and supervise staff, provide training and development opportunities, ensure work is performed effectively, and evaluate performance in an objective and positive manner.  Assist in developing and implementing goals, objectives, practices, policies, procedures, and work standards.
 Prepare and administer budgets; allocate limited resources in a cost-effective manner.  Analyze public works problems, evaluate alternatives, and recommend effective courses of action.  Research and evaluate new service delivery methods, procedures, and techniques.  Supervise the safe and effective use, operation, and maintenance of hand and power tools and vehicle required for the work.
 Oversee the establishment and maintenance of a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems.
 Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, documentation, and other written materials.  Make accurate mathematical and statistical computations.  Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
 Effectively represent the division and the Town in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, various business, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.  Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
 Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.  Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
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Public Works Assistant Superintendent

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 Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
 Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge,skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:
 Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented by college level coursework in utility management.

Experience:
 Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible experience in the construction, maintenance, and repair of public and/or utility facilities and infrastructure, including two (2) years of supervisory experience.

Licenses and Certifications:
 Possession of a valid Class C California Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record to be maintained throughout employment.
 Possession of a valid Grade IV (D4) Water Distribution Operator certificate issued by California State Water Resources Control Board, and a valid Grade II Collection System Maintenance certificate issued by tje California Water Environment Association (CWEA) to be maintained throughout employment OR,
 Possession of a valid Grade IV Collections System Maintenance certificate issued by California Water Environment Association (CWEA), and a valid Grade II (D2) Water Distribution Operator certificate issued by California State Water Resources Control Board, to be maintained throughout employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.

When assigned to field work, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various Town sites; vision to inspectsite conditions and work in progress.

The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff. -195-
Public Works Assistant Superintendent

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
-196-

TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
8 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Resolution Adopting Policy 516, Grants Management Policy, to Establish Grant Management Guidelines
SUMMARY: The Town often applies for, and is awarded, grants from various sources to support infrastructure projects, incentive programs, and operational needs. Many of these grants require matching funds to meet the grant requirements as part of the application process. To ensure that the cash flow requirements and any budget impacts, either one-time or ongoing, are being considered, the Town has created a Grants Management Policy.

The Grants Management Policy codifies best practices that the Town strives for in its current practices, including notification to the Finance Department and the City Manager’s Office to assess any requirements of the grant during the application process and establishes roles and responsibilities for the Finance Department and the department managing the grant.

Having established guidelines will allow for greater efficiency within the procedures laid out. This should help the Town seize additional grant funding opportunities, without unintended impacts to Town operations or budget.

FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this agenda item.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines sections 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) provide that ongoing administrative activities and organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment do not constitute a “project” as defined by the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) and are therefore exempt from CEQA and no further environmental review is required.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution

2. Policy 516 - Grants Management
PREPARED BY: Doug Davis, City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution adopting Policy 516, Grants Management Policy, to establish grant management guidelines.
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RESOLUTION NO. 25-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH ADOPTING POLICY 516, GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY, TO ESTABLISH

GRANT MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES
WHEREAS, the Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) does not have a formal policy related to Grants Management, Policy 516 (“Policy”), sets forth grants management policies, procedures, and functions; and
WHEREAS, the Policy establishes different procedures and processes for grant application and management; and
WHEREAS, the Policy seeks to streamline the process and allow the Town to take advantage of grant opportunities while mitigating any anticipated impacts or cash flow issues; and
WHEREAS, the Town has seen an increasing number of grant applications and awards in the past few years; and
WHEREAS, it is now appropriate to establish a Grants Management Policy, attached hereto as Exhibit A.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough hereby adopts Policy 516, Grants Management Policy, to establish grant management guidelines.

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
ATTACHMENT 1
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POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY

T OWN OF H ILLSBOROUGH

P ERSONNEL P OLICY
POLICY 516 CREATED 11/13/2025
SUBJECT: GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY
PURPOSE: To establish develop, implement, and maintain grant oversight and coordination thereby increasing grant-related revenue, limiting the Town’s non compliance with any grant requirements, and improving the efficiency and impact of programs and services funded through grants.

STATEMENT OF POLICY:

The Town of Hillsborough continues its practice of taking advantage of granting opportunities to support operations, programs, and capital improvement projects. Major sources of grant awards are federal, state, local agencies, and private organizations. A grant’s scope is determined by the policy goals of the grantor, and the grantee is obligated to provide deliverables based on the terms and conditions of the grant. Grants differ based on the funding source, scope of work, requirements, and timelines. It is the policy of the Town of Hillsborough to follow all applicable federal, state, local and contractual requirements applicable to any grant received.

1. Pre-Application Evaluation
Town staff will identify grants in all functional areas in general but specifically in funding capital projects. Town staff must review grant requirements to validate feasibility of undertaking the responsibility of grant deliverables and the alignment of scope with the Town’s and the community’s mission before applying, accepting, and committing to any grant opportunity. Staff shall only pursue grant funding opportunities that align with the Town and Community’s mission.

A. Short-term Revenues vs. Long-Term Costs
Special attention must be paid to evaluate if a grant opportunity is viable to the Town and that one-time or short-term grant revenues are not adding to the fiscal burden of unprecedented or long-term expenditures. For example, a grant funded project may require the Town to hire additional staff, in this situation it is necessary to review the grant to assure that the Town is clear about the requirement of additional staff, temporary or permanent. If permanent staff is required, the long-term labor cost must be evaluated and analyzed before applying for the grant. The viability consideration is not limited to labor cost; it must be evaluated for al types of costs such as ongoing operations and maintenance.

B. Required Resources
ATTACHMENT 2
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POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY
A grant opportunity must be evaluated based on required resources versus available resources in the Town before moving forward with the application process. This applies to resources such as: staff support, local funding match, or in-kind match.
i. If a funding match is required by a grantor, the funding source and funding match conditions must be approved by the City Manager in writing before submitting the grant application.

C. Indirect Cost
During the grant application process, City staff shall include the cost of administering the grant program when possible and wherever it is allowable by the grantor in the grant terms and conditions. For example, some grantors may have a fixed percentage for indirect costs that can be reimbursed.

D. Cost Benefits Analysis
Town staff shall confirm that there is an overall cost benefit analysis taking into account whether the grant is in alignment with the Town’s general mission and strategic goals and is in the best interest of the residents of the Town. No grant will be accepted that will incur oversight and reporting costs that are higher than the grant amount itself, except with the written approval of the City Manager.

E. Public Private Partnership
In a situation where the Town is working in partnership with another organization (local or public) the solicitation process must be transparent and comport with all applicable laws and regulations. City Council approval is required prior to submitting the grant application. If the pre-approval step is missed in such partnership, there must be an explanation provided to the City Council upon the grant acceptance.

2. Grant Cycle
A. Grant Application
Department staff is required to follow the grantor’s determined application processes. Department staff seeking and administering the grant are responsible for compiling the grant application, and the Finance department shall provide certain information that is required to be submitted with the proposal. (i) If a local funding match is required for a grant, refer to the section 3.b. of this document.
(ii) The Finance department must be notified upon submission of a grant application within ten (10) business days.

B. Grant Award
Grant award is the notification that is provided to the applicant upon the acceptance of the grant application. The notification must be in writing and/or it can also be in a grant agreement format.

C. Council Approval
Each grant must be reviewed by legal counsel and formally accepted by the City Council before moving to the execution phase. Any informal acceptance of a grant by Town staff in violation of this Policy shall not bind the Town. Department staff are responsible for preparing the City Council agenda item. The recommended action must include the words “accept and appropriate” in the agenda report to -200-
POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY
ensure budget appropriation for execution. Some grants may require City Council authorization before a grant application is submitted and, in that case, recommended action may include the language about acceptance and appropriation of funds upon grant award.

D. Grant Set-Up
Department staff is responsible for submitting grant documents to the Finance department within ten (10) days to be set up in the Town’s financial system, which may require creating special account strings to fully track the related activity.

Required documents are:
i. Grant Award Letter/Agreement
ii. Approved Council Minutes, and/or Resolutions
iii. Completed Grant Information Form (see Exhibit A)
iv. Appropriate Grant Funds
In the event that any grant policy or regulation conflicts with the Town regulations and policies, federal and state regulations shall prevail unless they are less restrictive than the Town regulation or policy, in which case the Town regulation or policy should be followed.

E. Grant Execution
It is the Department staff’s responsibility to provide agreed upon deliverables, generate status reports, exercise careful internal controls, examine the costs being incurred, comply with all grant conditions, with the advice of legal counsel, and file for reimbursements from grantor in a timely fashion. The Finance department assists as needed in terms of setting up account strings, budgets, and preparing monthly reports etc. Department staff shall maintain a comprehensive project file for the record and send all documents to the Finance department for record keeping in the financial system. Department staff shall be responsible for direct communications with the grantor and with other Town departments regarding all aspects of the grant. Any contractors or subrecipients shall be approved in accordance with Town policies and applicable laws and applicable grant conditions. The work of any contractors or subrecipients shall be overseen by the Department which received the grant award. The Finance Department shall assist as needed with recording and reconciling grant expenditures, preparing monthly financial reports, and reimbursement requests.

F. Reimbursements/Reporting
Department staff shall submit reimbursements and other periodic reports in a timely manner depending upon the grantor specified timeline. The majority of grants are on a reimbursement basis. Therefore, the Town covers the expenditures from the cash reserve before the grant funds are reimbursed, which limits the Town’s ability to fund other operations and Town services. It is crucial that the reimbursement requests are submitted to the grantor in a timely manner to alleviate undue burden to the Town’s cash reserves. Department staff shall forward all the filed reimbursement requests to the Finance department at the time of submission to the grantor.

G. Close-Out
Department staff are responsible for following the specified close out procedure provided by the grantor, including any final reports, reimbursements, and so on.

The Finance department shall perform any required final reconciliation. Grant funded project files and records are required to be maintained for five years or the -201-
POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY
retention limit the grantor has provided which may exceed five years. Final close out reports shall be sent to the Finance department within ten (10) business days.

3. Record Keeping
Department staff must maintain all documents (purchasing, bidding, and communications with the grantor) even after the grant completion in accordance with the Town’s record retention schedule and grant conditions. Department staff shall also forward all documents to the Finance department for saving and retention in the financial system to ensure town-wide availability as needed. This is primarily for audit purposes. Authorized representatives of the grantor shall have the right to access all records (electronic or otherwise) for the purpose of conducting audits or other investigations.

4. Audits
The appropriate audit facilitator will be determined by the nature of the audit requested. The Finance department facilitates all financial audits and may reach out to Department staff for assistance if warranted.

5. Roles and Responsibilities
A. City Council
Provides policy guidance to Town staff to seek grants in certain categories and authorizes staff to apply for grants, and upon grant award, accepts and appropriates funds.

B. City Manager’s Office
Executes grant agreements and directs/assigns staff to seek and execute grants.

C. Finance Department
i. Provides guidance and oversight to Department staff about tracking costs appropriately and other grant related financial issues. ii. Sets up account strings in the financial system.
iii. Assists in day-to-day financial operations and advises . iv. Generates periodic reports stating sources and uses of the grant funds. v. Maintains project master in the financial system.
vi. Maintains the Town’s general information regarding tax ID and tax-exempt status letter.
vii. Maintains the Town’s accounts with federal grant portals such as www.grant.gov, www.sam.gov, etc.
viii. Maintains the Town’s CAGE code and Unique Identifier Number, formerly known as DUNS number.
ix. Generates Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) annually after fiscal close.
x. Facilitates financial audits and reconciliations.
xi. Provides training on grants management and financial systems to improve the grants program.

D. Department Staff
i. Applies for the grant.
ii. Takes awarded grant to the City Council for approval and prepares necessary agenda items (Council action must read “Accept and appropriate funds…”).
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POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY
iii. Prepares budget amendments based on the City Council approval. iv. Executes the grant, including plan work and timelines. v. Delivers the grant deliverables under the terms and conditions. vi. Monitors costs and makes sure the costs are allowable and within the grant award; ensures compliance with all other grant conditions. vii. Communicates and reports to the grantor/s regarding status, periodic, and close out reports, and any other communication regarding modifications to the scope of changes in the timeline.
viii. Follows procurement policies, other Town policies, and applicable federal, state, local, contractual and grant-related requirements in the process of issuing contracts or involving subrecipients.
ix. Updates the City Council, City Manager and others as necessary on grant progress.
x. Maintains complete project file during and after beyond project completion. xi. Assists finance/audit coordinator as needed during audit/s.

E. City Attorney
Advises as necessary during all phases on compliance with grant conditions, federal, state, local and contractual requirements, ethics and conflicts of interest, and other aspects of compliance.
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POLICY 516 GRANTS MANAGEMENT POLICY

GRANT INFORMATION FORM
Grant Information
Project Title
Scope of Work
Award Amount
Town Match
If Yes, Match Amount Choose an item.

Grant Basis
Grantor Agency Information
Agency Type
CFDA # (Fed)
Agency Grant #
Funding Through
Agency
Sub Agency
Agency Program
Grant Period
Reporting Period
Award Date
Start Date
End Date
Match Source (if required)
Fund
Org
Town Contact (Project Manager)
Name
Department
Phone
Email
Agency Contact
Name
Title
Phone
Email
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
9 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Resolution Approving and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Purchase Agreement with IT Management Corporation for Town Network and Server Infrastructure Equipment Replacement in the Amount of $166,405.04 with a 10% Contingency in the Amount of $16,641.00 for a Total not-to-Exceed Amount of $183,046.04 SUMMARY: The Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) maintains a comprehensive Information Technology (IT) environment that aims to ensure continuity of essential services for the community. These services include maintaining a robust technological infrastructure, implementing business enterprise and software applications, and establishing a reliable and secure network mainframe in accordance with the Town’s IT Strategic Plan.

The current core Dell EMC server and network infrastructure was installed in 2017-18 and is in need of replacement. Many components have reached end of life and are no longer supported, creating longer recovery times after system failures and outages. New equipment would also ensure reliability and continuity of Town services to support software and data center upgrades.

Servers are currently operational in three main locations: Town Hall, Police Department, and Corporation Yard. Similar to 2017, staff recommends replacement of all three system environments with matching hardware to ensure compatibility, application support, and streamlined maintenance and recovery procedures.

Through consultation with the Town’s IT Managed Services Provider, Eaton & Associates (Eaton), the Town sought competitive quotes on a Cisco Meraki solution-based replacement, in accordance with the Town’s adopted Purchasing Policy. Cisco distributes products through its Partners Program to sell, deploy, and support Meraki products. The Town worked directly with its Cisco Account Representative to identify potential Partners that were local and could provide the products at competitive pricing. The Town reached out to multiple Partners and narrowed potential vendors down to three. From the selected vendors, the Town received two quotes that include the proposed hardware with licensing, equipment warranties, and 24/7 support:

COMPANY QUOTE AMOUNT
IT Management Corp. $166,405.04
SHI International Corp. $177,479.48
CDW, LLC. Did Not Provide Quote
IT Management Corporation’s (ITMC) pricing is part of a government co-op agreement through the State’s Department of General Services’ California’s Multiple Award Schedules (CMAS), which offers IT products at fair, reasonable, and competitive prices. The company is based in San Jose. -205-
Agenda Staff Report - Hillsborough City Council
December 8, 2025

Page 2 ends

If the purchase is approved, the Town recommends Eaton to configure and install the equipment due to their familiarity with the Town’s current network and security settings. Utilizing an outside vendor would require the Town to provide sensitive information to the vendor such as passwords, IP addresses, and firewall access. It would also require extra time and resources for the vendor to familiarize themselves with the Town’s setup, resulting in additional costs and a longer completion timeline.

FISCAL IMPACT: The FY 2025-26 Budget includes adequate funding for this project out of the Asset Replacement Fund 601.

ATTACHMENTS: Resolution
PREPARED BY: William Li, Administrative Services Manager RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution approving and authorizing the City Manager execute a Purchase Agreement with IT Management Corporation for Town network and server infrastructure equipment replacement in the amount of $166,405.04 with a 10% contingency in the amount of $16,641.00 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $183,046.04. -206-
RESOLUTION NO. 25-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH

APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A

PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH IT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION FOR TOWN

NETWORK AND SERVER INFRASTRUCTURE EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $166,405.04 WITH A 10% CONTINGENCY OF $16,641.00 FOR A TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $183,046.04
WHEREAS, the Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) utilizes a complex and comprehensive information technology (IT) environment in order to deliver essential Town services; and
WHEREAS, in 2017, the Town implemented a townwide replacement of its network and server infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the equipment is currently at or near data storage capacity, beyond the recommended service life, and has other limitations that need updating; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Town’s Purchasing Policy, for a purchase of this amount, the Town is required to conduct a formal RFP unless an exception applies; and
WHEREAS, the Town sought equipment purchase quotes from three qualified vendors for a Cisco Meraki network solution and received two competitive quotes; and
WHEREAS, utilizing the CMAS Purchasing Program Contract, part of a governmental cooperative purchase agreement, is an exception to the formal RFP requirement in the Town’s Purchasing Policy, and is therefore consistent with the Town’s Purchasing Policy, thereby ensuring the Town is obtaining the best pricing; and
WHEREAS, the Town obtained the lowest quote from ITMC in the amount of $166,405.04, which is competitively priced as part of the State Department of General Services’ CMAS Contract 3-24-09-1065; and
WHEREAS, the Town recommends including a 10% contingency in the amount of $16,641.00 due to ongoing supply chain challenges affecting equipment procurement.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough hereby approves and authorizes the City Manager to execute a Purchase Agreement with IT Management Corporation for Town network and server infrastructure equipment replacement in the amount of $166,405.04 with a 10% contingency of $16,641.00 for a total not to exceed amount of $183,046.04. -207-
2 Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
10 CONSENT CALENDAR

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Approve and Authorize the Mayor to Sign Letters of Support for AB 1243 and SB 684: Polluters Pay Superfund Climate Act of 2025 SUMMARY: The Town of Hillsborough has a legislative platform that enables the Mayor to sign letters of support or opposition of legislation that is in accordance with the agreed upon policy decisions, as agreed upon by the City Council. For areas that fall outside of that platform, staff seeks approval from the full City Council for authorization to officially support or oppose legislation.

The attached draft letters are in support of AB 1243 and SB 684: Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025. The letters explain the purpose of the legislation and how it benefits communities like Hillsborough, including addressing environmental accountability and community resilience as it relates to wildfire risk, drought, and climate change.

Additionally, this topic and others can be added to the legislative platform in the future to eliminate the need for specific Council approval, should the full City Council wish to add it. The legislative platform is set for discussion of revision in early 2026.

FISCAL IMPACT: None
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines sections 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) provide that ongoing administrative activities and organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment do not constitute a “project” as defined by the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) and are therefore exempt from CEQA and no further environmental review is required.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Letter of Support - AB 1243

2. Letter of Support - SB 684
PREPARED BY: Mandy Brown, Assistant City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign letters of support for AB 1243 and SB 684: Polluters Pay Superfund Climate Act of 2025.
.
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
California
Town Hall
Phone: 650-375-7400 | Fax: 650-375-7475 | 1600 Floribunda Avenue, Hillsborough, CA 94010 | www.hillsborough.net December 8, 2025
The Honorable Dawn Addis
California State Assembly
1020 O Street, Room 4120
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Support for AB 1243 (Addis) – Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 Dear Assemblymember Addis:

On behalf of the Town of Hillsborough, I write to express our strong support for AB 1243 (Addis), the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025. Hillsborough is a town uniquely vulnerable to the escalating impacts of climate change, particularly high wildfire risk, prolonged drought, and environmental threats to our natural ecosystems and infrastructure. This legislation represents a vital step toward environmental accountability and community resilience.

AB 1243 directly supports municipalities like Hillsborough that are grappling with the cost and complexity of climate resilience planning.

AB 1243 would alleviate the financial burden on Hillsborough’s residents and taxpayers, who are currently underwriting the cost of wildfire prevention, vegetation management, infrastructure upgrades, and emergency preparedness.

Additionally, the bill’s focus on scientific attribution and long-term damage assessment ensures that the costs of climate harm are accurately distributed, without compromising the town’s ability to pursue its own environmental policies or legal claims.

AB 1243 aligns with the Town of Hillsborough’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public safety.

The Superfund model is both fiscally responsible and morally grounded, ensuring that those who contributed most to the climate crisis contribute to its remediation. With limited municipal resources and growing environmental challenges, Hillsborough—and communities like ours—need equitable and durable funding mechanisms like those proposed in this bill.

For these reasons, the Town of Hillsborough urges swift passage and implementation of AB 1243. We thank you for your leadership in advancing climate accountability and protecting California’s most at-risk communities. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our legislative advocate Dane Hutchings or Claire Sullivan with California Public Policy Group at 916-974-9270.

ATTACHMENT 1
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December 8, 2025
Town of Hillsborough – Support for AB 1243

Page 2 ends

Sincerely,
Dr. Sophie Cole
Mayor

CC: Members and Staff of the Assembly Judiciary Committee Assemblymember Diane Papan, District 21
Senator Josh Becker, District 13
Jith Meganathan, Deputy Legislative Secretary, Office of Governor Gavin Newsom -211-

TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
California
Town Hall
Phone: 650-375-7400 | Fax: 650-375-7475 | 1600 Floribunda Avenue, Hillsborough, CA 94010 | www.hillsborough.net December 8, 2025
The Honorable Senator Caroline Menjivar
California State Senate
1020 O Street, Room 6630
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Support for SB 684 (Menjivar) – Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025 Dear Senator Menjivar:

On behalf of the Town of Hillsborough, I am writing to express our strong support for Senate Bill 684, the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act of 2025. This urgent and impactful legislation offers an equitable and science-based approach to addressing the climate crisis by holding fossil fuel companies financially responsible for the damage their products have caused over decades.

SB 684 takes an essential step by requiring entities responsible for more than one billion metric tons of carbon emissions between 1990 and 2024 to pay proportionate fees. These funds, administered by CalEPA through a climate damages cost study, would be used to support community-scale climate response projects across California.

The legislation ensures that at least 40 percent of the Superfund will benefit disadvantaged communities, while allowing all jurisdictions facing real, quantifiable threats from climate change—like Hillsborough—to pursue funding for targeted and high-impact local projects.

Importantly, SB 684 ensures that California taxpayers are no longer the sole funders of climate resilience and recovery efforts. As the bill clearly states, the burden must shift from residents to the fossil fuel producers who contributed most to global warming. The program draws from robust scientific methodologies and builds on proven frameworks, such as the federal Superfund model. The bill also respects local authority, allowing cities to maintain their own environmental programs, regulatory standards, and legal claims without preemption.

In closing, the Town of Hillsborough commends you for your leadership on this vital issue. SB 684 represents a just and forward-thinking solution that aligns with Hillsborough’s commitment to protecting its residents and natural environment from worsening climate threats.

We urge the Legislature to enact this bill without delay. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our legislative advocate Dane Hutchings or Claire Sullivan with California Public Policy Group at 916-974-9270.

ATTACHMENT 2
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December 8, 2025
Town of Hillsborough – Support for SB 684

Page 2 ends

Sincerely,
Dr. Sophie Cole
Mayor

TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
San Mateo County
1600 Floribunda Avenue
Hillsborough, CA 94010
11 PUBLIC HEARING

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2025

AGENDA STAFF REPORT
ITEM SUBJECT: Adoption of an Ordinance Adopting 2025 Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations ("California Buildings Standards Code") by Reference, and Modifying Title 15 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code ("Buildings and Construction") by Amending, Repealing, and Replacing Various Chapters, Under CEQA Guidelines 15061(B)(3) and 15378 SUMMARY: The 2025 California Building Standards Code (Code, Title 24) becomes effective statewide on construction permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026, regardless of local adoption. Title 24 reference and Town amendments, as well as Town development standards regulating construction, are contained within Hillsborough Municipal Code (HMC) Title 15.

Adoption before January 1, 2026, of the proposed ordinance as written (Attachment 1), modifying HMC Title 15, is necessary to maintain the continuity of the Town’s Title 24 amendments. Included in the redline (Attachment 2) are clerical edits to HMC Title 15 to correct outdated statutory references and formatting issues. No new development standards or Title 24 amendments are proposed at this time.

State law requires a special procedure for an ordinance which adopts a code by reference. At the November 10, 2025 City Council meeting, the City Council introduced the ordinance unanimously and set a public hearing date of December 8, 2025 to consider adoption of the ordinance. The City Clerk has since prepared the required notices, and Title 24 and the ordinance have been available for public review in the City Clerk’s office.

This item also provides an overview of related state law developments and updates to emissionsreduction and Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) regulations and Town policy aims. While recent legislation has limited Title 24 amendment authority, pathways to adopt Town policies related to emission-reduction and home hardening goals still exist. Additional research and analysis, community outreach, and study sessions are needed prior to introduction of any new regulations.

AMENDMENT AUTHORITY AND AB 130
Model building codes are modified and adopted on a three-year cycle by the California Building Standards Commission (BSC) following public and industry input, and in coordination with responsible state agencies. Traditionally local jurisdictions may adopt more restrictive amendments to Title 24 when necessitated by local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. The Town, in coordination with Central County Fire Department, has maintained amendments through readoption based on abundant vegetation, arid summers, proximity to the San Andreas Fault, irregular roadways, and steep topography.

