Attachment 1
9 ORDINANCE NO. ____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE AND OTHER RELATED 2025 CODES BY AMENDING TITLE 14 (BUILDIGS AND CONSTRUCTION), OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE BY AMENDING CHAPTER 14.50 (BUILDING CODE), CHAPTER 14.52 (RESIDENTIAL CODE), CHAPTER 14.54 (MECHANICAL CODE), CHAPTER 14.64 (PLUMBING CODE), CHAPTER 14.68 (ELECTRICAL CODE), CHAPTER 14.70 (WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE), CHAPTER 14.86 (GREEN BUILDING CODE) AND ADDING CHAPTER 14.90 (ENERGY CODE), CHAPTER 14.91 (HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE), CHAPTER 14.92 (EXISTING BUILDING CODE), AND CHAPTER 14.95 (INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY
MAINTENANCE CODE), WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS AND FINDING THE
ORDINANCE IS NOT A PROJECT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (“CEQA”) OR IN THE ALTERNATIVE IS
EXEMPT FROM CEQA
WHEREAS, State of California Health & Safety Code Section 17958 mandates that the City of Laguna Beach adopt ordinances or regulations imposing the same requirements as are contained in the regulations adopted by the State of California pursuant to Health & Safety Code, Section 17922; and
WHEREAS, the State of California is mandated by Health & Safety Code Section 17922 to impose the same requirements as are contained in the 2025 California Building Standards Codes; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 1922 and 18935, the State of California Building Standards Commission has approved the adoption of new model codes relating to the design and construction for the protection of life and property WHEREAS, Section 17958.7 of the State of California Health & Safety Code states “….the governing body of a city or county, before making any modifications or changes to Section 17958.5, shall make an express finding that such modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions;” and WHEREAS, the Building Official recommends changes and modifications to the Building Code and other related model codes that are reasonably necessary due to the following local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, The City of Laguna Beach is located in an area subject to climatic conditions of high winds and low humidity. This environment is conducive to rapidly spreading fires and control of such fires requires rapid response. Obstacles generated by a strong wind, such as fallen trees, streetlights and utility poles may greatly impact the response time to reach an incident scene; and
10 WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach is located in a seismically active area. The viability of the public water system may be questionable immediately after a major seismic event. This would leave buildings vulnerable to uncontrolled fires due to a lack of available water and an inability to pump sufficient quantities of available water to extinguish a fire. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely to create obstacles similar to those indicated under the high wind section indicated above. With the probability of a statewide seismic disaster, the availability of immediate mutual aid resources will be limited; and
WHEREAS, due to topographical conditions of sprawling development separated by narrow and congested streets and the expected infrastructure damage inherent in a seismically active area, it is prudent to rely on automatic fire sprinkler systems to mitigate extended fire department response time and keep fires manageable with reduced fire flow (water) requirements for a given structure. Additional fire protection is also justified to match the current resources, firefighting equipment and personnel within the Laguna Beach Fire Department. Additionally, the City of Laguna Beach has only three access or egress points (North Coast Highway, South Coast Highway, and Laguna Canyon Road). With daily reliance on automatic or mutual aid, any condition that limits an access point exponentially increases response times for outside aid; and WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach has several areas with significant growth of wildland vegetation of a highly combustible nature that could threaten structures and the surrounding community. That threat combined with the potential for high winds and low humidity described above warrant additional construction requirements regarding fire resistivity.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The above recitals are hereby adopted by the City Council and incorporated as set forth in this section.
SECTION 2. Chapter 14.50 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.50
BUILDING CODE
Sections:
14.50.010 Adoption of the California Building Code, including California Building Code Chapter 1, Division II and Appendix Chapters G, H, I & J.
14.50.014 Amendment to Section 101 of the California Building Code.
14.50.016 Amendment to Section 103 of the California Building Code.
14.50.022 Amendment to Subsection 105.2 of the California Building Code.
14.50.024 Amendment of Subsection 105.5 to the California Building Code.
14.50.026 Addition of Subsection 109.7 to the California Building Code.
14.50.030 Amendment to Subsection 113.1 of the California Building Code.
14.50.034 Amendment to Subsection 114.4 of the California Building Code.
14.50.036 Amendment to Subsection 115.3 of the California Building Code. 11 14.50.044 Amendment to Subsection 403.1 of the California Building Code.
14.50.052 Amendment to Subsection 404.3 of the California Building Code.
14.50.056 Amendment to Subsection 410.6 of the California Building Code.
14.50.104 Amendment to Section 903 of the California Building Code.
14.50.105 Amendment to Subsection 904.3.5 of the California Building Code.
14.50.106 Amendment to Subsection 905.4 of the California Building Code.
14.50.107 Amendment to Subsection 907.3.1 of the California Building Code.
14.50.112 Amendment to Subsection 705.1 of the California Building Code.
14.50.116 Amendment to Subsection 705.2.3.1 of the California Building Code.
14.50.120 Amendment to Section 1505 of the California Building Code.
14.50.132 Amendment to Section 3307 of the California Building Code.
14.50.010 Adoption of the California Building Code including Chapter 1, Division II and Appendix Chapters G, H, I & J.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council for the purpose of prescribing regulations for the erection, construction, improvement, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area and maintenance of all buildings and structures in the City of Laguna Beach, (except those buildings that are required to be constructed in compliance with the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010) that certain Code known as the California Building Code including Chapter 1, Division II and Appendix Chapters G, H, I & J as published by the International Code Council, including the index thereto (2025 Edition) except those portions as are hereafter deleted, modified or amended, and this Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth herein and designated and referred to as the “Building Code” of and for the City of Laguna Beach. Should there be a conflict between the California Building Code as adopted and other municipal code requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
14.50.014 Amendment to Section 101 of the California Building Code.
Section 101 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read in its entirety as follows:
SECTION 101
GENERAL
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Laguna Beach Building Code, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the California Residential Code.
