Los Alamitos City Council
September 15, 2025

13 Comprehensive User Fee Study
variability in charges due to project type and scale is determined. All suggested fee changes are detailed in Appendix C.

Development Services – Planning Analysis
Willdan individually reviewed the services and programs associated with the Planning Program. The review also consisted of an evaluation of existing services in an effort to update the fee schedule.

The analysis of Planning services relied primarily upon a standard unit cost build-up approach, whereby the reasonable cost of each fee occurrence was determined using staff time involved in providing services to recover the direct cost of staff and the pro-rata share of departmental costs, including indirect costs for City central services. Willdan then compared the calculated full cost against the current fee amount to determine, if charged, whether the current fee is recovering the costs associated with the requested service. The analysis found that current fees are not in line with the updated cost of providing services. It is recommended that the City adjust fees to full cost recovery as detailed in Appendix C. As a result, there would be:
 An increase to 31 fees;
 19 fees would decrease;
 4 fees would change to flat fee from a deposit based;  3 new fees would be added, and;
 30 fees would remain as currently set.

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Police
The Los Alamitos Police Department consists of ten divisions: Police Administration, Patrol, Investigation, Records, Community Outreach, Youth Programs, Traffic, Emergency Preparedness, and K-9 Unity. These divisions provide the highest degree of professional police service in partnership with the community to ensure Los Alamitos is a safe place to live, visit, and conduct business.

Administration provides the oversight and administrative backbone necessary for the effective and efficient police service delivery. The primary responsibility of the Patrol Bureau is to ensure the safety and security of the community. Combining traditional enforcement with creative problem-solving strategies, the Patrol Bureau responds to calls for service “Every Hour, Every Day.” As the most visible representatives of the Police Department, Patrol Officers make customer service a priority while preventing crime, enforcing laws and apprehending criminals.

The Detective Bureau is made up of investigators working to solve crimes and prepare cases for court. The Records Bureau provides a valuable support function for the Police Department. It is responsible for protecting and maintaining an up-to-date records management system, tracking subpoenas, managing evidence, meeting State and Federal reporting mandates, preparing documents for court bookings, and tracking cases from the time of arrest through the duration of the trial. Fingerprinting, citation verifications, responding to public inquiries, and vehicle releases are some of the services provided by the Records Bureau.

Community Outreach is the mechanism Los Alamitos Police Officers use to interact and foster partnerships with our citizens. The Department is constantly striving to improve efficiency by implementing compassionate, creative law enforcement programs that focus on prevention as well as apprehension. By utilizing up-to-date technology, the Department informs community members by providing timely information about criminal activity and crime prevention through a cost-effective information dissemination network. In addition to mainstream social media, the Department utilizes Nixle to keep residents informed on matters impacting the community.

Police Analysis
Willdan individually reviewed the services associated with the Police Department. The review also consisted of an evaluation of existing services in an effort to update the fee schedule.

The analysis of the Police services relied primarily upon a standard unit cost build-up approach for fees, excluding penalties, whereby the reasonable cost of each fee occurrence was determined using staff time involved with providing the service to recover the direct cost of staff and the pro-rata share of departmental costs, including indirect costs for City Central Services. Willdan then compared the calculated full cost against the current fee amount to determine, if charged, whether the current fee is recovering the costs associated with the requested service. The analysis found that fees are currently not in line with the updated full cost of providing services. Staff is recommending the fees be adjusted as detailed in Appendix C. As a result, there would be:

15 Comprehensive User Fee Study
 An increase to 17 fees;
 3 fees would decrease;
 18 fees would remain as currently set, and;
 the average fee change would be an increase of 6% for current fees.

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Recreation & Community Services
The Administration Division manages the financial and logistical operations of the Recreation and Community Services Department, including Community Services, Day Camp, Park Programs, Sports, Special Classes, and Special Events. The division also provides administrative support to the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Commission.

COMMUNITY SERVICES
The Community Services Division is responsible for the development and implementation of year-round programming and services for the senior population. The larger of these Community Services is also responsible for scheduling, reservations, policy renovation, and day-to-day operations associated with the Community Center facility and surrounding complex.

DAY CAMP AND PARK PROGRAMS
The Day Camp Division is responsible for the development and coordination of the Los Alamitos Day Camp program. By offering extended hours, this program helps meet the need of many working parents as a daycare alternative. Activities include arts & crafts, swimming, sports, table games, movies, music, challenges, and field trips to the beach, amusement parks, and museums. Park Programs are drop-in programs at Los Alamitos park sites provide children the opportunity to play in a safe and fun environment for the constructive use of their free time during the summer.

SPORTS
The Sports Division is responsible for the development and administration of Parent and Me, Junior PeeWee, Pee-Wee, Youth and Adult sports programming. This division also allocates athletic facilities throughout the City and routinely interacts with youth sports user groups. Adult Sports programs give adults the opportunity to exercise, promote wholesome physical activity, and provide an outlet for competition and fun. This program reduces stress, builds friendships, provides an opportunity for bonding, and promotes health and wellness.

SPECIAL CLASSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS
The Special Classes Division provides a comprehensive selection of special interest classes for all age groups. In this division, over 40 instructors teach a combination of well over 200 different classes and camps. Classes and camps are offered based on demand, viability, and trend structure. Focus is placed on the instruction and development of skills in specialized areas. The Special Events Division coordinates the City's annual special events, including the Weekend of Art, Race Los Al, 3rd of July Fireworks Spectacular, Spring Carnival, Senior Prom, Teen Expo, Music and Movies Event Series, Trunk-or-Treat, Winter Wonderland, Film & Food Fest, new Week of Los Al and My City My Los Al Street Fair, Family Gala, and Holiday Decorating Contest.

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Recreation & Community Services Analysis
Willdan individually reviewed the services and programs associated with the Recreation and Community Services Department. The review also consisted of an evaluation of existing services in an effort to update the fee schedule.

The analysis of Recreation programs included an update of the cost recovery targets for services and facility rentals. Fees for use of government owned facilities and property can be set discretionally by the City per Proposition 26 to reduce the cost to the public for related facilities costs, and because there is market availability for facility use elsewhere. The cost of acquisition, maintenance, repair, and upgrade to the City and subsequently the community is partially offset by rental or use fee revenue. As such these fees should be set using the knowledge of activity use for the facilities, policy desires of the City, and market factors when desirable. It is generally accepted that many Recreation programs provide a measure of public benefit to the residents and City as a whole. In addition, cities generally want to ensure that their programs and services remain affordable to the community at large, and that the programs remain competitive with surrounding jurisdictions and private businesses. Therefore, full cost recovery is typically not the primary goal of fee setting. A cost recovery analysis of Community Services determined that current direct cost recovery is around 29%. Generally, California cities typically fall between 20% and 40% cost recovery post the COVID pandemic based on Willdan’s experience performing such analysis in other cities in the State due to there being a lag in fee increases since that period. While the overall cost recovery of the department is at 29%, individual areas are achieving differing levels of accost recovery as shown in the table below. The target cost recovery levels the department utilizes in setting fees is detailed in Appendix C.

Description
Direct Cost
Recovery
Recreation Administration NA
Aquatics NA
Community Services 24%
Day Camp 43%
Playgrounds 0%
Sports 24%
Special Classes 44%
Special Events 24%
Total Department 29%

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Appendix A – Total Allowable Cost to be Recovered
Below are the total allowable costs that may be recovered through User Fees; however, only a portion of the total allowable cost is recovered as staff not only works on services related to User Fees, but also works on an array of other City functions during the operational hours of the City. The amounts listed below will not reconcile to City budgets as costs that should not be included in overhead for personnel in the application of determining fully burdened hourly rates were excluded. Examples of these costs are capital, debt, monetary transfers, contract costs, and any other costs that are charged directly to the service requestor.

City of Los Alamitos - User Fee
Overhead Rate Calculations
Department
Total
Personnel
Services
Department
Materials &
Supplies
Direct
Overhead
%
Indirect
Allocation
%
City Administration 891,796 71,131 8% 0%
Development Services Administration 967,584 45,750 5% 0% Development Services 1,003,344 870,149 87% 67%
Development Services - Facility Maintenance 148,086 136,300 92% 0% Finance 574,416 175,983 31% 0%
Police 6,748,952 545,920 8% 22%
Recreation & Community Services 1,813,705 494,772 27% 40%

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Appendix B –Fully Burdened Hourly Rates
Below are fully burdened hourly rates of staff positions that provide for the services detailed in Appendix C. The FBHRs were used to determine the full cost of each service. They include the salary and benefit costs for each position as well as all applicable overhead amounts for each position. When a central service department position works on a fee or project in the purview of an operating department, the overhead rates of the operating department (shown in Appendix A) will be applied to that central service positions’ salary and benefit rate for full cost recovery since indirect overhead cost only applies to non-central service functions of the City. For any user fee service request that is outside the scope of the fees detailed in Appendix C, or for services for which there is no fee currently set, the City can charge up to the full cost of the FBHR for personnel involved.

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City of Los Alamitos - User Fee
Fully Burdened Hourly Rate Calculation
Department Position
S&B
Hourly
Rate
Direct
%
Indirect
%
Fully
Burdened
Hourly
Rate
Development Services Planning Blended rate $471.37
Development Services Maintenance Blended Rate $162.41
Development Services Code Enforecement Blended Rate $100.50 City Administration Admin - Administrative Services Manager $115.73 8% 0% $124.96 City Administration Admin - City Clerk $127.53 8% 0% $137.71 City Administration Admin - City Manager $259.86 8% 0% $280.59 City Administration Admin - Deputy City Clerk $75.46 8% 0% $81.48 City Administration Admin - Management Analyst $70.57 8% 0% $76.20 Development Services DS - Associate Planner $78.89 87% 67% $245.65 Development Services DS - Code Enforcement Officer $57.04 87% 67% $177.62 Development Services DS - Economic Development Supervisor $44.30 87% 67% $137.94 Development Services DS - Maintenance Worker $89.73 87% 67% $279.39 Development Services DS - Maintenance Worker I $98.20 87% 67% $305.76 Development Services DS - Senior Planner $114.71 87% 67% $357.18 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Department Secretary $87.17 5% 0% $91.29 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Development Services Director $106.36 5% 0% $111.39 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Development Services Manger $60.60 5% 0% $63.46 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Maintenance Worker $176.95 5% 0% $185.32 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Management Analyst $115.99 5% 0% $121.48 Development Services Administration DS Admin - Public Works Supervisor $60.60 5% 0% $63.46 Development Services - Facility Maintenance Facility - Maintenance Worker $44.30 92% 0% $85.08 Finance Finance - Accountant $69.84 31% 0% $91.24
Finance Finance - Finance Manager $115.76 31% 0% $151.22 Finance Finance - Senior Finance Assistant $71.39 31% 0% $93.27 Police Police - Community Liaison Officer $65.00 8% 22% $86.01 Police Police - Police Corporal $163.80 8% 22% $216.75
Police Police - Police Officer $133.13 8% 22% $176.16
Police Police - Police Sergeant $188.60 8% 22% $249.56
Police Police - Records Specialist $116.24 8% 22% $153.81 Police Police - SRO $62.45 8% 22% $82.64
Recreation & Community Services Rec - Department Secretary $73.84 27% 40% $131.96 Recreation & Community Services Rec - Recreation and Community Services Director $69.26 27% 40% $123.78 Recreation & Community Services Rec - Recreation Coordinator $66.54 27% 40% $118.92 Recreation & Community Services Rec - Recreation Coordinator/ Graphics Media $105.10 27% 40% $187.82 Recreation & Community Services Rec - Recreation Manager $78.86 27% 40% $140.94 Recreation & Community Services Rec - Recreation Supervisor $118.58 27% 40% $211.91

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Appendix C – Cost Recovery Analysis
The following tables provide the results of the analysis, resulting full cost recovery amount, and recommended fees. For fees, services, and penalties in which the full cost, existing fee, and suggested fee is listed as “NA”, the amount or percentage was not calculable. This is most common when either the current or the suggested fee includes a variable component that is not comparable on a one-to-one basis, a full cost was not calculated (for penalties, fines, market-based fees, or items not included in the study), or when there is not a current fee amount to compare against.

Administration
Fee No. Description
Current Fee/Charge Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Delinquent Customer Fees
Adm 1 Returned Check Processing (Non-Sufficient Funds NSF)Adm 2 1st NSF Check $25.00 Per CA Civil Code; 1st NSF Check is limited to $25 fee; each subsequent NSF check is limited to $35 fee NA NA $25.00 $0.00
Adm 3 Each Subsequent NSF Check $35.00
Per CA Civil Code; 1st NSF Check is limited to $25 fee; each subsequent NSF check is limited to $35 fee NA NA $35.00 $0.00
Adm 4 Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Administration
processing fee (line addition to penalty) $10.00 $26.21 54% $12.00 $2.00 Adm 5 Collections Fee $142.57 NA NA $142.57 $0.00
Finance Processing Fees
Adm 6 Admin Processing Fee (per transaction) $5.32 NA NA $5.32 $0.00 Credit Card Processing Fee New 4.4% NA 3.5% NA
Adm 7 Refund Processing - Check $35.45 $26.01 0% $26.00 -$9.45Adm 8 Check Reissuance $69.78 Includes the bank fee of $30 for stop payment $60.68 1% $60.00 -$9.78 Copies:

Adm 9 Per page $0.10 Per Public Records Act ($ .10 per page) NA NA $0.10 $0.00 Electronic Data Request (CD/DVD Copy)
Adm 10 Copy of Existing Data File $10.35 NA NA $10.35 $0.00Adm 11 Copy of Non-Existing Data File $22.15 NA NA $22.15 $0.00 Other
Adm 12 Certification of Document $22.15 $34.43 22% $27.00 $4.85Adm 13 Witness Oath Admin Fee $10.35 $34.43 65% $12.00 $1.65Adm 15 Notary Fee $15.00 AB 2217, effective 1.1.17 $15 NA NA $15.00 $0.00Adm 16 U.S Veteran Notary Fee $0.00 NA NA $0.00 $0.00 Subpoena Fee
Adm 17 Response to subpoena - Hourly $28.00 CA Evidence Code 1563 NA NA $28.00 $0.00Adm 18 Response to subpoena - Records $16.43 CA Evidence Code 1564 NA NA $16.43 $0.00Adm 19 Response to subpoena - Civil $316.18 Set by State NA NA $316.18 $0.00 Business License
Adm 20 Change to Business License - Name $13.80 Current actual cost to City: HDL costs = $12 per item NA NA $13.80 $0.00Adm 21 Change to Business License - Location $13.80 Current actual cost to City: HDL costs = $12 per item NA NA $13.80 $0.00 22

Administration
Fee No. Description
Current Fee/Charge Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Adm 22 Duplicate Business License $13.80 Current actual cost to City: HDL costs = $12 per item NA NA $13.80 $0.00Adm 23 Business License Home Occupation Inspection $123.02 Cost from CD-Planning NA NA $123.02 $0.00 Business Permits and Regulations
Adm 24 Bingo Permit $57.49 CA Govt. Code 25845; Penal Code 326.3-326.5 NA NA $57.49 $0.00 Hourly Rates
Adm 25 Admin Svcs - Hourly Rate $142.57 $124.96 1% $124.00 -$18.57Adm 26 City Clerk - Hourly Rate $126.47 $137.71 1% $137.00 $10.53 Election Related
Adm 27 Filing Fee Candidate's Nomiation Papers $25.00 CA Elections Code 10228 NA NA $25.00 $0.00 For services requested of City staff which have no fee listed in this fee schedule, the City Manager or the City Manager's designee shall determine the appropriate fee based on the established hourly rates for this department/division. Additionally, the City will pass-through to the applicant any discrete costs incurred from the use of external service providers if required to process the specific application. 23

Public Works
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ PW 1 Improvement - Plan Check - Per Sheet (Street, Storm Drain) - includes 3 reviews $979.59 $2,010.25 0% $2,010.25 $1,030.66 PW 1 Improvement - Plan Check - Per Sheet (Street, Storm Drain) - 4th and subsequent review $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65 PW 2 Improvement - Inspection (Street, Storm Drain) - per inspection $587.53 $1,205.68 0% $1,205.68 $618.15
PW 3 Grading - Plan Check - Residential lots $761.14 $1,561.96 0% $1,561.96 $800.82PW 4 Grading - Plan Check - Commercial lots Deposit $687 - Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Deposit $1,030 - Actual Cost $0.00PW 5 Hydrology Report $761.14 Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate $1,561.96 0% $1,561.96 $800.82PW 6 Geotech/ Soils Review Deposit $687 - Actual Cost NA NA Deposit $1,030 - Actual Cost $0.00PW 7 Parking Space Closure $1,175.05 $2,411.36 0% $2,411.36 $1,236.31PW 8 Sidewalk Closure $784.13 $1,609.14 0% $1,609.14 $825.01PW 9 Traffic Study Review $2,351.25 $4,825.07 0% $4,825.07 $2,473.82 PW 10 Grading - Inspection $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 11 Final Tract Map $1,371.66 $2,814.82 0% $2,814.82 $1,443.16PW 12 Parcel Map per Parcel $761.14 $1,561.96 0% $1,561.96 $800.82PW 13 Lot Line Adjustment 761.14 per parcel $5,472.05 0% $5,472.05 Variable SB9 New $11,226.11 0% $11,226.11 NA
PW 14 Other Legal Checking Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 15 Curb Painting (per 30 l.f. of curb) $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 16 Access: Commercial $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 17 Access: Personal/Homeowner $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 18 Commercial Photography Motion Picture - per Day $685.26 $1,406.23 0% $1,406.23 $720.98PW 19 Commercial Photography/Still Pictures - per Day $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65PW 20 Surplus Material Removal (Review of Contractor's Hauling Plan) $587.53 $1,205.68 0% $1,205.68 $618.15
PW 21 Road Closure $685.26 $1,406.23 0% $1,406.23 $720.98 Ticket Trailer Rental New per 4 hours NA NA $1,200.00 NAStage Rental New per 4 hours NA NA $3,500.00 NAMisc Equipment Rental New $1,992.75 73% $548.00 NATraffic Control Setup New $3,985.50 0% Actual Cost - Minimum $1,097
NA
Underground Utilities:

PW 22 0-100 l.f. $685.26 $1,406.23 0% $1,406.23 $720.98PW 23 101-1,000 l.f. $979.59 $2,010.25 0% $2,010.25 $1,030.66 24