Budget trailer Assembly Bill (AB) 130 (2025)—intended to streamline housing development with sweeping regulatory reforms—placed a six-year moratorium for local and state agencies on -215-
Agenda Staff Report - Hillsborough City Council
December 8, 2025

Page 2 ends

adopting new amendments affecting residential units. Now, amendments may be carried forward if they are substantially equivalent to those in effect prior to October 1, 2025; and new amendments may be adopted only if they fall within narrow statutory exceptions. To provide guidance and interpretation detailing AB 130’s changes to Building Standards Law and amendment exceptions, the BSC recently issued Informational Bulletin 25-03 (Attachment 3).

HOME HARDENING AND WUI STANDARDS
The 2025 Code edition consolidated previously distributed Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI) provisions into a new standalone Part 7, “California Wildland-Urban Interface Code” (CWUIC), providing a single reference point for all Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) regulation.

While the new Part 7 expanded some WUI standards applicability to High FHSZs, recent updates to CAL FIRE’s Town Local Responsibility Area (LRA) determinations meant a reduction in CWUIC applicability for Hillsborough. Defensible-space site design and maintenance standards currently apply to no Town parcels (as no Very High FHSZ designations remain), and ignition-resistant construction standards apply to fewer than 10% of parcels (only those located within High FHSZ designations). Moderate FHSZ is the predominant designation left in Hillsborough and is currently subjected to no wildfire mitigation measures.

At a recent City Council study session reviewing Town FHSZs and CWUIC applicability, Council requested staff evaluation of legally permissible policy expansion options. Although AB 130 allows amendments related to home hardening and/or those proposed by a fire protection district under Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7, staff—working with community stakeholders and tracking Office of the State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) ongoing regulatory agenda—is continuing to research required findings methodologies needed to support modifications and gather community policy feedback. Staff will return with policy recommendations once this analysis is completed; and after OSFM finalizes its assessment of broader CWUIC applicability to Moderate LRA FHZSs.

ENERGY REACH CODES
The Town’s repealed Energy Reach Code (Ordinance No. 783 - 2022) was adopted under the 2019 Code edition requiring installation of future-ready electric infrastructure in addition to prohibiting gas powered water- and space-heating in new dwellings. The Ninth Circuit decision in CRA v. Berkeley (2024) found that federal law preempted gas appliance prohibitions, necessitating the repeal. The 2022 and now 2025 Code editions have advanced the same goals of Ordinance 783, expanding future-ready electric requirements and recalibrating the metrics for “performance pathway” compliance, further disincentivizing federally protected gas systems.

Reach codes regulating construction of new dwellings, like Ordinance 783, are now unnecessary; but policies expanding these standards to scenarios like cooling system change-outs and remodels are being considered statewide—especially in jurisdictions with predominantly existing housing stock. Model reach codes focus on future-ready electric infrastructure in these additional scenarios and offer property owners incentives for choosing lower-emissions and higher-efficiency upgrades.

AB 130 has carved out opportunities for local governments to adopt reach codes when an adopted General Plan and supporting greenhouse-gas emissions-reduction strategy exist; and when user -216-
Agenda Staff Report - Hillsborough City Council
December 8, 2025

Page 3 ends

cost-savings and energy-use reduction findings can be demonstrated to the California Energy Commission prior to BSC filing. Staff—in consultation with Peninsula Clean Energy, Bay Area Regional Energy Network, and San Mateo County Climate Collaborative—recommend future study sessions to review Hillsborough’s construction and emissions trends relative to reach code policy models and forthcoming regional regulations.

MUNICIPAL CODE CLERICAL CLEANUP
Clerical revisions were completed ensuring conformity throughout HMC Title 15 Chapters and removing superseded provisions no longer supported in state regulation—while clarifying and mirroring applicable state laws and maintaining Town enforcement authority. These edits are organizational in scope (repeal, relocation, and consolidation) and do not alter the substantive effect of current Town regulation. Standards that continue to meet or exceed the minimum requirements of state law were retained.

FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this agenda item.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: The proposed action is exempt from environmental review under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines sections 15061(b)(3) as it can be seen with certainty that the proposed ordinance which is essentially cleanup and a restatement of existing amendments will not have any impact on the environment. It is also exempt, on a separate and independent basis, under CEQA Guideline 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) as ongoing administrative or organizational activities that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Ordinance and Exhibit A (Clean)

2. Hillsborough Municipal Code, Title 15 (Redline)

3. BSC Bulletin 25-03
PREPARED BY: Nicole De Lancie, Management Assistant
RECOMMENDATION:

1. Open the public hearing and receive comments.

2. Close the public hearing.

3. Adopt the ordinance titled, “Ordinance of the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough adopting 2025 Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (“California Building Standards Codes”) by reference, and modifying Title 15 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code (“Buildings and Construction”) by amending, repealing, and repealing and replacing various chapters in accordance with CEQA guidelines 15061(B)(3) and 15378.” -217-
1 ORDINANCE NO.

ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH ADOPTING 2025 TITLE 24 OF THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS (“CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE”) BY REFERENCE, AND MODIFYING TITLE 15 OF THE HILLSBOROUGH MUNICIPAL CODE
(“BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION”) BY AMENDING, REPEALING, AND REPLACING VARIOUS CHAPTERS, UNDER CEQA GUIDELINES 15061(B)(3) AND 15378

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH HEREBY FINDS AND ORDAINS:

WHEREAS, in accordance with Government Code Section 50022.1 et. seq., the Town of Hillsborough (“Town”) may adopt by reference the California Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition as provided in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, consisting of the Administrative Code, Building Code, Residential Code, Electrical Code, Mechanical Code, Plumbing Code, Energy Code, Wildland-Urban Interface Code, Historical Building Code, Fire Code, Existing Building Code, Green Building Standards Code/CALGreen, and Referenced Standards Code (collectively, the “Building Standards Codes”)1 .

WHEREAS, on January 1, 2026, the California Building Standards Commission (“Commission”) will adopt the 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Code; and WHEREAS, the City Council has determined as certain minimum standards that enforcement of the most current edition of the California Building Standards Code, with more restrictive local modifications or changes thereof as recited herein, is necessary for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare of citizens of the Town; and, WHEREAS, the adoption of the California Building Standards Code in its most current edition is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and WHEREAS, historically as authorized by Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and/or 18941.5 a Town may make such modifications or changes in the requirements of the regulations, adopted in accordance with to Health and Safety Code Section 17922, as it determines to be reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographic conditions; and
WHEREAS, the Town’s unique climatic, geological and topographical conditions have made it reasonably necessary for the Town to enact modifications and changes to the adoption of the Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, the Town’s Building Department and the Central County Fire District recommended that previously adopted modifications and changes made to the Building Standards 1 Deletions are shown in strikethrough format and new additions are shown in underline format. Note to the Codifier: Please do not codify any strikethrough or deleted text, but please do codify existing unchanged text and all underlined text in this ordinance.

ATTACHMENT 1
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2 Code be maintained, so long as they are more restrictive as required by Health and Safety Code Section 18941.5; and
WHEREAS, the Town’s Building Department and the Central County Fire Department do not propose any amendments which substantively change the modifications or changes as amended and adopted prior to September 30, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Town’s Building Department and the Central County Fire Department recommend new modifications and changes be made to the Building Standards Code which are necessary for administrative clarification and to establish administrative practices for the effective enforcement of the building standards of the Town; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 130 enacted on June 30, 2025, which amended Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 regulating the modifications or changes to building standards affecting residential units, and places a moratorium on such modifications or changes until June 1, 2031, all modifications or changes as recited herein align with the statutorily permissible exceptions of either “substantially equivalent” to changes or modifications previously in effect and filed with the Commission as of September 30, 2025 or related to “administrative practices”; and
WHEREAS, the Town’s Building Department and City Attorney recommend clerical cleanup of Title 15 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code to ensure alignment with current Building Standards Code and other statutory applicability, repealing all obsolete or less restrictive standards, differentiating modifications or changes to Title 24 building standards and the Town’s local development standards, and maintaining local authority; and WHEREAS, Various sections of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.03, 15.04, and

15.20 regulating the installation of automatic fire sprinklers were reorganized and consolidated to bring clarity for the public, and to differentiate between modifications or change to Title 24 building standards and the Town’s local development standards; and WHEREAS, Section 15.04.210 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code regulating the evaluation of structural systems of an existing building is based on obsolete Section 3403 of the California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2), which is now superseded by the California Existing Building Code (Title 24, Part 10), making repeal and replacement of 15.04.210 necessary to remove obsolete code reference and less restrictive standards from Title 15; and WHEREAS, Section 15.07.040 is added to the Hillsborough Municipal Code to continue local discretionary authority of structural system evaluations of existing buildings, as previously amended in 15.04.210; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 15.05 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code regulating “dangerous” buildings is based on an obsolete model code, and the regulation of now defined “substandard” buildings is enforced and prescribed by Health and Safety Code §17920.3 and Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations, making repeal and replacement of Chapter 15.05 necessary to align with state law while retaining provisions for local administration; and -219-
3 WHEREAS, Chapter 15.18 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code establishes debris diversion standards prescribed by the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen, Title 24, Part 11), making repeal and replacement of Chapter 15.18 necessary to reference state law while retaining provisions for local administration by the Building Official; and WHEREAS, Chapter 15.21 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code adopts by reference the 2018 International Wildland–Urban Interface Code, which has been superseded by the California Wildland–Urban Interface Code (CWUIC), a new standalone Part 7 of Title 24, consolidating all applicable WUI provisions previously found in the California Building Code, California Fire Code, and California Residential Code; making repeal and replacement of Chapter 15.21 necessary to reference the 2025 CWUIC while retaining provisions for local administration; and WHEREAS, Chapter 15.56 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code regulating swimming pool safety barriers is based on an obsolete model code, and are now categorized as an “enclosure” which is one of several “drowning prevention safety features” as promulgated by the Swimming Pool Safety Act as established in Health and Safety Code §§ 115920–115929, and prescribed in Part 2 and 2.5 of Title 24; making repeal of Chapter 15.56 necessary to ensure applicability and Town authority with the most current and broadened statutory regulations; and WHEREAS, the City Council intends to adopt this ordinance by reference as authorized by Government Code Section 50022.3 and will set the public hearing for consideration of this ordinance to be held on Monday, December 8, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that adoption of this Ordinance is required in order to protect the public peace, health and safety of its residents by adopting updated building standards in the Town; and
WHEREAS, any and all other legal prerequisites relating to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough does ordain as follow:

Section 1. Incorporation of Recitals.

The City Council hereby finds that all of the foregoing recitals and the staff report presented herewith are true and correct and are hereby incorporated and adopted as findings of the City Council as if fully set forth herein.

Section 2. Findings.

The City Council finds and declares that there are distinct and unique characteristics of the Town of Hillsborough with regard to local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions which made it necessary for reasons of public health, safety, and welfare to modify and provide certain more stringent standards than those which would otherwise apply under the 2025 California Building Standards, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. The below listed findings apply to all substantive changes and modifications previously made to the California Residential, Building, and Fire Code, and which also modify the 2025 editions, by adoption of this ordinance.

Specifically, the Town of Hillsborough finds as follows:
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4 I. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS.

In the Town, normally the months of May through September have no rain and abundant sun, drying out the great quantities of vegetation present everywhere in Town and providing an extensive fuel source for fires.

II. GEOLOGICAL CONDITIONS.

Experts have cautioned that one or more major earthquakes in the Bay Area, affecting the whole region, are inevitable and will probably happen sometime within the next several decades. The Town’s western boundary is within a few miles of the San Andreas Fault, one of the major seismic faults running through California. An earthquake along the San Andreas Fault, or along any of the other numerous seismic faults elsewhere in the Bay Area, could break gas, electrical, and water lines, increasing the chance of fires and impairing the ability to fight them.

III. TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS.

The Town’s hilly topography, numerous cul-de-sacs, winding narrow roads, numerous canyons, high proportion of landscaped areas to hardscape areas within the developed portions of the Town, and substantial areas of open space with dense, natural vegetation all mean that there are substantial areas throughout Town where urban and wildland areas abut and which have the potential for fires that could spread quickly over a wide area and threaten many homes and inhabitants. The unique topography and soil conditions also add to storm water and erosion issues.

IV. IN ALIGNMENT WITH AB 130 MORITORIUM EXCEPTIONS
All proposed amendments are substantially equivalent to those previously adopted and filed with the California Building Standards Commission prior to September 30, 2025, or only affect administrative practices.

Section 3. Amendment.

The City Council of the Town of Hillsborough does hereby adopt the 2025 Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, “California Building Standards Code,” by reference, and amends Title 15, “Buildings and Construction,” of the Hillsborough Municipal Code to read as attached in Exhibit A.

Section 4. Severability
If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase added by this Ordinance, or any part thereof, is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid or ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or effectiveness of the remaining portions 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 subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases are declared unconstitutional, invalid or ineffective.

Section 5. Adoption by Reference; Setting the Public Hearing -221-
5 The City Council is adopting this Ordinance by reference pursuant to Government Code Section 50022.3 and hereby sets the public hearing for consideration of this Ordinance to be held on December 8, 2025. The City Clerk has been directed to publish a notice to this effect in compliance with Government Code Section 50022.3 and 6066.

Section 6. Posting.

This ordinance shall be printed and posted upon the three official bulletin boards of the Town of Hillsborough.

Section 7. Publication.

The City Clerk will certify to the passage of this Ordinance by the City Council of the Town of Hillsborough, California, and cause a summary to be published once within fifteen (15) days after its adoption in accordance with Government Code section 36933.

Section 8. CEQA
The City Council finds that the changes made to the Building Standards Codes are enacted to mitigate the threats posed to public peace, health and safety. Therefore, it can be seen with certainty that adoption of this Ordinance will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment and is therefore exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. It is also exempt, on a separate and independent basis, under CEQA Guidelines 15378(b)(2) and 15378(b)(5) as ongoing administrative or organizational activities that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.
__________________________________
Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough
______________________________
Attest: City Clerk
ORDINANCE NO. ____ of the Town of Hillsborough introduced on November 10, 2025, and adopted on____________, by the following vote of the City Council:

AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSENT: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
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Title 15

BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION
Chapter 15.02 ADMINISTRATIVE CODE1

15.02.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the administration and enforcement of the technical codes adopted by this jurisdiction. The provisions of this code shall serve as the administrative, organizational and enforcement rules and regulations for the technical codes which regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, use and occupancy of buildings, structures and building service equipment within this jurisdiction and to provide for inspections, issuance of permits, collection of fees, and imposition of penalties for violations, and to adopt uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 4, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 4, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 4, 11-14-2016)

15.02.020 Adoption of the 2025 California Administrative Code, Title 24, Part 1.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the 2025 California Administrative Code, as contained in the California Building Standards Code, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

B. One copy of the 2025 California Administrative Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town building department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.02 (as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show amendments to the 2025 California Administrative Code.

C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the 2025 California Administrative Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the 2025 California Administrative Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 4, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 4, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 4, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 1, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.02.030 Amendments to the Administrative Code.

None.

Any section within 15.02 that modifies the 2025 California Administrative Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 4, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 4, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 4, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 1, 11-12-2019)

15.02.040—15.02.080 (Reserved)
1 Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 690, § 4, adopted December 13, 2010, amended Chapter 15.02 in its entirety to read as herein set out.

Former Chapter 15.02, §§ 15.02.010—15.02.100, pertained to Administrative Code, and derived from Ord. 680 § 3(part), 2007.

EXHIBIT A
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15.02.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Administrative Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications to the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Administrative Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 4, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 4, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 4, 11-14-2016)

15.02.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Administrative Code.

As successive editions of the California Administrative Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Administrative Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Administrative Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 4, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 4, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 4, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.03 RESIDENTIAL CODE

15.03.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with the disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.020 Adoption of the 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5.

The rules, regulations and requirements published in the 2025 California Residential Code, including Appendix Chapters BF, BO, CI, as contained in the California Building Standards Code, are hereby adopted as and for the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

A. One copy of the 2025 California Residential Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town building department. It shall be accompanied by one copy of Chapter 15.03 of this Code (as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the amendments to the 2025 California Residential Code. -224-
B. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Code and the 2025 California Residential Code, when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise stated in this Code.

C. No provision of the 2025 California Residential Code, or as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of this Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 5, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.030 Amendments to the Residential Code.

The 2025 California Residential Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.03.040 through 15.03.220.

Any section within 15.03 that modifies the 2025 California Residential Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 6, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.040—15.03.060 (Reserved)
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.070 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section R108.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

R108.2 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. A fee shall be set forth in the town's master fee schedule, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the master fee schedule, including subsection (C)(1) and (C)(2) of this section.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this chapter to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in the amount of not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. 3) A document imaging charge shall be charged upon submission of every application for a combination, building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, grading and or encroachment permit. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016) -225-

15.03.080 Contractor's bond.

If a contractor's bond prior to the issuance of any permit for a new residence or other work to which this section is applicable in the opinion of the building official, the applicant shall file with the building official a performance, maintenance or completion bond in the amount of the estimated cost of the work allowed or required under the provisions of the permit. The purpose and intent of the bond is to insure the completion of all work including the installation of any required curbs, gutter, street, sewer, sewer laterals, storm sewers and water mains; the repair of any damage to any of the above; and the removal of all debris from streets, gutters, parking strips areas, and the job site. Upon completion of the permitted work, such bond shall be exonerated, less any charges against the applicant for any work required to be done or contracted to be done by the town to complete the work. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.090 Certificate of occupancy issued.

Section R110.2 is amended to read as follows:

R110.2 Certificate of occupancy issued. No final inspection by the building official as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed complete, and no certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued, nor shall any occupancy occur in accordance with CBC 3312.1, unless and until the installation of the prescribed fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved by the fire chief or designee. Once the prescribed fire protection facilities and access way have been completed and approved as required, and once final inspection by the building official is deemed complete, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the address or APN of the property and the name and address of the owner or the owner’s agent. The certificate shall also include a description of the portion of the work for which the certificate is being issued and a statement that such work has been inspected for compliance. The Building Official will indicate his/her name and sign the certificate, the code edition under which the work was permitted, whether the structure was required and thus contains an automatic fire sprinkler system, and any further stipulations or conditions that the permit was issued.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.100 Fire plan check.

15.03.110 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Section R309.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

R309.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in:

1. New one- and two-family dwellings.

2. Existing one- and two-family dwellings that have either a total building floor area of more than 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when permit requiring additions and/or alterations to the dwelling exceed either 1,500 square feet in area or 20% of the total square footage for a building over 7,500 square feet.

3. Accessory dwelling units (ADU) when:

3.1. The ADU will be in accessory to an existing primary dwelling that has an existing automatic fire sprinkler system; or

3.2. The ADU will be in accessory to a proposed new primary dwelling which requires installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system under 309.2(1) above; or

3.3. The ADU will be in accessory to an existing primary dwelling undergoing additions or alterations that is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed under R309.2(2) above. -226-
Exceptions:

1. Detached carports or garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings complying with R302.1.

2. Detached structure, other than an ADU, whose closest exterior wall is located in excess of 10 feet from the closest exterior wall of the automatic fire sprinkler system requiring primary dwelling on the same lot.

3. Additions and/or alterations necessitated for:
a. Building roof repair/replacement;
b. Fire damage repair;
c. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and/or d. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement.

Section 15.03.112 outlines the standard used to calculate additions and/or alterations for purposes of determining applicability of this section.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 745, § 1, 6-10-2017; Ord. No. 758, § 7, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.111 Required sprinkler locations.

Section R309.3.1.2is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

R309.3.1.2 Required sprinkler locations.

1. Sprinklers shall be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit, including coverage of:
a. Attic access openings
b. Areas of attics and crawl spaces containing storage, mechanical and/or electrical equipment.

2. Inspector Test Valves shall be provided for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser for buildings greater than 3,600 square feet.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 8, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.112 Additions and alterations - automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculation.

The standard for calculating whether additions and/or alterations of an existing building triggers automatic fire sprinkler system installation as described in 15.03.110 shall be based on the following criteria:

1. Cumulative square footage of each room being added or altered. a. A room is considered added and/or altered when fifty percent (50%) or more of interior wall or ceiling sheeting covering the wall planes of the room is removed, replaced, or new. b. Wall plane area of a room does not include the area of windows, doors, and openings.

2. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Cumulative added and/or altered square footage or replacement costs of additions and/or alterations will be aggregated to include any room square footage added and/or altered within a two (2) year period from the closure date of any previous additions and/or alterations.

Exceptions:

Wall or ceiling sheeting removal, replacement, or new installment shall not be calculated when necessitated for:

1. Building roof repair/replacement;

2. Fire damage repair;

3. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and -227-

4. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.113 Automatic fire sprinkler system completion timeline.

When a building is partially retrofitted with an approved automatic sprinkler fire extinguishing system pursuant to this section, the building fire extinguishing system retrofit shall be completed throughout the unprotected building interior areas within two (2) years from completing the initial partial retrofit. When a property owner or responsible party of a commercial or residential building chooses this option, the property owner shall file a deed restriction with San Mateo County Assessor's Office and obtain a performance bond to ensure compliance. The bond shall be in an amount equal to or greater than the estimated cost of completion, as determined by Central County Fire Department.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.120 Address identification.

Section R308.1 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
308.1 Address identification. All buildings and dwellings, including accessory dwelling units, shall be provided with approved address identification and address identification shall be maintained. 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, be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters, and numbers shall not be spelled out. Address identification shall be in a size of numbers and manner as follows:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one inch (1") stroke by nine inches (9") high is required.

3. Multi-tenant building numbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be a minimum of one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall be posted at a height no greater than 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.

Rear addressing. When required by the chief, approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the fire apparatus road at the back of a property or where rear parking lots or alleys provide and acceptable vehicular access. Number stroke and size shall comply with the above requirements as applicable.
(Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 9, 11-12-2019)

15.03.130 Minimum Class A roof assembly fire classification.

Section R902.1 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

R902.1 Roof assemblies. All roof and roof deck assemblies shall be Class A. All roof assemblies, coverings, and materials shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790, shall be listed and identified as to class by an approved testing agency, and comply with R904 and R905 where applicable. In addition, fire-retardant-treated wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with the CBC Table 1505.1 as amended in 15.04.131.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.140 Roof covering within all other areas other than Fire Hazard Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) area.

Section R902.1.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
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R902.1.2 Roof covering replacements in all zones. Roof covering within all other areas shall be Class A. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class A. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.150 Roof and surface drainage in the right-of-way.

Except as otherwise provided in this code or as indicated in the town's green infrastructure plan approved by resolution of the city council, in all zones, water from the roof of any building and from any paved area which would flow by gravity over a public right-of-way shall be carried by means of conductors under the parking strip area and through the curb to the gutter, or other approved location.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 757, § 4, 10-14-2019)

15.03.160 Roof and surface drainage termination.

No storm water from any roof, impervious surfaces, point discharge or any paved or developed area shall be allowed to drain to adjacent properties nor shall this water be connected to the city's sanitary sewer system. Regardless of the slope of the source property, such water shall drain to either artificial or natural storm drainage facilities by gravity or pumping. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.170 Spark arrestors.

Section R1003.9.2 is amended to read as follows:

R1003.9.2 Spark arrestors. All chimneys, regardless of material, which are attached to any appliance or fireplace that burns solid fuel, shall be equipped with an approved spark arrestor, either internally or externally mounted. Any spark arrestor to be mounted internally shall not be installed until installation plans for such arrestor have been submitted to and approved by the building division. Where a spark arrestor is installed on a masonry chimney, the spark arrestor shall meet all of the following:

1. The net free area of the arrestor shall be not less than four times the net free area of the outlet of the chimney flue it serves.

2. The arrestor screen shall have heat and corrosion resistance equivalent to 12 gage wire, 19-gage galvanized steel or 24- gage stainless steel.

3. Openings shall not permit the passage of spheres having a diameter greater than ½ inch (12.7 mm) nor block the passage of spheres having a diameter less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).

4. The spark arrestor shall be located with access for cleaning and the screen or chimney cap shall be removable to allow for cleaning of the chimney flue.
(Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 10, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.171 Retroactive spark arrestor compliance.

All chimneys as described in 2025 605.2.1 of the 2025 California Fire Code shall be retroactively protected with a spark arrestor when one or more of the following conditions exist:

1. Upon the sale or transfer of the real property on which any chimney is located the transfer of title shall not be made until each such chimney contains the required spark arrestor, properly installed and in proper working order.

2. In the event of any construction on such property for which a building permit is required, the final building permit signoff shall not be made until each such chimney has a spark arrestor installed and is in proper working order. (Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 10, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.180 (Reserved)
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15.03.190 Site maintenance.

All persons to whom permits are issued pursuant to any provision of this code shall, as a condition to the continuing validity of the permit, maintain the subject building site with proper parking, sanitary facilities, material storage, dust and erosion controls on the property site, including, without limitation, all structures thereon, free of all open trenches, tripping hazards, broken ware, empty cans, rubbish, garbage, metal pieces or parts, and all other refuse (collectively "debris"). The presence of debris is contrary to the purposes and intent of this code and is hereby deemed to pose a threat to the health, property, and public welfare of the inhabitants of the town. Violations of the duty to maintain building sites as described herein shall be punishable in the same manner as any other violation of this code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.200—15.03.220 (Reserved)

15.03.230 California Office of Emergency Services (OES) placards.

The placards provided by the California Office of Emergency Services (OES)are to be used during a "Post Disaster Safety Assessment" performed by the city building staff in the aftermath of any disaster. The post disaster assessment placards carry the weight of law per the direction of the California Office of Emergency Services. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.240 Amendment procedure
When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Residential Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Residential Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.250 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Residential Code.