12 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
101.3 Intent. 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, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
14.50.016 Amendment to Section 103 of the California Building Code.
Section 103 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read in its entirety as follows:
SECTION 103 CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY [A] 103.1
Creation of enforcement agency. The Laguna Beach Building Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration, and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
14.50.022 Amendment to Subsection 105.2 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 105.2 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
105.2 Work exempt from permit. 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 laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
Building:
1. Walls and fences not over 72 inches high, unless located within three feet of a property line or public right of way.
2. Retaining walls not over 48 inches high measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge, impounding flammable liquids, or located within three feet of a property line or public right of way.
3. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
4. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
5. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of a Group R-3 or a Group U occupancy that do not project into a restricted fire setback or project more than 30 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
6. Temporary on-grade removable accessory storage structures to detached one- and twofamily dwellings or play sets, swing sets and other similar unenclosed recreational playground equipment provided that the ground area of the structure does not exceed 120 square feet; and the structure is less than 12 feet above grade plane .
7. Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
Electrical:
13 Repairs and Maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.
Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions but do apply to equipment and wiring for a power supply and installations of towers and antennas.
Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.
Gas:
1. Portable heating appliance.
2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
Mechanical:
1. Portable heating appliance.
2. Portable ventilation equipment.
3. Portable cooling unit.
4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
5. Replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
6. Portable evaporative cooler.
7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (5kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
Plumbing:
1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent piping, provided however that if any concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or vent piping becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures and the removal and reinstallation of water closets. Provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
14.50.024 Amendment of Subsection 105.5 to the California Building Code. 105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 360 days one-year after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the date of the last recorded inspection. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. The building official is authorized to establish restrictive time limitations for building permits that are issued as the result of any violation of this code or other applicable regulations. The Building Official shall determine the time limitation and completion date prior to permit issuance and inform the applicant in writing of such determination.
14 14.50.026 Addition of Subsection 109.7 to the California Building Code.
Subsection 109.7 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is added to read as follows:
109.7 Reinspection fees. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or reinspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or when corrections called for are not made. This subsection is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection for failure to comply with the requirements of the technical codes, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the project is ready for such inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the permit card is not properly posted on the work site; the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector; for failure to provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested; or for deviating from the plans requiring the approval of the Building Official. To obtain a reinspection, the applicant shall pay the reinspection fee in accordance with a fee schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council.
14.50.030 Amendment to Subsection 113.1 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 113.1 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
113.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals. This Board is likewise known as the Planning Commission of the City of Laguna Beach. The Planning Commission, serving as the Board of Appeals, shall render all decisions in writing to the building official with a duplicate copy to the appellant, and recommend to the City Council such new legislation as is consistent therewith.
Fees for a hearing before the Planning Commission serving as Board of Appeals are to be established by resolution of the City Council, and are payable at the time the applicant submits a request for a hearing.
14.50.034 Amendment to Subsection 114.4 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 114.4 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and/or subject to an administrative citation pursuant to Chapter 1.15 of the Municipal Code, and each such person shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any provisions of this code is committed, continued or allowed to be continued.
14.50.036 Amendment to Subsection 115.3 of the California Building Code. 15 Subsection 115.3 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
115.3 Unlawful continuance. 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 guilty of a misdemeanor and/or subject to an administrative citation pursuant to Chapter 1.15 of the Municipal Code, and each such person shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any provisions of this code is committed, continued or allowed to be continued.
14.50.044 Amendment to Subsection 403.1 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 403.1 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
403.1 Applicability. New high-rise buildings and new Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 55 feet above the lowest level of fire department access shall comply with Sections with Sections 403.2 through 403.6.
(Balance of subsection to remain unchanged.)
14.50.052 Amendment to Subsection 404.3 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 404.3 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
404.3 Automatic sprinkler protection. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire building.
14.50.056. Amendment to Subsection 410.6 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 410.6 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
410.6 Automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall be equipped with an automatic fireextinguishing system in accordance with Chapter 9.
14.50.104 Amendment to Section 903 of the California Building Code.
Section 903 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 903
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
903.1 General. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section. 903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall be permitted in lieu of automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and approved by the building code official. 16 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12. When automatic fire sprinkler systems are required or installed in any part of a building or structure, the entire building or structure must be provided with an automatic fire sprinkler system. Fire walls, fire partitions, and fire barriers are not allowed to be utilized to separate a building or structure into fire areas that would allow a building or structure to be partially sprinklered. 903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group A occupancy must be sprinklered throughout and must also comply with the applicable provisions of Subsections 903.2.1.1 through 903.2.1.5.