Public Works
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ PW 24 1,000 + l.f. $1,763.73 $3,619.40 0% $3,619.40 $1,855.67PW 25 per Additional l.f. $2.17 $4.45 0% $4.45 $2.28PW 26 Aerial Utilities - All (per pole) $784.13 $1,609.14 0% $1,609.14 $825.01PW 27 Landscaping / Gardening Irrigation (> 2,500 s.f.) $878.09 $1,801.96 0% $1,801.96 $923.87PW 28 Bus Bench / Shelter Master Permit / Renewal $489.80 $1,005.13 0% $1,005.13 $515.33PW 29 Bus Bench / Shelter Indiv. Bench Placement / Renewal $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65PW 30 Bus Shelter Master Permit & Renewal $147.17 $302.01 0% $302.01 $154.84 PW 68 Bus Bench/Shelter Removal $10.00 $20.52 0% $20.52 $10.52PW 69 Bus Bench/Shelter Storage per month $5.00 $10.26 0% $10.26 $5.26 PW 31 News Rack Fee $294.34 $604.02 0% $604.02 $309.68PW 32 Culvert $489.80 $1,005.13 0% $1,005.13 $515.33PW 33 Driveway Approach - Residential $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65PW 34 Driveway Approach - Commercial $646.16 $1,326.01 0% $1,326.01 $679.85PW 35 Curbs & Gutters per 100 l.f. $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65PW 36 Sidewalks $294.34 $604.02 0% $604.02 $309.68PW 37 Paving $685.26 $1,406.23 0% $1,406.23 $720.98PW 38 Paving per l.f. $0.92 $1.90 0% $1.90 $0.97PW 39 Catch Basin $294.34 $604.02 0% $604.02 $309.68PW 40 Storm Drain Entries 0-27" $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 41 Storm Drain Entries > 27" $392.07 $804.57 0% $804.57 $412.51PW 42 Traffic Control Plan $784.13 $1,609.14 0% $1,609.14 $825.01PW 43 Memorial Tree/Rock Installation Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 44 Old Street Sign Sale $17.25 $35.39 0% $35.39 $18.15PW 45 Sign Installation $150.62 $309.09 0% $309.09 $158.47PW 46 Barricade / Delineator Request - Per Event or Incident Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 47 Shopping Cart Retrieval $50.59 $103.82 0% $103.82 $53.23 Monitoring Well Installation Fee (Per Well)
PW 48 Plan Review $150.62 $309.09 0% $309.09 $158.47PW 49 Traffic Plan $453.00 $929.62 0% $929.62 $476.62PW 50 Inspection $154.00 $316.03 0% $316.03 $162.03 Crane Permit
PW 51 Traffic Plan $453.00 $929.62 0% $929.62 $476.62PW 52 Inspection $150.62 $309.09 0% $309.09 $158.47PW 53 Outdoor Dining Permit $906.01 $1,859.25 0% $1,859.25 $953.24PW 54 Parklet Fee $604.77 $1,241.07 0% $1,241.07 $636.30 Oversize/ Overweight Permit
PW 55 Single $16.00 Fee Set by State ($16;$90 maximum) NA NA $16.00 $0.00PW 56 Annual $90.00 Fee Set by State ($16;$90 maximum) NA NA $90.00 $0.00PW 57 Tree Removal Fee $302.39 Variable NA Contract Rate NAPW 58 Temporary "No Parking" Sign Fee $604.77 $1,241.07 0% $1,241.07 $636.30 25

Public Works
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Impact Analysis / Review
PW 59 Traffic Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 60 Soils Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 61 Noise Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 62 Street Vacation Fee Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PW 63 Incident/ Accident Response (Haz Mat, Accident, Other) Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 PW 64 Standard City List of repair/ replacement items Actual Cost Recommended fee is "Actual Cost" using fully burdened hourly rate NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 Hourly Rates:

PW 65 PW Engineering - Hourly Rate $195.46 $401.11 0% $401.11 $205.65PW 66 PW Maintenance - Hourly Rate $150.62 $309.09 0% $309.09 $158.47PW 67 After Hours Rate (Per hour; 4 hour minimum $286) $150.62 After Hours: Monday through Thursday between 6pm-6am; All day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; City approved Holidays $309.09 0% $309.09 $158.47
For services requested of City staff which have no fee listed in this fee schedule, the City Manager or the City Manager's designee shall determine the appropriate fee based on the established hourly rates for this department/division. Additionally, the City will pass-through to the applicant any discrete costs incurred from the use of external service providers if required to process the specificapplication. 26

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Project valuations determined by the most recent published International Code Council (ICC) Building Valuation Table or by Contractors signed contract, at the discretion of the Building OfficialValuation-Based Inspection FeesBuilding Valuation Range BL 1 $1 - $500 $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 2 $501 - $2,000 $302.39 $337.80 0% $337.80 $35.41BL 3 $2,001 - $6,000 $402.41 $449.54 0% $449.54 $47.13BL 4 $6,001 - $12,000 $603.62 $674.31 0% $674.31 $70.69BL 5 $12,000 - $25,000 $805.98 $900.37 0% $900.37 $94.39BL 6 $25,001 base fee $1,007.19 $1,125.14 0% $1,125.14 $117.95BL 7 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $50,000 $32.22 $35.99 0% $35.99 $3.77BL 8 $50,001 base fee $1,778.46 $1,986.73 0% $1,986.73 $208.27BL 9 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $100,000 $12.08 $13.50 0% $13.50 $1.42BL 1 $100,001 base fee $2,371.28 $2,648.97 0% $2,648.97 $277.69 BL 11 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $500,000 $4.53 $5.06 0% $5.06 $0.53BL 12 $500,001 base fee $4,148.68 $4,634.51 0% $4,634.51 $485.84BL 13 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $1,000,000 $5.63 $6.29 0% $6.29 $0.66BL 14 $1,000,000 Base Fee $6,911.28 $7,720.64 0% $7,720.64 $809.36BL 15 Each additional $1000 beyond $1,000,000 $4.03 $4.50 0% $4.50 $0.47 Valuation-Based Plan Review FeesBuilding Valuation Range BL 16 $1 - $500 $101.00 $112.83 0% $112.83 $11.83BL 17 $501 - $2,000 $101.00 $112.83 0% $112.83 $11.83BL 18 $2,001 - $6,000 $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 19 $6,001 - $12,000 $402.41 $449.54 0% $449.54 $47.13 27

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ BL 20 $12,000 - $25,000 $805.98 $900.37 0% $900.37 $94.39BL 21 $25,001 - $50,000 base fee $1,186.70 $1,325.67 0% $1,325.67 $138.97BL 22 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $50,000 $16.11 $17.99 0% $17.99 $1.89BL 23 $50,001 base fee $1,485.76 $1,659.75 0% $1,659.75 $173.99BL 24 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $100,000 $8.06 $9.00 0% $9.00 $0.94BL 25 $100,001 base fee $1,976.77 $2,208.27 0% $2,208.27 $231.49BL 26 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $500,000 $1.25 $1.40 0% $1.40 $0.15BL 27 $500,001 base fee $2,468.84 $2,757.96 0% $2,757.96 $289.12BL 28 Each additional $1000 or fraction thereof up to $1,000,000 $0.80 $0.90 0% $0.90 $0.09BL 29 $1,000,000 Base Fee $2,861.23 $3,196.30 0% $3,196.30 $335.07BL 30 Each additional $1000 beyond $1,000,000 $1.72 $1.92 0% $1.92 $0.20BL 31 Residential Track - Plan Check (Repeat $100,000 - $500,000) $302.39 $337.80 0% $337.80 $35.41BL 32 Residential Track - Plan Check - > $500,000 each additional $100,000 $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04BL 33 Accessibility Plan Check (applicable to all non-residential project) 5% of plan check fee NA NA 5% of plan check fee $0.00Miscellaneous Building Fees BL 34 Permit Issuance $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92
Solar PV Permit FeeResidential
BL 35 < 15 kW $450.00 CA Govt Code ss 66015 $360.00 25% $270.00 $0.00BL 36 > 15 kW $450 plus $15 per kW CA Govt Code ss 66015 NA NA $270 plus $15 per kW $0.00 Residential Solar Plan Check New $180.00 0% $180.00 $0.00Commercial BL 37 < 50 kW $1,000.00 CA Govt Code ss 66015 NA NA $1,000.00 $0.00BL 38 51 - 250 kW $1,000 plus $7 per kW CA Govt Code ss 66015 NA NA $1,000 plus $7 per kW $0.00BL 39 > 250 kW $2,400 plus $5 per kW CA Govt Code ss 66015 NA NA $2,400 plus $5 per kW $0.00BL 40 Reroof Permit Fee - Residential 1st 500 square foot $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85BL 41 Reroof Permit Fee - Residential for each additional 500 s.f. $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92 BL 42 Reroof Permit Fee - Commercial 1st 1,000 square foot $302.39 $360.00 0% $360.00 $57.61 28

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ BL 43 Reroof Permit Fee - Commercial for each additional 2,000 s.f. $150.62 $180.00 0% $180.00 $29.38Portable Spas and Portable Pools Placed at Grade (Single Family and Duplex Residential Only) BL 44 Plan Review $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 45 Inspection $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92 Reinspection Fees
BL 46 Code Enforcement - City Attorney - per hour Actual Cost NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 Other Fees
BL 47 Expedited Plan Review (Using Outside Consultants) Actual Cost (including Admin Cost) (hourly) Actual Cost NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 BL 48 Green Building and Accessibility Review 5% of Plan Check Fee NA NA 5% of Plan Check Fee $0.00BL 49 Energy Calculation Review Fee $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 Surcharges
BL 50 General Plan Maintenance Fee 9.3% of Building Permit Fee To be charged on all Building Permits for "New Construction that add additional Square Footage" 22% 37% 14% 5%
Automation Fee 20% of Building Permit Fee 12% 1% 12% -8% BL 52 Additional Plan Review (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 53 Temporary Certificate of Use and Occupancy $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 54 Certificate of Occupancy $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 55 Failure to obtain permit 2 X Permit Fee Double Penalty NA NA 2 X Permit Fee $0.00 Building Relocation Fee
BL 56 Within City
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
NA NA
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
$0.00
BL 57 From Outside City
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
NA NA
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
$1.00
BL 58 Same parcel
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
NA NA
$175 + Valuation for reconstruction of building
$0.00
Electrical PermitsPermit Issuance Fees
BL 59 For Issuing Permit $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 60 For issuing each supplemental permit for which the original permit has not expired, been canceled, or finaled. $16.10 $17.98 0% $17.98 $1.89
BL 61 Plan Check Fee (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56 Unit Fee Schedule (the following do not include permit issuing fees)For receptacle, switch, lighting, or other outlets at which current is used or controlled, except services, feeders, and meters.

BL 62 First 10 (Fee is for 1-10) $6.38 $7.13 0% $7.13 $0.75BL 63 Additional Outlets (fee is for each. Time estimate/cost is for each 10) $1.49 $1.67 0% $1.67 $0.17Lighting Fixtures-lighting fixtures, sockets, or other lamp-holding devices 29

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ BL 64 First 10 (Fee is for 1-10) $6.15 $6.87 0% $6.87 $0.72BL 65 Additional Outlets (fee is for each. Time estimate/cost is for each 10) $1.49 $1.67 0% $1.67 $0.17
BL 66 Pole or platform mounted fixtures (Time estimate/cost is for first 10) $9.58 $10.70 0% $10.70 $1.12
BL 67 Pole or platform mounted fixtures (each additional) $16.10 $17.98 0% $17.98 $1.89BL 68 Theatrical-type lighting fixtures or assemblies. $16.10 $17.98 0% $17.98 $1.89 Residential Appliances
BL 69
For fixed residential appliances or receptacle outlets for same, including wall-mounted electric ovens; countermounted cooking tops; electric ranges; self-contained room, console, or through wall heaters; food waste grinders; dishwashers; washing machines; water heaters; clothes dryers; or other motor operated appliances not exceeding one horsepower (HP) in rating. (each) (For other types of air conditioners and other motor-driven appliances having larger electrical ratings, see Power Apparatus.) $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
Nonresidential Appliances
BL 70
For residential appliances and self-contained, factorywired nonresidential appliances not exceeding one horsepower (HP) or kilovolt (KVA) in rating including medical and dental devices; food, beverage, and ice cream cabinets; illuminated show cases; drinking fountains; vending machines; laundry machines; or other types of equipment.(each) (For other types of air conditioners and other motor-driven appliances having larger electrical ratings, see Power Apparatus.) $133.37 $148.99 0% $148.99 $15.62
Power ApparatusFor motors, generators, transformers, rectifiers, synchronous convertors, capacitors, industrial heating, air conditioners and heat pumps, cooking or baking equipment and other apparatus as follows. Rating horsepower (HP), Kilowatts (KW), Kilovolt-amperes (KVA), or Kilovolt-amperes-reactive (KVAR).These fees include all switches, circuit breakers, contractors, thermostats, relays, and other directly controlled equipment.

BL 71 For 1 Item $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85BL 72 For each additional item $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04 Busways
BL 73
For each trolley and plug-in-type busways, each 100 feet or fraction thereof. An additional fee will be required for lighting fixtures, motors, and other appliances that are connected to trolley and plug-in-type busways. No fee is required for portable tools. (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
30

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Signs, Outline Lighting, and Marquees
BL 74 For signs, outline lighting systems, or marquees supplied from one branch circuit. (each) $251.80 $281.28 0% $281.28 $29.49 BL 75 For additional branch circuits with the same sign, outline lighting system, or marquee. (each) $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04Services (Meters) BL 76
For services of 600 volts or less and not over 200 amperes in rating (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 77 For services of 600 volts or less and over 200 amperes to 1000 amperes (each) $150.62 $168.26 0% $168.26 $17.64
BL 78 For services of 600 volts or over or over 1000 amperes in rating (each) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56Sub-panels - Misc. Apparatus, Conduits, and Conductors BL 79
For electrical apparatus, conduits, and conductors for which a permit is required but for which no fee is herein set forth. (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
Temporary Power Service (give applicant orange card for temp pole) BL 80
For a temporary service power pole or pedestal including all pole or pedestal mounted receptacle outlets and appurtenances. (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 85
For a temporary distribution system and temporary lighting and receptacle outlets for construction sites, decorative light, Christmas tree sales lots, fireworks stands, etc. (each) $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04
Private Swimming Pools
BL 81 For new private, residential, in-ground swimming pools for single-family and multifamily occupancies including a $302.39 $337.80 0% $337.80 $35.41 BL 82
*For other types of swimming pools, therapeutic whirlpools, spas, and alterations to existing swimming pools use the Unit Fee Schedule.Carnivals and Circuses-traveling shows or exhibitions utilizing transportable-type rides, booths, displays, and attractions BL 83 For electrical generators and electrically driven rides (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 84 For Mechanically-driven rides and walk-through
attractions or displays having electric lighting (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 85 For a system of area and booth lighting (each) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85BL 86 *For permanently installed rides, booths, displays, and attractions use the Unit Fee ScheduleOther Inspections and Fees BL 87 Inspections outside of normal business hours (per hr.) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 88 Reinspection fee-flat fee assessed under provisions of section 305(h) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 89 Inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56
BL 90 Additional plan review required by changes, additions, or revisions to approved plans (per hour) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85Battery Storage New Adding new electical fee for Battery Storage $180.00 0% $180.00 NA 31

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ For every Additional Batteries (each) New $60.00 0% $60.00 NAMechanical Permit FeesPermit Issuance and Heaters BL 91 For the issuance of each mechanical permit $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 92 For issuing each supplemental permit for which the original permit has not expired, been canceled, or finaled. $16.10 $17.98 0% $17.98 $1.89
BL 93 Plan Check Fee (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56 Unit Fee ScheduleFurnaces
BL 94
For the installation or relocation of each forced-air or gravity type furnace or burner, including ducts and vents attached to such appliance, up to and including 100,000 BTU/h (29.3 kW) $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 95
For the installation or relocation of each forced-air or gravity type furnace or burner, including ducts and vents attached to such appliance over 100,000 BTU/h (29.3 kW) $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 96 For the installation or relocation of each floor furnace, including vent $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 97
For the installation for relocation of each suspended heater, recessed wall heater, or floor-mounted unit heater. $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
Appliance Vents
BL 98
For the installation, relocation, or replacement of each appliance vent installed and not included in an appliance permit. $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92
Repairs or Additions
BL 99
For the repair of, alteration of, or addition to each heating appliance, refrigeration unit, cooling unit, absorption unit, or each heating, cooling, absorption, or evaporative cooling system, including installation of controls regulated by the Mechanical Code. $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92
Boilers and AC Units
BL 100
For the installation or relocation of each boiler or compressor to and including 3 horsepower (10.6 kW), or each absorption system to and including 100,000 Btu/h (29.3 kW) $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 101
For the installation or relocation of each boiler or compressor over 3 horsepower (10.6 kW), and including $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 102
For the installation or relocation of each boiler or compressor over 15 horsepower (52.7 kW), and including 30 Horsepower (105.5 kW) or each absorption over 500,000 Btu/h (146.6 kW) to and including 1,000,000 Btu/h (293.1 kW) $134.52 $150.27 0% $150.27 $15.75
32

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ BL 103
For the installation or relocation of each boiler or compressor over 30 horsepower (105.5 kW), and including 50 Horsepower (176 kW) or each absorption over 1,000,000 Btu/h (293.1 kW) to and including 1,750,000 Btu/h (512.9 kW) $166.71 $186.24 0% $186.24 $19.52
BL 104
For the installation or relocation of each boiler or compressor over 50 horsepower (176 kW), or each absorption system over 175,000 Btu/h (512.9 kW) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56
Air Handlers
BL 105
For each air-handling unit to and including 10,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (4719 L/s) including ducts attached thereto. This does not apply to an air handling unit which is a portion of a factor-assembled appliance, cooling unit, evaporative cooler, or absorption unit for which a permit is required elsewhere in the Mechanical Code. $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 106 For each air-handling unit over 10,000 cfm (4719 L/s) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 Evaporative Coolers
BL 107 For each evaporative cooler other than portable type. $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81 Ventilation and Exhaust
BL 108 For each ventilation fan connected to a single duct $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04BL 109 For each ventilation system which is not a portion of any heating or air-conditioning system authorized by permit $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04 BL 110 For the installation of each hood which is served by mechanical exhaust, including the ducts for such hood $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81Incinerators BL 111 For the installation or relocation of each domestic-type incinerator $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
BL 112
For the installation or relocation of each commercial or industrial-type incinerator. $86.23 $96.33 0% $96.33 $10.10Miscellaneous BL 113
For each appliance or piece of equipment regulated by the Mechanical Code but not classed in other appliance categories, or for which no other fee is listed in the table. $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81
Other Inspections and Fees
BL 114 Inspections outside of normal business hours, per hour (2 hrs. minimum) $402.41 $449.54 0% $449.54 $47.13
BL 115 Reinspection fees assessed under provisions of Section 116.6 per inspection $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56
BL 116 Inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated, per hour (half hour minimum) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56 BL 117
Additional plan review required by changes, additions, or revisions to plans for which an initial review has been completed, per hour (half hour minimum) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 118 Registers (each) $10.35 $11.56 0% $11.56 $1.21
33