As successive editions of the California Residential Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Residential Code then enforce as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out in Section 15.03.240, such revised version of the California Residential Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.04 BUILDING CODE
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15.04.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the construction, alteration, and repair of structures; including materials and design, and to provide for inspections, issuance of permits, collection of fees, imposing of penalties or violations, and adopting uniform rules, regulations and standards in respect thereto.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.020 Adoption of the 2025 California Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2.

The rules, regulations and requirements published as the 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2," including Appendix Chapters G and J and the State of California amendments thereto, are hereby adopted as and for the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

A. One copy of the 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2 shall at all times be kept on file at the town building department. It shall be accompanied by one copy of Chapter 15.04 of this Code (as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the amendments to the2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2.

B. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Code and the 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise stated in this Code.

C. No provision of the 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, or as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of this Hillsborough Municipal Code. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 11, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.030 Amendments to the California Building Code.

The 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2 as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.04.040 through 15.04.220.

Any section within 15.04 that modifies the 2025 California Building Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 12, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.040—15.04.060 (Reserved)
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.070 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 109.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
109.2 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. A fee shall be set forth in the town's master fee schedule, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance.

B. The value to be used in computing the building permit fee, the plan review fee and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire extinguishing systems, etc., and any other permanent construction or equipment.
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C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the master fee schedule, including subsection (C)(1) and (C)(2) of this section.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this chapter to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in the amount of not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. 3) A document imaging charge shall be charged upon submission of every application for a combination, building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, grading and or encroachment permit. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.080 Contractor's bond.

Upon completion of the permitted work, such bond shall be exonerated, less any charges against the applicant for any work required to be done or contracted to be done by the town to complete the work. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.090 Certificate of occupancy issued.

Section 111.2 is amended to read as follows:
111.2 Certificate of occupancy issued. No final inspection by the building official as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed complete, and no certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued, nor shall any occupancy occur in accordance with CBC 3312.1, unless and until the installation of the prescribed fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved by the fire chief or designee. Once the prescribed fire protection facilities and access way have been completed and approved as required, and once final inspection by the building official is deemed complete, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the address or APN of the property and the name and address of the owner or the owner’s agent. The certificate shall also include a description of the portion of the work for which the certificate is being issued and a statement that such work has been inspected for compliance. The Building Official will indicate his/her name and sign the certificate, the code edition under which the work was permitted, whether the structure was required and thus contains an automatic fire sprinkler system, and any further stipulations or conditions that the permit was issued.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.095 Fire plan check.

When required by the fire code official, plans submitted to the building official for a permit shall be reviewed by the fire code official to determine compliance with all applicable standards including the California Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Upon review a written report shall be returned to the building official listing deficiencies or compliance with the Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, added a new § 15.04.100, as set out below and later amended, and renumbered the existing 15.04.100 as 15.04.095, as set out above and later amended. -232-
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.100 Address identification.

Section 502.1 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings, including accessory dwelling units, shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall be a minimum of four inches high with minimum stroke width of one-half inch and shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Said numbers shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction. Size of numbers shall be as follows:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half-inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-inch (1") stroke by nine inches (9") high is required.

Multi-Tenant Buildings Address Number. Numbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be a minimum of one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall be posted at a height no greater than 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.

Rear addressing. When required by the fire official, approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the fire apparatus road at the back of a property or where rear parking lots or alleys provide and acceptable vehicular access. Number stroke and size shall comply with 502.1. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 15, 11-12-2019) (Ord. No. 758, § 16, 11-12-2019)

15.04.110 Additions and alterations – automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculation.

The standard for calculating whether additions and/or alterations of an existing building which triggers automatic fire sprinkler system installation as described in 15.04.112 shall be based on the following criteria:

1. Cumulative square footage of each room being added or altered. a. A room is considered added or altered when fifty percent (50%) or more of interior wall or ceiling sheeting covering the wall planes of the room is removed, replaced, or new. b. Wall plane area of a room does not include the area of windows, doors, and openings.

2. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Cumulative added or altered square footage or replacement costs of additions or alterations will be aggregated to include any room square footage added or altered within a two (2) year period from the closure date of any previous additions or alterations.

Exceptions:

Wall sheeting removal, replacement, or new installment shall not be calculated when necessitated for:

1. Building roof repair/replacement;

2. Fire damage repair;

3. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and

4. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
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15.04.111 Existing Sprinklered buildings retrofits.

The following provisions apply to all sprinklered buildings:

1. When a non-residential building is partially retrofitted with an approved automatic sprinkler fire extinguishing system pursuant to this section, the building owner shall complete the fire extinguishing system retrofit throughout the unprotected building interior areas within six (6) years of completing the initial partial retrofit or within every tenant space where a building permit is obtained, whichever is less.

2. When a residential building is partially retrofitted with an approved automatic sprinkler fire extinguishing system pursuant to this section, the building fire extinguishing system retrofit shall be completed throughout the unprotected building interior areas within two (2) years from completing the initial partial retrofit.

3. When a property owner or responsible party of a commercial or residential building chooses option 1 or 2 from above, the property owner shall file a deed restriction with San Mateo County Assessor's Office and obtain a performance bond to ensure compliance. The bond shall be in an amount equal to or greater than the estimated cost of completion, as determined by Central County Fire Department.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.112 Automatic fire sprinkler system requirements.

Section 903.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.21 and be installed in:

1. All new occupiable and/or habitable buildings and structures.

2. Commercial and Multi-family rooms or spaces which contain vehicle parking lifts or stacking systems shall be designed as an Extra-High Hazard Classification. Sprinkler design to include sidewall sprinkler heads designed at minimum Ordinary Group 2 in between each level

3. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) when the primary dwelling that the ADU is in accessory to is required to have or has an existing an automatic residential fire sprinkler system. If an existing primary dwelling is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system, fire sprinklers must be provided throughout both dwellings.

4. All existing buildings and structures. Retroactive protection by an approved automatic extinguishing system shall be required in existing buildings and structures when the following conditions exist:
a. Non-residential buildings with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions and/or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area.
b. Structures with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions and/or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area.

Exceptions:

1. When approved by the fire chief, canopy structures used solely for vehicular parking which have a photovoltaic system attached are not required to be equipped with a fire sprinkler system as long as the structure meets fire protection distance requirements to other structures and property lines.

2. Group U occupancies less than 1,200 square feet.

3. Additions and/or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the total square footage of the entire completed building.

4. Additions and/or alterations to residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures that do not exceed 20% of a building over 7,500 square feet.

5. Additions and/or alterations necessitated for:
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a. Building roof repair/replacement;
b. Fire damage repair;
c. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and/or d. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement Section 15.04.110 outlines the standard used to calculate additions and/or alterations for purposes of determining applicability of this section.

Section 903.2.10 is amended by adding the following subsection to read as follows:
903.2.10(4) Areas which contain electric vehicle charging stations, and thus could contain lithium-ion batteries in vehicles, shall have a fire sprinkler density design of a minimum extra hazard, group 2 for the coverage of charging stations and for 15' in any direction of charging stations.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 17, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.113 Sprinkler installation requirements.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.114 Inspector's test valve.

Section 903.5 is amended to read as follows:
903.5 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code. Single-family residential fire sprinkler systems within buildings greater than 3,600 square feet shall be equipped with an inspector’s test valve for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.115 Residential Carports, attached and detached garages sprinkler locations.

Section 903.2.18 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
903.2.18 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies.

Sprinklers shall be required throughout carports and garages. The required residential fire sprinkler shall be in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the 2025 California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04 mm/min) over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Exception: Detached carports and garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings by no less than a minimum of 10 feet.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 19, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
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15.04.120 Fire sprinkler monitoring systems.

Section 903.4.2 is amended by adding the following condition to read as follows:
903.4.2 Monitoring.

For new fire sprinkler monitoring systems, the approved supervisory station shall be defined as a UL approved central receiving station.
(Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.125 Acceptance and certification of fire alarm system.

Section 907.7 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
907.7 Acceptance and Certification. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72. New fire alarm systems installed in commercial and multi-family buildings shall be UL-Certified. Certificate shall be posted next to fire alarm control panel at time of final inspection. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.130 Minimum roof fire classification.

Section 1505.1 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
1501.1 Minimum roof fire classification. Fire classification of roof assemblies shall be in accordance with Section 1505 as amended. All roof assemblies shall be Class A. All roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790. In addition, fire-retardant-treated wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898 and shall comply with 1505.6. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with the Table 1505.1 as amended. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.131 Roof minimum assembly classification for types of construction.

Table No. 1505.1 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

TABLE NO. 1505.1

MINIMUM ROOF COVERING CLASSIFICATION FOR TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION Type IA IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB
Roof
Covering

A A A A A A A A A
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.132 Roof covering within all other areas other than Fire Hazard Severity Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) area.

Section 1505.1.2 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
1505.1.2 Roof covering replacement in all zones. Roof covering within all other areas shall be Class A. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class A. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016) -236-

15.04.133 Roof and surface drainage in right-of-way.

Except as otherwise provided in this code or as indicated in the town's green infrastructure plan approved by resolution of the city council, in all zones, water from the roof of any building and from any paved area, which would flow by gravity over a public right-of-way, shall be carried by means of conductors under the parking strip area and through the curb to the gutter, or other approved location.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 757, § 5, 10-14-2019)

15.04.134 Roof and surface drainage termination.

No storm water from any roof, impervious surfaces, point discharge or from any paved or developed area shall be allowed to drain to adjacent properties nor shall this water be connected to the city's sanitary sewer system. Regardless of the slope of the source property, such water shall drain to either artificial or natural storm drainage facilities by gravity or pumping. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016) (Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.140—15.04.180 (Reserved)

15.04.190 Maintenance.

All persons to whom permits are issued pursuant to any provision of this code shall, as a condition to the continuing validity of the permit, maintain the subject building site with proper parking, sanitary facilities, material storage, dust and erosion controls on the property site, including, without limitation, all structures thereon, free of all open trenches, tripping hazards, broken ware, empty cans, rubbish, garbage, metal pieces or parts, and all other refuse (collectively "debris"). The presence of debris is contrary to the purposes and intent of this code and is hereby deemed to pose a threat to the health, property, and public welfare of the town's inhabitants. Violations of the duty to maintain building sites as described herein shall be punishable in the same manner as any other violation of this code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.200 (Reserved)

15.04.210 Additions, alterations or repairs.

All state provisions and local amendments for existing buildings, including structural evaluation, design, and retrofits of additions, alterations, repairs, and change-of-occupancy work, are now governed by the California Existing Building Code (CEBC), Title 24, Part 10, as adopted by reference and amended in Chapter 15.07 of this Code. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.220 (Reserved)

15.04.230 California Office of Emergency Services (OES) placards.

The following section is added per the direct of the California Office of Emergency Services. These placards are to be used during a "Post Disaster Safety Assessment" performed by the city building staff in the aftermath of any disaster. The post disaster assessment placards carry the weight of law per the direction of the California Office of Emergency Services. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016) -237-

15.04.240 Amendment procedure.

Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to 1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to permits or fees, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.250 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Building Code.

As successive editions of the California Building Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Building Code then enforce as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out in Section 15.04.240, such revised version of the California Building Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.05 SUBSTANDARD BUILDINGS

15.05.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the administration and enforcement of the technical codes adopted by this jurisdiction, to provide minimum standards to safeguard life, limb, health, property, and public welfare by regulating and controlling the use, occupancy, location, and maintenance of all residential buildings and structures within this jurisdiction and to provide a just, equitable, and practicable method, to be cumulative with and in addition to any other remedy provided by the other parts of the Hillsborough Municipal Code or otherwise available by law, whereby buildings or structures (which from any cause endanger the life, limb, health, morals, property, safety, or welfare of their occupants or the general public) may be required to be repaired, vacated, or demolished, and to provide for the imposition of penalties for violations and to adopt uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto.
(Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)
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15.05.020 Adoption by Reference.

The Town adopts and shall enforce the provisions of Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations relating to substandard buildings, including any successor provisions.

15.05.030 Definition.

For purposes of this Chapter, “substandard building” shall have the meaning set forth in California Health and Safety Code §17920.3, as amended.

15.05.040 Enforcement Authority.

The Building Official is designated as the enforcing officer for purposes of this Chapter.

15.05.050 Appeals.

Appeals of enforcement actions under this Chapter shall be processed in accordance with HMC Title 15 and Chapter 1.08.

15.05.060 Designating board of appeals.

The administrative hearing panel is hereby designated as the board of appeals.

Chapter 15.06 HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE

15.06.010 Purpose.

The purpose of the California Historical Building Code is to provide regulations for the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, relocation, or reconstruction of buildings or properties designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. The California Historical Building Code is intended to provide solutions for the preservation of qualified historical buildings or properties, to promote sustainability, to provide access for persons with disabilities, to provide a cost-effective approach to preservation, and to provide for the reasonable safety of the occupants or users. The California Historical Building Code requires enforcing agencies to accept solutions that are reasonably equivalent to the regular code (as defined in Title 24 Part 8) when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties. The intent of the California Historical Building Code is to facilitate the preservation and continuing use of qualified historical buildings or properties while providing reasonable safety for the building occupants and access for persons with disabilities.

15.06.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 8), 2025 Edition, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

B. One copy of the California Historical Building Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town of Hillsborough Building Department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.06 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town of Hillsborough amendments to the California Historical Building Code.

C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the California Historical Building Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the California Historical Building Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
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(Ord. No. 690, § 7, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 7, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 758, § 40, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord.

No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.06.030 Amendment of California Historical Building Code.

None.

Any section within 15.06 that modifies the 2025 California Historical Building Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 7, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 7, 11-12-2013)

15.06.040—15.06.080 (Reserved)

15.06.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Historical Building Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Historical Building Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.06.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Historical Building Code.

As successive editions of the California Historical Building Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the Building Department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Historical Building Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Historical Building Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 7, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 7, 11-12-2013) Chapter 15.07 EXISTING BUILDING CODE

15.07.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death or injury that may result from the effects of increased demands or earthquakes on existing buildings. The provisions of this chapter are intended as minimum standards for structural vertical and lateral (seismic) force resistance, and are established primarily to reduce the risk of life loss or injury. Compliance with these provisions will not necessarily prevent loss of life or jury, or prevent earthquake damage to rehabilitated buildings.
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Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013)

15.07.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Existing Building Code, 2025 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 10), 2025 Edition, including Appendix A, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

B. One copy of the Existing Building Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town of Hillsborough Building Department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.07 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town of Hillsborough amendments to the Existing Building Code.

C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the Existing Building Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the Existing Building Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 758, § 41, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord.

No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.07.030 Amendment of California Existing Building Code.

The 2025 California Existing Building Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.07.040 through 15.07.080.

Any section within 15.07 that modifies the 2025 California Existing Building Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013)

15.07.040 Structural and geotechnical evaluation, design, and retrofit triggers.

Section 304.3.2 is deleted in its entirety and Section 304.3.1 is amended to read as follows:
304.3.1 Structural and geotechnical evaluation, design, and retrofit triggers. In addition to the structural evaluation and retrofit requirements of the California Existing Building Code, the following local provisions shall apply:

Where, in the course of any repair, alteration, or addition to an existing structure, structural systems are or will be exposed, altered, or affected, or where such work will increase the demands on existing vertical- or lateral-force-resisting systems, the Building Official may require a structural evaluation of the affected portions of the structure.

Where work may affect foundations, bearing conditions, slope stability, or impose new loads, a geotechnical evaluation shall be provided when required by the Building Official.

Where such evaluation determines that retrofit is necessary to safeguard health, life, or safety, the retrofit shall comply with one of the following, as applicable:

1. Lateral force-resisting systems.

Evaluation and design shall comply with ASCE 41 as referenced in this code. Where required by ASCE 41, a geotechnical engineer’s evaluation shall be provided in support of the design. As an alternative in a scenario as permitted by the Building Official, Appendix A of the California Existing Building Code may be used when demonstrating compliance for design of the required retrofits.
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2. Vertical force-resisting systems.

Evaluation and design shall comply with applicable provisions of the California Building Code. Where required, a geotechnical engineer’s evaluation shall be provided in support of the design. New or rehabilitated structural members and connections shall conform to current detailing requirements for new construction.

15.07.050—15.07.080 (Reserved)

15.07.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the Building Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Existing Building Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Existing Building Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.07.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Existing Building Code.

As successive editions of the California Existing Building Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the city building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Existing Building Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Existing Building Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013) Chapter 15.08 ELECTRICAL CODE

15.08.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the sale, installation, repair, maintenance, use, connection, and alteration of all electrical wiring, fixtures, appliances, devices, meters, switches, motors, generators, transformers, signs, and other equipment of the consumer's facilities, and to regulate the erection, installation, alteration, addition, repair, relocation, replacement, maintenance, or use of any solar system, and to provide for inspections, issuance of permits, collection of fees, imposing of penalties for violations, and to adopt uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016) -242-

15.08.020 Adoption.

A. The rules and regulations and standards printed in the California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3 2025 Edition, together with Article 89. Provisions thereto as incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24), 2025 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Electrical Code" respectively) (including the Appendix thereto) is hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein provided.

B. One copy of the Electrical Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town building department. The copy shall be accompanied by a copy of Chapter 15.08 of this Code(as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the Hillsborough amendments to the 2025 California Electrical Code.

C. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the California Electrical Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provisions of the California Electrical Code as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 20, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.08.030 Amendment of California Electrical Code.

The Electrical Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended, in its application to the town as set forth within Sections

15.08.040 through 15.08.140.

Any section within 15.08 that modifies the 2025 California Electrical Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.040—15.08.050 (Reserved)

15.08.060 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 89.3.3(B) is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

89.3.3(B) Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. The fee schedule for a permit shall be as established by resolution or ordinance adopted by the city council, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance the applicable permit fees shall be as established in the master fee schedule.

B. The value to be used in computing the electrical permit fee, the plan review fee and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, electrical, and any other permanent construction or equipment.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A of the Town of Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. -243-
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for an electrical permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.070—15.08.140 (Reserved)

15.08.150 Amendment procedure.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.160 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Electrical Code.

As successive editions of the California Electrical Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new version(s) of such code(s) in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Electrical Code then in force, as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out at Section 15.08.150 above, such revised version of the California Electrical Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.10 ENERGY CODE

15.10.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the installation of mandatory features and devices in residential buildings, including installation of said features and devices especially in those portions of the ceiling, walls and floors separating the conditioned spaces from the unconditioned spaces, and to regulate the alteration, repair, and maintenance of heating, cooling, and air conditioning appliances and related piping, venting, duct-work, and safety devices, including design and materials, and to provide for inspections, issuance of permits, collection of fees, and imposition of penalties for violations, and to adopt uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016) -244-

15.10.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Energy Code, 2025 Edition, as contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 6), 2025 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Energy Code") (including the Appendix thereto) are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

B. One copy of the Energy Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town's building department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.10 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town's amendments to the Energy Code.

C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the Energy Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the California Energy Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

E. Any section within 15.10 that modifies the 2025 California Energy Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 21, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.10.030 Reserved.

Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 794, § 4, adopted September 9, 2024, repealed § 15.10.030 which pertained to amendments to the California Energy Code and derived from Ord. No. 690, adopted December 13, 2010; Ord. No. 712, adopted November 12, 2013; and Ord. No. 742, adopted November 14, 2016.

15.10.040 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A in the Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule. 1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order.
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for a permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule.
(Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016) -245-

15.10.050 Reserved.

Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 794, § 3, adopted September 9, 2024, repealed § 15.10.050 which pertained to the Energy Reach Code and derived from Ord. No. 783, adopted April 11, 2022.

15.10.060—15.10.080 (Reserved)

15.10.090 Amendment procedure.

Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Energy Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016)

15.10.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Energy Code.

As successive editions of the California Energy Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Energy Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Energy Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.12 MECHANICAL CODE

15.12.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, cooling, and air conditioning appliances and related piping, venting, duct-work, and safety devices, including design and materials, and to provide for inspections, issuance of permits, collection of fees, imposing of penalties for violations, and adopting uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto.
(Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 6), 2025 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Mechanical Code") (including the Appendix thereto) are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein. -246-
B. One copy of the Mechanical Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town's building department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.12 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town amendments to the California Mechanical Code.

C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the Mechanical Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the Mechanical Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 22, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.12.030 Amendment of California Mechanical Code—Generally.

The Mechanical Code, as adopted by this chapter, is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Section

15.12.040 through 15.12.80.

Any section within 15.12 that modifies the 2025 California Mechanical Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.040 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 104.6 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
104.6 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

B. The value to be used in computing the electrical permit fee, the plan review fee and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, mechanical, and any other permanent construction or equipment.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A in the Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. 3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for a mechanical permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.050—15.12.080 (Reserved)
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15.12.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Mechanical Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Mechanical Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Mechanical Code.

As successive editions of the California Mechanical Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Mechanical Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Mechanical Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.16 PLUMBING CODE

15.16.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the installation, repair, and maintenance of all plumbing fixtures, appliances, and systems (including, but not limited to, water supply, domestic water piping, sanitary drains, wastes, vents, and drainage of other concentrations of water or wastes), swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs, including design and materials, and to provide for inspections, violations, and adopting uniform rules, regulations, and standards in respect thereto. (Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition (including the Appendix thereto) contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 5), 2025 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Plumbing Code") are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

B. One copy of the Plumbing Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town's building department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.16 (as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the Hillsborough amendments to the Plumbing Code.

C. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the Plumbing Code when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code. -248-
D. No provision of the Plumbing Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 23, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.16.030 Amendment of Plumbing Code—Generally.

The Plumbing Code adopted by this chapter is hereby amended, in its application to the town as set forth in Sections 15.16.040 through 15.16.085.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.040 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 104.5 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
104.5 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. The fee schedule for a permit shall be as established by resolution or ordinance adopted by the city council, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance. The applicable permit fees as set forth in Table No. 1-A. The table will be kept in the Master Fee Schedule.

B. The value to be used in computing the plumbing permit fee, the plan review fee, and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, plumbing, and any other permanent construction or equipment.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule. 1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. 3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for a plumbing permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.050—15.16.070 (Reserved)

15.16.080 Water supply and distribution.

Section 606.6 is amended by adding the following at the end of the first sentence to read as follows:
606.6 Accessible.

The supply piping to a single family residence, and the buildings accessory thereto, shall have a shut-off valve on the discharge side of the meter within one foot of the meter box.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.085. Installation of backwater protection.

A. Definitions. As used in this chapter:
-249-

1. "Backwater protection" means an IAMPO-approved backwater valve (commonly known as a backflow device), ejector or pumps system, clean out with pressure relief device, valve, or combination of two or more of these devices that is approved by the building official and intended to prevent sewage from back flowing into a structure.

2. "Drainage unit fixture" means a drainage unit fixture listed in the California Plumbing Code.

3. "Inadequate height differential" means that the flood level rim of a drainage unit fixture on a property's sanitary sewage drainage system is below the nearest upstream manhole or flushing inlet cover on the sanitary sewer main serving the fixture's drainage piping.

4. "Licensed professional" means a person authorized under California law to render an applicable certification to the property owner and the town regarding a specific question under this section.

5. "Sewage relief valve" means a device permanently installed on a building sewer lateral in such manner to allow sewage backflow to relieve to grade outside the building.

B. Backwater protection required prior to receiving a plumbing permit. When an application is submitted for a plumbing permit the applicant must certify the presence of backwater protection due to an inadequate height differential, or indicate exemption from the need for backwater protection because no inadequate height differential exists, as determined by a licensed professional or the building official.

C. Backwater protection installation required. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, all properties with drainage unit fixtures at an inadequate height differential shall have backwater protection installed.

D. Ongoing responsibility. Once installed, a property owner shall ensure that backwater protection is maintained, so as to be fully operable in the sewer lateral(s) serving the property owner's real property whenever an inadequate height differential exists on the property.

E. Proof of previous installation. A property owner may file a certification from a licensed professional demonstrating that backwater protection as approved by the building official has been installed on the property's sewage drainage system and is fully operable. This certification is subject to confirmation by the town.

F. Maintenance. Property owners are solely responsible for ensuring that backwater protection is properly maintained and functioning at all times. Backwater protection is subject to inspection by the town at any reasonable time. (Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.090 (Reserved)

15.16.100 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Plumbing Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Plumbing Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modification or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissible conditions.

Such findings shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.16.110 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Plumbing Code.

As successive editions of the California Plumbing Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the Building Department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new version(s) of such code(s) in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the -250-
California Plumbing Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out at Section 15.16.100, such revised version of the California Plumbing Code with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.17 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

15.17.010 Adoption.

The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Referenced Standards Code, 2025 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 12), 2025 Edition, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided. (Ord. No. 758, § 42, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Chapter 15.18 CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING ENFORCEMENT2

15.18.010 Purpose.

The California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (Public Resources Code Sections 40000 through 49620), created by AB 939 (chaptered as 1095) of the 1989 Legislative Session, declares that "the amount of solid waste generated in the state coupled with diminishing landfill space and potential adverse environmental impacts from landfilling constitutes an urgent need for state and local agencies to enact and implement an aggressive new integrated waste management program." (Public Resources Code Section 40000(d)) under Public Resources Code Section 41780, the town is required to divert fifty percent of all solid waste on and after January 1, 2000, through source reduction, recycling, and composting activities. Under Public Resources Code Section 41850, the California Integrated Waste Management Board may impose administrative civil penalties upon the town of up to ten thousand dollars per day for failure to make a good faith effort to implement the town's source reduction and recycling element adopted by the town as mandated by Section 41000 of the Public Resources Code.