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group A-1 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The Group A-1 occupancy has an occupant load of 300 or more;
2. The Group A-1 is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge;
3. The building contains a multitheater complex.
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The Group A-2 occupancy has an occupant load of 100 or more;
2. The Group A-2 occupancy is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge. 903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group A-3 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The Group A-3 occupancy has an occupant load of 300 or more;
2. The Group A-3 occupancy is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge. 903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group A-4 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The Group A-4 area has an occupant load of 300 or more;
2. The Group A-4 area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge. 903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group A-5 occupancies when the aggregate area of concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory areas exceed 1000 square feet in area. 903.2.1.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group B occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group B occupancy must be sprinklered throughout and must also comply with Subsection 903.2.1.2 903.2.2.1 Ambulatory health care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all buildings containing an ambulatory health care facility occupancy when any of the following conditions exists at any time:
1. Four or more patients are incapable of self-preservation. 17 2. One or more care recipients who are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such an occupancy.
3. The building contains rooms or areas with special hazards such as laboratories, vocational shops and other areas where hazardous materials in exempt amounts are used or stored.
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group E occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group E occupancy must be sprinklered throughout and must also comply with Subsection 903.2.3.1. 903.2.3.1 Special Group E requirements. An automatic sprinklers system shall be provided throughout Group E occupancies when one or more of the following exists:
1. Portions of the building are below the lowest level of exit discharge.
2. The building contains room or areas with special hazards such as laboratories, vocational shops and other areas where hazardous materials in exempt amounts are used or stored. 903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group F-1 occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group F-1 occupancy must be sprinklered throughout and must also comply with Subsection 904.2.4.1. 903.2.4.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout any building containing woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet in area which generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials.
(Sections 903.2.5 through 903.2.6.2 remain unchanged.)
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group M occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group M occupancy must be sprinklered throughout. In addition, any building of any height or area containing a Group M occupancy that is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture must be sprinklered throughout.
903.2.7.1 High-piled storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with the California Fire Code in all buildings of Group M occupancy where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
903.2.8 Group R and Group U. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group R occupancy. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout a Group U occupancy attached to a Group R occupancy or within ten feet of a Group R occupancy.
(Exceptions to Section 903.2.8 remain unchanged.)
18 903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group S-1 occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group S-1 occupancy must be sprinklered throughout.
903.2.9.1 Repair Garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406 when the repair garage is in a basement.
903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group S-2 occupancies as provided in this section. Any building over two stories in height or 5000 square feet in total area containing a Group S-2 occupancy must be sprinklered throughout.
903.2.10.1 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing an enclosed parking garage in accordance with Section 406.4 when the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups. (Sections 903.2.11 through 903.3.8 remain unchanged.)
903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms. All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and water flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electronically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
2. Limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers.
3. Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
4. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
5. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
(Sections 903.4.1 through 903.5 remain unchanged.)
903.6 Additions, alterations or repairs. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout a building when:
1. Additions, alterations or repairs are done to a Group R occupancy if the additions, alterations or repairs have a valuation of 50% or more of the building’s valuation prior to the additions, alterations or repairs.
2. Additions, alterations or repairs are done to other than a Group R or Group U occupancy if the building would be required to be sprinklered after the additions, alterations or repairs are completed and the additions, alterations or repairs have a valuation of 50% or more of the building’s valuation prior to the additions, alterations or repairs.
3. Additions are made to a building equipped with an automatic sprinkler system whether or not the building was required to have a sprinkler system.
4. When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area as defined in Section 202, 19 and greater than 1,000 square feet within a two-year period.
5. When an existing Group R occupancy is being substantially renovated, and where the scope of the renovation is such that the Building Official determines that the complexity of installing a sprinkler system would be similar as in a new building.
For the purposes of this section, firewalls, fire barriers or fire partitions shall not define separate buildings.
The cumulative value of additions, alterations, and repairs done within any three-year period is the valuation used to determine the 50% threshold compliance with this section. The valuation used for the existing building and for the additions, alterations and repairs is the valuation established in the City’s resolution for computation of building permit fees.
14.50.105 Amendment to Subsection 904.3.5 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 904.3.5 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
904.3.5 Monitoring. Where a building fire alarm or monitoring system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building fire alarm or monitoring system in accordance with NFPA 72.
14.50.106 Amendment to Subsection 905.4 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 905.4 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
905.4 Location of Class I standpipe hose connections. Class I standpipe hose connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
1. In every required stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each floor level above or below grade. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate floor level landing between floors, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. See Section 909.20.3.2 for additional provisions in smoke proof enclosures.
2. On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a horizontal exit.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal exit are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a nozzle attached to 100 feet of hose, as measured along the path of travel, a hose connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from exit stairway hose connections by a 30-foot hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of the building.
4. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior public entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall.
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal, each standpipe shall be provided with a hose connection located either on the roof or at the highest landing of a stairway with stair access to the roof. An additional hose connection shall be provided at the top of the most hydraulically remote standpipe for testing purposes. 20 6. Where the most remote portion of nonsprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet from a hose connection or the most remote portion of a sprinklered floor or story is more than 150 feet from a hose connection, the building or fire official is authorized to require that additional hose connections be provided in approved locations. The distance from a hose connection shall be measured along the path of travel.
7. The centerline of the 2.5 inch outlet shall be no less than 18 inches above and no more 24 inches above the finished floor.
8. Every new building with any horizontal dimensions greater than 300 feet shall be provided with either access doors or a 2.5 inch outlet so that all portions of the building can be reached with 150 feet of hose from an access door or hose outlet. Required access doors shall be located in the exterior of the building and shall be accessible without the use of a ladder. The door dimensions shall be not less than 3 feet in width, and not less than 6 feet 8 inches in height.
These doors are for fire department access only.