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ Plumbing Permit FeesPermit Issuance
BL 119 For issuing each permit $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 120 For issuing each supplemental permit $16.10 $17.98 0% $17.98 $1.89BL 121 Plan Check Fee (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56 Unit Fee Schedule (in addition to permit issuance above) BL 122
For each plumbing fixture on one trap or a set of fixtures on one trap (including water, drainage piping, and backflow protection therefor). Fee is for up to 10 units. Half hour time period covers up to the first 10 $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 123
Each additional plumbing fixture beyond 10. 10 minute time estimate covers each group of up to 5 beyond the original 10. Fee is for each additional group of up to 5 units. $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04
BL 124 For each building sewer and each trailer park sewer $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 125 Rainwater systems-per drain (inside building) Fee is for each. Half hour time period covers 5 units. $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 126 For each water heater and/or vent $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81BL 127 For each gas-piping system of one to five outlets $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85BL 128 For each additional gas piping system outlet, per outlet $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04BL 129 For each industrial waste pretreatment interceptor including its trap and vent, except kitchen-type grease interceptors functioning as fixture traps. $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 130
For each installation, alteration, or repair of water piping and/or water treatment equipment. Fee is for each unit. Half hour time period covers 10 units. $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85
BL 131 For each repair or alteration of drainage or vent piping, each fixture. 15 minute time period covers 5 units $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92 BL 132 For each lawn sprinkler system on any one meter
including backflow protection devices therefor $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92For atmospheric-type vacuum breakers not included in previous item BL 133 1 to 5 $50.59 $56.51 0% $56.51 $5.92BL 134 over 5, each $34.49 $38.53 0% $38.53 $4.04 For each backflow protective device other than atmospheric type vacuum breakers BL 135 2 inch (51 mm) diameter and smaller $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81BL 136 over 2 inch (51 mm) diameter $66.69 $74.50 0% $74.50 $7.81BL 137 For each Graywater system $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85BL 138 For initial installation and testing for a reclaimed water system (per hour) $202.36 $226.05 0% $226.05 $23.70
BL 139 For each annual cross-connection testing of a reclaimed water system (excluding initial test) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 140 For each medical gas piping system serving one to five inlets/outlets for a specific gas (per hour) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 BL 141 For each additional medical gas inlets/outlets $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85 Other inspections and fees
BL 142 Inspections outside of normal business hours (per hour, 2 hour min) $402.41 $449.54 0% $449.54 $47.13
34

Building
Fee No. Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ BL 143 Reinspection Fee (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 144 Inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated (per hour) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56
BL 145 Additional plan review required by changes, additions, or revisions to approved plans (half hour minimum) $101.18 $113.03 0% $113.03 $11.85Hourly Rate BL 146 Building - Hourly Rate $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56 Window Fees
BL 147 Residential Window Replacement (up to 4 windows) $100.80 $112.60 0% $112.60 $11.80BL 148 Each additional window over 4 $66.46 $74.24 0% $74.24 $7.78 Commercial Sign Fees
BL 149 Commercial Signs - No Electrical (First sign) $201.21 $224.77 0% $224.77 $23.56BL 150 Each additional commercial sign no electrical $100.80 $112.60 0% $112.60 $11.80BL 151 Commercial Signs - with Electrical $454.14 $507.33 0% $507.33 $53.18BL 152 Each additional commercial sign with electrical $100.80 $112.60 0% $112.60 $11.80 For services requested of City staff which have no fee listed in this fee schedule, the City Manager or the City Manager's designee shall determine the appropriate fee based on the established hourly rates for this department/division. Additionally, the City will pass-through to the applicant any discrete costs incurred from the use of external service providers if required to process the specific application, including all applicable Citywide Overhead. A Deposit may be required in place of a flat fee, with actual costs charged against the deposit. 35

Minimum Value Maximum Value
Current Base
Rate
Suggested
Base Rate
Current
Plus $$
Suggested
Plus $$ For every

1.00 500.00 0.00 224.77 0.00 0.00 0.00
501.00 2,000.00 302.39 337.80 0.00 0.00 0.00
2,001.00 6,000.00 402.41 449.54 0.00 0.00 0.00
6,001.00 12,000.00 603.62 674.31 0.00 0.00 0.00
12,001.00 25,000.00 805.98 900.37 0.00 0.00 0.00
25,001.00 50,000.00 1,007.19 1,125.14 32.22 35.99 1,000.00 50,001.00 100,000.00 1,778.46 1,986.73 12.08 13.49 1,000.00 100,001.00 500,000.00 2,371.28 2,648.97 4.53 5.06 1,000.00 500,001.00 1,000,000.00 4,148.68 4,634.51 5.63 6.29 1,000.00 1,000,000.01 and up 6,911.28 7,720.64 4.03 4.50 1,000.00 Percent Change = 12%
Cost Recovery Level = 100%
Minimum Value Maximum Value
Current Base
Rate
Suggested
Base Rate
Current
Plus $$
Suggested
Plus $$ For every

1.00 500.00 0.00 112.83 0.00 0.00 0.00
501.00 2,000.00 101.00 112.83 0.00 0.00 0.00
2,001.00 6,000.00 201.21 224.77 0.00 0.00 0.00
Valuation-Based Plan Review Fees
Valuation-Based Inspection Fees
36

Planning
Fee No.Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Unit Fee Δ Planning Zoning Related Fees
PL 1 Accessory Structure Fee $86.23 $307.06 0% $307.00 $220.77PL 2 Administrative Use Permit - New (ex. Outside Dining) $246.05 $491.30 0% $491.00 $244.95PL 3 Administrative Use Permit - Renewal (ex. Outside Dining) $86.23 $368.47 0% $368.00 $281.77Affordable Housing Application Fee New $2,828.20 0% $2,828.00 NA PL 4 Annexation - Deposit $20,000.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR $1,228.24 0% $1,228.00 Flat -$18,772.00PL 5 Appeal - Director - Non-Resident $2,700.78 $591.25 0% $591.00 -$2,109.78 PL 5.1 Appeal - Director - Resident $919.81 $591.25 0% $591.00 -$328.81 PL 6 Appeal - Planning Commission - Non-Resident $2,349.00 Deposit $1,696.67 0% $1,696.00 Flat -$653.00 PL 6.1 Appeal - Planning Commission - Resident $1,100.80 $1,696.67 0% $1,696.00 $595.20 PL 7 Applicant Case Continuance Fee $1,349.81 $1,228.24 0% $1,228.00 -$121.81PL 8 Business License - Field Inspection $123.02 $491.30 0% $491.00 $367.98PL 9 Contract Planner - Expedited Services - Deposit (based on project) Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 PL 10 Cottage Food Operation Permit $246.05 $982.59 0% $982.00 $735.95PL 11 CUP - Minor - Use Change $1,349.81 $1,942.32 0% $1,942.00 $592.19PL 12 CUP - Major - Construction Related $2,700.78 $1,942.32 0% $1,942.00 -$758.78PL 13 Development Agreement - Deposit $20,000.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR $1,696.67 0% $1,696.00 Flat -$18,304.00PL 14 Ext of Time Requests - Discretionary $433.00 Deposit $491.30 0% $491.00 Flat $58.00PL 16 General Plan Amendment $2,438.00 Deposit $8,037.79 0% $8,037.00 Flat $5,599.00PL 17 Home Occupation Permit $117.72 $245.65 0% $245.00 $127.28PL 18 Inspection Fee for Planning/ Code Enforcement (excessive) $246.05 $491.30 0% $491.00 $244.95
PL 19 Interpretation and Similar Use $2,560.00 Deposit $345.60 0% $345.00 Flat -$2,215.00PL 20 Noticing Fee $246.05 $736.95 0% $736.00 $489.95PL 21 Planning Plan Check - Minor (Additional Sq. Ft of ≤ 250 sq. ft.) $123.02 $368.47 0% $368.00 $244.98
PL 22 Planning Plan Check - Major (> 250 Sq. Ft) $490.95 $982.59 0% $982.00 $491.05PL 23 Pre-Application Meeting $1,472.84 $1,346.52 0% $1,346.00 -$126.84PL 24 Preliminary Review $246.05 $491.30 0% $491.00 $244.95PL 25 Review of CCR's Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PL 26 Second Dwelling Unit application review $2,700.78 $736.95 0% $736.00 -$1,964.78PL 27 Signs: Sign Permit $367.92 $245.65 0% $245.00 -$122.92PL 28 Signs: Planned Sign Program $2,700.78 $1,696.67 0% $1,696.00 -$1,004.78PL 29 Signs: Temp Banner/Sign $60.94 $61.41 1% $61.00 $0.06PL 30 Site Development Permit - Minor (additions, minor improvements; covers up to 1 hour) $2,700.78 $1,585.28 0% $1,585.00 -$1,115.78 PL 31 Site Development Permit- Major (all others) 1-5 units $3,682.67 $4,166.93 0% $4,166.00 $483.33PL 31 Site Development Permit- Major (all others) 5+ units $3,682.67 $8,333.87 0% $8,333.00 $4,650.33 Specific Plan New NA NA $2,500.00 Deposit NA
PL 32 Street Name Change Request $736.99 $1,719.54 0% $1,719.00 $982.01PL 33 Street Naming $490.95 $2,456.48 0% $2,456.00 $1,965.05 Sidewalk Vending New $491.30 0% $491.00 NA
PL 34 Temporary Use Permit $981.89 $368.47 0% $368.00 -$613.89PL 35 Temporary Use Permit (road closures, parades) - Non- Resident $490.95 $982.59 0% $982.00 $491.05 PL 35.1 Temporary Use Permit (road closures, parades) - Resident $172.46 $1,228.24 0% $1,228.00 $1,055.54
37

Planning
Fee No.Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Unit Fee Δ PL 36 Tentative Parcel Map $1,545.27 $1,228.24 0% $1,228.00 -$317.27PL 37 Tentative Tract Map $1,766.03 $2,208.64 0% $2,208.00 $441.97PL 38 Variance $981.89 $2,208.64 0% $2,208.00 $1,226.11PL 39 Zoning Letter $490.95 $736.95 0% $736.00 $245.05PL 40 Zoning Ordinance Amendment - Map $2,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR $2,342.59 0% $2,342.00 Flat -$158.00PL 41 Zoning Ordinance - Text Amendment $2,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR $2,942.32 0% $2,942.00 Flat $442.00PL 42 Zoning Permit $367.92 $245.65 0% $245.00 -$122.92 Environmental Review
PL 43 Initial Environmental Assessment $246.05 $122.82 1% $122.00 -$124.05PL 44 Assessment - Historical Structures $252.00 NA NA $252.00 $0.00PL 46 Negative Declaration Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PL 47 Mitigated Negative Declaration Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PL 48 Environmental Impact Report Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PL 49 Initial Study Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00 NPDES/Stormwater
PL 50 High - Annual Inspection $737.71 NA NA $737.71 $0.00PL 51 Medium (every 2 yrs.) $491.80 NA NA $491.80 $0.00PL 61 Low (every 5 yrs.) $293.00 NA NA $293.00 $0.00 Document Fees
PL 52 Copy Services (Per Page) $0.10 NA NA $0.10 $0.00PL 53 Plans - Blueprints Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00PL 54 Special Research by Planning Staff (hourly) $246.05 $471.37 0% $471.00 $224.95PL 55 County Recording Fee (pass thru; check written directly to County) Actual Cost Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA Actual Cost $0.00Processing Fees PL 56 Cash Bond Acceptance and Processing $123.02 NA NA $123.02 $0.00PL 57 Tract/Other Bonds Processing $123.02 NA NA $123.02 $0.00PL 58 Lien Processing $123.02 NA NA $123.02 $0.00 Special Regulatory Business Permits* Require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) - fees arelisted above and background review per Police Department (corresponding fees if applicable)Entertainment Related Fees PL 59 Live Entertainer - License $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 60 Live Entertainer - Application renewal $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00 Escort Related Businesses Fees
PL 63 Escort License - Agency , $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 64 Escort License - Agency renewal $800.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $800.00 Deposit $0.00PL 65 Escort License - Individual $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 66 Escort License - Individual renewal $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00 Adult Related Businesses Fees
PL 67 Adult Use - Planning Permit Fee $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 68 Adult Oriented Business License $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 69 Adult Oriented Business License (Renewal) $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 70 Adult Use Planning Permit Fee - Ext. of Non Conf. $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 71 Figure Model License $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00PL 72 Figure Model License (Renewal) $1,500.00 Deposit Actual Cost using FBHR NA NA $1,500.00 Deposit $0.00 Code Enforcement (fees in addition to fines)
PL 73 Violation Reoccurrence Fee $246.05 $201.01 0% $201.00 -$45.05 38

Planning
Fee No.Description Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Unit Fee Δ PL 74 Code Enforcement - Re-Inspection $246.05 $201.01 0% $201.00 -$45.05PL 75 Code Enforcement - Right of Way Pick Up/Storage (signs) $246.05 $201.01 0% $201.00 -$45.05Other
PL 76 Admin Processing Fee (Delinquent processing) $123.02 NA NA $123.02 $0.00 Hourly Rate
PL 77 Planning - Hourly Rate $246.05 $245.65 0% $245.00 -$1.05 Banner Fees
PL 78
2-sided Banner Permit on Los Alamitos Blvd Median $100 admin fee + $90/per banner NA NA $100 admin fee + $90/per banner $0.00 WQMP Fees
PL 79 Review and Inspection Fee $1,500.00 Deposit NA NA $2,300.00 Deposit $800.00 For services requested of City staff which have no fee listed in this fee schedule, the City Manager or the City Manager's designee shall determine the appropriate fee based on the established hourly rates for this department/division. Additionally, the City will pass-through to the applicant any discrete costs incurred from the use of external service providers if required to process the specific application, including all applicable Citywide Overhead. A Deposit may be required in place of a Flat fee, with actual costs charged against the deposit. 39

Police
Fee No.Description
Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ PD 1 Administration Arrest Fee $258.70 NA NA $258.70 $0.00PD 2 Reports (avg. 5 pages @ $ .10 page) $1.00 $41.28 97% $1.25 $0.25PD 3 Bicycle Registration $1.00 $17.20 93% $1.25 $0.25PD 4 Log Item $1.00 $30.10 96% $1.25 $0.25PD 5 Electronic Data Request (CD/DVD Copy)PD 6 Copy of Existing Data File $6.44 NA NA $6.44 $0.00PD 7 Copy of Non-Existing Data File $28.74 NA NA $28.74 $0.00 PD 70 Livestock Street Permit Fee $28.74 NA NA $28.74 $0.00 PD 8 Repossession Verification Fee $15.00
CA Govt Code 26751; Maximum fee $15 (Repossession)
NA NA $15.00 $0.00
PD 9 30 Day Impound $256.40 $345.13 7% $320.00 $63.60
PD 10 Vehicle release- municipal code/vehicle code/parking violation $158.67 $238.61 17% $198.00 $39.33
PD 11 Vehicle Release - Arrest / Cite and Release $289.74 $363.16 0% $362.00 $72.26PD 12 Vehicle Release - DUI $333.43 $433.21 4% $416.00 $82.57 Subpoena Fees
PD 13 Response to subpoena - Hourly $24.00 CA Evidence Code 1563 NA NA $24.00 $0.00PD 14 Response to subpoena - Records $15.00 CA Evidence Code 1564 NA NA $15.00 $0.00PD 15 Response to subpoena - Civil - (Deposit per day; actual costs) $275.00 CA Govt. Code 68097 NA NA $275.00 $0.00
PD 16 Alarm Permit - New $64.39 $111.81 28% $80.00 $15.61PD 17 Alarm Permit - Renewal $28.74 $43.01 19% $35.00 $6.26PD 18 Alarm Permit - Renewal - Senior Discounted Rate $0.00 NA NA $0.00 $0.00PD 19 False Alarm Response (1st 3 free per year) $0.00 NA NA $0.00 $0.00PD 20 False Alarm Response (>3 per year) $229.95 NA NA $229.95 $0.00PD 21 False Alarm Response without a Permit $208 or get a permit NA NA $208 or get a permit $0.00PD 22 Noise disturbance response/processing Actual Cost Actual costs recommended using Fully Burdened Hourly Rates (FBHR) NA NA Actual Cost $0.00
PD 23 Citation Sign Off $20.00 CA GC 26746.1 $20 maximum NA NA $20.00 $0.00PD 24 VIN Verification $20.00 CA Govt Code 26746.1; CA Vehicle Code 40616; Maximum fee $20 NA NA $20.00 $0.00
40

Police
Fee No.Description
Current Fee/Charge Unit Notes Full Cost Subsidy % Suggested Fee Fee Δ PD 25 Handicap/Parking Violation Sign Off $14.95 $26.66 32% $18.00 $3.05PD 26 Record Check/ Clearance letter $14.95 $28.38 37% $18.00 $3.05 Massage Related Businesses Fees
PD 27 Massage Practitioner/Owner Permit $848.40 $968.87 0% $968.00 $119.60 Special Regulatory Business Permits * Background review required for some businesses, as shown below and corresponding fee; Planning may also require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), if applicableEscort Related Businesses Fees PD 29 Escort License - Agency $523.14 $653.25 0% $653.00 $129.86PD 30 Escort License - Agency renewal $174.76 $326.63 33% $218.00 $43.24PD 31 Escort License - Individual $523.14 $653.25 0% $653.00 $129.86PD 32 Escort License - Individual renewal $174.76 $326.63 33% $218.00 $43.24 Adult Related Businesses Fees
PD 33 Adult Use - Planning Permit Fee $43.69 $653.25 92% $54.00 $10.31PD 34 Second Hand/ Pawn Shop Dealer Annual Permit $348.38 $374.35 0% $374.00 $25.62PD 35 Gun Dealer Annual Permit $348.38 $374.35 0% $374.00 $25.62PD 36 Drug/DUI/Hazmat/Other Incident ResponsePD 37 * DUI - $12,000 Maximum per State law Actual Cost CA Govt. Code 53150-35159; Actual costs recommended using Fully Burdened Hourly Rates (FBHR) NA NA Actual Cost $0.00
HOURLY RATEs
PD 38 Sworn $174.76 NA NA $174.76 $0.00PD 39 Non-Sworn $85.08 NA NA $85.08 $0.00 Peddling, Canvassing and Soliciting Permit
PD 40 Application Fee for peddling, canvassing and soliciting $169.47 $253.63 17% $211.00 $41.53 For services requested of City staff which have no fee listed in this fee schedule, the City Manager of the City Manager's designee shall determine the appropriate fee based on the established hourly rates for this department/division. Additionally, the City will pass-through to the applicant any discrete costs incurred from the use of external service providers if required to process the specific application. 41

Recreation & Community Services
Acct No. Description
Current Recommended Fee Level
Current Fully Burdened Cost Recovery Level
Recommended Fee Level
553 COMMUNITY SERVICES 30% 17% 0%
Community Services - SeniorsFacility Rental (Comm. Center, Gym, Shelters) 554 DAY CAMP 85% 30% 24-90%
555 PLAYGROUND 0% 0% 0%
556 SPORTS 64% 17% 17-60%
Adult SportsYouth SportsFacility Rental (Fields)
557 SPECIAL CLASSES 35% 31% 30-50%
552 Aquatics
Special ClassesYouth Volunteer Program
557 PRESCHOOL 86% 31% 33-80%
558 SPECIAL EVENTS 65% 17% 0%
City Special EventsEquipment Rental
42

27368 Via Industria, Suite 200
Temecula, California 92590-4856
800.755.6864 | Fax: 888.326.6864
951.587.3500 | Fax: 951.587.3510
www.willdan.com

Cost Recovery (User Fee Study)
City of Los Alamitos
August 2025

5 Scope of the Study
§ Review and calculate cost of providing services
and related fees charged by the following
departments and divisions:
o Administration Fees
o Public Works
o Building
o Planning
o Police
o Recreation and Community Services

6 Data & City Staff
Participation
§ Primary types of data used:
o Expenditure data
o Staffing structures
o Central service/Indirect overhead
o Productive/billable hours
o Time estimates to complete tasks
o City/Department input, feedback and policies
§ Staff support throughout process essential to ensure analysis fidelity

7 Summary Steps of the Study
Model
Development
Data
collection
Build fee
model
Overhead
and FBHR
Calculation
Cost
Analysis
Staff
meetings
Update fee
schedules
Staffing and
time data
Full cost for
services
Set Cost
Recovery
Current cost
recovery
Target cost
recovery
Fee Study
Report
Create draft
report
Staff report
review
Finalize
report
Updated Fee
Adoption
Public
Hearing

8 Administrative Fees
§ A mixture of business and others set by the State
§ Time based cost analysis for the user fees
§ Analysis found that current fees are not in line with the full cost of providing service
§ Suggested fee notes:
o An increase to 3 fees
• TOT Administration Fee to $12 from $10
o 1 new fee would be added
• Credit Card Processing Fee Passthrough 3.5%

9 Public Works
§ Program cost analysis was performed
§ Currently operating at around 49% cost
recovery
§ Recommendation is to set fees at full cost
recovery
§ Time based cost analysis for 5 new fees
o SB9, ticket trailer & stage rental, traffic control setup o Recommended to be set at full cost recovery

10 Building
§ Program cost analysis was performed for all
services provided
§ Currently operating at around 72% cost
recovery
§ Recommendation is to set fees at 80% cost
recovery

11 Planning
§ Time based cost analysis
§ Analysis found that current fees are not in line with the updated cost of providing services
o Full cost recovery for services recommended
§ Suggested fee notes:
o An increase to 31 fees
• Accessory structure fee $86.23 to $307
• CUP minor $1,349.81 to $1,942
• Home occupation permit $117.72 to $245
o 3 new fees would be added
• Affordable housing application, specific plan, sidewalk vending

12 Police
§ Time based cost analysis
§ Analysis found that fees are currently not in line
with the updated full cost of providing services
o 25% maximum increase recommended
§ Suggested fee notes:
o An increase to 17 fees
• New alarm permit $64.39 to $80
• Renewal alarm permit $28.74 to $35
• Record check / clearance letter $14.95 to $18

13 Recreation & Community
Services
§ Most fees are use of government property and are
often set based on policy, usage, & market factors
§ Currently operating at around 29% cost recovery
§ Department sets its fess based on a cost recovery
targets based on the activity or facility use type
§ Cost recovery targets have been updated

14 Revenue Change Projection

15 Policy Considerations
§ General standard: individuals or groups who receive
private benefit from service should pay 100% of cost
§ In certain situations, subsidization is an effective
public policy tool:
oEncourage participation
oEnsure compliance when cost is prohibitive to residents oPromote access to services
§ Recommend that City utilize local CPI as an
inflationary factor to annually adjust fees
§ Comprehensive analysis every 5 years. Building and
Planning should undergo more frequent review.