The purpose of this chapter is to is to promote the recycling and/or salvage for reuse of nonhazardous construction and demolition waste in order to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, and to meet the town's obligations under AB 939 and the current version of the California Green Buildings Standards Code (CALGreen). (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.020 Adoption. The Town adopts and shall enforce the construction waste management requirements of CALGreen, including any successor provisions, and in accordance with Chapter 15.19. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)
2 Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 771, § 2, adopted September 13, 2021, repealed Ch. 15.18, §§ 15.18.010—15.18.090, and enacted a new Ch. 15.18 as set out herein and later amended. Former Ch. 15.18 pertained to similar subject matter and derived from Ord. 628, adopted 2001.
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15.18.025 Enforcement Authority.

The Building Official is designated as the enforcing officer for purposes of this Chapter. Every person or entity to whom a building or demolition permit has been issued ("permittee") shall comply, and require their subcontractors to comply, with the provisions of this chapter.

15.18.030 Construction waste management plan submittal.

If the construction waste management documentation method chosen to demonstrate compliance with CALGreen construction waste management requirements is a construction waste management plan, the applicant shall submit the plan in a manner no less restrictive than that prescribed in Section 4.408 of CALGreen and in a format as determined by the Building Official.

(Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.035 Issuance of building permit.

No building or demolition permit shall be issued until the applicant has submitted verification of the compliance method to be utilized and not until the construction waste management compliance method has been verified by the building official or his or her designee.

15.18.040 Payment of monitoring costs.

Any person or entity which has previously failed to comply with CALGreen construction waste management requirements or with the other provisions of the ordinance codified in this chapter may, at the time of submitting any subsequent construction waste management documentation for approval, be required to pay a monitoring fee in the amount set from time to time by resolution of the city council to cover the costs of monitoring compliance with the approved construction waste management compliance method. The decision as to whether the facts warrant the imposition of the monitoring fee shall be made by the building official. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.050 Penalties.

Violation of any provision of this chapter, including, but not limited to:

A. Demolition or construction before having or without having an approved construction waste management method; B. Failure to comply with the CALGreen construction waste management requirements; C. Failure to provide all required documentation prior to final inspection shall subject the violator to a penalty of up to ten times the permit fee for the building or demolition permit, as determined by the building official, as set forth in Sections

15.04.070 and 15.70.020(A) of this code.
(Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)
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Chapter 15.19 GREEN BUILDING REGULATIONS3

15.19.015 Adoption.

The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Green Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition, as contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 11), 2025 Edition are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein. (Ord. No. 758, § 24, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Chapter 15.20 FIRE CODE4

15.20.010 Adoption of the 2025 California Fire Code, 2024 International Fire Code Appendices, and Public Resources Code, Division 4, Section 4291.

There is adopted by the town for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire or explosion, that certain code which contains building standards known as the 2025 California Fire Code and all International Fire Code, 2024 Edition, appendices, except Appendices A, D, J and P, and the State of California amendments thereto, and the Public Resources Code, Division 4, Section 4291.

Sections within this Chapter include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 758, § 25, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 25, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.010 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.010, pertained to adoption of text of the California Fire Code and the International Fire Code, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.020 Amendments to the California Fire Code (CFC).

The California Fire Code is amended or modified as written in the following sections. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.025 Section 105.3.3, CFC is amended—Occupancy prohibited before approval.

Section 105.3.3, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 105.3.3. No final inspection by the building official as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed complete and no certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued unless and until the installation of the prescribed fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved by the fire chief. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) 3 Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 24, adopted November 12, 2019, repealed §§ 15.19.010 and 15.19.020—15.19.080, which pertained to purpose, definitions, green building standards for compliance, incentives for compliance, design guidelines, green building regulation, payment of monitoring fee, and penalties, respectively, and derived from Ord. No. 686, adopted April 13, 2009 and Ord. No. 715, adopted June 9, 2014.
4 Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted November 14, 2016, amended the Code by repealing former ch. 15.20, §§

15.20.010—15.20.105, and 15.20.155—15.20.170. Former ch. 15.20 pertained to the fire code, and derived from Ord. No. 712, § 13, adopted November 12, 2013.
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15.20.026 Section 106.2, CFC is amended—Examination of Documents.

Section 106.2, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 106.2. Examination of documents. When required by the fire code official, plans submitted to the Building Official for a permit shall be reviewed by the Fire Chief to determine compliance with the California Fire Code and the International Fire Code. Upon review a written report shall be returned to the Building Official listing deficiencies or compliance with the Code. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.030 Section 108.2, CFC is amended – Permits and Fees.

Section 108.2, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 180.2 Permits and Fees
a. The fees for the permits and other services shall be as established by resolution of the Central County Fire Department as amended from time to time. The fee shall be set to cover the cost of the Fire Department to review and inspect the intended activities, operations or functions. The fees must be applied to the appropriate agency, Town of Hillsborough or Central County Fire Department, depending on the type of service.

EXCEPTION: (1) The applicant for a given permit shall be exempt from the payment when the work to be conducted is for the Town of Hillsborough under written contract to the town or for events sponsored or co-sponsored by the town. b. In the case of multiple permits for an applicant, the permit applicant will be charged the single highest listed rate of all the permits required. The other permittable items will be charged at a rate of 50% of the listed fee as long as the permits are for the same address.
c. Where processes or materials are inherent with a permittable item, subsequent fees may be waived at the discretion of fire chief.
d. All fire permits and fire construction permits shall have a set number of inspections per permit as set forth by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. Additional inspections and additional re-inspections will be billed at an hourly rate consistent with the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. e. Application for "event" type fire code permits shall be submitted 14 days prior to the event date. Applications submitted within 13 days prior to the event date shall be charged double the regular permit rate as established by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule.
f. "After Hours" inspections shall be invoiced at a rate of one and one-half time the normal hourly rate of the inspecting fire personnel. "After Hours" inspections will be billed at a rate of three hours minimum. "After Hours" inspections are defined as follows: Inspections conducted outside of normal business hours, as defined on the Central County Fire Department website and based upon personnel availability. g. Any person, group, organization, institution or business failing to pay the applicable fees under this Article shall after 30 days of the due date, for either existing or new permit applicants, shall be issued a citation for non-payment of the required permit fee. The penalty for all permit payments delinquent after 30 days shall be a doubling of the original fee. (Ord. No. 758, § 26, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 26, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.030 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.030, pertained to Chapter 1, Section 105.8, IFC added—fees, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.031 Section 108.4, CFC is amended – Work without permit investigation and fee.

Section 108.4, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 108.4. Work Without Permit Investigation and Fee.

Investigation—Work without a permit
Investigation. Whenever construction or work for which a permit is required by this code and has been commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for the work. All work done without a required permit, including demolition of all or part of a structure or system shall be subject to the investigation and fees imposed by this section.
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Fee—Work without a permit
In the event work is done without an issued permit, an investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected as a civil penalty, whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be up to 10 times the fire permit fee. The investigation fee shall be determined by the Fire Chief and shall be based on the staff time reasonably required to resolve all of the issues related to the work that has been performed without a permit. No construction work permit shall be issued until the investigation fee has been paid in full.

Nothing in this section shall relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this code, in the execution of the work, or from any other fees or penalties prescribed by law. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.035 Section 112, CFC is amended—Board of Appeals.

Section 112 CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 112. Appeal and review.
(a) The chief of the fire department shall be charged with the duty and responsibility of administering the provisions of this chapter.
(b) Whenever it is provided herein that certain things shall be done in accordance with an order of the fire department, such order shall be complied with. Any person aggrieved thereby may appeal to the fire chief in writing within ten (10) days after the date of such order, except as otherwise provided in this chapter. The fire chief, or in his or her absence the deputy fire chief, shall issue a written decision to affirm, modify or reverse the order within two (2) business days of receipt of the appeal. The fire chief's written decision may be appealed to the Central County Fire Department Fire Board no later than ten (10) days from the date of the fire chief's written decision. The fire board's decision shall be final and conclusive and may not be appealed to the city council. Except in the case of immediate hazard, the enforcement of the order shall be suspended until such person has exhausted the appeal process as described above. (c) Any court action or proceeding to review or challenge a decision or order of the fire board shall be barred unless it is commenced within twenty (20) days of the date of service of the written decision or order (or such later date as may be specified by California Government Code Section 53069.4), and such decision or order shall contain a statement so advising the prospective appellant(s) of this time limit on seeking court review. A decision of the fire board shall be considered final for purposes of seeking court review, and no review or other consideration by the city council shall be necessary. However, no action or proceeding to review or challenge a fire board decision shall be permitted unless each ground or basis for such action or proceeding first has been asserted to the fire board pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 15.20.035.
(Ord. No. 758, § 27, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 27, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.035 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.035, pertained to Chapter 1, Section 108, IFC amended—board of appeals, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.040 Section 315, CFC is amended—General Storage.

Section 315.2, CFC is amended to read as follows:

Section 315.2 Permit required. A permit for miscellaneous combustible materials shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5.

Exception:

Storage of combustible materials other than motorized vehicles or vessels shall not be permitted in a public parking garage or in a garage or carport serving a Group R, Division 1 or Group R, Division 2 Occupancy, unless the method of storage is approved by the Fire Code Official.

Section 315.3.1, CFC is amended by adding the an additional provision following the first sentence to read as follows:

Section 315.3.1. Ceiling clearance.
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Where required by the fire code official, a visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height shall be provided and shall be a four (4") inch wide line in contrasting color along a wall or storage rack. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 28, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, repealed former § 15.20.040, which pertained to Chapter 1, Section 113.1, IFC added—investigation and fee and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.045 Section 503.3.1, CFC is amended—Fire lane designation marking.

Section 503.3, CFC is deleted and replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

Section 503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, fire lanes and apparatus access roads shall be identified and prohibit obstruction thereof by one of the following means:

1. By outlining and hash marking the area in contrasting colors clearly marking it with the words "Fire Lane - No Parking.

2. By identifying the space with a red curb upon which the words "Fire Lane - No Parking" are stenciled every 15 feet. a. Both sides of fire lanes shall be red curbed when the fire lane is twenty (20) to twenty-eight (28) feet in width. b. At least one side of a fire lane shall be red curbed and stenciled when the fire lane is over twenty-eight (28) and up to thirty-six (36) feet in width.
c. Curbs need not be painted red nor stenciled when the fire lane is more than thirty-six (36) feet in width.

3. In areas where a red curb is not practical, and when approved by the fire official, white signs measuring 12 inches by 18 inches with red lettering not less than 1" in height stating the area is a fire lane and parking is prohibited, may be posted adjacent to the fire lanes.

The means by which fire lanes and access roads are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 29, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.050 Section 505.1, CFC is amended—Premises identification.

Section 505.1, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings, including accessory dwelling units, shall be provided with and shall maintain address identification that is legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or the road fronting the property; the characters shall contrast their background, be Arabic characters, not spelled out, and:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half-inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-inch (1") stroke by nine inches (9") high is required.

Multi-Tenant Buildings. Numbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be a minimum of one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall be posted at a height no greater than 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.

Rear Addressing. When required by the fire official, approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the fire apparatus road at the back of a property or where rear parking lots or alleys provide and acceptable vehicular access. Number stroke and size shall comply with 505.1.1.

The fire code official may require address identification in additional locations to facilitate emergency response, and where access is by means of a private road or not visible from the right-of-way, a monument shall be used to identify the structure. (Ord. No. 758, § 30, 11-12-2019)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 30, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.050 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.050 pertained to Sections 505.1 through 505.1.3, CFC—premises identification, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.
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15.20.055 Sections 506.1, CFC is amended—Key boxes.

Section 506.1, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 506.1 Where Required. To ensure access to or within a structure or an area that may be restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or firefighting purposes, a key box shall be required by the fire code official, including in the following instances. A key box shall be installed in accordance with Fire Department standards for all new buildings. For existing buildings equipped with key box, it shall be upgraded to current Fire Department standards at the time the building permit is issued, which include modifications or alterations to front entrance of building.

An emergency gate key switch shall be installed on all new electronic driveway or entryway gates. The key switch shall conform to current Fire Department standards.

The key box shall be of an approved typed listed in accordance with UL 1307, and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required. Required keys include, but are not limited to: a master entry key, elevator control, fire alarm control panels, fire sprinkler control valve access, and building utilities. Contents inside key box shall follow approved fire department standards.

If the business/operation is required to have a Hazardous Material Inventory Statement (HMIS), the HMIS shall be included in the key box. Electronic key cards or keyless remotes may be provided as long as the locking system has a failsafe feature at loss of building power and doors are operational without a key or special knowledge. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 31, 11-12-2019)

15.20.060 Section 507.5.5, CFC is amended —Space around hydrants and markings.

Section 507.5.5, CFC is amended to read as follows:

Section 507.5.5. Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved. Whenever any on-site fire protection equipment or access ways have been installed as provided in this section, the following provision shall be applicable:

With respect to hydrants located along private access ways where curbs exist, said curbs shall be painted red or otherwise appropriately marked by the owner, lessee or other person in charge of the premises, to prohibit parking for a distance of 10 feet in either direction from such hydrant. In such cases where curbs do not exist, there shall be appropriate markings painted on the pavement, or signs erected, or both giving notice that parking is prohibited for a distance of 10 feet from any such hydrant. Hydrant caps shall be color-coded in accordance with NFPA 291 (National Fire Protection Association). The base of the hydrant shall be painted reflective red or yellow.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 32, 11-12-2019)

15.20.065 Section 508, CFC is amended —Fire command center.

Section 508.1.1, CFC is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

Section 508.1.1. Fire Command Center Location and Access Requirements. Fire command center shall be equipped with an exterior door and be located at the exterior of the building at a location approved by the fire chief. Fire control room. In Addition to a fire command center, an approved fire control room shall be provided for all new buildings or occupancies undergoing a substantial improvement and requiring protection by an automatic fire sprinkler system. The room shall only contain all main system control valves, fire alarm control panels ERRCS equipment, and other fire equipment required by the Fire Chief. Fire control rooms shall be located within the building at a location approved by the Fire Chief and shall be provided at grade with a means to access the room directly from the exterior. Durable signage shall be provided on the exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room. Fire Control Rooms shall not be less than 35 square feet.

Exceptions:

1. Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.

2. Occupancies with a fire pump shall have a fire control room that is a minimum of 200 square feet.

3. In high-rise buildings, the fire control room shall not be less than 200 square feet. -257-
Section 508.1.6, CFC is amended by adding the following feature to the end of list to read as follows:

Section 508.1.6 Required features.

20. When a garage contains electrical charging stations, the required Fire Command Center and/or Fire Control Room shall include a manually operated control switch that controls ventilation operations (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.070 (Reserved)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed §

15.20.070 which pertained to Section 603, CFC—Fuel-fired appliances, and derived from Ord. No. 742, adopted November 14, 2016.

15.20.075 (Reserved)
(Ord. No. 758, § 33, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 33, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.075 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.075 pertained to Section 607.9, CFC—shunt trip, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.080 Additions and alterations – automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculations.

The standard for calculating whether additions and/or alterations of an existing building exceed the thresholds as described in

15.20.082 triggering automatic fire sprinkler system installation, shall be based on the following criteria:

1. Culminative square footage of each room being added or altered. a. A room is considered added or altered when fifty percent (50%) or more of interior wall sheeting covering the wall planes of the room (including ceilings) is removed, replaced, or new. b. Wall plane area of a room does not include the area of windows, doors, and openings.

2. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Culminative added or altered square footage or replacement costs of additions or alterations are aggregated to include any room square footage added or altered within a two (2) year period from the closure date of any previous additions or alterations.

Exceptions:

Interior wall sheeting removal necessitated for:

1. Building roof repair/replacement;

2. Fire damage repair;

3. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and

4. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.081 Existing Sprinkler buildings retrofits.

The following provisions apply to all sprinklered buildings:

3. When a property owner or responsible party of a commercial or residential building chooses option 1 or 2 from above, the property owner shall file a deed restriction with San Mateo County Assessor's Office and obtain a performance bond with Central County Fire Department to ensure compliance with Section 15.20.081. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.082 Section 903.2, CFC is amended—Where required.

Section 903.2, CFC shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.23 and be installed in:

1. All new occupiable and/or habitable buildings and structures.

2. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) when the primary dwelling is required to have or has an existing an automatic residential fire sprinkler system. If an existing primary dwelling is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system, fire sprinklers must be provided throughout both dwellings.

3. All existing buildings and structures shall be retroactively protected by an approved automatic extinguishing system when the following conditions exist:
a. Non-residential buildings with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area. b. Residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area
Exceptions:

1. When approved by the fire chief, canopy structures used solely for vehicular parking which have a photovoltaic system attached are not required to be equipped with a fire sprinkler system as long as the structure meets distance requirements to other structures and property lines.

2. Group U occupancies less than 1,200 square feet and separated from the primary structure by a minimum of 10 feet.

3. Additions or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential, multi-family residential, and single family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the entire completed building.

4. Additions and/or alterations necessitated for:
a. Building roof repair/replacement;
b. Fire damage repair;
c. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and/or d. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement Section 15.20.080 outlines the standard used to calculate additions and/or alterations for purposes of determining applicability of this section.

Section 903.2.10, CFC is amended by adding the following subsection to read as follows:

Section 903.2.10(4) Areas which contain electric vehicle charging stations, and thus could contain lithium-ion batteries in vehicles, shall have a fire sprinkler density design of a minimum Extra Hazard, Group 2 for the coverage of charging stations and for 15' in any direction of charging stations.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 34, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) (Ord. No. 758, § 35, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 15.20.083, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.083 to read as herein set out. Former §

15.20.083 pertained to section 903.2.20 and 903.2.21, CFC added—existing buildings and structures, and derived from Ord.

No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.
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15.20.084 Section 903.5, CFC is amended—Inspector's test valves.

Section 903.5, CFC is amended to read as follows:

Section 903.3.1.4 Inspections, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code. Single-family residential fire sprinkler systems within buildings greater than 3,600 square feet shall be equipped with an inspectors test valve for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.085 Section 903.3.1.5, CFC is amended—Residential carports, attached and detached garage Sprinkler Locations.

Section 903.2.18, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 903.2.18 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies . Sprinklers shall be required throughout carports and garages. The required residential fire sprinkler shall be in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the 2025 California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04 mm/min) over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Exception: Detached carports and garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings by a minimum of 10 feet.
(Ord. No. 758, § 36, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 36, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.085 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.085 pertained to Section 903.3.1.5, CFC added—additional residential sprinkler locations, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.086 Section 903.4.1, CFC amended – Monitoring System Specifications.

Section 903.4.1, CFC is amended by adding the additional provision following the first sentence to read as follows:

Section 903.4.1. Electronic supervision.

For new fire sprinkler monitoring systems, the approved supervisory station shall be defined as a UL approved central receiving station.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.087 Section 905.4, CFC is amended – Location of class I hose connections.

Section 905.4(1), CFC is deleted and replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above and below plane grade.

Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate floor level landing between floors. See Section 909.20.2.3 of the California Building Code for additional provisions in smoke-proof enclosures. (Ord. No. 758, § 37, 11-12-2019)

15.20.088 Section 907.7, CFC is amended—Acceptance Tests and Certification.

Section 907.7, CFC is amended to read as follows:
907.7 Acceptance Tests and Certification. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72. New fire alarm systems installed in commercial and multi-family buildings shall be UL-Certified. Certificate shall be posted next to fire alarm control panel at time of final inspection. -260-
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.089 Section 905.8, CFC is amended – Operational Standpipes Section 905.8, CFC is amended to read as follows:
905.1 Operational Standpipes. Where a standpipe is required in accordance with Section 905, that standpipe is required to remain wet and operational. Dry standpipes shall not be installed. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.090 – 15.20.092 (Reserved)
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed former §

15.20.090 and enacted a new § 15.20.090 as set out above and later amended. Former § 15.20.090 pertained to Section 5003.5, CFC amended—Hazard Identification Signs and derived from Ord. No. 742, adopted November 14, 2016. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed former §

15.20.091 and enacted a new § 15.20.091 as set out above and later amended. Former § 15.20.091 pertained to Section 5707, CFC On-demand mobile fueling operations and derived from Ord. No. 758, adopted November 12, 2019. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.093 Section 5003.5, CFC is amended—Hazard Identification Signs.

Section 5003.5.6, CFC is amended to read as follows:
5003.5.2 Signs - specifications and locations. Signs and markings required by Sections 5003.5 and 5003.5.1 shall not be obscured or removed, shall be in English as a primary language or in symbols allowed by this code, shall be durable, and the size, color, lettering shall be approved. Two NFPA 704 diamonds shall be placed on buildings so that they are clearly visible from at least two directions of travel.

1. The signs shall be at least fifteen inches by fifteen inches (15" x 15"). The signs shall not be placed on windows.

2. When NFPA 704 diamonds are required for the interior doors, the signs shall be applied to the doors at a level no higher than the doorknob. The signs for the interior doors shall be at least six inches by six inches (6"x6").

3. The fire code official may require fewer or more NFPA diamonds if the building configuration or size makes it reasonably necessary.
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.094 Section 5707, CFC is amended – On-Demand Mobile Fueling Operations.

Section 5707.6.5, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 5707.6.5 Adequate lighting. Adequate site lighting shall be provided for all mobile fueling operations which are performed in dim or dark outdoor conditions. Acceptable means of lighting are flood or box lights which are self-standing or mountable.
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.095 Unlawful burning and deposits of hazardous materials—Liability for costs. (a) The fire department is authorized to clean up or abate the effects of any hazardous material deposited upon or into property or facilities of the town; and any person or persons who intentionally or negligently caused such deposit shall be -261-
liable for the payment of all costs incurred by the fire department as a result of such cleanup or abatement activity. The remedy provided by this section shall be in addition to any other remedies provided by law. (b) For the purposes of this section, "hazardous materials" shall be defined as any substances or materials, in a quantity or form which, in the determination of the fire chief or his/her authorized representative, poses an unreasonable and imminent risk to life, health or safety of persons or property or to the ecological balance of the environment, and shall include, but not be limited to, such substances as explosives, radioactive materials, petroleum or petroleum products or gases; poisons, etiologic (biologic) agents, flammables and corrosives. (c) Any person whose violation of this chapter results in fire damage to persons or property shall be charged with unlawful burning and is liable for costs incurred by the fire department and other responding county or state fire agencies for suppression activities.
(d) For purposes of this section, costs incurred by the fire department shall include, but shall not necessarily be limited to, the following: actual labor costs of city personnel, including workers' compensation benefits, fringe benefits, administrative overhead; cost of equipment operation, cost of materials obtained directly by the city; and cost of any contract labor and materials. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.100—15.20.150 (Reserved)

15.20.155 Fire lanes which are not fire apparatus access roads.

Nothing in the California Fire Code shall prevent the town from designating or maintaining a street as a "fire lane" which does not meet the requirements of a fire apparatus access road under the California Fire Code. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.160 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the fire chief, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Fire Code due to local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the fire chief shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Fire Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.20.165 Severability.

A. Nothing contained in this chapter shall be held to modify, amend, repeal, or otherwise supersede, whether in whole or in part, those certain laws and regulations of the town generally and customarily known as the Hillsborough zoning laws and regulations (which, inter alia, establishes a base zoning district known as the residence district, encompassing all the territory of the town; regulates the use, size and location of buildings or improvements; regulates the minimum area and frontage of residential lots; and provides for enforcement and penalties for violation thereof), as originally passed and adopted July 11, 1955, with all amendatory laws and regulations adopted thereafter.

B. This chapter shall not modify, amend, repeal, or otherwise affect any laws of the town hereafter enacted in substitution or amendment of the zoning regulations.
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C. Whenever any provision of this chapter is found to conflict with the zoning regulations, or of any laws hereafter enacted in amendment or substitution thereof, the provisions of such zoning regulations or of any such amendatory or superseding laws shall control over this chapter.

D. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency within the provisions of the Town of Hillsborough Municipal Code, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety in the good faith judgement of the fire chief shall apply. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 39, 11-12-2019)

15.20.170 Regulations of other agencies.

The fire chief or his or her duly authorized representatives are empowered and directed to invoke the requirements and regulations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the California State Fire Marshal, the United States Bureau of Standards, the Industrial Accident Commission of the State of California, and the California Health and Safety Code or any other recognized authority, in any and all cases of fire hazards not specifically covered in any provisions of this chapter or other laws and regulations of the town, all of which have been published in code form and copies of which are on file with the fire chief and the city clerk.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)
Chapter 15.21 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

15.21.010 Adoption of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

There is adopted by the town for the purpose of promoting the public health, safety, and welfare by helping prevent the spread of fire from the town's wildland areas to the town's inhabited areas and vice versa and to provide a system for the issuance of permits and collection of fees in furtherance of these purposes, all of which is consistent with Action PS-1.3 of the town's general plan, which provides, inter alia, that "The Town will work with the Central County Fire Department to review and update, if necessary, the Town's and Department's regulations and approach regarding defensible space, fire resistive vegetation, wildland mitigation, and fire protection within Hillsborough to ensure adequate fire protection”, that certain code which contains building standards known as the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, together with Appendix B of the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, and amendments thereto.