14.50.107 Amendment to Subsection 907.3.1 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 907.3.1 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is installed. Activation of a smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exception: In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible and audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
14.50.112 Amendment to Subsection 705.1 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 705.1 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
705.1 General. The requirements of Chapter 5 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are applicable for all buildings located in Fire Hazard Zones. Section 705 shall apply to exterior wall coverings; balconies and similar projections; and oriel and bay windows constructed of combustible materials. The most restrictive requirements of Section 705 and Chapter 5 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall govern.
14.50.116 Amendment to Subsection 705.2.3.1 of the California Building Code.
Subsection 705.2.3.1 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
705.2.3.1 Balconies and similar projections. Balconies and similar projections of combustible construction other than fire-retardant-treated wood shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Table 601 for floor construction or shall be of Type IV construction in accordance with 21 Section 602.4. The aggregate length shall not exceed 50 percent of the buildings perimeter on each floor.
Exceptions:
1. On buildings of Type I and II construction, three stories or less above grade plane, fire-retardant-treated wood shall be permitted for balconies, porches, decks and exterior stairways not used as required exits.
2. Balconies and similar projections on buildings of Type III, IV and V construction shall be permitted to be of Type V construction but must comply with the provisions of Section 504 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
3. Where sprinkler protection is extended to the balcony areas, the aggregate length of the balcony on each floor shall not be limited.
14.50.120 Amendment to Section 1505 of the California Building Code.
Section 1505 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 1505
FIRE CLASSIFICATION
1505.1 General. Roof assemblies shall be divided into the classes defined below. Class A, B, and C roof assemblies and roof coverings required to be listed by this section shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790. In addition, fire-retardant wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2898. A Class A roof assembly or roof covering is the minimum class of roofing that can be applied on any building in the City for either new roofing or reroofing. Roofing and reroofing must also comply with Section 504.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Exceptions:
1. Skylights and sloped glazing that comply with Chapter 24.
2. With the approval of the building official, reroofing of small portions of a roof may be done with the same material as exists on the roof.
(Balance of Section remains unchanged.)
14.50.132 Amendment and addition to Section 3307 of the California Building Code.
Section 3307 of the California Building Code adopted in Section 14.50.010 is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 3307
PROTECTION OF ADJOINING PROPERTY
3307.1 Protection required. Adjoining public and private property shall be protected from damage during construction, remodeling and demolition work. Protection must be provided for footings, foundations, party walls, chimneys, skylights and roofs. Provisions shall be made to control water runoff and erosion during construction or demolition activities. 22 For excavations, adjacent property shall be protected as set forth in Section 832 of the California Civil Code.
Prior to the issuance of any permit that authorizes an excavation where the excavation is to be of a greater depth than are the walls or foundation of any adjoining building or structure and located closer to the property line than the depth of the excavation, the owner of the site shall provide the Building Division with satisfactory evidence that the adjacent property owner or owners have been given 30-days advance written notice of the intent to excavate. This notice shall state the depth to which the excavation is intended to be made and when the excavation will commence.
This notice shall be by certified mail, return receipt requested. 3307.2 Excavation retention systems.
Where a retention system is used to provide support of an excavation for protection of adjacent property or structures, the system shall conform to the requirements in Sections 3307.2.1 through 3307.2.5.
3307.2.1 Excavation retention system design.
Excavation retention systems shall be designed by a registered design professional to provide vertical and lateral support.
3307.2.2 Excavation retention system monitoring.
The retention system design shall include requirements for monitoring of the system and adjacent property or structures for horizontal and vertical movement. 3307.2.3 Retention system removal.
Elements of the system shall only be removed or decommissioned where adequate replacement support is provided by backfill or by the new structure. Removal or decommissioning shall be performed in such a manner that protects the adjacent property. 3307.2.4 Plans required. The Building Official may require plans prepared by a licensed engineer showing how protection of adjoining properties or public rights-of-way is to be accomplished during construction on the site. The engineer may be required to evaluate the potential hazard of the construction to adjoining properties during the construction process, including the long-term hazard if the project is abandoned during the grading and foundation excavation processes.
3307.2.5 Performance bond. If the evaluation of potential hazard required in Section 3307.2.4 indicates that a high hazard exists during the grading or foundation excavation processes, the City may require that a cash bond or other approved security in the amount estimated to abate the hazard be provided prior to the issuance of a permit authorizing the grading and excavation.
Should the project be abandoned or interrupted during the construction process and permittee is unable to abate the hazard in a timely manner, the City may in its sole discretion utilize the bond or security amount to abate the hazard in accordance with the procedures stated in Section 3307.3.
3307.3 Abatement of hazardous conditions.
23 3307.3.1 General. For the purposes of this section, the procedures for abatement set forth in the Uniform Code For The Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, as adopted and amended in Chapter
14.74 of the Municipal Code, may be used to abate hazardous conditions related to protection of adjoining public rights-of-way and private properties.
3307.3.2 Imminent hazards. The Building Official shall comply with the following emergency abatement procedures:
1. In determining the existence of an imminent hazard, the Building Official shall conduct a personal inspection of the project site.
2. The Building Official shall cause the City’s consulting engineering geologist to conduct an inspection of the project site and issue a report identifying the nature and scope of the hazard and recommended corrective measures.
3. If, after review of the engineering geologist’s report, the Building Official finds that a hazard to adjoining public rights-of-way or private properties exists, he/she shall give written notice to the owner or other responsible person or authorized representative of the owner of the site upon which the hazardous condition exists. Such notice shall include a description of the hazardous condition, the necessary corrective action or abatement, and the time within which such corrective action or abatement must be undertaken and completed.