Questions

Willdan Financial Services (“Willdan”) is registered as a "municipal advisor" pursuant to Section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act and rules and regulations adopted by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board ("MSRB"). The MSRB has made available on its website (www.msrb.org) a municipal advisory client brochure that describes the protections that may be provided by MSRB rules and how to file a complaint with the appropriate regulatory authority.

As part of its SEC registration Willdan is required to disclose to the SEC information regarding criminal actions, regulatory actions, investigations, terminations, judgments, liens, civil judicial actions, customer complaints, arbitrations and civil litigation involving Willdan. Pursuant to MSRB Rule G-42, Willdan is required to disclose any legal or disciplinary event that is material to Client's evaluation of Willdan or the integrity of its management or advisory personnel. Willdan has determined that no such event exists.

Copies of Willdan’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission can currently be found by accessing the SEC's EDGAR system Company Search Page which is currently available at: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html and searching for either Willdan Financial Services or for our CIK number which is 0001782739.

For the avoidance of doubt and without limiting the foregoing, in connection with any revenue projections, cash-flow analyses, feasibility studies and/or other analyses Willdan may provide the municipality with respect to financial, economic or other matters relating to a prospective, new or existing issuance of municipal securities of the municipality, (A) any such projections, studies and analyses shall be based upon assumptions, opinions or views (including, without limitation, any assumptions related to revenue growth) established by the municipality, in conjunction with such of its municipal, financial, legal and other advisers as it deems appropriate; and (B) under no circumstances shall Willdan be asked to provide, nor shall it provide, any advice or recommendations or subjective assumptions, opinions or views with respect to the actual or proposed structure, terms, timing, pricing or other similar matters with respect to any municipal financial products or municipal securities issuances, unless formally engaged to provide such information.
17 Disclosure

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS
Council Chamber
3191 Katella Ave.

Los Alamitos, CA 90720
DATE: Monday, September 15th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to the Los Alamitos Charter, Section 1202, the City Council of the City of Los Alamitos will conduct a Public Hearing on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber located at 3191 Katella Avenue, Los Alamitos, CA to consider the Cost Recovery (User Fee) Study.

A review, discussion, and adoption of the proposed Cost Recovery (User Fee) Study will be held at the City Council, which will hear any and all public comments at that time.

The proposed Cost Recovery fee is available for inspection on the City’s Website: https://cityoflosalamitos.org/206/Finance or by appointment only at the Office of the City Clerk of the City of Los Alamitos, 3191 Katella Ave., Los Alamitos, CA 90720, CA.

If you challenge the decision of any of the actions listed above in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised in written or emailed correspondence delivered to the City Council at or prior to the Public Hearing. Questions or comments can also be directed to the City Clerk at (562) 431-3538, ext. 220, City Hall, 3191 Katella Avenue, Los Alamitos, California 90720.

The City Council meeting agenda and staff reports will be available on the City’s website 72 hours prior at www.cityoflosalamitos.org. If you experience technical difficulties regarding accessing the agenda materials or the meeting by teleconference, please contact the City Clerk at (562) 431-3538, ext. 220, or [email protected].

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, you should contact the City Clerk at (562) 431-3538, ext. 220.

Notification by noon on the date of the Public Hearing will enable the City to make arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

For further information, please contact Craig Koehler, Finance Director, at (562) 431-3538 ext. 222.

Dated: August 28th, 2025
Published: September 2nd, 2025

City of Los Alamitos

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 15, 2025 ITEM NUMBER: 12B
To: Mayor Shelley Hasselbrink & Members of the City Council Presented By: Ron Noda, Development Services Director
Subject: 2025 Building Standards Code and Fire Code Adoption

SUMMARY
At its regular meeting of August 18, 2025, the City Council introduced the first reading of Ordinance No. 2025-07 and Ordinance No. 2025-08. Ordinance No. 2025-07 would the 2025 California Building Standards Code. The State’s Health and Safety Code requires local governments to adopt the most recent editions of building standards codes related to construction. The latest edition is the 2025 California Building Standards Code, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. Ordinance No. 2025-08 would adopt amendments to the Fire Code as provided by the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA). These amendments are intended to maximize alignment between OCFA and State-adopted Fire Code requirements.

The ordinances' first reading was heard at the August 18, 2025, City Council meeting. This Public Hearing will conduct the required second reading and adoption of the Ordinances, which will be effective 30 days after adoption.

RECOMMENDATION

1. Conduct the public hearing; and,

2. Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-07, entitled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING CHAPTER 15.04 OF TITLE 15 OF THE LOS ALAMITOS MUNICIPAL CITY CODE AND ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 15.04, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE: VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE 2025 EDITION OF THE

CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODES (CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24), CONSISTING OF THE CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, THE

CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, THE CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, THE CALIFORNIA

GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, THE CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE

CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, AND THE CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE; AND THE 2025 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE, WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, DELETIONS AND EXCEPTIONS THERETO"; and,

3. Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-08, entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, DELETING CHAPTER 15.08 OF THE LOS ALAMITOS MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 15.08 ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE (TITLE 24, PART 9) WITH APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO".

BACKGROUND
California Building Standards Code
State Health and Safety Code (Section 17958) mandates that the California Building Standards Commission adopt and publish the California Building Standards Code (Title 24 California Code of Regulations) every three years (including the model codes related to construction). The State Health and Safety Code also requires local governments to adopt the most recent editions of the model codes related to construction. The 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Code of Regulations Title 24, becomes effective on January 1, 2026. The City is charged with adopting local amendments necessary for local conditions before the end of the year, prior to the amendments effective date.

Orange County Fire Authority Code
The proposed amendments are consistent with the Orange County Code Uniformity Group and have the support of the Orange County Building Industry Association. The remainder of the proposed amendments are administrative or procedural in nature, such as defining the size of addresses for the Building Code to be consistent with the requirements of our Los Alamitos Municipal Code.

DISCUSSION
California Building Standards Code
The State of California Building Standards Commission has adopted the 2025 California Building Standards Code, which includes the following model codes:

California Building Standards Code: Reference Model Code:
2025 California Building Code 2024 International Building Code (ICC) 2025 California Residential Code 2024 International Residential Code (ICC) 2025 California Plumbing Code 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO) 2025 California Mechanical Code 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code (IAPMO) 2025 California Electrical Code 2023 National Electrical Code (NFPA)

2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Additionally, the construction codes proposed for adoption by reference or with amendments include the following:
2025 California Administrative Code
2025 California Building Code
2025 California Residential Code
2025 California Green Building Standards Code
2025 California Energy Code
2025 California Plumbing Code
2025 California Mechanical Code
2025 California Electrical Code
2025 Wildland-Urban Interface Code
2025 California Existing Building Code
2025 California Historical Building Code

2025 California Referenced Standards Code
2024 International Property Maintenance Code
2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
City staff is recommending that changes and modifications be made to the above-referenced codes, and such changes are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, topographic and geographic conditions in Los Alamitos. Ordinance No. 2025-07 incorporates amendments to reflect the City's local conditions. Other modifications are of an administrative or procedural nature and concern themselves with subjects that are not covered by the Codes or are reasonably necessary to safeguard life and property within the City. It is important to note that all of the recommended building code amendments for this 2025 code cycle are exactly the same as the amendments adopted three years ago for the 2022 code cycle. No amendments have been added or subtracted from the previous code adoption.

Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) changes
Orange County Fire Authority has provided amendments to the Fire Code with the intent to maximize alignment between OCFA and State-adopted requirements and to reduce amendments to only those that are necessary and practical. These amendments will address the following issues:

1. Address local conditions (climate, geology, topography)

2. Are necessary from a life-safety/firefighting/fire prevention standpoint.

3. Are necessary from an administrative standpoint, and/or practical from an enforcement standpoint.

City staff is recommending approval of the Fire Code amendments as provided by OCFA.

FISCAL IMPACT
None.

Attachment: 1. Ordinance No. 2025-07 - Amending Chapter 15.04 of California Buildings Standard Code

2. Exhibit A - Local Conditions Finding

3. Ordinance No. 2025-08 - Amending chapter 15.08 of Los Alamitos Municipal Code

4. Exhibit A - Local Conditions Finding

5. 2025 California Fire Code - OCFA Amendments Los Alamitos

6. 2025 California Fire Code - Local Amendment Findings

1726628.1
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-07

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 15.04 OF TITLE 15 OF THE LOS ALAMITOS MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITION OF THE

CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE (CALIFORNIA CODE OF
REGULATIONS, TITLE 24) CONSISTING OF: THE 2025 CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, INCLUDING APPENDIX J; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, INCLUDING APPENDICES AH AND AX; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA
ELECTRICAL CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE AND THE 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED

STANDARDS CODE, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS,
ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS; AND ADOPTING THE 2024
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE AND THE 2024

INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS.

WHEREAS, pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.1 et seq., the City of Los Alamitos ("City") may adopt by reference the California Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition, as provided in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations; the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code and the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; and,
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission recently adopted new amendments to the California Building Standards Code, which will become effective statewide on January 1, 2026; and,
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code Sections 17958 et seq., and 18941.5 authorize cities to modify the California Building Standards Code by adopting more restrictive standards and modifications if such standards and modifications are accompanied by express findings that they are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and, WHEREAS, based upon the recommendations of the Building Official, the City Council finds that the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Building Standards Code set forth in this Ordinance, which are more restrictive than the standards adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, would decrease the potential incidence of property damage, injury and death due to fires and earthquakes, and are reasonable and necessary to mitigate local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and, WHEREAS, on August 18, 2025, the City Council introduced this Ordinance for first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council, and set a public hearing and second reading of the Ordinance for September 15, 2025; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council held a public hearing on September 15, 2025, at which time all interested persons had the opportunity to appear and be heard on the matter of

CC ORD 2025-07

adopting the 2025 California Building Standards Code as amended herein, as well as, the adoption of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code and the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 6066, the City published notice of the aforementioned public hearing; and,
WHEREAS, any and all other legal prerequisites relating to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Findings.

A. Health and Safety Code Section 17958 et seq., authorizes the City to adopt ordinances and regulations imposing the same requirements as are contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24) adopted by the State pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17922. Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and 18941.5 permit the City to make changes or modifications to the California Building Standards as are reasonably necessary because such changes or modifications are needed due to climatic, geographic, or topographic conditions.

B. The Fire Official and City Building Official recommend that certain changes and modifications to the 2025 California Building Standards are reasonably necessary due to local conditions within the City, certain changes and modifications are of an administrative or procedural nature or concern themselves with subjects not covered by the California Building Standards Code, and certain changes and modifications are reasonably necessary to safeguard life and property within the City of Los Alamitos.

C. Findings of local conditions are set forth in Exhibit “A” of this Ordinance and incorporated herein by reference. Such findings demonstrate the need for amendments to the 2025 California Building Standards are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.

SECTION 2. Chapter 15.04 of the Los Alamitos Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:

Chapter 15.04 BUILDING CODES

15.04.010 Construction codes adopted.

15.04.020 Amendments to the 2025 California Building Code.

15.04.030 Amendments to the 2025 California Residential Code.

15.04.040 Amendments to the 2025 California Electrical Code.

15.04.050 Amendments to the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code.

CC ORD 2025-07

15.04.060 Amendments to the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

15.04.010 Construction codes adopted.

A. For the purpose of prescribing regulations for erecting, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, improving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, maintenance, equipment uses, height, and area of buildings and structures, the following construction codes subject to the modifications set forth in this Chapter, are hereby adopted:

1. The 2025 California Administrative Code (Title 24, Part 1);

2. The 2025 California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2), including the administrative provisions included in Division II of Chapter 1 and Appendix J, based on the 2024 International Building Code as published by the International Code Council;

3. The 2025 California Residential Code (Title 24, Part 2.5), including Appendix AH and AX, based on the 2024 International Residential Code as published by the International Code Council;

4. The 2025 California Electrical Code (Title 24, Part 3), based on the 2020 National Electrical Code as published by the National Fire Protection Association;

5. The 2025 California Mechanical Code (Title 24, Part 4), based on the 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials;

6. The 2025 California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5), based on the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials;

7. The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (Title 24, Part 7), based on the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code;

8. The 2025 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6);

9. The 2025 California Historical Building Code (Title 24, Part 8);

10. The 2025 California Existing Building Code (Title 24, Part 10), based on the 2024 International Existing Building Code as published by the International Code Council;

11. The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11);

12. The 2025 California Referenced Standards Code (Title 24, Part 12);

13. The 2024 International Property Maintenance Code as published by the International Code Council; and

14. The 2025 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as published by the International Code Council.

CC ORD 2025-07

B. The Codes set forth in A.1 through A.14, as amended by this chapter shall constitute the Building Regulations of the City of Los Alamitos and shall be known as the City of Los Alamitos Building Code.

C. One (1) copy of all the above construction codes shall be kept on file in the office of the Building Official pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 18942 (d)(1) and made available for public inspection.

D. References in Documents and Continuing Legal Effect. References to prior editions of the Building Standards Code or the Municipal Code sections amended herein that are cited on notices issued by the City or other documents of ongoing or continuing legal effect, including specifically resolutions adopting or imposing fees or charges, until converted, are deemed to be references to the new counterpart 2025 Building Standards Code or amended Municipal Code sections for the purposes of notice and enforcement. The provisions adopted hereby shall not in any manner affect deposits, established fees or other matters of record which refer to, or are otherwise connected with, ordinances which are specifically designated by number, code section or otherwise, but such references shall be deemed to apply to the corresponding provisions set forth in the 2025 Building Standards Code adopted hereby. Any fee authorized by the above-referenced construction codes which was in effect in the city at the time of the adoption of this ordinance need not be re-adopted by resolution, and shall continue in effect, and remain unadjusted in amount unless and until the City Council adopts a resolution repealing the fee or establishing a different fee.

15.04.020 Amendments to the 2025 California Building Code.

Section 101.1 Title is amended to read as follows:

These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of City of Los Alamitos, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
Section 101.4 Referenced code is deleted in its entirety (including sections 101.4.1, 101.4.2, 101.4.3, 101.4.4, 101.4.5, 101.4.6 and 101.4.7), and replaced with the following:
101.4. Referenced Codes. The California Codes listed in Section 1 of this Ordinance shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the extent of each such reference.

Section 104.8 Liability is amended by adding a sentence to the end of the paragraph to read as follows:

The provisions of this section shall apply if the Building Official or his/her authorized representatives are employees of this jurisdiction and shall also apply if the Building Official or his/her authorized representatives are acting under contract as agents of this jurisdiction.

CC ORD 2025-07

Section 105.2 Work exempt from a permit is amended by amending the following categories of work that are exempt from a building permit:

A. Section 105.2 “Building” Item 1 is amended to read as follows:

1. One story detached accessory structures used as storage sheds, playhouses or similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet and the ceiling height is not over 7 feet.

B. Section 105.2 “Building” Item 2 is amended to read as follows:

2. Fences not over seven feet high and block walls not over three feet high.

C. Section 105.2 “Building” Item 4 is amended to read as follows:

4. Retaining walls which are not over four feet (1,219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or III-A liquids.

D. Section 105.2 “Building” Item 9 is amended to read as follows:

9. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R occupancy that are less than 18 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.

Section 105.5 Expiration is amended to read as follows:
105.5. Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months and, after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended, abandoned or uncompleted for a period of 180 days after the work has commenced or 180 days past the last required inspection. The building official is authorized to grant one extension of time for not more than 180 days. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. No permit shall be extended more than once.

If work has been suspended or abandoned past 180 days, the permit shall be expired, and new permit(s) issued. The fee for such renewal of permit(s) shall be one half of the original permit fee or one half of the fee of the current adopted fee schedule at the time of renewal. Permits which have been abandoned and require only final inspection may be reissued at minimum fee or as determined by the building official.

Section 105.8 Reconstruction is added to read as follows:
105.8. Reconstruction. If the value of the reconstruction (or renovation) of a building is equal to or exceeds 75 percent of the existing habitable square footage of the building, the entire building shall comply with the code provisions for new

CC ORD 2025-07

construction. The value of the reconstruction (or renovation) for a property shall include the value of all construction stemming from construction-related permits issued within the last two years.

Section 107.3 Examination of documents is amended to read as follows:

The building official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying submittal documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicted and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

An expedited review and permit issuance process shall be provided for EV Charging Stations and simplified forms for submittal will be made available on City’s website.

Section 113.1 General 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.