15.21.020 Amendments to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (CWUIC).

The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, as adopted by this chapter, is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth in Sections 15.21.025 through 15.21.040.

15.21.025 Chapter 1, Section 101.1 — Scope and General Requirements.

Section 101.1 is amended to read “Town of Hillsborough”

15.21.026 Chapter 1, Section 103.1 —Code Compliance Agency.

Section 103.1 is amended to read “Central County Fire Department”

15.21.030 Chapter 1, Sections 108.2 – Fees.

Section 108.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 108.2. Permits and Fees
a. The fees for the permits and other services shall be as established by resolution of the Central County Fire Department as amended from time to time. The fee shall be set to cover the cost of the Fire Department to review and inspect the intended activities, operations or functions. The fees must be applied to the appropriate agency, Town of Hillsborough or Central County Fire Department, depending on the type of service. -263-
EXCEPTION: (1) The applicant for a given permit shall be exempt from the payment when the work to be conducted is for the Town of Hillsborough under written contract to the town or for events sponsored or co-sponsored by the town. b. In the case of multiple permits for an applicant, the permit applicant will be charged the single highest listed rate of all the permits required. The other permittable items will be charged at a rate of 50% of the listed fee as long as the permits are for the same address.
c. Where processes or materials are inherent with a permittable item, subsequent fees may be waived at the discretion of fire chief.
d. All permits required under Chapter 15.21 shall have a set number of inspections per permit as set forth by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. Additional inspections and additional re-inspections will be billed at an hourly rate consistent with the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. e. Application for "event" type fire code permits shall be submitted 14 days prior to the event date. Applications submitted within 13 days prior to the event date shall be charged double the regular permit rate as established by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule.
f. "After Hours" inspections shall be invoiced at a rate of one and one-half times the normal hourly rate of the inspecting fire personnel. "After Hours" inspections will be billed at a rate of three hours minimum. "After Hours" inspections are defined as follows: Inspections conducted outside of normal business hours, as defined on the Central County Fire Department website and based upon personnel availability. g. Any person, group, organization, institution or business failing to pay the applicable fees under this Article shall after 30 days of the due date, for either existing or new permit applicants, shall be issued a citation for non-payment of the required permit fee. The penalty for all permit payments delinquent after 30 days shall be a doubling of the original fee.

15.21.031 Section 108.4 – Investigation of Work Without Permit.

Section 108.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 108.4. Investigation. Whenever construction or work for which a permit is required by this code and has been commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for the work.

All work done without a required permit, including demolition of all or part of a structure or system shall be subject to the investigation and fees imposed by this section.

Section 108.4.1 is added and shall read as follows:

Section 108.4.1. Work without a permit. In the event work is done without an issued permit, an investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected as a civil penalty, whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be up to 10 times the fire permit fee. The investigation fee shall be determined by the Fire Chief and shall be based on the staff time reasonably required to resolve all of the issues related to the work that has been performed without a permit.

No construction work permit shall be issued until the investigation fee has been paid in full.

Nothing in this section shall relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this code, in the execution of the work, or from any other fees or penalties prescribed by law.

15.21.035 Chapter 1, Section 112 —Board of Appeals.

Section 112 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 112.1. Appeal and review.
a. The chief of the fire department shall be charged with the duty and responsibility of administering the provisions of this chapter.
b. Whenever it is provided herein that certain things shall be done in accordance with an order of the fire department, such order shall be complied with. Any person aggrieved thereby may appeal to the fire chief in writing within ten (10) days after the date of such order, except as otherwise provided in this chapter. The fire chief, or in his or her absence the deputy fire chief, shall issue a written decision to affirm, modify or reverse the order within two (2) business days of receipt of the appeal. The fire chief's written decision may be appealed to the Central County Fire Department Fire Board no later than ten (10) days from the date of the fire chief's written decision. The fire board's decision shall be final and conclusive and may not be appealed to the city council. Except in the case of immediate hazard, the enforcement of the order shall be suspended until such person has exhausted the appeal process as described above. -264-
c. Any court action or proceeding to review or challenge a decision or order of the fire board shall be barred unless it is commenced within twenty (20) days of the date of service of the written decision or order (or such later date as may be specified by California Government Code Section 53069.4), and such decision or order shall contain a statement so advising the prospective appellant(s) of this time limit on seeking court review. A decision of the fire board shall be considered final for purposes of seeking court review, and no review or other consideration by the city council shall be necessary. However, no action or proceeding to review or challenge a fire board decision shall be permitted unless each ground or basis for such action or proceeding first has been asserted to the fire board pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 15.20.035.

15.21.040 Chapter 4, Section 403.1.5 – Access Radius
Section 403.1.5(a), is amended to read as follows:

Section 403.1.5(a) No road or road structure shall have less than a minimum horizontal inside radius of curvature of fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50-100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100- 200 feet.

15.21.150 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the fire chief, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code due to local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the fire chief shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the council's findings with the Office of the State Fire Marshall or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the California Build Standards Commission (CBSC) before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening.

Chapter 15.24 GRADING

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.26 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.28 BUILDING SECURITY

15.28.010 Purpose.

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the construction of new residential dwellings and to major remodeling, additions, or alterations to existing dwellings as defined throughout Title 24 CCR, 2025 Edition, or successor provision. (Ord 618 § 5, 2001; Ord. 336 § 1, 1976: prior code § 110.1.14(a))

NO FURTHER CHANGES - REST OF CHAPTER RETAINED
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Chapter 15.29 WATER CONSERVATION IN LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.30 TIME LIMITS FOR COMPLETION OF CONSTRUCTION

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.32 WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.6 TOWERS, AERIALS, ANTENNAE, WINDMILLS AND SOLAR PANELS

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.37 PERMITTING OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.40 CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.44 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT

CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.60 BUILDING PERMITS AND PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS*

15.60.010 Definitions.

As used in this chapter:
"Building permit" means a permit which is required under the terms of the California Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition, or successor provision.
"Public improvements" means all of the improvements to streets, highways and public ways, or to any parcel intended to be offered for dedication to the town as a highway, street or public way, including, without limitation, curbs, gutters, sanitary sewers, storm drains, landscaping and utility supply lines, within the scope of Title 16. "Subdivision" means a subdivision as defined in Chapter 16.04. (Ord. 618 § 10 (part), 2001)

NO FURTHER CHANGES - REST OF CHAPTER RETAINED
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Chapter 15.70 DEMOLITION PERMITS

15.70.020 Demolition permit—Issuance for nonhistoric structure.

A. Upon compliance, or assurance that there will be timely future compliance, with all applicable local, state and federal laws, standards and regulations, including but not limited to provisions of the California Building Standards Code and Regional Air Quality Act, the building official may issue a demolition permit for any structure (other than a historic structure) upon receipt of an application therefor, together with the nonrefundable fee determined from time to time by the city council to be a reasonable fee for covering the actual costs of processing such an application. It is further provided that the building official may require that a building permit or permits and any other necessary approvals has or have been obtained for a project or replacement structure for the subject property prior to issuing a demolition permit for a nonhistoric structure.

B. Notwithstanding anything contained in this chapter to the contrary, the building official shall not issue a demolition permit for any structure that is at least fifty years old and listed in the 1990 Town of Hillsborough Historic Building Survey (as the same has been or may be amended or otherwise updated from time to time) until the city council has been informed of such a request for a demolition permit and determined at a regularly scheduled city council meeting that no revisions to the definition of "historic structure" are being or will be made in the immediate future which would affect the subject property. (Ord. 558 § 2 (part), 1997)

NO FURTHER CHANGES - REST OF CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.80 REFERENCE STANDARDS

15.80.010 Purpose.

This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The purpose of this chapter is to regulate materials. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences occur between provisions of this code and reference codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply. (Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013)

15.80.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the 2025 California Reference Standards, as incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town of Hillsborough as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

B. One copy of the 2025 California Reference Standards shall at all times be kept on file at the town of Hillsborough Building Department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.80 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town of Hillsborough amendments to the California Reference Standards C. In the event there is any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the California Reference Standards when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provision of the California Reference Standards, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013)

15.80.030 Amendment of Reference Standards.

None
(Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013) -267-

15.80.040—15.80.080 (Reserved)

15.80.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the Building Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Reference Standards due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Reference Standards, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.80.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Reference Standards.

As successive editions of the California Reference Standards are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the Building Department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Reference Standards then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Reference Standards, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013) -268-
Title 15

BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION
Chapter 15.02 ADMINISTRATIVE CODE1

15.02.010 Purpose.

15.02.020 Adoption of the 2025 California Administrative Code, Title 24, Part 1.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the 20252022 California Administrative Code, as contained in the California Building Standards Code, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

15.02.030 Amendments to the Administrative Code.

None.

15.02.040—15.02.080 (Reserved)
1Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 690, § 4, adopted December 13, 2010, amended Chapter 15.02 in its entirety to read as herein set out.

Former Chapter 15.02, §§ 15.02.010—15.02.100, pertained to Administrative Code, and derived from Ord. 680 § 3(part), 2007.

ATTACHMENT 2
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15.02.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Administrative Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissible environmental conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications into the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Administrative Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissibleenvironmental conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing bodyState Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.02.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Administrative Code.

15.03.010 Purpose.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.020 Adoption of the 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5.

The rules, regulations and requirements published by the International Code Council (ICC) in the 20252022 California Residential Code, based on the 2021 International Residential Code, including Appendix Chapters BF, BO, CIG, H, J, N, O, P, and Q and the State of California amendments thereto, as contained in the California Building Standards Code, are hereby adopted as and for the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

A. One copy of the 20252022 California Residential Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town building departmentin the town hall in the building official's office. It shall be accompanied by one copy of Chapter 15.03 of this Code(as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the amendments to the 20252022 California Residential Code. -270-
B. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Code and the 20252022 California Residential Code, when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise stated in this Code.

C. No provision of the 20252022 California Residential Code, or as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of this Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 5, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.030 Amendments to the of Residential Code.

The 20252022 California Residential Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended, in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.03.040 through 15.03.220230.

15.03.040—15.03.060050 (Reserved)

15.03.060 Work exempt from permit.

Section 105.2 Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction:
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.070 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section R108.2 is replaced in its entirety to readSchedule of Permit Fees shall be as follows:

R108.2 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. A fee shall be set forth in the town's master fee schedule, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance.

15.03.080 Contractor's bond.

Section 15.03.80 is added to read as follows: If a contractor's bond prior to the issuance of any permit for a new residence or other work to which this section is applicable in the opinion of the building official, the applicant shall file with the building official a performance, maintenance or completion bond in the amount of the estimated cost of the work allowed or required under the provisions of the permit. The purpose and intent of the bond is to insure the completion of all work including the installation of any required curbs, gutter, street, sewer, sewer laterals, storm sewers and water mains; the repair of any damage to any of the above; and the removal of all debris from streets, gutters, parking strips areas, and the job site. Upon completion of the permitted work, such bond shall be exonerated, less any charges against the applicant for any work required to be done or contracted to be done by the town to complete the work.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.090 Certificate of occupancy issued.

Section R110.2110.1.1 is amendedadded to read as follows:

15.03.100 Fire plan checksprinklers in garages and carports.

When required by the fire code official, plans submitted to the building official for a permit shall be reviewed by the fire code official to determine compliance with all applicable standards including the California Fire Code and California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Upon review a written report shall be returned to the building official listing deficiencies or compliance with the Code. Section R309.6 Fire Sprinklers Exception for fire sprinklers in garages and carports is deleted in its entirety. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.110 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Section R309.2R313.2 of the 2022 California Residential Code is replaced in its entiretyamended to read as follows:

R309.2R313.2 New oOne- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in:

1. New one- and two-family dwellings.

3. Accessory dwelling units (ADU) when:

3.1. The ADU will be in accessory to an existing primary dwelling that has an existing automatic fire sprinkler system; or

3.2. The ADU will be in accessory to a proposed new primary dwelling which requires installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system under 309.2(1) above; or
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Exceptions:

1. Detached carports or garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings complying with R302.1.

2. Detached structures, other than an ADU, whose closest exterior wall is located in excess of 10 feet from the closest exterior wall of the automatic fire sprinkler system requiring primary dwelling on the same lot.main house.

R313.2.2 Existing one- and two-family dwellings automatic fire systems.

1. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system is required when additions and/or alterations to existing one- and twofamily dwellings with a total building floor area more than 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when such additions and/or alterations require a building permit and exceed 1,500 square feet in area or 20% of the total square footage for a building over 7,500 square feet.

2. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) must be protected with an automatic residential fire sprinkler system throughout the unit if the primary dwelling is required to have or has an existing automatic residential fire sprinkler system. If an existing primary dwelling is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system under R313.2.2(1) above, fire sprinklers must be provided throughout both dwellings.

Exception:

Detached structures, excluding accessory dwelling units, located in excess of 10 feet from the main house.

15.03.111 Required sprinkler locations.

Section R309.3.1.2R313.3.1.2 is deleted and replaced in its entirety to read as followswith the following:

R309.3.1.2 Required sprinkler locations.

1. Sprinklers shall be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit, including coverage of:.

Exceptions:

Detached carports and garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings complying with CRC R302.1.

2. Sprinkler coverage shall be provided in the following locations:
a. Attic access openings
b. Areas of attics and crawl spaces containing storage, mechanical and/or electrical equipment.

23. Inspector Test Valves shall be provided for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser for buildings greater than 3,600 square feet.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 8, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
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15.03.112 Additions and alterations - automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculation.

Section R313.3.2.7 is added to read as follows:

1. The standard for calculating the size of addition and/or alteration for determining the threshold for fire sprinkler systems shall be by the following:
a. The square footage of every room being added or altered shall be included in the calculation of total square footage of addition or alteration.
b. The entire square footage shall be added when at least fifty percent (50%) or greater of interior wall sheeting or ceiling within a room or area is new, removed or replaced. Windows, doors, and opening are excluded from the calculation.

2. The size of additions and alterations used in calculating the size shall not be cumulative with regard to individual additions or alterations in a building unless the following circumstance applies:

Where more than one (1) addition or alteration for which building permits are required are made within a two (2) year period from the closure date of the initial permit, the sum of the square footage or replacement costs of these additions or alterations during this two (2) year period shall be aggregated for the purpose of determining calculations in section

15.03.110.

3. The following scopes of work are excluded from calculations to determine the area of alteration: building roof repair/replacement; fire damage repair; building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement.

2. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Exceptions:

Wall or ceiling sheeting removal, replacement, or new installment shall not be calculated when necessitated for:

1. Building roof repair/replacement;

2. Fire damage repair;

3. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and

15.03.113 Automatic fire sprinkler system completion timelineAll sprinklered buildings.

Section R313.3.2.8 is added to read as follows: When a building is partially retrofitted with an approved automatic sprinkler fire extinguishing system pursuant to this section, the building fire extinguishing system retrofit shall be completed throughout the unprotected building interior areas within two (2) years from completing the initial partial retrofit. When a property owner or responsible party of a commercial or residential building chooses this option, the property owner shall file a deed restriction with -274-
San Mateo County Assessor's Office and obtain a performance bond to ensure compliance. The bond shall be in an amount equal to or greater than the estimated cost of completion, as determined by Central County Fire Department. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.120 Address identificationnumbers.

Section R308.1R319.1 is replaced in its entiretyamended to read as follows:
308.1 Address identification. All buildings and dwellings, including accessory dwelling units, shall be provided with approved address identification and address identification shall be maintained. 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, be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters, and numbers shall not be spelled out. Address identification shall be in a Ssize of numbers and manner shall be as follows:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one inch (1") stroike by nine inches (9") high is required.

3. Multi-tenant building s. Nnumbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be a minimum of one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall be posted at a height no greater than 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.

Accessory Dwelling Unit addressing. Address signage for Residential Accessory Dwelling Units shall meet Town of Hillsborough specifications.
(Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 9, 11-12-2019)

15.03.130 Minimum Class A roof assembly fire classification.

Section R902.1 is replaced in its entiretyamended to read as follows:

R902.1 Roof assemblies. All roof and roof deck assemblies shall be Class A. All roof assemblies, coverings, and materials and roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790, shall be listed and identified as to class by an approved testing agency, and comply with R904 and R905 where applicable. In addition, fire-retardant-treated wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with the CBC Table 1505.1902.1 as amended in 15.04.131. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.140 Roof covering within all other areas other than Fire Hazard Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) area.

Section R902.1.2902.1.3 is replaced in its entiretyamended to read as follows:

R902.1.2 Roof covering replacements in all zones. Roof covering within all other areas shall be Class A. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class A. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016) -275-

15.03.150 Roof and surface drainage in the right-of-way.

Section 902.1.4.2 is added to read as follows: Except as otherwise provided in this code or as indicated in the town's green infrastructure plan approved by resolution of the city council, in all zones, water from the roof of any building and from any paved area which would flow by gravity over a public right-of-way shall be carried by means of conductors under the parking strip area and through the curb to the gutter, or other approved location. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 757, § 4, 10-14-2019)

15.03.160 Roof and surface drainage termination.

Section 902.1.4.3 is added to read as follows: No storm water from any roof, impervious surfaces, point discharge or any paved or developed area shall be allowed to drain to adjacent properties nor shall this water be connected to the city's sanitary sewer system. Regardless of the slope of the source property, such water shall drain to either artificial or natural storm drainage facilities by gravity or pumping.
(Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.170 Spark arrestors.

Section R1003.9.2.1 is amended to read as follows:

Every chimney shall have a spark arrestor, either internally or externally mounted. Any spark arrestor to be mounted internally shall not be installed until installation plans for such arrestor have been submitted to and approved by the building division.

1. The net free area of the arrestor shall be not less than four times the net free area of the outlet of the chimney flue it serves.

2. The arrestor screen shall have heat and corrosion resistance equivalent to 12 gage wire, 19-gage galvanized steel or 24- gage stainless steel.

3. Openings shall not permit the passage of spheres having a diameter greater than ½ inch (12.7 mm) nor block the passage of spheres having a diameter less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).

15.03.171 Retroactive spark arrestor compliance.

All chimneys as described in section2025 605.2.1 of the 20252022 California Fire Code shall be retroactively protected with a spark arrestor when one or more of the following conditions exist:

2. In the event of any construction on such property for which a building permit is required, the final building permit signoff shall not be made until each such chimney has a spark arrestor has been installed and is in proper working order. (Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 10, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.03.180 (Reserved)
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15.03.190 Site maintenance.

Section 105.10 Site Maintenance is added to read as follows: All persons to whom permits are issued pursuant to any provision of this code shall, as a condition to the continuing validity of the permit, maintain the subject building site with proper parking, sanitary facilities, material storage, dust and erosion controls on the property site, including, without limitation, all structures thereon, free of all open trenches, tripping hazards, broken ware, empty cans, rubbish, garbage, metal pieces or parts, and all other refuse (collectively "debris"). The presence of debris is contrary to the purposes and intent of this code and is hereby deemed to pose a threat to the health, property, and public welfare of the inhabitants of the town. Violations of the duty to maintain building sites as described herein shall be punishable in the same manner as any other violation of this code. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.200—15.03.220 (Reserved)

15.03.230 California Office of Emergency Services (OES) placards.

The placards provided by the California Office of Emergency Services (OES). The placards are to be used during a "Post Disaster Safety Assessment" performed by the city building staff in the aftermath of any disaster. The post disaster assessment placards carry the weight of law per the direction of the California Office of Emergency Services. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.240 Amendment procedure
When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Residential Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissible environmental conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Residential Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissible environmental conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing bodyState Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 5, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 5, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 5, 11-14-2016)

15.03.250 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Residential Code.

15.04.010 Purpose.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.020 Adoption of the 20252022 California Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2.

The rules, regulations and requirements published by the International Code Council (ICC) as the 20252022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2," based on the International Building Code, including Appendix Chapters G and Appendix Chapter J and the State of California amendments thereto, are hereby adopted as and for the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

A. One copy of the 20252022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2 shall at all times be kept on file at the town building departmentin the town hall in the building official's office. It shall be accompanied by one copy of Chapter 15.04 of this Code (as well as any additional subsequent amendments) to show the amendments to the2025 2022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2.

B. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Code and the 20252022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise stated in this Code.

C. No provision of the 20252022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, or as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of this Hillsborough Municipal Code. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 11, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.030 Amendments to the of California Building Code.

The 20252022 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2 as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended, in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.04.040 through 15.04.22030.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.040—15.04.060050 (Reserved)

15.04.060 Work exempt from permit.

Section 105.2. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction:
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.070 Schedule of permit and penalty fees section.

Section 109.2108.2 Permit Feesis replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
109.2 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.
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A. A fee shall be set forth in the town's master fee schedule, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the master fee schedule, including subsection (C)(1) and (C)(2) of this section.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this chapter to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in the amount of not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order. 3) A document imaging charge shall be charged upon submission of every application for a combination, building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, grading and or encroachment permit. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.080 Contractor's bond.

Section 15.04.80 is added to read as follows: If a contractor's bond prior to the issuance of any permit for a new residence or other work to which this section is applicable in the opinion of the building official, the applicant shall file with the building official a performance, maintenance or completion bond in the amount of the estimated cost of the work allowed or required under the provisions of the permit. The purpose and intent of the bond is to insure the completion of all work including the installation of any required curbs, gutter, street, sewer, and water; the repair of any damage to any of the above; and the removal of all debris from streets, gutters, sidewalk areas, and job site. Upon completion of the permitted work, such bond shall be exonerated, less any charges against the applicant for any work required to be done or contracted to be done by the town to complete the work. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.090 Certificate of occupancy issued.

Section 111.2 is amended and Section 111.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
111.2 Certificate of occupancy issued. No final inspection by the building official as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed complete, and no certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued, nor shall any occupancy occur in accordance with CBC 3312.1, unless and until the installation of the prescribed fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved by the fire chief or designee. Once the prescribed fire protection facilities and access way have been completed and approved as required, and once final inspection by the building official is deemed complete, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the address or APN of the property and the name and address of the owner or the owner’s agent. The certificate shall also include a description of the portion of the work for which the certificate is being issued and a statement that such work has been inspected for compliance. The Building Official will indicate his/her name and sign the certificate, the code edition under which the work was permitted, whether the structure was required and thus contains an automatic fire sprinkler system, and any further stipulations or conditions that the permit was issued.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.095 Fire plan check.

Section 107 is amended and Section 107.2.1.1 is added to read as follows: When required by the fire code official, plans submitted to the building official for a permit shall be reviewed by the fire code official to determine compliance with all applicable -279-
standards including the California Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface CodeInternational Fire Code. Upon review a written report shall be returned to the building official listing deficiencies or compliance with the Code. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, added a new § 15.04.100, as set out below and later amended, and renumbered the existing 15.04.100 as 15.04.095, as set out above and later amended.

15.04.100 Ventilation.

Section 406.6.2 is amended by adding the following:

Section 406.6.2.1 A garage containing electrical charging stations shall provide a manually operated control switch that controls ventilation operations located in the command/control room for emergency operations. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.1001 Address identificationnumber.

Sections 502.1 is deleted and replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
502.1 Address identificationNumber. New and existing buildings, including accessory dwelling units, shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall be a minimum of four inches high with minimum stroke width of one-half inch and shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters.

Said numbers shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction. Size of numbers shall be as follows:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half-inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-inch (1") stroke by nine inches (9") high is required.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 13, 11-12-2019)

15.04.102 Multi-tenant buildings address number.

Section 502.1 is amended and Section 502.1.1 is added to read as follows:

15.04.103 Rear addressing.

Section 502.1 is amended and Section 502.1.2. is added to read as follows:

15.04.104 ADU addressing.

Section 502.1 is amended and Section 502.1.3 is added to read as follows:

Address signage for Residential Accessory Dwelling Units shall meet Town of Hillsborough specifications. -280-
(Ord. No. 758, § 16, 11-12-2019)

15.04.110 Additions and alterations – automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculation. [F] Section 903.1 is amended and Section 903.1.2 is added to read as follows: The standard for determining the size of addition and/or alteration for determining the threshold for fire sprinkler systems shall be determined by the following:

1. The square footage of every room being added and/or altered shall be included in the calculation of total square footage of addition and/or alteration.

2. The entire square footage shall be considered added or altered when at least fifty percent (50%) or greater of interior wall sheeting or ceiling within a room or area is new, removed, or replaced. Removed or replaced windows, doors, and opening are excluded from the calculation.

3. Cumulative square footage of each room being added or altered. c. A room is considered added or altered when fifty percent (50%) or more of interior wall or ceiling sheeting covering the wall planes of the room is removed, replaced, or new. d. Wall plane area of a room does not include the area of windows, doors, and openings.

4. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Exceptions:

Wall sheeting removal, replacement, or new installment shall not be calculated when necessitated for:

5. Building roof repair/replacement;

6. Fire damage repair;

7. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and

8. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.111 Existing Sprinklered buildings retrofits.
[F] Section 903.1 is amended and Section 903.1.3 is added. The following provisions apply to all sprinklered buildings:

15.04.112 Automatic fire sprinkler system requirementsWhere required. [F] Section 903.2 is replaced in its entirety to readdeleted and replaced as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.21 and be installed in:

1. Aall new occupiable and/or habitable buildings and structures. In addition, approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.23.

3. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) when must be protected with an automatic residential fire sprinkler system throughout the unit if the primary dwelling that the ADU is in accessory to is required to have or has an existing an automatic residential fire sprinkler system. If an existing primary dwelling is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system, fire sprinklers must be provided throughout both dwellings.

Exceptions:

2. Group U occupancies less than 1,200 square feet.

3. Additions and/or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the total square footage of the entire completed building.

4. Additions and/or alterations to residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures that do not exceed 20% of a building over 7,500 square feet.

5. Additions and/or alterations necessitated for:
a. Building roof repair/replacement;
b. Fire damage repair;
c. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and/or d. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement Section 15.04.110 outlines the standard used to calculate additions and/or alterations for purposes of determining applicability of this section.

Section 903.2.10.3, CFC is amendedadded by adding the following subsection to read as follows:
903.2.10(4) Lithium-ion batteries in vehicles. Areas which contain electric vehicle charging stations, and thus could contain lithium-ion batteries in vehicles, shall have a fire sprinkler density design of a minimum extra hazard, group 2 for the coverage of charging stations and for 15' in any direction of charging stations. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 17, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
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15.04.113 Sprinkler installation requirementsExisting building and structures.

Section 903.3 is amended to read as follows:
903.3 Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.9. When installed, sprinkler coverage shall be provided in the following locations:
a. Attic access openings
b. Areas in attics and crawl spaces containing storage, mechanical and/or electrical equipment [F] Section 903.2.21 is added to read as follows: All existing buildings and structures shall be retroactively protected by an approved automatic extinguishing system when the following conditions exist:
a. Non-residential buildings with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions and/or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area.

Exception: Group U occupancy less than 1,200 square feet. b. Residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions and/or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area.

Exceptions:

1. Additions or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the total square footage of the entire completed building.

2. Additions or alterations to residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures that do not exceed 20% of a building over 7,500 square feet.

3. The following scopes of work are excluded from calculations to determine area of alteration: building roof repair/replacement; fire damage repair; building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including, but not limited to, the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement. c. Aggregate. When more than one (1) addition and/or alteration for which building permits are required are submitted within a two (2) year period from the closure date of the initial permit, the sum of the square footage of these additions and/or alterations shall be aggregated for the purpose of determining calculations of Section 15.04.113." (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 18, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.114 Inspector's test valve.

Section 903.53.1.4 is amendedadded to read as follows:
903.5 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code. Single-family residential fire sprinkler systems within buildings greater than 3,600 square feet shall be equipped with an inspector’s test valve for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.115 Residential Carports, attached and detached garages Additional sprinkler locations.

Section 903.2.183.1.5 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
903.2.18 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies. The installation of a residential fire sprinkler system shall conform to the following:

1. Sprinklers shall be required throughout carports and garages. The required residential fire sprinkler shall be in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the 2025 California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers -283-
shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04
mm/min) over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Exception: Detached carports and garages less than 2,000 square feet in area and separated from residential buildings by no less than a minimum of 10 feet.

2. Sprinkler coverage shall be provided in the following locations:
a. Attic access openings
b. Areas of attics and crawl spaces containing storage, mechanical and/or electrical equipment.

Section 903.1.6 is added to read as follows:

Additional Commercial and Multi-family Dwelling Sprinkler Locations. Rooms or spaces which contain vehicle parking lifts or stacking systems shall be designed as an Extra-High Hazard Classification. Sprinkler design to include sidewall sprinkler heads designed at minimum Ordinary Group 2 in between each level.

Exception: Buildings classified as single-family dwellings. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 19, 11-12-2019; Ord.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.120 Fire sprinkler monitoring systems.

Section 903.4.21 is amended by adding the following condition to read as follows:
903.4.2 Monitoring.
…For new fire sprinkler monitoring systems, the approved supervisory station shall be defined as a UL approved central receiving station.
(Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.125 Acceptance and certification of fire alarm system.

Section 907.7 CFC is replaced in its entiretyamended to read as followsadd the following:
907.7 Acceptance and Certification. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72. New fire alarm systems installed in commercial and multi-family buildings shall be UL-Certified. Certificate shall be posted next to fire alarm control panel at time of final inspection. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.04.130 Minimum roof fire classification section.

Section 1505.1 is replacedamended in its entirety to read as follows:
1501.1 Minimum roof fire classification. Fire classification of roof assemblies shall be in accordance with Section 1505 as amended. All roof assemblies shall be Class A. All roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790. In addition, fire-retardant-treated wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898 and shall comply with 1505.6. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with the Table 1505.1 as amended. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.131 Roof minimum assembly classification for types of constructionfire retardant classes.

Table No. 1505.1 is replacedamended in its entirety to read as follows:

TABLE NO. 1505.1a

MINIMUM ROOF COVERING CLASSIFICATION FOR TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION Type IA IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB
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Roof
Covering

A A A A A A A A A
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.132 Roof covering within all other areas other than Fire Hazard Severity Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) area.

Section 1505.1.21505.1.3 is replacedamended in its entirety to read as follows:
1505.1.2 Roof covering replacement in all zones. Roof covering within all other areas shall be Class A. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class A. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.133 Roof and surface drainage in right-of-way.

Section 1503.4 amended and Section 1503.4.1 is added to read as follows:

Except as otherwise provided in this code or as indicated in the town's green infrastructure plan approved by resolution of the city council, in all zones, water from the roof of any building and from any paved area, which would flow by gravity over a public right-of-way, shall be carried by means of conductors under the parking strip area and through the curb to the gutter, or other approved location.
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 757, § 5, 10-14-2019)

15.04.134 Roof and surface drainage termination.

Section 1503.4 amended and section 1503.4.2 is added to read as follows: No storm water from any roof, impervious surfaces, point discharge or from any paved or developed area shall be allowed to drain to adjacent properties nor shall this water be connected to the city's sanitary sewer system. Regardless of the slope of the source property, such water shall drain to either artificial or natural storm drainage facilities by gravity or pumping. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.140 Shunt trip.

Section 3005.5 has been amended to read as follows: Shunt Trip Prohibited. Where elevator hoistways and/or elevator machine rooms containing elevator control equipment are located within buildings equipped with automatic fire sprinklers, the following is required in lieu of a shunt trip:

1. The elevator machine room shall be constructed with the minimum fire rating as the hoistway. For non-rated hoistways, the minimum rating for the machine room shall be one hour throughout in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code for fire barriers.

2. Fire sprinklers at the top of the hoistway and inside the elevator machine room shall not be installed.

3. Means for elevator shutdown shall not be installed.
(Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.14015.04.150—15.04.180 (Reserved)
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15.04.190 Maintenance.

Section 3401.2 is amended and section 3401.2.1 is added to read as follows: All persons to whom permits are issued pursuant to any provision of this code shall, as a condition to the continuing validity of the permit, maintain the subject building site with proper parking, sanitary facilities, material storage, dust and erosion controls on the property site, including, without limitation, all structures thereon, free of all open trenches, tripping hazards, broken ware, empty cans, rubbish, garbage, metal pieces or parts, and all other refuse (collectively "debris"). The presence of debris is contrary to the purposes and intent of this code and is hereby deemed to pose a threat to the health, property, and public welfare of the town's inhabitants. Violations of the duty to maintain building sites as described herein shall be punishable in the same manner as any other violation of this code. (Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.200 (Reserved)

15.04.210 Additions, alterations or repairs.

Section 3403 Additions, Alterations or Repairs of the California Building Code is amended by adding one new table and sixteen new Subsections, as follows:

Subsection 3403.5.1 is added to read as follows: 3403.5.1 Repairs. Repairs of structural elements shall comply with this section.

Subsection 3403.5.1.1 is added to read as follows: 3403.5.1.1 Seismic evaluation and design. Seismic evaluation and design of an existing building and its components shall be based on the following criteria:

Subsection 3403.5.1.1.1 is added to read as follows: 3403.5.1.1.1 Evaluation and design procedures. The seismic evaluation and design shall be based on the procedures specified in the building code, ASCE 31 Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings (for evaluation only) or ASCE 41 Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings. The procedures contained in Appendix A of the International Existing Building Code shall be permitted to be used as specified in Section 3403.5.1.1.3.

Subsection 3403.5.1.1.2 is added to read as follows: 3403.5.1.1.2 CBC level seismic forces. When seismic forces are required to meet the building code level, they shall be one of the following:
1) 100 percent of the values in the building code. The R factor used for analysis in accordance with Chapter 16 of the building code shall be the R factor specified for structural systems classified as "Ordinary" unless it can be demonstrated that the structural system satisfies the proportioning and detailing requirements for systems classified as "Intermediate" or "Special".
2) Forces corresponding to BSE-1 and BSE-2 Earthquake Hazard Levels defined in ASCE 41. Where ASCE 41 is used, the corresponding performance levels shall be those shown in Table 3403.5.1.1.2.

Table 3403.5.1.1.2 is added to read as follows:

TABLE 3403.5.1.1.2
ASCE 41 and ASCE 31 PERFORMANCE LEVELS

OCCUPANCY CATEGORY (BASED ON IBC
TABLE 1604.5)

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE WITH
ASCE 31 AND WITH ASCE 41 BSE-1

EARTHQUAKE HAZARD LEVEL

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE WITH
ASCE 41 BSE-2 EARTHQUAKE HAZARD
LEVEL
I Life Safety (LS) Collapse Prevention (CP)
II Life Safety (LS) Collapse Prevention (CP)
III Note (a) Note (a)
IV Immediate Occupancy (IO) Life Safety (LS)
a. Performance Levels for Occupancy Category III shall be taken as halfway between the performance levels specified for Occupancy Category II and Occupancy Category IV.
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Subsection 3403.5.1.1.3 is added to read as follows: 3403.5.1.1.3 Reduced CBC level seismic forces. When seismic forces are permitted to meet reduced building code levels, they shall be one of the following:
1) 75 percent of the forces prescribed in the building code. The R factor used for analysis in accordance with Chapter 16 of the building code shall be the R factor as specified in Section 3403.5.1.1.2. 2) In accordance with the applicable chapters in Appendix A of the International Existing Building Code as specified in Items 2.1 through 2.5 below. Structures or portions of structures that comply with the requirements of the applicable chapter in Appendix A shall be deemed to comply with the requirements for reduced building code force levels.

2.1) The seismic evaluation and design of unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings in Occupancy Category I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix Chapter A1.

2.2) Seismic evaluation and design of the wall anchorage system in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings with flexible diaphragms in Occupancy Category I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix Chapter A2.

2.3) Seismic evaluation and design of cripple walls and sill plate anchorage in residential buildings of light-frame wood construction in Occupancy Category I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix Chapter A3.

2.4) Seismic evaluation and design of soft, weak, or open-front wall conditions in multiunit residential buildings of wood construction in Occupancy Category I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix Chapter A4.

2.5) Seismic evaluation and design of concrete buildings and concrete with masonry infill buildings in all Occupancy Categories are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix Chapter A5. 3) In accordance with ASCE 31 based on the applicable performance level as shown in Table 3403.5.1.1.2. 4) Those associated with the BSE-1 Earthquake Hazard Level defined in ASCE 41 and the performance level as shown in Table 3403.5.1.1.2. Where ASCE 41 is used, the design spectral response acceleration parameters Sxs and Sx1 shall not be taken less than 75 percent of the respective design spectral response acceleration parameters SDS and SD1 defined by the International Building Code and its reference standards.

Subsection 3403.5.1.2 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.1.2 Wind Design. Wind design of existing buildings shall be based on the procedures specified in the building code.

Subsection 3403.5.2 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2 Repairs to damaged buildings. Repairs to damaged buildings shall comply with this section.

Subsection 3403.5.2.1 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.1 Unsafe conditions. Regardless of the extent of structural damage, unsafe conditions shall be eliminated.

Subsection 3403.5.2.2 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.2 Substantial structural damage to vertical elements of the lateral-force-resisting system. A building that has sustained substantial structural damage to the vertical elements of its lateral-force-resisting system shall be evaluated and repaired in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 3403.5.2.2.1 through 3403.5.2.2.3.

Subsection 3403.5.2.2.1 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.2.1 Evaluation. The building shall be evaluated by a registered design professional and the evaluation findings shall be submitted to the building official. The evaluation shall establish whether the damaged building, if repaired to its pre-damage state, would comply with the provisions of the building code. Wind forces for this evaluation shall be those prescribed in the building code. Seismic forces for this evaluation are permitted to be the reduced level seismic forces specified in Code Section 3403.5.1.1.3.

Subsection 3403.5.2.2.2 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.2.2 Extent of repair for compliant buildings. If the evaluation establishes compliance of the pre-damage building in accordance with Section 3403.5.2.2.1, then repairs shall be permitted that restore the building to its predamage state, using materials and strengths that existed prior to the damage.

Subsection 3403.5.2.2.3 is added to read as follows:
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3403.5.2.2.3 Extent of repair for non-compliant buildings. If the evaluation does not establish compliance of the pre-damage building in accordance with Section 3403.5.2.2.1, then the building shall be rehabilitated to comply with applicable provisions of the building code for load combinations including wind or seismic forces. The wind design level for the repair shall be as required by the building code in effect at the time of original construction unless the damage was caused by wind, in which case the design level shall be as required by the code in effect at the time of original construction or as required by the building code, whichever is greater. Seismic forces for this rehabilitation design shall be those required for the design of the pre-damaged building, but not less than the reduced level seismic forces specified in Section 3403.5.1.1.3. New structural members and connections required by this rehabilitation design shall comply with the detailing provisions of the building code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, and location.

Subsection 3403.5.2.3 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.3 Substantial structural damage to vertical load-carrying components. Vertical load-carrying components that have sustained substantial structural damage shall be rehabilitated to comply with the applicable provisions for dead and live loads in the building code. Undamaged vertical load-carrying components that receive dead or live loads from rehabilitated components shall also be rehabilitated to carry the design loads of the rehabilitation design. New structural members and connections required by this rehabilitation design shall comply with the detailing provisions of the building code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, and location.

Subsection 3403.5.2.3.1 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.3.1 Lateral force-resisting elements. Regardless of the level of damage to vertical elements of the lateral force-resisting system, if substantial structural damage to vertical load-carrying components was caused primarily by wind or seismic effects, then the building shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 3403.5.2.2.1 and, if noncompliant, rehabilitated in accordance with Section 3403.5.2.2.3.

Subsection 3403.5.2.4 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.2.4 Less than substantial structural damage. For damage less than substantial structural damage, repairs shall be allowed that restore the building to its pre-damage state, using materials and strengths that existed prior to the damage. New structural members and connections used for this repair shall comply with the detailing provisions of the building code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, and location.

Subsection 3403.5.3 is added to read as follows:
3403.5.3 Referenced Standards
Standard Reference Number Title Referenced in Code Section Number ASCE 31-03 Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings 3403.5.1.1.1, TABLE 3403.5.1.1.2, 3403.5.1.1.3
ASCE 41-06 Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing
Buildings
3403.5.1.1.1, 3403.5.1.1.2, TABLE
3403.5.1.1.2, 3403.5.1.1.3
(Ord. No. 690, § 6, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 6, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 6, 11-14-2016)

15.04.220 (Reserved)

15.04.230 California Office of Emergency Services (OES) placards.

15.04.240 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Building Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissibleenvironmental conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the -288-
California Building Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissibleenvironmental conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing bodyState Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.04.250 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Building Code.

15.05.010 Purpose.

15.05.020 Adoption by Reference.

The Town adopts and shall enforce the provisions of Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations relating to substandard buildings, including any successor provisions.

15.05.030 Definition.

For purposes of this Chapter, “substandard building” shall have the meaning set forth in California Health and Safety Code §17920.3, as amended.

15.05.040 Enforcement Authority.

The Building Official is designated as the enforcing officer for purposes of this Chapter.

15.05.050 Appeals.

Appeals of enforcement actions under this Chapter shall be processed in accordance with HMC Title 15 and Chapter 1.08.

15.05.060 Designating board of appeals.

The administrative hearing panel is hereby designated as the board of appeals.

15.05.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the Uniform Housing Code, 1997 Edition, and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, 1997 Edition, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town of Hillsborough, as to matters contained therein, except as herein otherwise provided.

B. Three copies of the Uniform Housing Code and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, 1997 Editions, shall at all times be kept on file in the town hall, with one copy each in the offices of the city clerk, city engineer, and chief building official. The copies shall be accompanied by copies of Section 15.05.040 through 15.05.050 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the Hillsborough amendments to the Uniform Housing Code and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.

C. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Hillsborough Municipal Code and the Uniform Housing Code or the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, when applied to any particular case, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety shall be complied with unless otherwise specifically stated in the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

D. No provisions of the Uniform Housing Code or the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code. (Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)

15.05.030 Amendment of the Uniform Housing Code and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings—Generally.

The Uniform Housing Code and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings as adopted by this chapter are hereby amended in their application to the town of Hillsborough as set forth in Hillsborough Municipal Code Sections 15.05.040 through 15.05.050.
(Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)
Article I. Uniform Housing Code
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15.05.040 Chapter 2, Section 203—Designating housing advisory and appeals board.

The city council is hereby designated as the housing advisory and appeals board referred to in Chapter 2, Section 203 of the Uniform Housing Code.
(Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)
Article II. Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings

15.05.050 Chapter 2, Section 205—Designating board of appeals.

The city council is hereby designated as the board of appeals referred to in Chapter 2, Section 205 of the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.
(Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)
Article III. Amendments

15.05.060 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the town of Hillsborough Building Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the Uniform Housing Code or the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings due to local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions, the chief building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendment(s) to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modification in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the aforementioned codes or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. Each such finding shall indicate which change or modification the finding applies to. Such finding(s) shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)

15.05.070 Promulgation of updated editions of the Uniform Housing Code and/or the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.

As successive editions of the Uniform Housing and/or Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings are promulgated, the town of Hillsborough Building Department, under the guidance and direction of the chief building official, shall review the provisions of the new version(s) of such code(s) in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the Uniform Housing Code and the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings then in force, as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The chief building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out in Section 15.05.060 above, such revised version(s) of the Uniform Housing Code and/or the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, together with all amendments thereto which are required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within the limits of the town of Hillsborough.
(Ord. 650 § 2 (part), 2003)
Chapter 15.06 HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE

15.06.010 Purpose.

The purpose of the California Historical Building Code is to provide regulations for the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, relocation, or reconstruction of buildings or properties designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. The California Historical Building Code is intended to provide solutions for the preservation of qualified historical buildings or properties, to -291-
promote sustainability, to provide access for persons with disabilities, to provide a cost-effective approach to preservation, and to provide for the reasonable safety of the occupants or users. The California Historical Building Code requires enforcing agencies to accept solutions that are reasonably equivalent to the regular code (as defined in Title 24 Part 8) when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties. The intent of the California Historical Building Code is to facilitate the preservation and continuing use of qualified historical buildings or properties while providing reasonable safety for the building occupants and access for persons with disabilities.

15.06.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Historical Building Code, 20252022 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 8), 20252022 Edition, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

D. No provision of the California Historical Building Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 7, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 7, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 758, § 40, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord.

No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.06.030 Amendment of California Historical Building Code.

None.

15.06.040—15.06.080 (Reserved)

15.06.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Historical Building Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Historical Building Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures -292-
as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 7, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 7, 11-12-2013)

15.06.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Historical Building Code.

15.07.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death or injury that may result from the effects of increased demands or earthquakes on existing unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings. The provisions of this chapter (as defined in Title 24 Part 8) are intended as minimum standards for structural vertical and lateral (seismic) force resistance, and are established primarily to reduce the risk of life loss or injury. Compliance with these provisions will not necessarily prevent loss of life or jury, or prevent earthquake damage to rehabilitated buildings.

15.07.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Existing Building Code, 20252022 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 10), 20252022 Edition, including Appendix A, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.07.030 Amendment of California Existing Building Code.

None. The 2025 California Existing Building Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Sections 15.07.040 through 15.07.080. -293-
Any section within 15.07 that modifies the 2025 California Existing Building Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013)

15.07.040 Structural and geotechnical evaluation, design, and retrofit triggers.

Where work may affect foundations, bearing conditions, slope stability, or impose new loads, a geotechnical evaluation shall be provided when required by the Building Official.

Where such evaluation determines that retrofit is necessary to safeguard health, life, or safety, the retrofit shall comply with one of the following, as applicable:

1. Lateral force-resisting systems.

2. Vertical force-resisting systems.

15.07.050040—15.07.080 (Reserved)

15.07.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the Building Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Existing Building Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Existing Building Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. -294-
(Ord. No. 690, § 8, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 8, 11-12-2013)

15.07.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Existing Building Code.

15.08.010 Purpose.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.020 Adoption.

A. The rules and regulations and standards printed in the California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3 20252022 Edition, together with Article 89. Provisions thereto as incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24), 20252022 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Electrical Code" respectively) (including the Appendix thereto) is hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein provided.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.08.030 Amendment of California Electrical Code.

The Electrical Code as adopted by this chapter is hereby amended, in its application to the town as set forth within Sections

15.08.04050 through 15.08.14030.
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Any section within 15.08 that modifies the 2025 California Electrical Code shall include the code section being changed or modified and language which describes the nature of the change or modification. Sections that do not include such reference or language are local development standards and are not amendments to Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.040—15.08.050 (Reserved)

15.08.060 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 89.3.3(B) is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:

89.3.3(B) Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A of the Town of Hillsborough mMaster fFee sSchedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order.
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for an electrical permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.070—15.08.140 (Reserved)

15.08.150 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Electrical Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modification in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Electrical Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures -296-
as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 9, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 9, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 7, 11-14-2016)

15.08.160 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Electrical Code.

15.10.010 Purpose.

Sections within this Chapter may include both local amendments to Title 24 as adopted therein and local development standards related to construction in the Town of Hillsborough that are not part of Title 24. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016)

15.10.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Energy Code, 20252022 Edition, as contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 6), 20252022 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Energy Code") (including the Appendix thereto) are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

D. No provision of the California Energy Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)
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15.10.030 Reserved.

15.10.040 Amended—Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A in the Hillsborough Master Fee Scheduleschedule 2-E, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule.
1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order.
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for an electrical permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016)

15.10.050 Reserved.

Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 794, § 3, adopted September 9, 2024, repealed § 15.10.050 which pertained to the Energy Reach Code and derived from Ord. No. 783, adopted April 11, 2022.

15.10.060—15.10.080 (Reserved)

15.10.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Energy Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Energy Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. -298-
(Ord. No. 690, § 10, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 10, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 8, 11-14-2016)

15.10.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Energy Code.

15.12.010 Purpose.

15.12.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Mechanical Code, 20252022 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 6), 20252022 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Mechanical Code") (including the Appendix thereto) are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein.

B. One copy of the Mechanical Code shall at all times be kept on file at the town's building department. The copy shall be accompanied by copies of Hillsborough Municipal Code Chapter 15.12 (as well as any additional, subsequent amendments) to show the town amendments to the California Mechanical Code.

No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.12.030 Amendment of California Mechanical Code—Generally.

The Mechanical Code, as adopted by this chapter, is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth within Section

15.12.040 through 15.12.80.

15.12.040 Amended—Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 104.6 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
104.6 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

B. The value to be used in computing the electrical permit fee, the plan review fee and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, mechanicalelectrical, and any other permanent construction or equipment.

C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with Table No. 1-A in the Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule. 1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work.
2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order.
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for a mechanicaln electrical permit.

The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.050—15.12.080 (Reserved)

15.12.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Mechanical Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Mechanical Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016)

15.12.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Mechanical Code.

As successive editions of the California Mechanical Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the building department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new code in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Mechanical Code -300-
then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set above, such revised version of the California Mechanical Code, together with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits. (Ord. No. 690, § 11, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 11, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 9, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.16 PLUMBING CODE

15.16.010 Purpose.

15.16.020 Adoption.

A. The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Plumbing Code, 20252022 Edition (including the Appendix thereto) contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 5), 20252022 Edition, (hereinafter referred to as the "Plumbing Code") are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided.

D. No provision of the Plumbing Code, as amended hereby, shall be deemed to supersede any other provision of the Hillsborough Municipal Code.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 23, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.16.030 Amendment of Plumbing Code—Generally.

15.16.040 Amended—Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

Section 104.5 is replaced in its entirety to read as follows:
104.5 Schedule of permit and penalty fees.

A. The fee schedule for a permit shall be as established by resolution or ordinance adopted by the city council, plus any additional fees which may be established or mandated by state or federal law or city ordinance. The applicable permit fees as set forth in Table No. 1-A2-E. The table will be kept in the Master Fee Schedule.

B. The value to be used in computing the plumbing electrical permit fee, the plan review fee, and other fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued as well as all finish work, plumbingelectrical, and any other permanent construction or equipment.
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C. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule, including subparagraphs (1), (2), and (3). The fee schedule is located in the Town of Hillsborough's Master Fee Schedule. 1) Whenever a permit fee is required by this ordinance to be paid prior to starting work and such work is started prior to obtaining a permit, the scheduled fee shall be the applicable permit fee as set forth in Table No. 1-A found in the master fee schedule, plus an additional amount of up to ten times the applicable permit fee. The exact amount shall be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems caused by the unpermitted work. 2) If a stop work order is issued, it may not be lifted until a permit reactivation fee has been paid in an amount not less than two hundred fifty dollars up to one thousand dollars, the exact amount to be set by the building official in the amount that will, in his or her good faith estimate, recover the cost of town staff time expended to deal with the problems involved in the issuance of the stop work order.
3) A document imaging charge may be charged upon submission of every application for an plumbingelectrical permit. The applicable fee shall be found in the master fee schedule. (Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.050—15.16.070 (Reserved)

15.16.080 Chapter 6 amended—Water supply and distribution.

A Section 606.6605.0—Valves. Section 605.3 of Section 605.0 is hereby amended by adding the following language at the end of the firstsecond sentence to read as follows:
606.6 Accessible.
…"The supply piping to a single family residence, and the buildings accessory thereto, shall have a shut-off valve on the discharge side of the meter within one foot of the meter box". (Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016)

15.16.085. Installation of backwater protection.

A. Definitions. As used in this chapter:

2. "Drainageing unit fixture" means a drainage unit fixture listed in the California Plumbing Code.