4. If the Building Official determines that notice cannot be given or that notice would be impractical under the circumstances because of determination that the hazard is imminent and that immediate abatement or corrective action is necessary to avoid substantial damage to persons and/or property, the Building Official may cause the commencement of the required corrective action or abatement of the hazardous condition. The Building Official shall use his or her best efforts to provide notice of such determination, and the opportunity to challenge the determination, as soon as reasonably practicable. The costs of the necessary corrective action or abatement shall be the responsibility of the owner of the site upon which the hazardous condition exists.
5. The nature and extent of corrective action or abatement of the hazard shall be determined by the Building Official in his or her professional judgment and discretion.
6. The remedies provided in this Section 3307 are cumulative and not exclusive. The Building Official may also pursue any other administrative or judicial remedy available to abate the hazard.
SECTION 3. Chapter 14.52 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.52
RESIDENTIAL CODE
Sections:
14.52.010 Adoption of the California Residential Code including Chapter 1, Division II and Appendix Chapters BH and CI
14.52.014 Addition of Subsection R101.4 to the California Residential Code.
14.52.022 Amendment to Table R301.2 of the California Residential Code.
14.52.024 Amendment to Subsection R324.6.2 of the California Residential Code.
14.52.026 Amendment to Subsection R309.1 of the California Residential Code.
14.52.030 Amendment to Subsection R309.2 of the California Residential Code. 24 14.52.031 Amendment to Subsection R309.3 of the California Residential Code.
14.52.032 Deletion of Subsections R309.3.1 through R309.3.8.2 of the California Residential Code.
14.52.064 Amendment to Appendix CI Subsection CI100 of the California Residential Code
14.52.010 Adoption of the California Residential Code including Chapter 1, Div. II.
And Appendix Chapters BH and CI
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council for the purpose of prescribing regulations for the erection, construction, improvement, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area and maintenance of all detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress in the City of Laguna Beach, that certain Code known as the California Residential Code including Chapter 1, Div. II, Appendix BH and CI as published by the International Code Council, including the index thereto (2018 Edition) except those portions as are hereafter deleted, modified or amended, and this Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth herein and designated and referred to as the “Residential Code” of and for the City of Laguna Beach. Should there be a conflict between the California Residential Code as adopted and other municipal code requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
14.52.014 Addition of Subsection R101.4 of the California Residential Code.
Subsection R101.4 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is added to read as follows:
R101.4 Administrative Provisions. The provisions contained in Sections 101 through 114 of the California Building Code are applicable to the construction regulated by this code.
14.52.022 Amendment to Table R301.2 of the California Residential Code.
Table R301.2 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
14.52.024 Amendment to Subsection R324.6.2 of the California Residential Code.
Subsection R324.6.2 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
R324.6.2 Permitted materials. The following types of glazing may be used:
25 1. Laminated glass with a minimum 0.015-inch polyvinyl butyral interlayer for glass panes 16 square feet or less in area located such that the highest point of the glass is not more than 12 feet above a walking surface or other accessible area; for higher or larger sizes, the minimum interlayer thickness shall be 0.030 inch.
2. Fully tempered glass.
3. Heat-strengthened glass.
4. Wire glass.
14.52.026 Amendment to Subsection R309.1 of the California Residential Code.
Subsection R309.1 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
R309.1 Townhouse automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in townhouses and garages attached to townhouses. A garage is considered attached for the purposes of this subsection if it is within ten feet of the townhouse.
If the cumulative value of additions, alterations and repairs done to a townhouse and attached garage in any three year period exceeds fifty percent of the valuation of the townhouse and attached garage prior to the additions, alterations, and repairs, the entire townhouse and attached garage must be sprinklered throughout. The valuation used for the existing building and for the additions, alterations, and repairs is the valuation established in the City’s resolution for computation of building permit fees. For the purposes of this subsection, each townhouse with its attached garage will be considered a separate building.
14.52.030 Amendment to Subsection R309.2 of the California Residential Code.
Subsection R309.2 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
R309.2 One- and two- family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings and garages attached to one- and two-family dwellings. A garage is considered attached for the purposes of this subsection if it is within ten feet of the one- or two-family dwelling. If the cumulative value of additions, alterations and repairs done to a one- or two-family dwelling and attached garage in any three-year period exceeds fifty percent of the valuation of the one- or two-family dwelling and attached garage prior to the additions, alterations, and repairs, the entire one- or two-family dwelling and attached garage must be sprinklered throughout. The valuation used for the existing building and for the additions, alterations, and repairs is the valuation established in the City’s resolution for computation of building permit fees. For the purposes of this subsection, firewalls, fire barriers, or fire partitions shall not define separate buildings or fire areas.
14.52.031 Amendment to Subsection R309.3 of the California Residential Code.
Subsection R309.3 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
R309.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems. Where installed, residential fire sprinkler systems, or portions thereof, shall be in accordance with the most current NFPA 13D standard for design and calculation. All residential fire sprinkler systems shall have a flow switch 26 installed that activates an electric exterior alarm. The residential fire sprinkler flow switch shall also activate all interconnected interior smoke detectors.
14.52.032 Deletion of Subsections R309.3.1 through R309.3.8.2.
Subsections R309.3.1 through R309.3.8.2 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section
14.52.010 are deleted in their entirety.