The Board of Appeals shall consist of five members and composed of the Mayor and the other members of the City Council. Said members shall hold their respective membership on said Board of Appeals by reason of, and concurrently with their terms of service as Council members and shall cease to be such members upon their ceasing to be Council members. The Building Official shall be the Secretary of the Board. The Board may adopt reasonable rules and regulations for conducting its investigations and shall render all its decisions and findings on contested matters in writing to the Building Official, with duplicative copy thereof to any appellant or contestant affected by any such decision of finding.

Three members of the Board shall constitute a quorum. The Mayor shall be the presiding Officer of the Board. Meetings shall be conducted in accordance with the Brown Act.

The Board shall have the right, subject to such limits as the City Council may prescribe by resolution, to employ at the cost and expense of the City, such qualified individuals as the Board, in its discretion, may deem reasonably necessary in order to assist it in its investigations and making its findings and decisions.

Section 113.3 Qualifications is deleted in its entirety without replacement.

Section 202 General Definitions is amended by adding the following definitions:

BARRIER. Barrier is a fence, wall, building wall, or any combination of these that completely surrounds the swimming pool and obstructs access to the swimming pool.

CC ORD 2025-07

SWIMMING POOL. Any body of water created by artificial means which is designed, intended for use, or used for swimming or immersion purposes, which has a water depth exceeding 18 inches. The term, “pool,” includes swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, above-and below-ground, and vinyl-lined pools; pool does not include plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs nor does it apply to man-made lakes, reservoirs, farm ponds, or ponds used primarily for public park purposes, water conservation purposes, irrigation purposes or for the watering of livestock.

OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority, fire authority having jurisdiction.

SPARK ARRESTER. A listed device constructed of noncombustible material specifically for the purpose of meeting one of the following conditions:

1. Removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles/debris from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 38366.

2. Fireplaces that burn solid fuel in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 28.

Section 502.1 Address identification is amended to read as follows:
[F] 502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property.

Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches in height with a stroke width of not less than 0.5 inch. For R-3 and other occupancies the numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 1 inch. Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

Section 903.2 Where required is amended to read as follows:
[F] 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in buildings and structures shall be provided in the following locations:

1. New buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.19, an automatic fire-sprinklers system shall also be installed in all occupancies when the total building area, as defined in Section 202 of the California Building Code, exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2), or more than two stories in height, regardless of fire areas or allowable area.

CC ORD 2025-07

Exception: Group R-3 occupancies. Group R-3 occupancies shall comply with California Residential Code Section R313.2.

2. Existing buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of this code, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in an existing building when an addition occurs and when one of the following conditions exists:
a. When the addition is 33% or more of the existing building area and the resulting building area, as defined in Section 202, exceeds 5000 square feet (465 m2); or b. When the addition exceeds 2,000 square feet (185.81 m2) and the resulting building area, as defined in Section 202, exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2); or c. An additional story is added above the second floor regardless of fire areas or allowable area.

Section 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems is added to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.

Exception: When static pressure exceeds 100 psi, and when required by the fire code official, the fire sprinkler system shall not exceed the water supply capacity specified by Table 903.3.5.3.

TABLE 903.3.5.3
Hydraulically Calculated Systems
Design %
75 80
85 90
100 110 120 130 140 150 PSI

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Section 1505.1 General is amended, by the deletion of Table 1505.1 and the addition of a new Table 1505.1 thereto, to read as follows:

TABLE 1505.1a
MINIMU
M ROOF

COVERIN
G

CLASSIFIC
ATIONS

TYPES OF

CONSTRU

CTIONIA

IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB

B B B B B B B B B
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
a. Unless otherwise required in accordance with Chapter 7A.

Section 1505.1.2 Roof coverings within all other areas is amended to read as follows:
1505.1.2 Roof coverings within all other areas other than Fire Hazard Severity Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) . 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.

Section 1803.1.1.1 Preliminary soils report is amended to add the following:

The Building Official may require a geologic or geotechnical report or both, in accordance with the 2025 California Building Code; a geologic report shall be prepared by a Certified Engineering Geologist licensed by the State of California.

A geotechnical report shall be prepared by a registered Civil Engineer versed in soils engineering and qualified to perform this work. When both a geotechnical and geologic report are required, the two reports shall be coordinated before submission to the Building Official. The Building Official, at his/her discretion shall obtain any technical support necessary to approve the report. Submitted reports shall contain a finding regarding the safety of the site from any variety of geologic hazard and a finding regarding the effect the proposed improvements, grading and/or construction and use of the site will have on the stability of the site and/or property outside the site. Any recommendation or action presented in the approved reports along with any conditions of approval shall be incorporated into the construction of site improvements. A fee shall be collected for the cost of review of the reports and any required addendums.

Section 1807.1.6 Prescriptive design of concrete and masonry foundation walls is amended to read as follows:

CC ORD 2025-07

1807.1.6 Prescriptive design of concrete and masonry foundation walls.

Concrete and masonry foundation walls that are laterally supported at the top and bottom shall be permitted to be designed and constructed in accordance with this section. Prescriptive design of foundation walls shall not be used for structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F.

Section 3109.1.1 Construction permit; safety features required is added to read as follows:
3109.1.1 Construction permit; safety features required. New or remodeled pools or spas, at a private single-family home, shall have an enclosure complying with the amended California Residential Code Appendix AX.

15.04.30 Amendments to the 2025 California Residential Code.

Section R105.5 Expiration is amended to read as follows:

R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. 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.

Section R105.10 Reconstruction is added to read as follows:

R105.10 Reconstruction. If the value of the reconstruction (or renovation) of a building is equal to or exceeds 75 percent of the habitable square footage of the building, the entire building shall comply with the code provisions for new construction. The value of the reconstruction (or renovation) for a property shall include the value of all construction stemming from construction-related permits issued within the last two years.

Table R301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria is amended to read as follows:

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MANUAL J DESIGN CRITERIA n

ELEVATION LATITUDE WINTER

HEATING
SUMMER

COOLING

ALTITUDE

CORRECTION
FACTOR

INDOOR DESIGN

TEMPERATURE

DESIGN TEMPURATURE

COOLING

HEAT TEMPERATURE

DIFFERENCE
30 34 37 91 70 75

COOLING

TEMURATURE

DIFFERENCE

WIND VELOCITY

HEATING

WIND VELOCITY

COOLING

COINCIDENT WET

BULB DAILY RANGE WINTER HUMIDITY SUMMER HUMIDITY
7 69 27 7 (50% RH)
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s. a. Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code. The weathering column shall be filled in with the weathering index (i.e., "negligible," "moderate" or "severe") for concrete as determined from the Weathering Probability Map [Figure R301.2(3)]. The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C 34, C 55, C 62, C 73, C 90, C 129, C 145, C 216 or C 652.
b. The frost line depth may require deeper footings than indicated in Figure R403.1(1). The jurisdiction shall fill in the frost line depth column with the minimum depth of footing below finish grade.
c. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table to indicate the need for protection depending on whether there has been a history of local subterranean termite damage. d. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the wind speed from the basic wind speed map [Figure R30l.2(4)].Wind exposure category shall be determined on a sitespecific basis in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4. e. The outdoor design dry-bulb temperature shall be selected from the columns of 971/2- percent values for winter from Appendix D of the California Plumbing Code. Deviations from the Appendix D temperatures shall be permitted to reflect local climates or local weather experience as determined by the Building Official. f. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the seismic design category determined from Section R301.2.2.1.
g. The City of Los Alamitos does have a Flood Hazards Zone. h. In accordance with Sections R905.2.7.1, R905.4.3.1, R905.5.3.1, R905.6.3.1, R905.7.3.1 and R905.8.3.1, where there has been a history of local damage from the effects of ice damming, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "NO." i. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the 100-year return period air freezing index (BF-days) from Figure R403.3(2) or from the l00-year (99%) value on the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index- USA Method (Base 32°)" at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.htrnl.
j. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the mean annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index-USA Method (Base 32°F)" at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.html.
k. In accordance with Section R301.2.1.5, where there is local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings due to topographic wind speed-up effects, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate "NO" in this part of the table.
l. In accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A, where there is local historical data documenting unusual wind conditions, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “YES” and identify any specific requirements. Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate “NO” in this part of the table.
m. In accordance with Section R301.2.1.2.1, the jurisdiction shall indicate the wind-borne debris wind zone(s). Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate “NO” in this part of the table. n. The jurisdiction shall fill in these sections of the table to establish the design criteria using

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Table 1a or 1b from ACCA Manual J or established criteria determined by the jurisdiction. o. The jurisdiction shall fill in this section of the table using the Ground Snow Loads in Figure R301.2 (6).

Section R309.6 Fire sprinkler attached garages, and carports with habitable space above is amended by modifying the exception to read as follows:

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing carports and/or garages that do not have an automatic fire sprinkler system installed unless a sprinkler system is required in accordance with California Fire Code, OCFA Local Amendments Section 903.2.8.

Section R309.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems is amended by modifying the exception to read as follows:

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic fire sprinkler system installed unless a sprinkler system is required in accordance with California Fire Code, OCFA Local Amendments Section 903.2.8.

Section R309.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems is amended by modifying the exception to read as follows:

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with an automatic sprinkler system unless a sprinkler system is required in accordance with California Fire Code, OCFA Local Amendments Section 903.2.8.

Section R309.3.6.2.2 Calculation procedure is amended to read as follows:

Section R309.3.6.2.2 Calculation procedure. Determination of the required size for water distribution piping shall be in accordance with the following procedure and California Fire Code Section 903.3.5.
(The remainder of the section is unchanged)
Section R308.1 Address identification is amended to read as follows:

R308.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property.

Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 6 inches in height with a stroke width of not less than 0.5 inch. Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate

CC ORD 2025-07

emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

Section R902.1 Roofing assemblies is amended by revising it to allow only class A or B roofs as follows:

R902.1 Roofing assemblies. Roofs shall be covered with materials as set forth in Sections R904 and R905. A minimum Class A or B roofing shall be installed in areas designated by this section. Classes A or B roofing required by this section to be listed shall be tested in accordance with UL 790 or ASTM E 10 Exceptions:

1. Class A roof assemblies include those with coverings of brick, masonry and exposed concrete roof deck.

2. Class A roof assemblies also include ferrous or copper shingles or sheets, metal sheets and shingles, clay or concrete roof tile, or slate installed on noncombustible decks.

Section R902.1.3 Roof coverings in all other areas is amended by revising it to require a minimum Class B roof as follows:

R902.1.3 Roof coverings within all other areas. 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 B.

Section R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes, first paragraph, is amended by revising it to allow only Class A or B treated wood roofs as follows:

R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes. Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles are wood shakes and shingles complying with UBC Standard 15-3 or 15-4 which are impregnated by the full-cell vacuum-pressure process with fire-retardant chemicals, and which have been qualified by UBC Standard 15-2 for use on Class A or B roofs.

Section R1001.13 Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Fire Rings, or similar devices is added to read as follows:

R1001.13 Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Fire Rings, or similar devices.

Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar exterior devices shall comply with this section.

CC ORD 2025-07

Exception: Barbeques, grills, and other portable devices intended solely for cooking
Section R1001.13.1 Gas-fueled devices is added to read as follows:

R1001.13.1 Gas-fueled devices. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and similar devices fueled by natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas are allowed when approved by the Building Department and the device is designed to only burn a gas flame and not wood or other solid fuel. At R-3 occupancies, combustible construction shall not be located within three feet of an atmospheric column that extends vertically from the perimeter of the device. Where a permanent Building Department approved hood and vent is installed, combustible construction may encroach upon this column between the bottom of the hood and the vent opening. Where chimneys or vents are installed, they shall have a spark arrester in accordance with Section R1003.9.2.

Section R1001.13.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas is added to read as follows:

R1001.13.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefiedpetroleum gas. Fireplaces burning wood or other solid fuel shall be constructed in accordance with Section R1001. Fires in a fireplace shall be contained within a firebox with an attached chimney. The opening in the face of the firebox shall have an installed and maintained method of arresting sparks. The burning of wood or other solid fuel in a device is not allowed within 15 feet of combustible structures, unless within a permanent or portable fireplace.

15.04.040 Amendments to the 2025 California Electrical Code.

Article 310.22 Continuous Inspection of Aluminum Wiring is added to read as follows:
310.22 Continuous Inspection of Aluminum Wiring. Aluminum conductors of No. six (6) or smaller used for branch circuits shall require continuous inspection by an independent testing agency approved by the Building Official for proper torquing of connections at their termination point.

Article 690.13 Photovoltaic System Disconnect Means is amended to read as follows:
690.13 Photovoltaic System Disconnecting Means. Means shall be provided to disconnect the PV system from all wiring systems including power systems, energy storage systems, and utilization equipment and its associated premises wiring.

CC ORD 2025-07

(A)Location. The PV disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either on the outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point of entrance of the system conductors. A single, visible-open, lockable AC disconnect shall be within 3 feet of the meter on the exterior of the building.

15.04.050 Amendments to the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code.

Section [A] 102.3 Application of other codes is amended to read as follows:
[A] 102.3 Application of other codes. Repairs, additions or alterations to a structure, or changes of occupancy, must be done in accordance with the provisions of the California Building Code, California Existing Building Code, California Energy Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Residential Code, and the California Green Building Standards. Nothing in this code will be construed to cancel, modify, or set aside any provision of the Los Alamitos Municipal Code.

Section 104.1 Fees is amended to read as follows:
104.1 Fees. The fees for activities and services performed by the department in carrying out the department’s responsibilities under this code are set by City Council resolution.

Section 108.1 General is amended to read as follows:
108.1 General. When a structure or equipment is found by the code official to be unsafe, or when a structure is found unfit for human occupancy, or is found unlawful, such structure may be condemned pursuant to the provisions of Section § 17920.3 of the California Health and Safety Code and this code.

Section 113.3 Failure to comply is amended to read as follows:
113.3 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 a fine(s) or fines in an amount(s) as may be established by the City Council.

Section 303.2 Enclosures is amended to read as follows:
303.2 Enclosures. Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas containing water more than 18 inches in depth must be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 60 inches in height above the finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers must be selfclosing and self-latching. Where release mechanisms of the self-latching device are located less than 60 inches above grade measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool, the release mechanism must be located on the pool side of the gate at least three inches below the top of the gate and the barrier must

CC ORD 2025-07

have no opening greater than one-half inch within 18 inches of the release mechanism. Self-closing, self- latching gates must be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of six inches from the gate post. No existing pool enclosure may be removed, replaced, or changed in a manner that reduces its effectiveness as a safety barrier.

The exception to section 303.2 is deleted in its entirety.

Section 304.1.1 Unsafe conditions is amended in part to read as follows:
304.1.1 Unsafe conditions. The following conditions are determined to be unsafe and must be repaired or replaced to comply with the California Building Codes or California Existing Building Code as required for existing buildings: (No further changes to remainder of section 304.1.1)
Section 305.1.1 Unsafe conditions is amended in part to read as follows:
305.1.1 Unsafe conditions. The following conditions are determined to be unsafe and must be repaired, or replaced, to comply with the California Building Codes or California Existing Building Code as required for existing buildings:
(No further changes to remainder of section 305.1.1)
Section 306.1.1 Unsafe conditions is amended in part to read as follows:
306.1.1 Unsafe conditions. The following conditions are determined to be unsafe and must be repaired, or replaced, to comply with the California Building Codes or the California Existing Building Code as required for existing buildings:
(No further changes to remainder of section 306.1.1)
Section 401.3 Alternative devices is amended to read as follows:
401.3 Alternative devices. In lieu of the means for natural light and ventilation herein prescribed, artificial light or mechanical ventilation complying with the California Building Code shall be permitted.

Section [P] 502.5 Public toilet facilities is amended to read as follows:
[P] 502.5 Public toilet facilities. Public toilet facilities must be maintained in a safe sanitary working condition in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

Except for periodic maintenance or cleaning, public access and use must be provided to the toilet facilities at all times during occupancy of the premises.

Section [P] 505.1 General is amended to read as follows:
[P] 505.1 General. Every sink, lavatory, bathtub, shower, drinking fountain, water

CC ORD 2025-07

closet, or other plumbing fixture must be properly connected to either a public water system or to an approved private water system. All kitchen sinks, lavatories, laundry facilities, and bathtubs and showers must be supplied with hot or tempered, and cold running water in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.

Section 602.2 Residential occupancies is amended to read as follows:
602.2 Residential occupancies. Dwellings must be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of 68°F in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms. Cooking appliances may not be used, nor may portable unvented fuel-burning space heaters be used, as a means to provide required heating.

The exception to section 602.2 is deleted in its entirety.

Section 602.4 Occupiable work spaces is amended in part to read as follows:
602.4 Occupiable work spaces. Indoor occupiable work spaces must be supplied with heat to maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F during the time the spaces are occupied.
(No further changes to remainder of section 602.4)
Section 604.2 Service is amended to read as follows:
604.2 Service. The size and usage of appliances and equipment serves as a basis for determining the need for additional facilities in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Dwelling units must be served by a three-wire, 120/240 volt, single-phase electrical service having a rating of not less than 60 amperes.

Section 604.3.1.1 Electrical equipment is amended to read as follows:
604.3.1.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical distribution equipment, motor circuits, power equipment, transformers, wire, cable, flexible cords, wiring devices, groundfault circuit interrupters, surge protectors, molded case circuit breakers, lowvoltage fuses, luminaries, ballasts, motors and electronic control, signaling, and communication equipment and that have been exposed to water must be replaced in accordance with the provisions of the California Building Code and California Electrical Code.

Section 604.3.2.1 Electrical equipment is amended to read as follows:
604.3.2.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical switches, receptacles and fixtures, including furnace, water-heater, security system, and power-distribution circuits that have been exposed to fire, must be replaced in accordance with the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code.

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Section [F] 702.1 General is amended to read as follows:
[F] 702.1 General. A safe, continuous and unobstructed path of travel shall be provided from any point in a building or structure to the public way. Means of egress shall comply with the California Building Code.

Section [F] 702.2 Aisles is amended to read as follows:
[F] 702.2 Aisles. The required width of aisles in accordance with the California Building Code shall be unobstructed.

Section [F] 702.3 Locked doors is amended to read as follows:
[F] 702.3 Locked doors. All means of egress doors must be readily openable from the side from which egress is to be made without the need for keys, special knowledge or effort, except where door hardware conforms to that permitted by the California Building Code.

CHAPTER 9 POST-DISASTER RECOVERY AND RECONSTRUCTION is added to the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code to read as follows:

SECTION 901

POST-DISASTER SAFETY ASSESSMENT PLACARDS AND SECURITY
901.1 SCOPE. This chapter establishes standard placards to be used to indicate the condition of a structure for continued occupancy after any natural or man-made disaster. It further authorizes the Building and Safety Department, as well as authorized representatives, to post appropriate placards at each entry point to a building or structure upon completion of a safety assessment. 901.2 APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS. The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all buildings and structures, of all occupancies, regulated by the City following each natural or man-made disaster.
901.3 DEFINITIONS. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:
901.3.1 BUILDING OFFICIAL is person or entity designated as such by the city council or that person or entity’s designee
901.3.2 SAFETY ASSESSMENT is a visual examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining whether continued use or occupancy is appropriate following a natural or man-made disaster. 901.4 PLACARDS. The following official placards must be used to designate the condition of buildings or structures following a disaster.