3. "Inadequate height differential" means that the flood level rim of a drainage unit fixture on a property's sanitary sewage drainage system is below or less than twelve inches above the nearest upstream manhole or flushing inlet cover on the sanitary sewer main serving the fixture's drainage piping.

4. "Licensed professional" means a person authorized under California law to render an applicable certification to the property owner and the town regarding a specific question under this section.

5. "Sewage relief valve" means a device permanently installed on a building sewer lateral in such manner to allow sewage backflow to relieve to grade outside the building.

B. Backwater protection required prior to receiving a plumbing permit. with a date of issue between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2006. When an application is submitted for a plumbing permit, between the dates of January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2006 the applicant must certify the presence of backwater protection due to an inadequate height differential, or indicate request and receive an exemption from the need for backwater protection because no inadequate height differential exists, the flood level rim of the lowest drainage fixture units located on the property are at an elevation that is at least twelve inches or more above the nearest upstream manhole on the main sewer as determined by a licensed professional or the building official.

C. Backwater protection installation required by January 1, 2007. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, all properties with drainage unit fixtures at an inadequate height differential shall have backwater protection installed by January 1, 2007.
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D. Ongoing responsibility. Once installed, a property owner shall ensure that backwater protection is maintained, so as to be fully operable in the sewer lateral(s) serving the property owner's real property whenever an inadequate height differential exists on the property.

15.16.090 (Reserved)

15.16.100 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Plumbing Code due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or other statutorily permissibleenvironmental conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Plumbing CodeBuilding Standards Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modification or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical or other statutorily permissibleenvironmental conditions. Such findings shall be made available as a public record.

Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing bodyState Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.16.110 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Plumbing Code.

As successive editions of the California Plumbing Code are promulgated and incorporated by reference in the California Building Standards Code, the Building Department, under the guidance and direction of the building official, shall review the provisions of the new version(s) of such code(s) in order to determine whether they are consistent with the provisions of the California Plumbing Code then in force as modified by the provisions of this chapter. The building official shall submit a list of recommendations with respect to such changes (if any) to the city council. Upon review and adoption by the city council, according to the procedure set out at Section 15.16.100, such revised version of the California Plumbing Code with all amendments thereto which are recommended by the building official and/or required by the provisions of this chapter, shall govern all buildings and construction within town limits.
(Ord. No. 690, § 12, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 12, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 742, § 10, 11-14-2016) Chapter 15.17 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE

15.17.010 Adoption.

The rules, regulations and standards printed in the California Referenced Standards Code, 20252022 Edition, contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 12), 20252022 Edition, are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein except as herein otherwise provided. (Ord. No. 758, § 42, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) -303-
Chapter 15.18 RECYCLING OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING ENFORCEMENTDEMOLITION DEBRIS2

15.18.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to is to promote the recycling and/or salvage for reuse of nonhazardous construction and demolition wastedebris in order to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, and to meet the town's obligations under AB 939 and the current version of the California Green Buildings Standards Code (CALGreen). (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.020 AdoptionDiversion requirements.

The Town adopts and shall enforce the construction waste management requirements of CALGreen, including any successor provisions, andApplicants must divert from landfills a minimum of sixty-five percent, by weight, construction and demolition debris generated from the project or other amount established by state law, whichever is higher, by using recycling, reuse, and diversion programs. Applicants must also comply with California Green Building Standards Code in accordance with Chapter 15.19. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.025 Enforcement Authority.

15.18.030 Construction Wwaste managementreduction plan submittal.

A. Applicants for any project must submit a properly completed waste reduction plan, identifying all waste materials expected to be generated as a result of the project at the time of demolition or building permit application. No building or demolition permit shall be issued until the applicant has submitted a waste reduction plan in the form required by the building official and until the waste reduction plan has been approved by the building official or his or her designee.

B. The waste reduction plan must contain, at a minimum, the following:

1. The type of project;

2. The total square footage of the project;

3. The estimated weight of project construction and demolition debris to be generated by material type; 2Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 771, § 2, adopted September 13, 2021, repealed Ch. 15.18, §§ 15.18.010—15.18.090, and enacted a new Ch. 15.18 as set out herein and later amended. Former Ch. 15.18 pertained to similar subject matter and derived from Ord. 628, adopted 2001.
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4. The construction and demolition debris materials that will be diverted from disposal by recycling, reuse on the project or salvage for future use or sale;

5. If construction and demolition debris will be sorted on-site (source-separated) or bulk mixed (single stream);

6. Diversion facilities where the construction and demolition debris will be taken;

7. Construction methods taken to reduce the amount of construction and demolition debris generated; and,

8. The amount of construction and demolition debris diverted by weight.

C. Every person or entity to whom a building or demolition permit has been issued ("permittee") shall comply, and require their subcontractors to comply, with the provisions of the approved waste reduction plan applicable to the permit.

D. If the permittee subsequently wishes to amend the approved waste reduction plan, the permittee shall submit the request in writing to the building official. The building official or his or her designee shall approve or deny the requested amendment, as submitted or as modified by the building official or his or her designee, as appropriate.

E. The permittee shall collect and retain:

1. Weight tickets;

2. An inventory of reused items;

3. Receipts and other records from all recipients of discarded material that demonstrate the reuse, recycling, and disposal of all material generated by and hauled from the project; and

4. Such other documentation as necessary to establish compliance with the approved waste reduction plan.

F. The permittee shall, for commercial projects involving additions and alterations, verify that universal waste items, including fluorescent lamps and ballast and mercury containing thermostats are properly disposed of and diverted from the landfills. "Universal waste" means batteries, electronic devices, mercury-containing equipment, lamps, cathode ray tubes or glass, and aerosol cans. A list of prohibited universal waste materials shall be included in the construction documents.

G. Prior to final inspection of the project or as otherwise required by the waste reduction plan, the permittee shall complete and submit to the building official a diversion summary sheet and the documentation described in subsection E of this section. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.035 Issuance of building permit.

15.18.040 Payment of monitoring costs.

Any person or entity which has previously failed to comply with CALGreen an approved construction waste management requirements reduction plan or with the other provisions of the ordinance codified in this chapter may, at the time of submitting any subsequent construction waste management documentationreduction plan for approval, be required to pay a monitoring fee in the amount set from time to time by resolution of the city council to cover the costs of monitoring compliance with the approved construction waste management reduction compliance methodplan. The decision as to whether the facts warrant the imposition of the monitoring fee shall be made by the building official. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)

15.18.050 Penalties.

Violation of any provision of this chapter, including, but not limited to:

A. Demolition or construction before having or without having an approved construction waste management methodreduction plan;
B. Failure to comply with the CALGreen construction waste management requirementsapproved waste reduction plan (as amended, if applicable);
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C. Failure to provide all required documentation prior to final inspection or as required by the waste reduction plan shall subject the violator to a penalty of up to ten times the permit fee for the building or demolition permit, as determined by the building official, as set forth in Sections 15.04.070 and 15.70.020(A) of this code. (Ord. No. 771, § 2, 9-13-2021)
Chapter 15.19 GREEN BUILDING REGULATIONS3

15.19.015 Adoption.

The rules, regulations, and standards printed in the California Green Building Standards Code, 20252022 Edition, as contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24 part 11), 20252022 Edition are hereby adopted as the rules, regulations, and standards for the town as to all matters contained therein, except as otherwise provided herein. (Ord. No. 758, § 24, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Chapter 15.20 FIRE CODE4

15.20.010 Adoption of the 20252022 California Fire Code, 2024the 2021 International Fire Code Appendices, and Public Resources Code, Division 4, Section 4291.

There is adopted by the town for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire or explosion, that certain code which contains building standards known as the 20252022 California Fire Code and the all International Fire Code, 20242021 Edition, together with all appendices, except Appendices A, D, J and P, and the State of California amendments thereto, and the Public Resources Code, Division 4, Section 4291.

15.20.020 Amendments to the California Fire Code (CFC) and International Fire Code (IFC).

The California Fire Code and the International Fire Code are is amended or modified as follows:
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.025 Chapter 1, Section 105.3.3, CFCIFC is amended—Occupancy prohibited before approval.

Section 105.3.3, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows with the following:
3Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 24, adopted November 12, 2019, repealed §§ 15.19.010 and 15.19.020—15.19.080, which pertained to purpose, definitions, green building standards for compliance, incentives for compliance, design guidelines, green building regulation, payment of monitoring fee, and penalties, respectively, and derived from Ord. No. 686, adopted April 13, 2009 and Ord. No. 715, adopted June 9, 2014.
4Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted November 14, 2016, amended the Code by repealing former ch. 15.20, §§

15.20.010—15.20.105, and 15.20.155—15.20.170. Former ch. 15.20 pertained to the fire code, and derived from Ord. No. 712, § 13, adopted November 12, 2013.
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Section 105.3.3. No final inspection by the building official as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed complete and no certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy shall be issued unless and until the installation of the prescribed fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved by the fire chief. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.026 Chapter 1, Section 106.2, CFC is amended—Examination of Documents.

Section 106.2, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as followswith the following:

15.20.030 Chapter 1, Sections 108.2107.1 and 107.2, CFC is amended – Permits and Fees.

Section 108.2107.1.2, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replacedis added to this code and shall to read as follows:

Section 180.2107.1.2. Permits and Fees
a. The fees for the permits and other services shall be as established by resolution of the Central County Fire Department as amended from time to time. The fee shall be set to cover the cost of the Fire Department to review and inspect the intended activities, operations or functions. The fees must be applied to the appropriate agency, Town of Hillsborough or Central County Fire Department, depending on the type of service.

15.20.031 Section 1078.4, CFC is amended – Work without permit investigation and fee.

Section 108.4, 107.4 CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as followswith the following:

Section 108.4107.4. Work Without Permit Investigation and Fee. -307-
Section 107.4. Investigation—Work without a permit
Investigation. Whenever construction or work for which a permit is required by this code and has been commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for the work. All work done without a required permit, including demolition of all or part of a structure or system shall be subject to the investigation and fees imposed by this section.

Section 107.4.1 is added to this code and shall read as follows:

Section 107.4.1. Fee—Work without a permit
In the event work is done without an issued permit, an investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected as a civil penalty, whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be up to 10 times the fire permit fee. The investigation fee shall be determined by the Fire Chief and shall be based on the staff time reasonably required to resolve all of the issues related to the work that has been performed without a permit. No construction work permit shall be issued until the investigation fee has been paid in full.

15.20.035 Chapter 1, Section 112111, CFC is amended—Board of Appeals.

Section 112111, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as followswith the following:

Section 112111. Appeal and review.
(a) The chief of the fire department shall be charged with the duty and responsibility of administering the provisions of this chapter.
(b) Whenever it is provided herein that certain things shall be done in accordance with an order of the fire department, such order shall be complied with. Any person aggrieved thereby may appeal to the fire chief in writing within ten (10) days after the date of such order, except as otherwise provided in this chapter. The fire chief, or in his or her absence the deputy fire chief, shall issue a written decision to affirm, modify or reverse the order within two (2) business days of receipt of the appeal. The fire chief's written decision may be appealed to the Central County Fire Department Fire Board no later than ten (10) days from the date of the fire chief's written decision. The fire board's decision shall be final and conclusive and may not be appealed to the city council. Except in the case of immediate hazard, the enforcement of the order shall be suspended until such person has exhausted the appeal process as described above. (c) Any court action or proceeding to review or challenge a decision or order of the fire board shall be barred unless it is commenced within twenty (20) days of the date of service of the written decision or order (or such later date as may be specified by California Government Code Section 53069.4), and such decision or order shall contain a statement so advising the prospective appellant(s) of this time limit on seeking court review. A decision of the fire board shall be considered final for purposes of seeking court review, and no review or other consideration by the city council shall be necessary. However, no action or proceeding to review or challenge a fire board decision shall be permitted unless each ground or basis for such action or proceeding first has been asserted to the fire board pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 15.20.035.
(Ord. No. 758, § 27, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 27, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.035 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.035, pertained to Chapter 1, Section 108, IFC amended—board of appeals, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.040 Sections 315, CFC is amended—General Storage.

Section 315.2, CFC is amended and Section 315.3.5 is added to read as follows:

Section 315.2 Permit required. A permit for miscellaneous combustible materials shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5.

Exception:
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Storage of combustible materials other than motorized vehicles or vessels shall not be permitted in a public parking garage or in a garage or carport serving a Group R, Division 1 or Group R, Division 2 Occupancy, unless the method of storage is approved by the Fire Code Official.

Section 315.3.15, CFC is amended by adding the an additional provision following the first sentenceadded to read as follows:

Section 315.3.15. Ceiling clearanceDesignation of storage heights. …Where required by the fire code official, a visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height shall be provided and shall be a four (4") inch wide line in contrasting color along a wall or storage rack in accordance with Section 315.3.5.1, CFC.

Section 315.3.5.1, CFC added to read as follows:

Section 315.3.5.1. The approved visual method of indicating maximum allowable storage shall be a four (4") inch wide line in contrasting color along a wall or storage rack.
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 28, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, repealed former § 15.20.040, which pertained to Chapter 1, Section 113.1, IFC added—investigation and fee and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.045 Section 503.3.1, CFC is amended—Fire lane designation Mmarking.

Section 503.3, CFC is deleted and replaced in its entiretyamended by adding Section 503.3.1 to read as follows:

Section 503.3.1 Fire Lane Designation Marking. Where required by the fire code official, fire lanes and apparatus access roads shall be identified and prohibit obstruction thereof Designation of fire lanes shall be by one of the following means:

1. By outlining and hash marking the area in contrasting colors clearly marking it with the words "Fire Lane - No Parking.

15.20.050 Section 505.1 through 505.1.4, CFC is amended—Premises identification.

Section 505.1.1, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 505.1.1 Address identification. Size of numbers shall be as follows:New and existing buildings, including accessory dwelling units, shall be provided with and shall maintain address identification that is legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or the road fronting the property; the characters shall contrast their background, be Arabic characters, not spelled out, and:

1. When the structure is thirty-six (36) to fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-half-inch (½") stroke by six inches (6") high is required.

2. When the structure is more than fifty (50) feet from the street or fire apparatus access, a minimum of one-inch (1") stroke by nine inches (9") high is required.

Sections 505.1.2, 505.1.3, and 505.1.4, CFC are added to read as follows:

Section 505.1.2 Multi-Tenant Buildings. Numbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be a minimum of one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address -309-
numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall be posted at a height no greater than 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.

Section 505.1.3 Rear Addressing. When required by the fire official, approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the fire apparatus road at the back of a property or where rear parking lots or alleys provide and acceptable vehicular access. Number stroke and size shall comply with 505.1.1.

Section 505.1.4 ADU Addressing. Address signage for Residential Accessory Dwelling Units shall meet Town of Hillsborough specifications.

The fire code official may require address identification in additional locations to facilitate emergency response, and where access is by means of a private road or not visible from the right-of-way, a monument shall be used to identify the structure.
(Ord. No. 758, § 30, 11-12-2019)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 30, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.050 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.050 pertained to Sections 505.1 through 505.1.3, CFC—premises identification, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.055 Sections 506.1, CFC is amended—Key boxes.

Section 506.1, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replacedamended and 506.1.1.1, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 506.1 is modified to add as follows:

Section 506.1 Where Required. To ensure access to or within a structure or an area that may be restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or firefighting purposes, a key box shall be required by the fire code official, including in the following instances The key box shall be of an approved type and shall contain contents as established in Section 506.1.1.1. A key box shall be installed in accordance with Fire Department standards for all new buildings. For existing buildings equipped with key box, it shall be upgraded to current Fire Department standards at the time the building permit is issued, which include modifications or alterations to front entrance of building.

An emergency gate key switch shall be installed on all new electronic driveway or entryway gates. The key switch shall conform to current Fire Department standards.

The key box shall be of an approved typed listed in accordance with UL 1307, and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required.

Section 506.1.1.1, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 506.1.1.1 Key box contents requirements. Required keys include, but are not limited to: a master entry key, elevator control, fire alarm control panels, fire sprinkler control valve access, and building utilities. Contents inside key box shall follow approved fire department standards. If the business/operation is required to have a Hazardous Material Inventory Statement (HMIS), the HMIS shall be included in the key box. Electronic key cards or keyless remotes may be provided as long as the locking system has a failsafe feature at loss of building power and doors are operational without a key or special knowledge. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 31, 11-12-2019)

15.20.060 Section 507.5.5, CFC is amended —Space around hydrants and markingsFire protection water supplies.

Section 507.5.54.1, CFC is amendedadded to read as follows:

Section 507.5.54.1. Clear space around hydrantsPrivate Hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved. Whenever any on-site fire protection equipment or access ways have been installed as provided in this section, the following provision shall be applicable:

With respect to hydrants located along private access ways where curbs exist, said curbs shall be painted red or otherwise appropriately marked by the owner, lessee or other person in charge of the premises, to prohibit parking for a distance of 10 feet in either direction from such hydrant. In such cases where curbs do not exist, there shall be appropriate markings painted on the pavement, or signs erected, or both giving notice that parking is prohibited for a distance of 10 feet from any such -310-
hydrant. Hydrant caps shall be color-coded in accordance with NFPA 291 (National Fire Protection Association). The base of the hydrant shall be painted reflective red or yellow.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 32, 11-12-2019)

15.20.065 Section 508, CFC is amended —Fire command center.

Section 508.1.1.1, CFC is replaced in its entiretyadded to read as follows:

Section 508.1.1.1. Fire Command Center Location and Access Requirements. Fire command center shall be equipped with an exterior door and be located at the exterior of the building at a location approved by the fire chief.

Section 508.2 CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 508.2 Fire control room. AIn Addition to a fire command center, an approved fire control room shall be provided for all new buildings or occupancies undergoing a substantial improvement and requiring protection by an automatic fire sprinkler system. The room shall only contain all main system control valves, fire alarm control panels ERRCS equipment, and other fire equipment required by the Fire Chief. Fire control rooms shall be located within the building at a location approved by the Fire Chief and shall be provided at grade with a means to access the room directly from the exterior. Durable signage shall be provided on the exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room. Fire Control Rooms shall not be less than 35 square feet.

Exceptions:

1. Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.

2. Occupancies with a fire pump shall have a fire control room that is a minimum of 200 square feet.

3. In high-rise buildings, the fire control room shall not be less than 200 square feet.

Section 508.1.6, CFC is amended by adding the following feature to the end of list to read as follows:

Section 508.1.6 Required features.

15.20.070 (Reserved)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed §

15.20.070 which pertained to Section 603, CFC—Fuel-fired appliances, and derived from Ord. No. 742, adopted November 14, 2016.

15.20.075 (Reserved)Section 604.8, CFC—Shunt Trip.

Section 604.8 is deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:

Section 604.8. Shunt Trip Prohibited. Where elevator hoistways and/or elevator machine rooms containing elevator control equipment are located within non-residential buildings equipped with automatic fire sprinklers, the following is required in lieu of a shunt trip:

1. The elevator machine room shall be constructed with the same minimum fire rating as the hoistway. For non-rated hoistways, the minimum rating shall be one hour throughout in accordance with Section 707 of California Building Code for fire barriers.

2. Fire sprinklers at the top of the hoistway and inside the elevator machine room shall not be installed.

3. Means for elevator shutdown shall not be installed.
(Ord. No. 758, § 33, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 33, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.075 to read as herein set out. Former § 15.20.075 pertained to Section 607.9, CFC—shunt trip, and derived from Ord. No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016. -311-

15.20.080 Section 903.1.2, CFC—Additions and alterations – automatic fire sprinkler system trigger calculations.

The standard for calculating whether additions and/or alterations of an existing building exceed the thresholds as described in

15.20.082 triggering automatic fire sprinkler system installation, shall be based on the following criteria:

2. Aggregated additions and alterations.

Exceptions:

Interior wall sheeting removal necessitated for:

1. Building roof repair/replacement;

2. Fire damage repair;

3. Building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and

4. Any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement.

Section 903.1.2, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 903.1.2 Additions and Alterations. The standard for calculating the size of addition and/or alteration for determining the threshold for fire sprinkler systems shall be:

1. The square footage of every room being added and/or altered shall be included in the calculation of total square footage of addition and/or alteration.

2. The entire square footage shall be considered added or altered when at least fifty percent (50%) or greater of interior wall sheeting or ceiling within a room or area is new, removed, or replaced. Windows, doors and openings are excluded from the calculations.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.081 Section 903.1, CFC amended—GeneralExisting Sprinkler buildings retrofits.

Section 903.1.3, CFC is added to read as follows:

Section 903.1.3 PThe following provisions apply tofor all sprinklered buildings:

3. When a property owner or responsible party of a commercial or residential building chooses option 1 or 2 from above, the property owner shall file a deed restriction with San Mateo County Assessor's Office and obtain a performance bond with Central County Fire Department to ensure compliance with Section 15.20.081. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)
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15.20.082 Section 903.2, CFC is amended—Where required.

Section 903.2, CFC shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in all new occupiable and/or habitable buildings and structures. In addition, approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.23. and be installed in:

1. All new occupiable and/or habitable buildings and structures.

2. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) when must be protected with an automatic residential fire sprinkler system throughout the unit if the primary dwelling is required to have or has an existing an automatic residential fire sprinkler system. If an existing primary dwelling is required to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system, fire sprinklers must be provided throughout both dwellings.

1. When approved by the fire chief, canopy structures used solely for vehicular parking which have a photovoltaic system attached are not required to be equipped with a fire sprinkler system as long as the structure meets distance requirements to other structures and property lines.

2. Group U occupancies less than 1,200 square feet and separated from the primary structure by a minimum of 10 feet.

3. Additions or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential, multi-family residential, and single family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the entire completed building.

Section 903.2.10.3, CFC is amended by adding the following subsectionadded to read as follows:

Section 903.2.10(4).3 Lithium-ion batteries in vehicles. Areas which contain electric vehicle charging stations, and thus could contain lithium-ion batteries in vehicles, shall have a fire sprinkler density design of a minimum Extra Hazard, Group 2 for the coverage of charging stations and for 15' in any direction of charging stations. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 34, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.083 Sections 903.2.22 and 903.2.23, CFC are added—Existing Buildings and Structures.

Section 903.2.22 is added to read as follows:

Section 903.2.22, CFC Existing Buildings and Structures. All existing buildings and structures shall be retroactively protected by an approved automatic extinguishing system when the following conditions exist:
a. Non-residential buildings with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area. -313-
Exception: Group U occupancies less than 1,200 square feet and separated from primary structure by a minimum of 10 feet. b. Residential one- and two-family dwellings and structures with a total building floor area in excess of 2,000 square feet or more than two stories in height, and when additions or alterations for which a building permit is required will exceed 1,500 square feet in area.

Exceptions:

1. Additions or alterations of non-residential and multi-family residential, multi-family residential, and single family residential buildings that do not exceed 20% of the entire completed building.

2. The following scopes of work are excluded from calculations to determine area of alteration: building roof repair/replacement; fire damage repair; building heating and/or cooling unit repair/replacement; and any other federal, state and local construction code upgrade requirements including but not limited to the seismic retrofit requirements, asbestos, and other hazardous material abatement.

Section 903.2.23, CFC is added with the following:

Section 903.2.23 Aggregate. When more than one (1) addition and/or alteration for which building permits are required are submitted within a two (2) year period from the closure date of the initial permit, the sum of the square footage of these additions and/or alterations shall be aggregated for the purpose of determining calculations in Section 15.20.083. (Ord. No. 758, § 35, 11-12-2019; Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 758, § 15.20.083, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, amended § 15.20.083 to read as herein set out. Former §

15.20.083 pertained to section 903.2.20 and 903.2.21, CFC added—existing buildings and structures, and derived from Ord.

No. 742, § 11, adopted Nov. 14, 2016.

15.20.084 Section 903.53.1.4, CFC is amended—Inspector's test valves.

Section 903.53.1.4, CFC is amendedadded to read as follows:

Section 903.3.1.4 Inspections, testing and maintainanceors Test Valves. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code. Single-family residential fire sprinkler systems within buildings greater than 3,600 square feet shall be equipped with an inspectors test valve for each system and located the furthest point away from the sprinkler riser.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.085 Section 903.3.1.5 and 903.3.1.6, CFC is amended added—Residential carports, attached and detached garageAdditional Sprinkler Locations.

Section 903.2.183.1.5, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replacedadded to read as follows:

Section 903.2.183.1.5 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies Additional Residential Sprinkler Locations. The installation of a residential fire sprinkler system shall conform to the following:

1. Sprinklers shall be required throughout carports and garages. The required residential fire sprinkler shall be in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the 2025 California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04 mm/min) over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

15.20.086 Section 903.4.1, CFC amended – Monitoring System Specifications.

Section 903.4.1, CFC is amended by adding the additional provision following the first sentence to read as follows:

Section 903.4.1. Electronic supervisionMonitoring.
…For new fire sprinkler monitoring systems, the approved supervisory station shall be defined as a UL approved central receiving station.
(Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.087 Section 905.4, CFC is amended – Location of class I hose connections.