14.52.064 Amendment to Appendix CI Subsection CI100 of the California Residential Code Subsection CI100 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
115922.
Except as provided in Section 115925, when a building permit is issued for the construction of a new swimming pool or spa or the remodeling of an existing swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the respective swimming pool or spa shall be equipped with item #1 below AND at least one additional following seven drowning prevention features:
Subsection 115922 (a) #1 of the California Residential Code adopted in Section 14.52.010 is amended to read as follows:
1. An enclosure that meets the requirements of 115923 and isolates the swimming pool and spa from the private single-family home. Any walls of the residential structure or accessory structures used to complete the isolation enclosure must have door openings equipped with protection as required in 115922 (a) #4 or #5. Any such door protection device provided for this purpose may not be used to comply with the second drowning prevention feature requirement.
SECTION 4. Chapter 14.54 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.54
MECHANICAL CODE
Sections:
14.54.010 Adoption of the California Mechanical Code.
14.54.010 Adoption of the California Mechanical Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of providing minimum standards for regulating and controlling the design, construction, installation, quality of materials, location, operation and maintenance of heating, ventilating, comfort cooling, refrigeration systems, incinerators or other miscellaneous heat-producing appliances, that certain primary code known as the “California Mechanical Code, including all appendices thereof, 2025 Edition,” published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (based on the Uniform Mechanical Code, 2024 Edition). This code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though 27 fully set forth in the Chapter and shall be designated and referred to as the “Mechanical Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the California Mechanical Code as adopted and other municipal code requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
SECTION 5. Chapter 14.64 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.64
PLUMBING CODE
Sections:
14.64.010 Adoption of the California Plumbing Code.
14.64.010 Adoption of the California Plumbing Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City council, for the purpose of establishing minimum regulations for the installation, alteration or repair of plumbing and drainage systems and the inspection thereof, that certain primary code known as the “California Plumbing Code, including the Appendices thereof, 2025 Edition,” published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (based on the Uniform Mechanical Code, 2024 Edition). This code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth in the Chapter, and shall be designated and referred to as the “Plumbing Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the California Plumbing Code as adopted and other municipal requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
SECTION 6. Chapter 14.68 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.68
ELECTRICAL CODE
Sections:
14.68.010 Adoption of the California Electrical Code.
14.68.010 Adoption of the California Electrical Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of establishing minimum regulations for the installation, alteration, maintenance, removal and use of electrical wiring, devices, equipment and appurtenances that certain primary code known as the “California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition” and appendix published by the National Fire Protection Association (based on the National Electrical Code, 2023 Edition). This Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth in the Chapter and shall be designated and referred to as the “Electrical Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the California Electrical Code as adopted and other municipal requirements, the more restrictive shall govern. 28 SECTION 7. Chapter 14.70 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby removed and replaced in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.70
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
Sections:
14.70.010 Adoption of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code including Chapter 1, Division II, excluding Chapter 4.
14.70.015 Amendment to Subsection 101.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
14.70.020 Amendment to Subsection 504.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.025 Addition of Subsection 504.10.4 to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.030 Amendment to Subsection 504.5.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.035 Addition of Subsection 504.8.3 to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.040 Addition of Subsection 504.8.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.045 Delete and Replace of Section 602.2, and Delete of Subsection 602.3, Subsection 602.3.1, and 602.3.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.050 Delete and Replace of Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.055 Addition of Section 603.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.060 Addition of Section 604.1.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.065 Addition of Section 604.1.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.070 Addition of Section 613 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.075 Addition of Section 614 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
14.70.010 Adoption of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City council, for the purpose of establishing minimum requirements to reduce the likelihood of life and property loss due to a wildfire through the use of performance and prescriptive requirements for construction and development in all Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas (SRA), and Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, and increase the ability of buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone within State Responsibility Areas (SRA), or Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Areas, to resist the intrusion of flames or burning embers projected by a vegetation fire and contributes to a systematic reduction in conflagration losses and reduce the likelihood of life and property loss due to a wildfire.
14.70.015. Amendment to Subsection 101.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 101.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is amended to read as follows:
29 101.2 Scope. This code applies to building materials, systems and/or assemblies used in the exterior design and construction of new buildings, additions, alterations, and repairs located within a wildland-urban interface (WUI) area within the City of Laguna Beach and contains minimum requirements to mitigate conditions that might cause a fire originating in a structure to ignite vegetation in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) area, and conversely, a wildfire burning in vegetative fuels to transmit fire to buildings and threaten to destroy life, overwhelm fire suppression capabilities or result in large property losses.
Exception: With the approval of the building official minor repairs or replacement of exterior materials may be done with the same materials as exists on the building.
14.70.020 Amendment to Subsection 504.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 504.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is amended to read as follows:
504.2 Roof assembly. Roofs and all reroofs shall have a roof assembly that complies with a Class A fire classification when tested in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790 Exception: With the approval of the building official small sections of a roof may be reroofed with the same material as exists on the roof.
14.70.025 Addition of Subsection 504.10.4 to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 504.10.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section
14.70.010 is added to read as follows:
504.10.4 Vent size. Each individual ventilation opening into enclosed attics, enclosed eave soffit spaces, enclosed rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied directly to the underside of roof rafters, and underfloor spaces shall not exceed 144 square inches in area. Openings exceeding 144 square inches in area shall be protected by a minimum 1 3/8” thick solid core wooden door or equivalent.