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901.4.1 (GREEN) INSPECTED - LAWFUL OCCUPANCY PERMITTED.

Posted on any building or structure where no apparent hazard has been found.

Placement of this placard does not mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.
901.4.2 (YELLOW) RESTRICTED OR LIMITED ENTRY. Posted on each damaged building or structure where damage has created a hazardous condition which justifies restricted occupancy. The Building Official who posts this placard will note in general terms the hazard created and will clearly and concisely note the restrictions on occupancy.
901.4.3 (RED) UNSAFE – DO NOT ENTER OR OCCUPY. Posted on each damaged building or structure such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life or health. Buildings or structures posted with this placard may be entered only after authorization in writing by the building official. Safety assessment teams are authorized to enter these buildings at any time. This placard may not be used or considered as a demolition order. The official who posts this placard must make a note in general terms of the damage encountered. 901.4.4 SECURING OF UNSAFE BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES. Buildings or structures that have been determined by the Building Official to pose a threat to life safety or to be unsafe due to damage may be required by the Building Official to be secured from entry by fencing or other approved means until such time that the damage or threat to life is removed by repair, reconstruction or demolition. The fencing or security measures may not be removed without authorization from the building official.
901.4.5 REMOVAL OF PLACARDS. Once the placard has been attached to a building or structure, it may not be removed, altered, or covered until authorized by the Building Official.
901.5 VIOLATION. Any violation of Chapter 9 of this code is a misdemeanor and will be subject to punishment in accordance with the Los Alamitos Municipal Code and the City of Los Alamitos Building Code.

SECTION 902

POST DISASTER ABATEMENT
902.1 INTENT. This chapter establishes abatement criteria for all buildings and structures damaged as a result of a disaster for which a local emergency has been declared.
902.2 APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS. The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all buildings and structures regulated by the city. 902.3 DEFINITIONS. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:

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902.3.1 EVENT means any occurrence which results in the declaration of a disaster, including but not limited to, fires, landslides, wind storms, earthquakes, and floods.
902.3.2
902.3.3 HISTORIC BUILDING OR STRUCTURE means any building or structure registered with a federal, state, county, or city government, or the register of points of interest. Historic buildings and structures also include those buildings and structures within a recognized historic district.
902.3.4 STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) is the person appointed by the Governor, pursuant to Section 101(b)(1) of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, to administer the State Historic Preservation Program.

Office of Historic Preservation
Department of Parks and Recreation
P.O. BOX 942896
Sacramento, CA 94296-0001
Phone: (916) 653-6624
FAX: (916) 653-9824
902.4 ABATEMENT CRITERIA
902.4.1 NOTICE OF DETERMINATION. Except as provided in Section 902.4.2 below, the Building Official must serve a written Notice of Determination to each property owner as found on the latest available copy of the last equalized assessment roll. Such Notice of Determination must be delivered by hand-delivery, telephone, telegram, facsimile or other reasonable means, and must clearly indicate that the structure is an imminent hazard and dangerous and that, as such, it constitutes a public nuisance. The notice must set forth those factors which, in the opinion of the Building Official, make the structure an imminent hazard and dangerous, and must also include a directive from the Building Official of the specific action or actions to be taken by the property owner. The Notice must specify that within 48 hours from the time of issuance of the Notice of Determination, the owner or other party of record with an equitable or legal interest in the property must abate the nuisance in accordance with the directives written in the Notice of Determination by the Building Official.
902.4.2 NOTICE OF DETERMINATION EXCEPTION. No prior notice is required, when the Building Official, after considering all the facts, determines, in writing, that the structure is an imminent hazard and dangerous, and that it must be abated immediately and that time and circumstances do not permit the

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giving of prior notice to the owner. In those cases where time and circumstances do not permit the city to give the owner notice prior to abatement, the Building Official may cause the nuisance to be summarily abated.
902.4.3 APPEAL OF NOTICE OF DETERMINATION. A Notice of
Determination delivered by the Building Official, that a building or structure is an imminent hazard and dangerous and therefore must be abated, may be appealed by the property owner or any other party of record with an equitable or legal interest in the property. Such appeal must be made to the Building Official within 48 hours of delivery of such Notice of Determination by the Building Official. Such appeal must be accompanied by a written Hazard Abatement Plan signed by a State of California licensed engineer or architect or by a written report by a State of California licensed engineer or architect stating why the engineer or architect feels the building or structure is not an imminent hazard or dangerous at this time. Such report must include a recommendation by the engineer or architect as to what should or should not be done at this time. If the Building Official accepts the proposed Hazard Abatement Plan in lieu of the Notice of Determination, the Hazard Abatement Plan must be implemented within 24 hours of acceptance by the Building Official. If the Building Official accepts an engineer's report and agrees there is no imminent hazard, the Building Official must rescind, in writing, the Notice of Determination.

Should the Building Official disagree with the Hazard Abatement Plan or should the Building Official disagree with the engineer's or architect's report, a hearing must be conducted by the Board of Appeals, as soon as a quorum can be assembled.
902.4.4 BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING. At the hearing, the appellant has the right to call witnesses, to submit evidence, and to cross-examine the witnesses of the city. All witnesses must be sworn.

A record of the proceedings must be made by tape recording. Any relevant evidence may be submitted, regardless of the existence of any common law or statutory rule which might make improper the admission of such evidence over objection in civil actions in the courts of this State.

At the close of the hearing, the Board of Appeals must act to uphold, overrule, or modify the determination and order of the Building Official. The determination and order of the Building Official will be upheld, unless the Board of Appeals finds, based upon the evidence in the record, that the Building Official erred in determining that the structure is an imminent hazard and dangerous. The decision of the Board of Appeals, with the reasons therefore, may be given orally on the record. If given orally, the decision must be memorialized in writing and served upon the applicant within 24 hours of the time the oral decision is rendered.

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If the Board of Appeals upholds the decision of the Building Official, the property owners of record will be ordered to abate the public nuisance within the time set forth in the order. If the structure is determined not to be an imminent hazard and dangerous, the Building Official's determination and order will be vacated.

The decision of the Board of Appeals will be final on the date it is rendered. 902.4.5 HAZARD ABATEMENT PLAN. If a Hazard Abatement Plan is approved by the Building Official, the owner or other interested party of record must execute such plan within 24 hours of obtaining approval of the plan from the Building Official. Within 24 hours of completion of the abatement work the owner or other interested party of record must provide the Building Official with a written certification that the public nuisance, as described in the Building Official's Notice of Determination, has been abated.

If the work performed pursuant to the Hazard Abatement Plan amounts to temporary abatement, the owner or other party of record, prior to proceeding with permanent repairs, must obtain required permits and file a damage assessment report with the Building Official. The damage assessment report must be reviewed and approved by the Building Official prior to proceeding with permanent repairs. 902.4.6 FAILURE TO PERFORM. In those instances where the property owner or other interested party of record either does not respond to the Building Official's Notice of Determination or approved Hazard Abatement Plan, responds untimely, or responds timely but fails to abate the public nuisance within the required time period, the imminent hazard and dangerous structure will be subject to immediate abatement by the Building Official.
902.4.7 PUBLIC NUISANCE. All structures or portions of such structures which, after inspection by the Building Official, are determined to be an imminent hazard and dangerous, either to the public, occupants of the subject structure, or to any adjacent structures, are hereby declared to be public nuisances and must be abated by the owner in accordance with the procedures specified in Sections

43.2.4.4 and 43.2.4.5.
902.4.8 SUSPENSION OF ABATEMENT OF WORK. Notwithstanding any code provisions to the contrary, the Building Official is authorized to suspend abatement work, and to allow the property owner or other party of legal interest to complete the abatement work.
902.4.9 CHANGE OF STATUS. When the conditions making a structure an imminent hazard and dangerous have been abated, the structure will no longer be considered an imminent hazard and dangerous. However, if the abatement work is temporary in nature, as determined by the Building Official, the structure will remain subject to the provisions of this section.

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902.4.10 DEMOLITION PERMIT. If the owner of any building or structure has decided to demolish rather than repair, the owner, or the owner's representative, must obtain a demolition permit.
902.5 HAZARD ABATEMENT OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES. 902.5.1 NOTIFICATION OF IMMINENT HAZARD. Within ten days after the event, the Building Official must notify the State Historic Preservation Officer that one of the following actions will be taken regarding any historic building or structure determined by the Building Official to represent an imminent hazard to the health or safety of the public, or to pose an imminent threat to the public right of way:
902.5.1.1BRACING OR SHORING. Whenever possible, as determined by the Building Official, the building or structure may be braced or shored in such a manner as to mitigate the hazard to public health or safety or the hazard to the public right-of-way.
902.5.1.2 CONDEMNATION. Whenever bracing or shoring is determined to be an unreasonable alternative, the Building Official may cause the building or structure to be condemned and immediately demolished. Such condemnation and demolition may be performed in the interest of public health or safety without a condemnation hearing as required by the 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.
902.5.2 CONDEMNATION PROCEEDINGS. If, ten days after the event and less than 30 days after the event, an historic building or structure is determined by the Building Official to represent a hazard to the health or safety of the public or to pose a threat to the public right of way, the Building Official may initiate condemnation proceedings in accordance with the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings. The Building Official may also notify the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, of its intent to hold a condemnation hearing.
902.5.3 REQUEST TO DEMOLISH. If the Building Official and the owner of any historic building or structure agree that such a building or structure should be demolished, the Building Official must submit a request to demolish to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1986, as amended. Such request must include all substantiating data.

SECTION 903

DISASTER REPAIR AND RECONSTRUCTION
903.1 INTENT. This section establishes standards and regulations for the expeditious repair and reconstruction of structures damaged as a result of a disaster for which a local emergency has been declared.

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903.2 APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS.
903.2.1 DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY. The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all buildings and structures regulated by the city following each disaster after a local emergency has been declared.
903.2.2 WAIVER FOR ENGINEERING EVALUATION. The requirements of this chapter may be waived by the Building Official subject to an Engineering Evaluation as defined in Section 903.3.3.4.
903.3 DEFINITIONS. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions apply:

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903.3.1 ARCHITECT is a person licensed by the State of California to practice architecture, as prescribed by the State of California Business and Professions Code.
903.3.2 CIVIL ENGINEER is a person registered by the State of California to practice Civil Engineering, as prescribed by the State of California Business and Professions Code.
903.3.3 CURRENT CODE means those codes adopted by the city pursuant to California Health and Safety Code § 18941.5.
903.3.4 ENGINEERING EVALUATION is an evaluation of a damaged building or structure, or suspected damaged building or structure, performed under the direction of a structural engineer, civil engineer, or architect retained by the owner of the building or structure. Engineering evaluations must, at a minimum, contain recommendations for repair and an appropriate opinion of the construction cost for those repairs. All engineering evaluations must include the engineer's or architect’s stamp, wet-signature, and license expiration date. 903.3.5 ESSENTIAL SERVICE FACILITY means those buildings or structures designated by the city to house facilities necessary for emergency operations subsequent to a disaster.
903.3.6 REPLACEMENT VALUE is the dollar value, as determined by the building official, for replacing a damaged structure with a new structure of the same size, same type of construction, and same occupancy, and located on the same site. 903.3.7 STRUCTURAL ENGINEER is a person registered by the State of California to practice civil engineering and to use the title, Structural Engineer, as defined in Section 5537.1 of the State of California Business and Professions Code.
903.3.8 VALUE OF REPAIR is the dollar value, as determined by the Building Official, for making necessary repairs to the damaged structure. 903.4 REPAIR CRITERIA
903.4.1 GENERAL. Buildings and structures of all occupancies which have been damaged as the result of a disaster, except as otherwise noted, must be repaired in accordance with the following criteria:
903.4.2 UP TO TEN PERCENT REPAIR VALUE. When the estimated value of repair does not exceed ten percent of the replacement value of the structure, the damaged portion may be restored to the pre-disaster condition; except that when the damaged elements include suspended ceiling systems, the ceiling system must be repaired with all bracing required by current code. 903.4.3 UP TO FIFTY PERCENT REPAIR VALUE. When the estimated value of

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repair is greater than ten percent but less than fifty percent of the replacement value of the structure, the damaged elements must be repaired and brought into conformance with the structural requirements of the current code. 903.4.4 MORE THAN FIFTY PERCENT REPAIR VALUE. When the estimated value of repair is fifty percent or more of the replacement value of the structure, the entire structure must be brought into conformance with the fire and life safety and structural requirements of the current code.
903.4.5 CHIMNEY VALUE EXCLUSION. In Group R, Division 3, occupancies, the repair value of damaged chimneys may be excluded from the computation of percentage of replacement value. Damaged chimneys must be repaired in accordance with Section 903.5.
903.5 REPAIR CRITERIA FOR FIREPLACES AND CHIMNEYS.
903.5.1 GENERAL. All damaged chimneys must be repaired or reconstructed to comply with the requirements of Chapter 21 of the CBC. Damaged portions of chimneys must be removed in accordance with the following criteria. 903.5.2 DAMAGE ABOVE THE ROOF LINE. When the damaged portion of the chimney is located between the roof line and the top of the chimney, the damaged portion may be removed to the roof line provided the roof and ceiling anchorage are in sound condition. The reconstruction portion of the chimney must be braced to the roof structure using an approved method. 903.5.3 SINGLE-STORY STRUCTURE DAMAGE BELOW THE ROOF LINE.

For a single-story structure in which the damaged portion of the chimney is below the roof line, or the damaged portion extends from above the roof line to below the roof line, the chimney must be removed to the top of the firebox. 903.5.4 MULTI-STORY STRUCTURE DAMAGE BELOW THE ROOF LINE.

For a multi-story structure, the damaged portion of the chimney must be removed from the top to a floor line where anchorage is found. 903.5.5 FIREBOX DAMAGE. In any structure where the firebox has been damaged, the entire chimney and firebox must be removed to the foundation.

If the foundation is in sound condition, the firebox and chimney may be reconstructed using the existing foundation. If the foundation has been damaged, the foundation must be removed and replaced. Such reconstruction and replacement must be in accordance with Chapter 21 of the CBC Code. 903.5.6 ENGINEERED ALTERNATE SOLUTIONS. Where existing conditions preclude the installation of all anchorage required by Chapter 21 of the CBC, alternate systems may be used in accordance with the alternate methods and materials provisions of the CBC when approved by the Building Official. 903.5.7 BRACING. Where the portion of the chimney extending above the roof

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line exceeds two times the least dimension of the chimney, that portion above the roof line must be braced to the roof structure using an approved method. 903.6 REPAIR CRITERIA FOR HISTORIC BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES. 903.6.1 ENGINEERING EVALUATION REQUIRED. Buildings or structures which are included on a national, state, or local register for historic places or which are qualifying structures within a recognized historic district, which have been damaged as a result of a disaster, must have an engineering evaluation performed.
903.6.2 MINIMUM REPAIR CRITERIA. The minimum criteria for repair are included in Section 903.4, Repair Criteria, with due consideration given to the historical rating and nature of the structures. Additional standards and criteria, as noted in Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations, also apply. 903.7 REPAIR CRITERIA FOR UNREINFORCED MASONRY BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES.
903.7.1 GENERAL. All damaged buildings determined to be bearing wall buildings constructed of unreinforced masonry must be repaired and strengthened to fully comply with the requirements of § 15.04.”

15.01.060 Amendments to the 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

Section [A] 101.1 Title is amended to read as follows:
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Swimming Pool and Spa Code of the City of Los Alamitos hereinafter to as “this code.” Section [A] 102.7.1 Application of the International Codes is amended to read as follows:
[A] 102.7.1 Application of the International Codes. Where the International Residential Code is referenced in this code, the provisions of the California Residential Code shall apply to related systems in detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height. Other related systems shall comply with the applicable California Codes or referenced standard.

Section [A] 105.6 Fees is amended to read as follows:
[A] 105.6 Fees. A permit shall not be valid until the fees prescribed by law have been paid. All fees related to and any permit, work, inspection, violation, plan review or refunds shall be in accordance with Section 109 of the California Building Code.

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Section [A] 105.6.2 Fee schedule and [A] 105.6.3 Fee refunds are deleted in their entirety without replacement.

Section [A] 108.2 Membership of board is amended to read as follows:
[A] 108.2 Board of appeals. The Board of Appeals shall consist of members as set forth in Chapter 113.1 of the California Building Code and any amendments of the Los Alamitos Municipal Code.

Section [A] 108.2.1 Qualifications is deleted in its entirety without replacement.

Section 305.2.1 Barrier height and clearances is amended to read as follows:
305.2.1 Barrier height and clearances Barrier heights and clearances shall be in accordance with all of the following:

1. The top of the barrier shall be not less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above grade where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool or spa. Such height shall exist around the entire perimeter of the barrier and for a distance of 3 feet (914 mm) measured horizontally from the outside of the required barrier.
(The remaining language in 305.2.1 is to remain and unchanged.) SECTION 3. Filing with Building Standards Commission. The City Clerk shall file a certified copy of this Ordinance with the California Building Standards Commission.

SECTION 4. CEQA. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines section 15060(c)(2) – the adoption of this Ordinance will not foreseeably result in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect impacts and is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act and City Clerk shall file such Notice of Exemption with the County Clerk.

SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held out to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsection, sentence clause, phrases or portions be declared valid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall not take effect until thirty (30) days after its final passage, or January 1, 2026 whichever occurs later.

SECTION 7. Publication by Clerk. The City Clerk shall certify as to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause a summary thereof to be published within fifteen (15) days of adoption and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, including the vote for an against same, in the Office of the City Clerk, in accordance with Government Code Section 36933.

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PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of September, 2025.

Shelley Hasselbrink, Mayor
ATTEST:

Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Michael S. Daudt, City Attorney

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss

CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS )
I, Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Los Alamitos, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 2025-07 was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 18th day of August, 2025, and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at an adjourned regular meeting of the City Council on the 15th day of September, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:

Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk

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EXHIBIT A

LOCAL CONDITIONS FINDINGS

FACTUAL FINDINGS ESTABLISHING THE REASONABLE NEED FOR LOCAL

AMENDMENTS TO PORTIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

BASED UPON LOCAL CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL AND/OR TOPOGRAPHICAL

CONDITIONS
The Fire Official and City Building Official recommend that certain changes and modifications to the 2025 California Building Standards are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions within the City, certain changes and modifications are of an administrative or procedural nature or concern themselves with subjects not covered by the California Building Standards Code, and certain changes and modifications are reasonably necessary to safeguard life and property within the City of Los Alamitos.

Section 1. General Findings
The following findings apply in the City of Los Alamitos and explain why the changes to the Building Standards Code are necessary because of climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions in the city.

I. Climatic Conditions
A. Los Alamitos is located in a semi-arid Mediterranean type climate. It annually experiences extended periods of high temperatures with little or no precipitation.