Section 905.4(1), CFC subsection 1 is deleted and replaced in its entirety to read as followswith the following:

1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above and below plane grade.

15.20.088 Section 907.7, CFC is amended—Acceptance Tests and Certification.

Section 907.7, CFC is amended to read as followswith the following:
907.7 Acceptance Tests and Certification. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72. New fire alarm systems installed in commercial and multi-family buildings shall be UL-Certified. Certificate shall be posted next to fire alarm control panel at time of final inspection. (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

Section 4906.3.1 CFC is amended—Vegetation Management.

Section 4906.3.1 CFC is amended with the following:
4906.3.1 1. Delineation of the 30-foot (9144mm) 100-foot (30.5) fuel management zones from all structures. The 100-foot zone will extend to the property line on parcels less than five (5) acres. Parcels greater than five (5) acres will delineate the 30- foot, 100- foot zones around structures and the 100-foot vegetation management zone around the perimeter of the parcel as required by (HMC § 15.21.100).
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.090 – 15.20.092 (Reserved) Section 4906.4.2 Trees.

Section 4906.4.2.1 is deleted in its entirety.
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed former §

15.20.091 Section 4907.2 Defensible Space is amended.

Section 4907.2 #4 is added

4. Land designated per HMC § 15.21.070 shall provide fuel modification of combustible vegetation for defensible space as indicated in 2018 IWUIC and adopted with amendments in HMC § 15.21 (a) All parcels less than fire (5) acres in size shall provide fuel modification to the entire parcel in accordance with HMC §

15.21 (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023) Editor's note(s)—Ord. No. 786, § 3, adopted November 28, 2022, and Ord. No. 788, § 3, adopted January 9, 2023, repealed former §

15.20.092 Section 4907.3 is amended—Requirements.

Section 4907.3 #5 is added
4907.3 #5 Hazardous vegetation and fuels around all buildings and structures shall be maintained in accordance with HMC §

15.21 (Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.093 Section 5003.5, CFC is amended—Hazard Identification Signs.

Section 5003.5.62, CIFC is amendedadded to read as follows:
5003.5.2 Signs - specificationssize and locations. Signs and markings required by Sections 5003.5 and 5003.5.1 shall not be obscured or removed, shall be in English as a primary language or in symbols allowed by this code, shall be durable, and the size, color, lettering shall be approved. Two NFPA 704 diamonds shall be placed on buildings so that they are clearly visible from at least two directions of travel.

1. The signs shall be at least fifteen inches by fifteen inches (15" x 15"). The signs shall not be placed on windows.

3. The fire code official may require fewer or more NFPA diamonds if the building configuration or size makes it reasonably necessary."
(Ord. No. 786, § 3, 11-28-2022; Ord. No. 788, § 3, 1-9-2023)

15.20.094 Section 5707, CFC is amended – On-Demand Mobile Fueling Operations.

Section 5707.6.5, CFC is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as followswith the following:

15.20.095 Unlawful burning and deposits of hazardous materials—Liability for costs. (a) The fire department is authorized to clean up or abate the effects of any hazardous material deposited upon or into property or facilities of the town; and any person or persons who intentionally or negligently caused such deposit shall be liable for the payment of all costs incurred by the fire department as a result of such cleanup or abatement activity. The remedy provided by this section shall be in addition to any other remedies provided by law. -316-
(b) For the purposes of this section, "hazardous materials" shall be defined as any substances or materials, in a quantity or form which, in the determination of the fire chief or his/her authorized representative, poses an unreasonable and imminent risk to life, health or safety of persons or property or to the ecological balance of the environment, and shall include, but not be limited to, such substances as explosives, radioactive materials, petroleum or petroleum products or gases; poisons, etiologic (biologic) agents, flammables and corrosives. (c) Any person whose violation of this chapter results in fire damage to persons or property shall be charged with unlawful burning and is liable for costs incurred by the fire department and other responding county or state fire agencies for suppression activities.
(d) For purposes of this section, costs incurred by the fire department shall include, but shall not necessarily be limited to, the following: actual labor costs of city personnel, including workers' compensation benefits, fringe benefits, administrative overhead; cost of equipment operation, cost of materials obtained directly by the city; and cost of any contract labor and materials. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016)

15.20.100—15.20.150 (Reserved)

15.20.155 Fire lanes which are not fire apparatus access roads.

15.20.160 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the fire chief, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Fire Code due to local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, or other statutorily permissible conditions, the fire chief shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Fire Code, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical, or other statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the council's findings with the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing bodyState Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.20.165 Severability.

B. This chapter shall not modify, amend, repeal, or otherwise affect any laws of the town hereafter enacted in substitution or amendment of the zoning regulations.

C. Whenever any provision of this chapter is found to conflict with the zoning regulations, or of any laws hereafter enacted in amendment or substitution thereof, the provisions of such zoning regulations or of any such amendatory or superseding laws shall control over this chapter.
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D. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency within the provisions of the Town of Hillsborough Municipal Code, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety in the good faith judgement of the fire chief shall apply. (Ord. No. 742, § 11, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 758, § 39, 11-12-2019)

15.20.170 Regulations of other agencies.

15.21.010 Adoption of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

15.21.020 Amendments to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (CWUIC).

The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, as adopted by this chapter, is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth in Sections 15.21.025 through 15.21.040.

15.21.025 Chapter 1, Section 101.1 — Scope and General Requirements.

Section 101.1 is amended to read “Town of Hillsborough”

15.21.026 Chapter 1, Section 103.1 —Code Compliance Agency.

Section 103.1 is amended to read “Central County Fire Department”

15.21.030 Chapter 1, Sections 108.2 – Fees.

Section 108.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

15.21, §§ 15.21.010—15.21.110, pertained to wildland-urban interface code, 2009 edition, and derived from Ord. No. 690, § 14, adopted Dec. 13, 2010; Ord. No. 712, § 14, adopted Nov. 12, 2013; and Ord. No. 742, § 12, adopted Nov. 14, 2016. -318-
EXCEPTION: (1) The applicant for a given permit shall be exempt from the payment when the work to be conducted is for the Town of Hillsborough under written contract to the town or for events sponsored or co-sponsored by the town. b. In the case of multiple permits for an applicant, the permit applicant will be charged the single highest listed rate of all the permits required. The other permittable items will be charged at a rate of 50% of the listed fee as long as the permits are for the same address.
c. Where processes or materials are inherent with a permittable item, subsequent fees may be waived at the discretion of fire chief.
d. All permits required under Chapter 15.21 shall have a set number of inspections per permit as set forth by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. Additional inspections and additional re-inspections will be billed at an hourly rate consistent with the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule. e. Application for "event" type fire code permits shall be submitted 14 days prior to the event date. Applications submitted within 13 days prior to the event date shall be charged double the regular permit rate as established by the Central County Fire Department Fee Schedule.
f. "After Hours" inspections shall be invoiced at a rate of one and one-half times the normal hourly rate of the inspecting fire personnel. "After Hours" inspections will be billed at a rate of three hours minimum. "After Hours" inspections are defined as follows: Inspections conducted outside of normal business hours, as defined on the Central County Fire Department website and based upon personnel availability. g. Any person, group, organization, institution or business failing to pay the applicable fees under this Article shall after 30 days of the due date, for either existing or new permit applicants, shall be issued a citation for non-payment of the required permit fee. The penalty for all permit payments delinquent after 30 days shall be a doubling of the original fee.

15.21.031 Section 108.4 – Investigation of Work Without Permit.

Section 108.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

All work done without a required permit, including demolition of all or part of a structure or system shall be subject to the investigation and fees imposed by this section.

Section 108.4.1 is added and shall read as follows:

No construction work permit shall be issued until the investigation fee has been paid in full.

Nothing in this section shall relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this code, in the execution of the work, or from any other fees or penalties prescribed by law.

15.21.035 Chapter 1, Section 112 —Board of Appeals.

Section 112 is deleted in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:

Section 112.1. Appeal and review.
a. The chief of the fire department shall be charged with the duty and responsibility of administering the provisions of this chapter.
b. Whenever it is provided herein that certain things shall be done in accordance with an order of the fire department, such order shall be complied with. Any person aggrieved thereby may appeal to the fire chief in writing within ten (10) days after the date of such order, except as otherwise provided in this chapter. The fire chief, or in his or her absence the deputy fire chief, shall issue a written decision to affirm, modify or reverse the order within two (2) business days of receipt of the appeal. The fire chief's written decision may be appealed to the Central County Fire Department Fire Board no later than ten (10) days from the date of the fire chief's written decision. The fire board's decision shall be final and conclusive and may not be appealed to the city council. Except in the case of immediate hazard, the enforcement of the order shall be suspended until such person has exhausted the appeal process as described above. -319-
c. Any court action or proceeding to review or challenge a decision or order of the fire board shall be barred unless it is commenced within twenty (20) days of the date of service of the written decision or order (or such later date as may be specified by California Government Code Section 53069.4), and such decision or order shall contain a statement so advising the prospective appellant(s) of this time limit on seeking court review. A decision of the fire board shall be considered final for purposes of seeking court review, and no review or other consideration by the city council shall be necessary. However, no action or proceeding to review or challenge a fire board decision shall be permitted unless each ground or basis for such action or proceeding first has been asserted to the fire board pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 15.20.035.

15.21.040 Chapter 4, Section 403.1.5 – Access Radius
Section 403.1.5(a), is amended to read as follows:

15.21.150 Amendment procedure.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

15.21.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare by helping prevent the spread of fire from the town's wildland areas to the town's inhabited areas and vice versa and to provide a system for the issuance of permits and collection of fees in furtherance of these purposes, all of which is consistent with Action PS-1.3 of the town's general plan, which provides, inter alia, that "The Town will work with the Central County Fire Department to review and update, if necessary, the Town's and Department's regulations and approach regarding defensible space, fire resistive vegetation, wildland mitigation, and fire protection within Hillsborough to ensure adequate fire protection. Since the town is mainly residential, the focus of this review will be on reducing the risk of fire to and resulting from individual residential properties. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.020 Adoption.

A. The town adopts and incorporates, as fully as if set out at length herein, the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, 2018 Edition, known as the Wildland-Urban Interface Code ("WUI"), as published by the International Code Council, not including Chapter 5 and including Appendices A, B, and F (but not including Appendices C, D, E, G and H which are not adopted), for regulating and governing the mitigation of hazard to life and property from the intrusion of fire from wildland exposures and fire from adjacent structures and for preventing structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels and for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor. The provisions of the WUI (references to which shall be deemed to include the adopted Appendices), as amended herein, shall be controlling within the town.

B. A copy of the WUI, together with a copy of Section 15.21 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code (HMC), as may be amended from time to time, or successor provision, shall at all times be kept on file in the office of the city clerk of the town. -320-
C. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the HMC and the WUI, that requirement which establishes the higher degree of safety, in the good faith judgment of the Fire Chief of the Central County Fire Department, shall control.

D. Any work approved by the architecture and design review board or having a valid building permit after the effective date of this chapter shall be subject to these requirements.

E. Specific parcels of wildland-urban interface areas shall be as shown on the wildland area interface map attached here to as Exhibit A as adopted by resolution of the city council, and shall be made a part of this chapter. The map shall be on file in the office of the city clerk. The legal description of such areas is as described as follows: (1) All parcels identified as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones as recommended by the Director of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and as designated on a map titled Fire Hazard Severity Zones in LRA, Hillsborough, and (2) All parcels identified as High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones consistent with California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection standards for determining Fire Hazard Severity Zones by the Town of Hillsborough's Community Assessment conducted in 2018. For the purposes of this chapter, those parcels shall be designated as "Wildland Urban Interface Areas." (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019; Ord. No. 762, § 1, 1-13-2020)

15.21.030 Amendment of International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, 2018 Edition.

The WUI is hereby amended in its application to the town as set forth in Sections 15.21.032 through 15.21.110. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.032 Scope and general requirements.

Section 101.1 is amended to insert "Town of Hillsborough." (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.034 Enforcement agency.

Section 103.1 is amended to insert "Central County Fire Department." (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.040 Appeals.

Section 104.1 and 104.2 are deleted and replaced with the following:
104. General. If the code official disapproves an application or refuses to grant a permit applied for, or when it is claimed that the provisions of this chapter do not apply or that the true intent and meaning of this chapter have been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, the applicant may appeal from the decision of the code official to the city manager of the town within thirty days from the date of the decision being appealed. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.050 Penalties.

Section 110.4.7 is deleted and replaced with the following:
110.4.7 Penalties. Any person who violates any provision of this chapter, or who fails to comply therewith, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable as set forth in Chapter 1.08 of the HMC. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the violation or permit it to continue, and the violator shall be required to correct or remedy such violation promptly.
(Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)
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15.21.052 Stop work order.

Section 114.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
114.4. 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 liable to applicable fines as outlined in the adopted Town of Hillsborough or Central County Fire Department fee schedules. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.060 Definitions.

Section 202 is amended by adding the following definition:

Substantial Remodel: The renovation of any structure, which combined with any additions to the structure, affects the exterior wall plane surfaces greater than twenty-five percent of the existing exterior wall area of the structure. "Affects the exterior wall plane surfaces" means either that no studs remain or that if some studs remain, the wall except for the studs has been stripped bare such that one can see through the wall. Any portion of an exterior wall so described shall be included in the calculation. This definition does not apply to the replacement and upgrading of residential roof coverings, windows and doors.
(Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.070 Declaration.

Section 302.1 is deleted and replaced with the following:
302.1. Declaration. The city council of the town shall declare the wildland-urban interface areas within the jurisdiction.

The wildland-urban interface areas shall be based on the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHZS) as recommended by the Director of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. In addition to those VHFHZS areas, the town includes all parcels identified as High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones as identified consistent with California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection standards for determining Fire Hazard Severity Zones by the Town of Hillsborough Community Assessment conducted in 2018.
(Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.080 Driveways.

Section 403.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
403.2 Driveways. Driveways shall be provided when any portion of an exterior wall of the first story of a building is located more than 150 feet (45,720 mm) from a fire apparatus access road. Driveways shall provide a minimum unobstructed width of 14 feet (4,268 mm) and a minimum unobstructed height of 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 mm). Driveways in excess of 150 feet (45,720 mm) in length shall be provided with turnarounds. Driveways in excess of 200 feet (60,960 mm) in length and less than 20 feet (6,096 mm) in width shall be provided with turnouts in addition to turnarounds.

Unless otherwise approved by the Fire Department, all new or reconfigured driveways shall have a minimum width of fourteen (14) feet (HMC §12.12.050(E)), with a maximum slope of 16%, except that the first fifteen (15) feet shall have a slope no greater than 5%.

A driveway shall not serve in excess of five structures.

Exception: When such driveways meet the requirements for an access road in accordance with the International Fire Code.

Driveway turnarounds shall have inside turning radii of not less than 30 feet (9,144 mm) and outside turning radii of not less than 45 feet (13,716 mm). Driveways that connect with a road or roads at more than one point may be considered as having a turnaround if all changes of direction meet the radii requirements for driveway turnarounds.

Driveway turnouts shall be an all-weather road surface at least 10 feet (3048 mm) wide and 30 feet (9,144 mm) long.

Driveway turnouts shall be located as required by the code official. -322-
Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges on driveways and private roads. Design loads for bridges shall be designed to support the weight of apparatus at no less than 65,000 pounds. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.090 Special building construction regulations.

Chapter 5 of the WUI is deleted in its entirety and replaced with Chapter 7A, Title 24, Part 2 California Building Code, 2016 Edition.

All new materials installed on buildings on any remodel within designated Wildland Urban Interface Areas shall be compliant with Chapter 7A, Title 24, Part 2 California Building Code, 2016 Edition. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.100 Defensible space.

Section 603 is amended by amending 603.2 and by adding Sections 603.3 through 603.9. 603.2 Fuel Modification. All properties shall perform fuel modification of combustible vegetation for defensible space as follows:
(a) All parcels less than five (5) acres in size shall provide fuel modification to the entire parcel in accordance with 603.2.1 through 603.2.3.
(b) All parcels five (5) acres or larger in size shall provide fuel modification:

1. Around all structures for a distance of one-hundred (100) feet or to the lot line, whichever is less.

2. Around the perimeter of all parcel lines for a distance of one-hundred (100) feet in accordance with 603.2.1 through 603.2.3.

The fuel modification distance shall be measured on a horizontal plane from the perimeter or projection of the building or structure as shown in Figure 603.2. The distance of 100 feet is allowed to be increased by the code official because of a sitespecific analysis based on local conditions. 603.3 Maintenance of Defensible Space. All properties shall conduct property maintenance in accordance with Section 604 annually of each calendar year and whenever it is deemed necessary due to fire conditions as determined by the Chief. 603.4 Right of Entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the fire code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists upon any parcel or premises any conditions or violations of this code that make the premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the fire department shall have the authority to enter the parcel or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the fire code official by this code. If the parcel or premises is occupied, the fire code official shall first present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such parcel or premises is unoccupied, the fire department official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner's authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the parcel or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the fire code official has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry. 603.4.1 Warrant. Where the fire code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner, the owner's authorized agent or occupant or person having charge, care of or control of the parcel or premises shall not fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the fire code official for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to the code. 603.5 Authority to Inspect. The fire code official is authorized to enter and examine any parcel or premises in accordance with Section 603.4.1 for the purpose of enforcing this code. 603.5.1 The fire code official will enter properties or parcels without restricted access shall inspect only those areas of a property or parcel necessary to determine compliance with this code. 603.5.2 The fire code official is authorized to gain access to properties or parcels with restricted access utilizing fire department access key switches or locks as required by HMC §15.20.055. 603.5.3 The fire code official is authorized to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles whenever property conditions due to topography, vegetation density, pets, or landscape hinder inspection. -323-
603.6 Inspection. The fire code official is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports shall be certified by a reasonable officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The fire code official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual, detailed or complex technical issues subject to the approval of the governing body.
603.7 Inspection Fee. Each property inspected in accordance with this chapter shall pay the cost of inspection at a rate consistent with the Town of Hillsborough Master Fee Schedule. Billing for inspections shall occur within 30 days of completion of the final inspection.

Exception: Properties that are in compliance with HMC §15.21.100 at the time of initial inspection shall be charged 50% less the cost of inspection.
603.8 Notice - Required.
(a) If any person owning, occupying, renting, managing or controlling real property in the town fails to remove therefrom and from the portions of streets adjoining such property all weeds and rubbish in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, it shall be the duty of the fire chief to notify such person to remove the same. Such notice shall be in writing and shall be deposited in the United States Post Office at Hillsborough, California, with first class postage prepaid and addressed to such owner, occupant, tenant, manager or controlling person at his or her last known place of address.

Notwithstanding the foregoing and in any event, a copy of such notice shall be mailed to the owner of such real property at his or her last known place of address as shown on the assessment roll of the San Mateo County assessor. If such real property is occupied and the mailing address thereof is different from that of the owner on such assessment roll, then an additional copy shall be similarly mailed to the occupant of such property at the mailing address thereof. (b) Any notice given pursuant to this section shall contain a description of such property, which description may be:

1. The number of the lot and block and the name of the map, tract or subdivision in which such real property lies; or

2. The street and number thereof; or

3. Any other description by which the property may be reasonably and readily identified. 603.9 Notice - Contents.

Notice required by this chapter shall be given by mailing of notice in substantially the following form:

NOTICE TO REMOVE COMBUSTIBLE VEGETATION AND
LIMB UP TREES—PUBLIC NUISANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Hillsborough Municipal Code Section 15.21.100 requires you as the [owner/occupant] of the real property identified as parcel # ____________ on the records of the San Mateo County Assessor's office, to remove the seasonal and recurrent brush, grass, debris, weeds, dead or dying trees and limb up trees so the lowest branch is trimmed at least six feet above the floor on your property if less than five (5) acres or for parcels in excess of five (5) acres along a swath of one-hundred (100) feet around all structures and along the perimeter of the property that pose a fire hazard to you and neighboring residents, and which are declared a public nuisance under the terms of Hillsborough Municipal Code Section

15.21.100.

If you do not remove such brush, grass, debris, weeds, dead or dying trees and other accumulations within thirty (30) days of the date of this notice, the property shall be declared a "Nuisance" in accordance with Section 8.16.035 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code, and a citation will be issued. If the nuisance condition(s) continue to exist for more than ten days after the citation has been issued, the property will be subject to review by an Administrative Abatement Hearing Panel in accordance with Section 8.16.050 of the Hillsborough Municipal Code, to determine whether the condition(s) do in fact constitute a public nuisance, the abatement of which is appropriate.
(Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)

15.21.110 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the building department or the Central County Fire Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the WUI due to local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions, the Fire Chief of the Central County Fire Department shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration. Before adopting any changes -324-
or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the WUI, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. Each finding shall indicate which change or modification the finding applies to.

Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community Development, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. No. 755, § 2, 6-10-2019)
Chapter 15.24 GRADING

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.26 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.28 BUILDING SECURITY

15.28.010 Purpose.

The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the construction of new residential dwellings and to major remodeling, additions, or alterations to existing dwellings as defined throughout Title 24 CCR, 2025 in Chapter 2 of the California Uniform Building Code, 1997 Edition, or successor provision.
(Ord 618 § 5, 2001; Ord. 336 § 1, 1976: prior code § 110.1.14(a))

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.29 WATER CONSERVATION IN LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.30 TIME LIMITS FOR COMPLETION OF CONSTRUCTION

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.32 WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.6 TOWERS, AERIALS, ANTENNAE, WINDMILLS AND SOLAR PANELS

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.37 PERMITTING OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.40 CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
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Chapter 15.44 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT

NO CHANGES - CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.56 SWIMMING POOL SAFETY BARRIERS*

15.56.010 Barriers.

Every swimming pool, hot tub, and/or spa (constructed after September 7, 1993) shall be protected by barriers to prevent unauthorized entry into the pool, hot tub and/or spa. Such barriers shall be of the type described in, and otherwise comply with the provisions of, Appendix Chapter 4 of the California Uniform Building Code, 2001 Edition, or successor provision, and shall also be subject to the approval of the architecture and design review board, if applicable. (Ord. 654 § 22, 2004)
Chapter 15.60 BUILDING PERMITS AND PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS*

15.60.010 Definitions.

As used in this chapter:
"Building permit" means a permit which is required under the terms of Section 106.1 of the California Uniform Building Standards Code, 20251997 Edition, or successor provision. "Public improvements" means all of the improvements to streets, highways and public ways, or to any parcel intended to be offered for dedication to the town as a highway, street or public way, including, without limitation, curbs, gutters, sanitary sewers, storm drains, landscaping and utility supply lines, within the scope of Title 16. "Subdivision" means a subdivision as defined in Chapter 16.04. (Ord. 618 § 10 (part), 2001)
NO FURTHER CHANGES – REST OF CHAPTER RETAINED
Chapter 15.70 DEMOLITION PERMITS

15.70.020 Demolition permit—Issuance for nonhistoric structure.

A. Upon compliance, or assurance that there will be timely future compliance, with all applicable local, state and federal laws, standards and regulations, including but not limited to provisions of the California Building Standards CodeUniform Building Code and Regional Air Quality Act, the building official may issue a demolition permit for any structure (other than a historic structure) upon receipt of an application therefor, together with the nonrefundable fee determined from time to time by the city council to be a reasonable fee for covering the actual costs of processing such an application. It is further provided that the building official may require that a building permit or permits and any other necessary approvals has or have been obtained for a project or replacement structure for the subject property prior to issuing a demolition permit for a nonhistoric structure.

15.80.010 Purpose.

15.80.020 Adoption.

15.80.030 Amendment of Reference Standards.

None
(Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013)

15.80.040—15.80.080 (Reserved)

15.80.090 Amendment procedure.

When, in the judgment of the Building Department, it is reasonably necessary to amend the provisions of the California Reference Standards due to local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions, the building official shall prepare and submit the proposed amendments to the city council for consideration at the next regularly scheduled city council meeting. Before adopting any changes or modifications in the requirements contained in the provisions published in the California Reference Standards, or in any other regulations adopted hereunder, the city council shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmentalother statutorily permissible conditions. Such finding shall be made available as a public record. Upon approval by the city council and filing of the city council's findings with the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentCalifornia Building Standards Commission (CBSC) or other governing body, such amendments shall be added to and become a part of the provisions of this chapter.

From October 1, 2025, through June 1, 2031, the Town is limited in its ability to modify provisions related to residential units.

Allowable findings for modifications during this time are limited to (1) modifications previously adopted and filed with the CBSC before Sept. 30, 2025, (2) administrative changes related to administration of the code, (3) emergency health and safety measures as deemed by the CBSC, (4) needed to implement a greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy as outlined in a general plan adopted before June 10, 2025, or (5) related to fire home hardening. (Ord. No. 690, § 15, 12-13-2010; Ord. No. 712, § 15, 11-12-2013) -327-

15.80.100 Promulgation of updated editions of the California Reference Standards.

Page 1 of 4 ends

Hillsborough City CouncilDecember 8, 2025

Hillsborough City Council
December 8, 2025