14.70.030 Amendment to Subsection 504.5.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 504.5.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section
14.70.010 is amended to read as follows:
504.5.2 Exterior wall coverings. The exterior wall covering, or wall assembly, including insulation shall comply with one of the following requirements:
1. Noncombustible material.
2. Ignition-resistant building material labeled for exterior use.
3. Fire-retardant-treated wood labeled for exterior use and complying with the requirements of Section 2303.2 of the California Building Code.
30 4. Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes which have been qualified in accordance with Section 1505.6 of the California Building Code for use as "Class B" roof covering shall be an acceptable alternative wall covering material where installed over solid sheathing.
14.70.035 Addition of Subsection 504.8.3 to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 504.8.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section
14.70.010 is added to read as follows.
504.8.3 Vinyl windows. Glazing frames made of vinyl materials shall have welded corners and metal reinforcing in the interlock area.
14.70.040 Addition of Subsection 504.8.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Subsection 504.8.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section
14.70.010 is added to read as follows:
504.8.4 Skylights and sloped glazing. Skylights and sloped glazing must comply with Section 504.8 and must be of glass. Plastic skylights and plastic sloped glazing are not allowed.
14.70.045 Delete and Replace of Section 602.2, and Deletion of Subsection 602.3, Subsection 602.3.1, and 602.3.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 602.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted entirely, including its subsection 602.3 and its subsections 602.3.1 and 602.3.2.
Section 602.2 Contents is hereby added as follows:
The Fire Protection Plan shall contain the requirements set forth in the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document as amended from time to time by City Council and pursuant to Resolutions 89.104, 1640, and 1641.
14.70.050 Deletion and Replacement of Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is hereby deleted in its entirety.
Section 603.3.1 Contents is hereby added as follows:
The Landscape Plan shall contain the requirements set forth in the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document as amended from time to time by City Council and pursuant to Resolutions
89.104, 1640, and 1641.
14.70.055 Addition of Section 603.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 603.4 Vegetation of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section
14.70.010 is hereby revised by adding Section "(4)" as follows:
31 (4) Does not contain target species listed in the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document as amended from time to time by City Council and pursuant to Resolutions 89.104, 1640, and 1641.
14.70.060 Addition of Section 604.1.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 604.1.1 Defensible Space Guideline of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is hereby added as follows:
604.1.1 Defensible Space Guideline. All existing habitable buildings and structures within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall maintain defensible space in accordance with the requirements in the Defensible Space Guideline for Existing Structures in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, dated August 2021, as amended from time to time by Resolution of the City Council.
Exceptions:
1. New construction or major remodels, as defined by local ordinance, to be built or installed in areas containing City of Laguna Beach Fuel Modification designation, shall comply with Section 613.
2. Existing structures built in compliance with the Fuel Modification Guidelines pursuant to Resolution 89.104 shall be maintained in accordance with the approved plan.
14.70.065 Addition of Section 604.1.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 604.1.2 Documentation of Compliance of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is hereby added as follows:
604.1.2 Documentation of Compliance. Property owners are required to comply with the Defensible Space Guideline for Existing Structures in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, or the Fuel Modification Guidelines pursuant to Resolution 89.104, shall obtain documentation of compliance from the fire code official upon inspection verification.
14.70.070 Addition of Section 613 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 613 Fuel Modification requirements for new construction or major remodel of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is hereby added as follows:
Section 613 Fuel modification requirements for new construction or major remodel. All new buildings or major remodels, as defined by local ordinance, to be built or installed in areas containing City of Laguna Beach Fuel Modification designation shall comply with the following:
5. Preliminary fuel modification plans shall be submitted to and approved by the fire code official concurrent with the submittal for approval of any tentative map.
6. Final fuel modification plans shall be submitted to and approved by the fire code official prior to the issuance of a building permit.
7. The fuel modification plans shall meet the criteria set forth in the 2019 City of Laguna Beach Fire Department Landscape/Fuel Modification Standards and Maintenance Program document as amended from time to time by City Council and pursuant to Resolutions 89.104, 1640, and 1641.
8. The fuel modification plan may be altered if conditions change. Any alterations to the fuel modification areas shall have prior approval by the fire code official. 32 9. All elements of the fuel modification plan shall be maintained in accordance with the approved plan and are subject to the enforcement process outlined in the Fire Code.
14.70.075 Addition of Section 614 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Section 614 Explosives and blasting of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code adopted in Section 14.70.010 is hereby added as follows:
Section 614 Explosives and blasting. Explosives shall not be possessed, kept, stored, sold, offered for sale, given away, used, discharged, transported or disposed of within wildland-urban interface areas, or hazardous fire areas.
SECTION 8. Chapter 14.86 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.86
GREEN BUILDING CODE
Sections:
14.86.010 Adoption of the California Green Building Code.
14.86.011 Addition of subsection 4.106.4.5 to the California Green Building Code.
14.86.012 Addition of subsection 4.304.2 to the California Green Building Code.
14.86.013 Addition of subsection 4.503.2 to the California Green Building Code.
14.86.010 Adoption of the California Green Building Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of establishing minimum regulations for the construction of buildings utilizing concepts that encourage energy efficiency, water efficiency and conservation, material conservation and resource efficiency, and environmental air quality, that certain primary code known as the “California Green Building Code, 2025 Edition,” published by the International Code Council. This Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth in the chapter and shall be designated and referred to as the “Green Building Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the California Green Building Code as adopted and other municipal requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