Hot, dry (Santa Ana) winds, which may reach speeds of 70 M.P.H. or greater, are also common to the area. These climatic conditions cause extreme drying of vegetation and common building materials. Frequent periods of drought and low humidity add to the fire danger. This predisposes the area to large destructive fires (conflagration). In addition to directly damaging or destroying buildings, these fires are also prone to disrupt utility services throughout the County. Obstacles generated by a strong wind, such as fallen trees, street lights and utility poles will greatly impact the response time to reach an incident scene. Lastly, the warm climate encourages the proliferation of swimming pool construction which makes modifications to the California Building Code related to swimming pools desirable to adequately protect small children from drowning hazards.

B. The climate alternates between extended periods of drought and brief flooding conditions. Flood conditions may affect the Orange County Fire Authority’s ability to respond to a fire or emergency condition. Floods also disrupt utility services to buildings and facilities within the County.

C. Water demand in this densely populated area far exceeds the quantity supplied by natural precipitation; and although the population continues to grow, the alreadytaxed water supply does not. California is projected to increase in population by nearly 10 million over the next quarter of a century with 50 percent of that growth centered in Southern California. Due to storage capacities and consumption, and

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a limited amount of rainfall future water allocation is not fully dependable. This necessitates the need for additional and on-site fire protection features.

D. These dry climatic conditions and winds contribute to the rapid spread of even small fires originating in high-density housing or vegetation. These fires spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels of fire protection. The added protection of fire sprinkler systems and other fire protection features will supplement normal fire department response by providing immediate protection for the building occupants and by containing and controlling the fire spread to the area of origin. Fire sprinkler systems will also reduce the use of water for firefighting by as much as 50 to 75 percent.

II. Topographical conditions
A. The topography of Los Alamitos is generally considered a flatlands area with little to no topographical slopes. The flat land developments however does require special drainage precautions in order to address site drainage to prevent water ponding and flooding, as well as preserve historical water ways.

B. Traffic and circulation congestion is an artificially created, obstructive topographical condition, which is common throughout Orange County.

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

III. Geological Conditions
The Orange County region is a densely populated area that has buildings constructed over and near a vast and complex network of faults that are believed to be capable of producing future earthquakes similar or greater in size than the 1994 Northridge and the 1971 Sylmar earthquakes. Earthquake faults run along the northeast and southwest boundaries of Orange County. The Newport-Inglewood Fault, located within Orange County was the source of the destructive 1933 Long Beach earthquake (6.3 magnitude) which took 120 lives and damaged buildings in an area from Laguna Beach to Marina Del Rey to Whittier. In December 1989, another earthquake occurred in the jurisdiction of Irvine at an unknown fault line. Regional planning for reoccurrence of earthquakes is recommended by the state of California, Department of Conservation.

A. Previous earthquakes have been accompanied by disruption of traffic flow and fires. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely to create obstacles similar to those indicated under the high wind section above. The October 17, 1989, Santa Cruz earthquake resulted in one major fire in the Marina District (San Francisco). When

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combined with the 34 other fires locally and over 500 responses, the department was taxed to its fullest capabilities. The Marina fire was difficult to contain because mains supplying water to the district burst during the earthquake. This situation creates the need for both additional fire protection and automatic on-site fire protection for building occupants. State Department of Conservation noted in their 1988 report (Planning Scenario on a Major Earthquake on the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone, page 59), “unfortunately, barely meeting the minimum earthquake standards of building codes places a building on the verge of being legally unsafe.” B. Road circulation features located throughout the County also make amendments reasonably necessary. Located through the County are major roadways, highways and flood control channels that create barriers and slow response times. Hills, slopes, street and storm drain design, accompanied by occasional heavy rainfall, causes roadway flooding and landslides and at times may make an emergency access route impassable. There are areas in Orange County that naturally have extended emergency response times that exceed the 5 minute goal.

C. Soils throughout the County possess corrosive properties that reduce the expected usable life of water services when metallic pipes are in contact with soils.

D. Los Alamitos is generally known as swamp land that was once mostly covered in beet farms. The areas historically high water table is the reason the city is classified as being located in a liquefaction zone. In addition, portions of the County contain active or former oil production fields. These areas contain a variety of naturally occurring gasses, liquids and vapors. These compounds present toxicity or flammability hazards to building occupants. Evaluation of these hazards and the risks they pose to development is necessary for implementation of appropriate mitigation.

These local climatic, geologic, and topographic conditions make modifications and changes to the 2025 Edition of the California Codes reasonably necessary to provide sufficient and effective protection of life, health and property.

Section 2 – Application of Findings to Amendments in Ordinance No. 2025-05 Amendments to the 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Code set forth in Ordinance No. 2025-05 and identified below are reasonably necessary as administrative or procedural in nature, or to ensure consistency with previously adopted ordinances, or are intended to enhance life and fire safety due to the climatic, topographical, and/or geologic conditions cited below:

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Amendment Findings Legend
2025 California Building Code (CBC), 2025 California Residential Code (CRC), and 2025 California Electrical Code (CEC)
CODE SECTION TITLE (Clarification) FINDINGS
CBC 101.1 Title Administrative
CBC 104.4 Referenced Codes Administrative
CBC 104.8 Liability Administrative
CBC 105.2 Work exempt from a permit Administrative
CBC 105.5 Expiration Administrative
CBC 105.8 Reconstruction Administrative
CBC 107.3 Examination of Records Administrative
CBC 113.1 General Administrative
CBC 113.3 Qualifications Administrative
CBC 202 Definitions Administrative
CBC 502.1 Address Identification II – A, B, C
CBC 903.2 Where required II – A, B, C
CBC 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems II – A, B, C CBC 1505.1 General I – A, B II – A, B, C
CBC 1505.1.2 Roof coverings within all other areas I – A, B II – A, B, C CBC 1803.1.1.1 Geologic or geotechnical reports III – A, B, C, D CBC 1807.1.6 Prescriptive design of concrete and masonry foundation walls
III – A, B, C, D
CBC 3109.1.1 Construction permit; safety features required I – C, II - B CRC R105.5 Expiration Administrative
CRC R105.10 Reconstruction Administrative
CRC Table
R301.2(1)
Climactic and Geographic Design Criteria Administrative CRC R309.6 Fire sprinkler attached garages, and carports with habitable space above
I – A, B, C, D II – A, B, C
CRC R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems I – A, B, C, D II – A, B, C CRC R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems
I – A, B, C, D II – A, B, C
CRC R313.3.6.2.2 Calculation procedure I – A, B II – A, B, C CRC 319.1 Address Identification II – A, B, C
CRC R902.1 Roof covering materials I – A, B II – A, B, C CRC R902.1.3 Roof coverings in all other areas I – A, B II – A, B, C CRC R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes I – A, B II – A, B, C CRC R1001.13 Outdoor Fireplaces, Fire Pits, Fire Rings, or similar devices
II – A, B, C, D
CRC R101.13.1 Gas-fueled devices II – A, B, C, D
CRC R1001.13.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas
II – A, B, C, D
CEC 310.22 Continuous Inspection of Aluminum Wiring I – A, II – A, B CEC 690.13 Building or Other Structures Supplied by Photovoltaic System
Administrative

1726692.1
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-08

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER

15.08 OF TITLE 15 OF THE LOS ALAMITOS MUNICIPAL
CODE AND ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITION OF THE

CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE (CALIFORNIA CODE OF
REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PART 9), INCULDING

APPENDICES B, BB, C, CC, AND H, TOGETHER WITH

CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Government Code Section 50022.1 et seq., the City of Los Alamitos ("City") may adopt by reference the California Fire Code, 2025 Edition, as provided in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations; and WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission recently adopted new amendments to the California Fire Code, which will become effective statewide on January 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code Sections 17958 et seq., and 18941.5 authorize cities to modify the California Fire Code by adopting more restrictive standards and modifications if such standards and modifications are accompanied by express findings that they are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, based upon the recommendations of the Fire Official and the Building Official, the City Council finds that the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code set forth in this Ordinance, which are more restrictive than the standards adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, would decrease the potential incidence of property damage, injury and death due to fires, and are reasonable and necessary to mitigate local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and WHEREAS, on August 18, 2025, the City Council introduced this Ordinance for first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council, and set a public hearing and second reading of the Ordinance for September 15, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a public hearing on September 15, 2025, at which time all interested persons had the opportunity to appear and be heard on the matter of adopting the 2025 California Fire Code as amended herein; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 6066, the City published notice of the aforementioned public hearing; and
WHEREAS, any and all other legal prerequisites relating to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

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THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS, CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Findings.

A. Health and Safety Code Section 17958 et seq., authorizes the City to adopt ordinances and regulations imposing the same requirements as are contained in the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24), inclusive of the California Fire Code (Part 9), adopted by the State pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17922. Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and 18941.5 permit the City to make changes or modifications to the California Building Standards as are reasonably necessary because such changes or modifications are needed due to climatic, geographic, or topographic conditions.

B. The Fire Official and City Building Official recommend that certain changes and modifications to the 2025 California Fire Code are reasonably necessary due to local conditions within the City, certain changes and modifications are of an administrative or procedural nature or concern themselves with subjects not covered by the California Building Standards Code, and certain changes and modifications are reasonably necessary to safeguard life and property within the City of Los Alamitos.

C. Findings of local conditions are set forth in Exhibit “A” of this Ordinance and incorporated herein by reference. Such findings demonstrate the need for amendments to the 2025 California Building Standards are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.

SECTION 2. Chapter 15.08 of the Los Alamitos Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:

Chapter 15.08 FIRE CODE

15.08.010 Fire Code adopted.

15.08.020 Enforcement and inspections.

15.08.030 Amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code.

15.08.010 Fire Code Adopted.

A. The City hereby adopts the California Fire Code, 2025 Edition, including Appendices B, BB, C, CC and H based on the 2024 International Fire Code as published by the International Code Council
B. The provisions of the California Fire Code, as amended by this chapter shall constitute the Fire Code of the City of Los Alamitos.

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C. One (1) copy of all the California Fire Code and the City’s amendments thereto shall be kept on file in the office of the Fire Code Official pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 18942 (d) (1) and made available for public inspection.

D. References in Documents and Continuing Legal Effect. References to prior editions of the Fire Code or the Municipal Code sections amended herein that are cited on notices issued by the City or the agency enforcing the City's fire regulations or other documents of ongoing or continuing legal effect, including specifically resolutions adopting or imposing fees or charges, until converted, are deemed to be references to the new counterpart 2025 Fire Code or amended Municipal Code sections for the purposes of notice and enforcement. The provisions adopted hereby shall not in any manner affect deposits, established fees or other matters of record which refer to, or are otherwise connected with, ordinances which are specifically designated by number, code section or otherwise, but such references shall be deemed to apply to the corresponding provisions set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code adopted hereby. Any fee authorized by the above-referenced fire code which was in effect at the time of the adoption of this chapter need not be re-adopted by resolution, and shall continue in effect, and remain unadjusted in amount unless and until a resolution is adopted repealing the fee or establishing a different fee.

15.08.020 Enforcement and Inspections.

The 2025 California Fire Code shall be enforced by the Orange County Fire Authority, which shall be operated under the Director of Fire Services of the Orange County Fire Authority. The Director of Fire Services of the Fire Authority may detail such members of the Fire Authority as inspectors as shall be necessary from time to time.

15.08.030 Amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code.

Chapter 1 Scope and Administration is adopted in its entirety, with the following amendments:

Section 113.4 Violation penalties is amended to read as follows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or shall fail to comply with any issued orders or notices or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties assessed as prescribed in the OCFA Prevention Field Services adopted fee schedule. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

Section 113.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor is hereby added as follows:

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113.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor. Persons operating or maintaining any occupancy, premises or vehicle subject to this code that shall permit any fire or life safety hazard to exist on premises under their control shall be guilty of an infraction.

Persons who fail to take immediate action to abate a fire or life safety hazard when ordered or notified to do so by the chief or a duly authorized representative are guilty of a misdemeanor.

Chapter 2 Definitions is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 202 General Definitions is amended by adding “OCFA,” and “Spark Arrester” as follows:

OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority, fire authority having jurisdiction.

SPARK ARRESTER. A listed device constructed of noncombustible material specifically for the purpose of meeting one of the following conditions:

1. Removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles/debris from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 38366.

2. Fireplaces that burn solid fuel in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 28.

Chapter 3 General Requirements is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:

Section 304.1.3 Vegetation is amended to read as follows:
304.1.3 Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines or other growth that is capable of being ignited and endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the premises. Vegetation clearance requirement in urbanwildland interface areas shall be in accordance with Chapter 49. Type, amount, arrangement, and maintenance of vegetation in a fuel modification area, interior slope, or similarly hazardous area shall be in accordance with OCFA Guideline C-05 “Vegetation Management Guideline—Technical Design for New Construction, Fuel Modification Plans, and Maintenance Program.” Section 305.6 Hazardous conditions is added to read as follows:
305.6 Hazardous conditions. Outdoor fires burning wood or other solid fuel are not allowed when any of the following conditions applies:

1. When predicted sustained winds exceed 8 MPH and relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared

2. When an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or a public announcement is made

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No outdoor fires using any fuel type are permitted when predicted sustained winds exceed 20 MPH or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

Section 305.7 Disposal of rubbish is added to read as follows:
305.7 Disposal of rubbish. Rubbish, trash or combustible waste material shall be burned only within an approved incinerator and in accordance with Section 307.2.1.

SECTION 307 OPEN BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES AND PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES is hereby revised as follows:

Section 307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, Fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R Occupancies is added to read as follows:
307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R occupancies. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar exterior devices used at Group R occupancies shall comply with this section.

Exception: Barbeques, grills, and other portable devices intended solely for cooking.
307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and similar devices fueled by natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas are allowed when approved by the Building Department and the device is designed to only burn a gas flame and not wood or other solid fuel. At R-3 occupancies, combustible construction and vegetation shall not be located within three feet of an atmospheric column that extends vertically from the perimeter of the device. At other R occupancies, the minimum distance shall be ten feet.

Where a permanent Building Department approved hood and vent is installed, combustible construction may encroach upon this column between the bottom of the hood and the vent opening. Where chimneys or vents are installed, they shall have a spark arrester as defined in Section 202.
307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas. Permanent outdoor fireplaces burning wood or other solid fuel shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code with clearance from combustible construction and building openings as required therein. Fires in a fireplace shall be contained within a firebox with an attached chimney. The opening in the face of the firebox shall have an installed and maintained method of arresting sparks.

The burning of wood or other solid fuel in a device is not allowed within 25

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feet of combustible structures unless within an approved permanent fireplace, Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure or to vegetation shall be eliminated prior to ignition. Fires in devices burning wood or solid fuel shall be in accordance with Sections 305, 307, and 308.

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Exceptions:

1. Portable fireplaces and fire rings/pits equipped with a device to arrest sparks shall be located at least 3’ from combustible construction at R-3 occupancies,

2. Portable fireplaces, and fire pits/rings equipped with a device to arrest sparks, shall be located at least 15 feet from combustible structures at other R occupancies.
307.6.2.1 Where prohibited. The burning of wood and other solid fuels shall not be conducted within a fuel modification zone, Wildfire Risk Area (WRA), Wildland-Urban Interface Area (WUI), or in locations where conditions could cause the spread of fire to the WRA or WUI.

Exceptions:

1. Permanent fireplaces that are not located in a fuel
modification zone

2. Where determined by the Fire Code Official that the location or design of the device should reasonably prevent the start of a wildfire.

Section 324 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction is hereby added as follows:
324.1 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction. All new structures and facilities adjoining land containing hazardous combustible vegetation shall be approved and in accordance with the requirements of OCFA Guideline C-05 “Vegetation Management Guideline – Technical Design for New Construction Fuel Modification Plans and Maintenance Program.” Section 325 Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways is added to read as follows:
325.1Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways. The fire code official is authorized to cause areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of portions of highways and private streets which are improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic, to be cleared of flammable vegetation and other combustible growth. Measurement shall be from the flow-line or the end of the improved edge of the roadway surfaces.

Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.

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Section 326 Unusual Circumstances is added to read as follows:
326.1 Unusual circumstances. The fire code official may suspend enforcement of the vegetation management requirements and require reasonable alternative measures designed to advance the purpose of this code if determined that in any specific case that any of the following conditions exist:

1. Difficult terrain.

2. Danger of erosion.

3. Presence of plants included in any state and federal resources agencies, California Native Plant Society and county-approved list of wildlife, plants, rare, endangered and/or threatened species.

4. Stands or groves of trees or heritage trees.

5. Other unusual circumstances that make strict compliance with the clearance of vegetation provisions undesirable or impractical.

Section 327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames is added to read as follows:
327.2 Use of equipment. Except as otherwise provided in this section, no person shall use, operate, or cause to be operated in, upon or adjoining any hazardous fire area any internal combustion engine which uses hydrocarbon fuels, unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrester as defined in Section 202 maintained in effective working order, or the engine is constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire.

Exceptions:

1. Engines used to provide motor power for trucks, truck tractors, buses, and passenger vehicles, except motorcycles, are not subject to this section if the exhaust system is equipped with a muffler as defined in the Vehicle Code of the State of California.

2. Turbocharged engines are not subject to this section if all exhausted gases pass through the rotating turbine wheel, there is no exhaust bypass to the atmosphere, and the turbocharger is in good mechanical condition
Section 327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames is hereby added as follows:
327.2 Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames.

During any time of the year within Wildfire Risk Areas, within or immediately adjacent to any forest- or brush-covered land or non-irrigated grass-covered

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land, no person shall use or operate any welding equipment, cutting torches, tar pots, grinding devices, or other tools or equipment that may produce a spark, fire, or flame that could result in a wildfire without doing the following:

1. First clearing away all flammable material, including snags, from the area around such operation for a distance of 30 feet or other approved method to reduce fire spread into the wildlands. If 30 foot clearing cannot be achieved, then an alternate method shall be approved by the AHJ prior to work starting.

2. Maintain one serviceable round point shovel with an overall length of not less than forty-six (46) inches and one backpack pump water-type fire extinguisher fully equipped and ready for use at the immediate area during the operation.

3. Stop work when winds are 8 MPH or greater during periods when relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared or public announcement is made, when an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

4. Keep a cell phone nearby and call 911 immediate in case of fire. 327.3 Spark arresters. Spark arresters shall comply with Section 202, and when affixed to the exhaust system of engines or vehicles subject to Section 327 shall not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.

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Chapter 4: Emergency Planning and Preparedness. Only the sections, subsections, and amendment are adopted as listed below:

Section 407.5 is amended to read as follows:
407.5 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement. Where required by the fire code official, each application for a permit shall OCFA’s Chemical Classification Packet in accordance with Section 5001.5.2.

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 501.1 Scope is amended to read as follows:
501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter and, where required by the fire code official, with OCFA Guideline B-01, “Fire Master Plan for Commercial & Residential Development.”
Section 510.1 Emergency responder communications enhancement system in new buildings is amended to read as follows:

Emergency responder radio coverage in new buildings. All new buildings shall have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems utilized by the jurisdiction, measured at the exterior of the building. This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems. The Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System shall comply with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Communications and Technology Division guidelines and specifications and, where the functionality or performance requirements in the California Fire Code are more stringent, this code.