14.86.011 Addition of subsection 4.106.4.5 to the California Green Building Code.
4.106.4.5 New One- And Two-Family Dwellings and Townhouses with Attached Private Garages
For each new dwelling unit and each existing dwelling unit approved for a major remodel, must install a listed raceway to accommodate a dedicated 208/240 branch circuit. The raceway shall not be less than trade size 1 (nominal 1-inch inside diameter). The raceway shall originate at the main service or subpanel and shall terminate into a listed cabinet, box or other enclosure in close proximity to the proposed location of an EV charger. Raceways are required to be continuous at enclosed, inaccessible, or concealed areas and spaces. The service panel and/or subpanel shall provide capacity to install a 40-ampere 208/240-volt minimum dedicated branch circuit and space(s) reserved to permit installation of a branch circuit overcurrent protective device. 33 14.86.012 Addition of subsection 4.304.2 to the California Green Building Code.
4.304.2 Irrigation controllers. Automatic irrigation system controllers for landscaping provided by the builder and installed at the time of final inspection shall comply with the following:
1. Controllers shall be weather-or soil moisture-based controllers that automatically adjust irrigation in response to changes in plants’ needs as weather conditions change.
2. Weather-based controllers without integral rain sensors or communication systems that account for local rainfall shall have a separate wired or wireless rain sensor which connects or communicates with the controller(s). Soil moisture-based controllers are not required to have rain sensor input.
14.86.013 Addition of subsection 4.503.2 to the California Green Building Code.
Subsection 14.86.012 of the California Green Building Code is amended to read as follows:
4.503.1 General. Any installed gas fireplace shall be a direct-vent sealed-combustion type. Any installed woodstove or pellet stove shall comply with U.S. EPA Phase II emission limits where applicable. Woodstoves, pellet stoves and fireplaces shall also comply with local ordinances.
4.503.2 Wood-burning fireplaces. Any “major remodel” to a single-family residence as defined in Section 25.08.024 of Title 25 of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code, will require retrofit of any existing wood-burning fireplace to comply with U.S. EPA Phase II emission limits by using a qualified retrofit insert, converting the existing wood-burning fireplace to gas-only use or other approved device.
(Ord. 1587 § 1, 2014).
SECTION 9. Chapter 14.90 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.90
ENERGY CODE
Sections:
14.90.010 Adoption of the California Energy Code.
14.90.010 Adoption of the California Energy Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of establishing minimum regulations for the construction of buildings utilizing concepts that encourage energy efficiency and conservation, resource efficiency, and environmental air quality, that certain primary code known as the “California Energy Code, 2025 Edition,” published by the International Code Council. This Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth in the chapter and shall be designated and referred to as the “Energy Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the California Energy Code as adopted and other municipal requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
34 SECTION 10. Chapter 14.91 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.91
HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
Sections:
14.91.010 Adoption of the California Historical Building Code.
14.91.010 Adoption of the California Historical Building Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose providing regulations for the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, relocation or reconstruction of buildings or properties designated as qualified historical buildings or properties (as defined in Chapter 8-2). The California Historical Building Code (CHBC) 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 (CHBC) requires enforcing agencies to accept solutions that are reasonably equivalent to the regular code (as defined in Chapter 8-2) when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.
SECTION 11. Chapter 14.92 of Title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.92
EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Sections:
14.92.010 Adoption of the California Existing Building Code.
14.92.010 Adoption of the California Existing Building Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of establishing the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
SECTION 12. Chapter 14.95 of title 14 of the Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 14.95
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
Sections:
35 14.95.010 Adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code.
14.95.010 Adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code.
Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the Government Code of the State of California, there is hereby adopted by reference by the City Council, for the purpose of establishing minimum regulations for all existing residential and nonresidential structures and all premises to constitute minimum standards for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from elements, a reasonable level of safety from fire and other hazards, and a reasonable level of sanitary maintenance for enforcement and penalties, that certain primary code known as the “International Property Maintenance Code, 2024 Edition, “published by the International Code Council. This Code is adopted by reference and incorporated as though fully set forth in the chapter, and shall be designated and referred to as the “Property Maintenance Code” of the City. Should there be a conflict between the International Property Maintenance Code as adopted and other municipal requirements, the more restrictive shall govern.
SECTION 13. This Ordinance is intended to be of Citywide effect and application. All ordinances and provisions of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code and Sections thereof inconsistent shall be and the same are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency and no further.
SECTION 14. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 15. CEQA. The action proposed herein is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Section 21065 of CEQA and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060 (c)(2), 15060 (c)(3), and 15378 because the ordinance will not result in a reasonably foreseeable physical change to the environment. The proposed action is also exempt from the CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. This ordinance itself does not authorize development that would directly result in physical change to the environment.
SECTION 16. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this ordinance and, within 15 days after its adoption, shall cause it to be published in accordance with California Law.
SECTION 17. Records. The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which this Ordinance has been based are located at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue, I Laguna Beach, CA 92651. The custodian of the record of proceedings is the City Clerk. SECTION 7. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take thirty days after its passage and adoption pursuant to California Government Code section 36937.
SECTION 18. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take thirty days after its passage and adoption pursuant to California Government Code section 36937. 36 ADOPTED this _____ day of ____________, 2025.
Alex Rounaghi, Mayor
ATTESTED ON: ____________________________
(Date)
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________
Megan Garibaldi, City Attorney
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. XXXX was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on _______________, 2025, and was finally adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held on _______________, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER(S):
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER(S):
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER(S):
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER(S):
City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, CA