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Exceptions:

1. In buildings or structures where it is determined by the fire code official that the radio coverage system is not needed, including but not limited to the following:
a. Existing buildings or structures, unless required by the Building Official and OCFA for buildings and structures undergoing extensive remodel and/or expansion.
b. Elevators.
c. Structures that meet all of the following:
i. Three stories or less, and
ii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and
iii. Do not exceed 50,000 square feet on any single story. d. Structures that meet all of the following:
i. Residential structures four stories or less, and
ii. Constructed of wood, and
iii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and
iv. Are not built integral to an above ground multi-story parking structure.

Should a structure that is three stories or less and 50,000 square feet or smaller on any single story include subterranean storage or parking, then this chapter shall apply only to the subterranean areas.

2. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of the facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency radio coverage system.

Chapter 6
Building Services and Systems
Chapter 6 Building Services and Systems is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 7
Fire and Smoke Protection Features

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Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 8
Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 9
Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 903.2 Where required is amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in buildings and structures shall be provided when one of the following conditions exists:

1. New Buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.20 an automatic sprinkler system shall also be installed in all occupancies when the total building area exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2) as defined in Section 202, regardless of fire areas or allowable area, or is more than two stories in height.

Exception: Subject to approval by the Fire Code Official, open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code that are smaller than the area specified in section 903.2.10 (3) or 903.2.10.1 of the California Fire Code.

2. Existing Buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of this code, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in an existing building when an addition occurs and when one of the following conditions exists:
a. When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area, and the resulting building area exceeds 5,000 square feet; or b. When an addition exceeds 2,000 square feet and the resulting building area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
c. An additional story is added above the second floor regardless of fire areas or allowable area.

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Exception: Additions to Group R-3 occupancies shall comply with Section 903.2.8 (2).

Section 903.2.8 Group R is amended to read as follows:

Section 903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area as follows:

1. New Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all new buildings.

2. Existing R-3 Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when one of the following conditions exists:
a. When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area and the resulting building area exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2) as defined in Section 202; or,
b. An addition when the existing building is already provided with automatic sprinklers; or,
c. When an existing Group R Occupancy is being substantially renovated, and where the scope of the renovation is such that the Building Code Official determines that the complexity of installing a sprinkler system would be similar as in a new building.

Section 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems is added to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.

Exception: When static pressure exceeds 100 psi, and when required by the fire code official, the fire sprinkler system shall not exceed the water supply capacity specified by Table 903.3.5.3.

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TABLE 903.3.5.3
Hydraulically Calculated Systems
Design %
75 80
85 90
100 110 120 130 140 150 PSI
Chapter 10
Means of Egress
Chapter 10 Means of Egress is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM Chapter 11
Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings. Adopt only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM
Chapter 12
Energy Systems
Energy Systems is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM Chapter 20
Aviation Facilities
Chapter 20 Aviation Facilities is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 21
Dry Cleaning
Chapter 21 Dry Cleaning is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 22
Combustible Dust-Producing Operations
Chapter 22 Combustible Dust-Producing Operations is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 23
Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages
Chapter 23 Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

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Chapter 24
Flammable Finishes
Chapter 24 Flammable Finishes is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 25
Fruit and Crop Ripening
Chapter 25 Fruit and Crop Ripening is not adopted.

Chapter 26
Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging
Chapter 26 Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging is not adopted.

Chapter 27
Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities
Chapter 27 Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 28
Lumber Yards and Agro-Industrial, Solid Biomass and Woodworking Facilities Chapter 28 Lumber Yards and Agro-Industrial, Solid Biomass and Woodworking Facilities is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 2801.2 Permit is amended to read as follows:
2801.2 Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.6 and 105.6.29.
2808.2 Storage site. Storage sites shall be level and on solid ground, elevated soil lifts or other all-weather surface. Sites shall be thoroughly cleaned, and approval obtained from the fire code official before transferring wood products to the site.

Section 2808.3 Size of piles is amended to read as follows:
2808.3 Size of piles. Piles shall not exceed 15 feet in height, 50 feet in width and 100 feet in length.

Exception: The fire code official is authorized to allow the pile size to be increased where a fire protection plan is provided for approval that includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Storage yard areas and materials-handling equipment selection, design and arrangement shall be based upon sound fire prevention and protection principles.

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2. Factor that lead to spontaneous heating shall be identified in the plan, and control of the various factors shall be identified and implemented, including provisions for monitoring the internal condition of the pile.

3. The plan shall include means for early fire detection and reporting to the public fire department; and facilities needed by the fire department for fire extinguishment including a water supply and fire hydrants.

4. Fire apparatus access roads around the piles and access roads to the top of the piles shall be established, identified and maintained.

5. Regular yard inspections by trained personnel shall be included as part of an effective fire prevention maintenance program.

Additional fire protection called for in the plan shall be provided and shall be installed in accordance with this code. The increase of the pile size shall be based upon the capabilities of the installed fire protection system and features.

Section 2808.4 Pile separation is amended to read as follows:
2808.4. Pile separation. Piles shall be separated from adjacent piles by a minimum distance of 20 feet. Additionally, piles shall have a minimum separation of 100 feet from combustible vegetation.

Section 2808.7 Pile fire protection is amended to read as follows:
2808.7 Pile fire protection. Automatic sprinkler protection shall be provided in conveyor tunnels and combustible enclosures that pass under a pile.

Combustible conveyor systems and enclosed conveyor systems shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system. Oscillating sprinklers with a sufficient projectile reach are required to maintain a 40% to 60% moisture content and wet down burning/smoldering areas.

Section 2808.9 Material-handling equipment is amended to read as follows:
2808.9 Material-handling equipment. All material-handling equipment operated by an internal combustion engine shall be provided and maintained with an approved spark arrester. Approved material-handling equipment shall be available for moving wood chips, hogged material, wood fines and raw product during fire-fighting operations.

Section 2808.11 Temperature control is added to read as follows:
2808.11 Temperature control. The temperature shall be monitored and maintained as specified in Sections 2808.11.1 and 2808.11.2.

Section 2808.11.1 Pile temperature control is added to read as follows:

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2808.11.1 Pile temperature control. Piles shall be rotated when internal temperature readings are in excess of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Section 2808.11.2 New material temperature control is added to read as follows:
2808.11.2 New material temperature control. New loads delivered to the facility shall be inspected and tested at the facility entry prior to taking delivery.

Material with temperature exceeding 165 degrees Fahrenheit shall not be accepted on the site. New loads shall comply with the requirements of this chapter and be monitored to verify that the temperature remains stable.

Section 2808.12 Water availability is added to read as follows:
2808.12 Water availability. Facilities with over 2500 cubic feet shall provide a water supply. The minimum fire flow shall be no less than 500 GPM @ 20 psi for a minimum of 1 hour duration for pile heights up to 6 feet and 2 hour duration for pile heights over 6 feet. If there is no water purveyor, an alternate water supply with storage tank(s) shall be provided for fire suppression. The water supply tank(s) shall provide a minimum capacity of 2500 gallons per pile (maximum 30,000 gallons) for piles not exceeding 6 feet in height and 5000 gallons per pile (maximum 60,000) for piles exceeding 6 feet in height. Water tank(s) shall not be used for any other purpose unless the required fire flow is left in reserve within the tank at all times. An approved method shall be provided to maintain the required amount of water within the tank(s).

Section 2808.13 Tipping area is added to read as follows:
2808.13 Tipping areas shall comply with the following:

1. Tipping areas shall not exceed a maximum area of 50 feet by 50 feet.

2. Material within a tipping area shall not exceed 5 feet in height at any time.

3. Tipping areas shall be separated from all piles by a 20-foot-wide fire access lane.

4. A fire hydrant or approved fire water supply outlet shall be located within 150 feet of all points along the perimeter of the tipping area.

5. All material within a tipping area shall be processed within 5 days of receipt.

Section 2808.14 Emergency contact is added to read as follows:
2808.14 Emergency contact. The contact information of a responsible person or persons shall be provided to the Fire Department and shall be posted at the entrance to the facility for responding units. The responsible party should be available to respond to the business in emergency situation.

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Section 2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows is hereby added as follows:
2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows, Rows of Piles shall not exceed 500 feet by 500 feet. Grids shall be separated by a minimum 50-foot clear space used for no other purpose.
2808.16 Push-out / clear area is hereby added as follows:
2808.16 Push-out / clear area Piles exceeding 20 cubic yards shall be provided with push-out areas. Push-out areas shall be maintained clear at all times to allow for the largest pile to be spread out to a depth of 2 feet in height.

Push-out areas shall be located within 250 feet of all edges of any pile and shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from any building.

Chapter 29
Manufacture of Organic Coatings
Chapter 29 Manufacture of Organic Coatings is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 30
Industrial Ovens
Chapter 30 Industrial Ovens is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 31
Tents, Temporary Special Event Structures and Other Membrane Structures Chapter 31 Temporary Special Event Structures and Other Membrane Structures is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 32
High-Piled Combustible Storage
Chapter 32 High-Piled Combustible Storage is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 33
Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition
Chapter 33 Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 34
Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage
Chapter 34 Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 35
Welding and Other Hot Work

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Chapter 35 Welding and Other Hot Work is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 36
Marinas
Chapter 36 Marinas is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 37
Combustible Fibers
Chapter 37 Combustible Fibers is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 39
Processing and Extraction Facilities
Chapter 39 Processing and Extraction Facilities is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 40
Storage of Distilled Spirits and Wines
Chapter 40 Storage of Distilled Spirits and Wines is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 41
Temporary Heating and Cooking Operations
Chapter 41 TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS is adopted in its entirely as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 48
Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and Production Locations
Chapter 48 Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and Production Locations is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 49
Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Areas
Chapter 49 Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Areas is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 4903.3 Requirements is added as follows:
4903.3 Fuel Modification Plans. Fuel modification plans shall be reviewed and approved by OCFA for all new buildings to be built or installed in a wildfire risk area. Plans shall meet the criteria set forth in OCFA Guideline C-05 “Vegetation Management Guideline – Technical Design for New Construction Fuel Modification Plans and Maintenance Program.” Chapter 50
Hazardous Materials – General Provisions

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Chapter 50 Hazardous Materials – General Provisions is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments.

Section 5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS), is amended to read as follows:

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5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall include. Orange County Fire Authority’s Chemical Classification Guideline, which shall be completed and approved prior to approval of plans, and/or the storage, use or handling of chemicals on the premises.

Section 5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances is added to read as follows:
5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances. No person shall use or store any amount of extremely hazardous substances (EHS) in excess of the disclosable amounts (see Health and Safety Code Section 25500 et al) in a residential zoned or any residentially developed property.

Chapter 51
Aerosols
Chapter 51 Aerosols is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 53
Compressed Gases
Chapter 53 Compressed Gases is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 54
Corrosive Materials
Chapter 54 Corrosive materials is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 55
Cryogenic Fluids
Chapter 55 Cryogenic Fluids is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 56
Explosives and Fireworks
Chapter 56 Explosives and Fireworks is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 5608.2 Firing is hereby added to read as follows:
5608.2 Firing. All fireworks displays, regardless of mortar, device, or shell size, shall be electrically fired.

Section 5608.3 Application for permit is added to read as follows:

Section 5608.3 Application for permit. A diagram of the grounds on which the display is to be held showing the point at which the fireworks are to be discharged, the fallout area based on 100 feet per inch of shell size, the location

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of all buildings, roads, and other means of transportation, the lines behind which the audience will be restrained, the location of all nearby trees, telegraph or telephone line, or other overhead obstructions shall be provided to OCFA.

Chapter 57
Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Chapter 57 Flammable and Combustible Liquids is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 58
Flammable Gases and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids
Chapter 58 Flammable Gases and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 59
Flammable Solids
Chapter 59 Flammable Solids is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 60
Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials
Chapter 60 Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 61
Liquefied Petroleum Gases
Chapter 61 Liquefied Petroleum Gases is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 62
Organic Peroxides
Chapter 62 Organic Peroxides is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 63
Oxidizers, Oxidizing Gases, and Oxidizing Cryogenic Fluids Chapter 63 Oxidizers, Oxidizing Gases, and Oxidizing Cryogenic Fluids is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 64
Pyrophoric Materials
Chapter 64 Pyrophoric Materials is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 65
Pyroxylin (Cellulose Nitrate) Plastics
Chapter 65 Pyroxylin (Cellulose Nitrate) Plastics is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 66
Unstable (Reactive) Materials
Chapter 66 Unstable (Reactive) Materials is adopted in its entirety.

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Chapter 67
Water-Reactive Solids and Liquids
Chapter 67 Water-Reactive Solids and Liquids is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 80
Referenced Standards
Chapter 80 Referenced Standards is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

NFPA 13, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems is amended as follows:

Section 9.2.1.7 is hereby revised as follows:

9.2.1.7 Concealed spaces filled with noncombustible insulation shall not require sprinkler protection when approved by the fire code official.

Section 9.4.3.1 is hereby revised as follows:

9.4.3.1 When fire sprinkler systems are installed in shell buildings of undetermined use (Spec Buildings) other than warehouses (S occupancies), fire sprinklers of the quick-response type shall be used. Use is considered undetermined if a specific tenant/occupant is not identified at the time the fire sprinkler plan is submitted. Sprinklers in light hazard occupancies shall be one of the following:
(1) Quick-response type as defined in 3.3.223.4.16
(2) Residential sprinklers in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 12 (3) Quick-response CMSA sprinklers
(4) ESFR sprinklers
(5) Standard-response sprinklers used for modifications or additions to existing light hazard systems equipped with standard-response sprinklers.
(6) Standard-response sprinklers used where individual standard-response sprinklers are replaced in existing light hazard systems
Section 16.12.3.3 is amended to read as follows:

16.12.3.3 Fire department connections (FDC) shall be of an approved type. The location shall be approved and be no more than 150 feet from a public hydrant.

The FDC may be located within 150 feet of a private fire hydrant when approved by the fire code official. The size of piping and the number of 2½” inlets shall be approved by the fire code official. If acceptable to the water authority, it may be installed on the backflow assembly. Fire department inlet connections shall be painted OSHA safety red or as approved. When the fire sprinkler density design requires more than 500 gpm (including inside hose stream demand), or a standpipe system is included, four 2½” inlets shall be provided.

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Section 9.4.3.1 is amended to read as follows:

9.4.3.1 When fire sprinkler systems are installed in shell buildings of undetermined use (Spec Buildings) other than warehouses (S occupancies), fire sprinklers of the quick-response type shall be used. Use is considered undetermined if a specific tenant/occupant is not identified at the time the fire sprinkler plan is submitted. Sprinklers in light hazard occupancies shall be one of the following:
(1) Quick-response type as defined in 3.6.4.8
(2) Residential sprinklers in accordance with the requirements of 8.4.5 (3) Quick response CMSA sprinklers
(4) ESFR sprinklers
(5) Standard-response sprinklers used for modifications or additions to existing light hazard systems equipped with standard-response sprinklers (6) Standard-response sprinklers used where individual standard-response sprinklers are replaced in existing light hazard systems Section 9.2.1.7is amended to read as follows:

9.2.1.7 Concealed spaces filled with noncombustible insulation shall not require sprinkler protection when approved by the fire code official.

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NFPA 13D 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes is amended as follows:

Section 7.1.2 is amended to read as follows:

7.1.2 The sprinkler system piping shall not have separate control valves installed unless supervised by a central station, proprietary, or remote station alarm service.

NFPA 14, 2019 Edition, Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems is amended as follows:

Section 7.3.1.1 is hereby deleted in its entirety.

NFPA 24, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances is amended as follows:

Section 6.2.8.1 is added to read as follows:

6.2.8.1 All indicating valves controlling fire suppression water supplies shall be painted OSHA red.

Exceptions:

1. Brass or bronze valves on sprinkler risers mounted to the exterior of the building may be left unpainted.

2. Where OS&Y valves on the detector check assembly are the only control valves, at least one OS&Y valve shall be painted red.

Section 6.2.9 is amended to read as follows:

6.2.9 All connections to private fire service mains for fire protection systems shall be arranged in accordance with one of the following so that they can be isolated:
(1) A post indicator valve installed not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building
(a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a post indicator valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the post indicator valve.

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(2) A wall post indicator valve on risers located within the building, either a nonrising stem gate valve with a wall post indicator or a listed butterfly value with an indicating handle extending out through the building.
(3) A backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building
(a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the backflow preventer.
(4) Control valves installed in a fire-rated room accessible from the exterior (5) Control valves in a fire-rated stair enclosure accessible from the exterior Section 10.1.5 is added to read as follows:

10.1.5 All ferrous pipe and joints shall be polyethylene encased per AWWA C150, Method A, B, or C. All fittings shall be protected with a loose 8-mil polyethylene tube or sheet. The ends of the tube or sheet shall extend past the joint by a minimum of 12 inches and be sealed with 2 inch wide tape approved for underground use. Galvanizing does not meet the requirements of this section.

Exception: 304 or 316 Stainless Steel pipe and fittings Section 10.4.1.1 is amended to read as follows:

10.4.1.1 All bolted joint accessories shall be cleaned and thoroughly coated with asphalt or other corrosion-retarding material after installation.

Exception: Bolted joint accessories made from 304 or 316 stainless steel.

Section 10.4.1.1.1 is added to read as follows:

10.4.1.1.1 All bolts used in pipe-joint assembly shall be 316 stainless steel.

Section 10.4.3.2 is hereby deleted and replaced as follows:

10.4.3.2 Where fire service mains enter the building adjacent to the foundation, the pipe may run under a building to a maximum of 24 inches, as measured from the interior face of the exterior wall to the center of the vertical pipe. The pipe under the building or building foundation shall be 304 or 316 stainless steel and shall not contain mechanical joints or it shall comply with 10.4.3.2.1 through

10.4.3.2.4.

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Appendices
Appendix A is not adopted.

Appendix B is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Appendix BB is adopted in its entirety.

Appendix C is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Appendix CC is adopted in its entirety.

Appendix D is not adopted.

Appendix E is not adopted. Appendix
F is not adopted. Appendix G is not
adopted. Appendix H is adopted in its
entirety. Appendix I is not adopted.

Appendix J is not adopted.

Appendix K is not adopted.

Appendix L is not adopted.

Appendix M is not adopted.

Appendix N is not adopted.

Appendix O is not adopted.

Appendix P is not adopted.

Appendix Q is not adopted.

SECTION 3. Filing with Building Standards Commission. The City Clerk shall file a certified copy of this Ordinance with the California Building Standards Commission.

SECTION 4. CEQA. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines section 15060(c)(2) – the adoption of the California Fire Code will not foreseeably result in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect impacts and is exempt from the provisions of the California

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Environmental Quality Act and City Clerk shall file such Notice of Exemption with the County Clerk.

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SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held out to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsection, sentence clause, phrases or portions be declared valid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall not take effect until thirty (30) days after its final passage, or January 1, 2026, whichever occurs later.

SECTION 17.Publication by Clerk. The City Clerk shall certify as to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause a summary thereof to be published within fifteen (15) days of adoption and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, including the vote for and against same, in the Office of the City Clerk, in accordance with Government Code 36933.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of September, 2025.

Shelley Hasselbrink, Mayor
ATTEST:

Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Michael S. Daudt, City Attorney

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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss

CITY OF LOS ALAMITOS )
I, Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Los Alamitos, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 2025-08 was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 18th day of August, 2025, and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 15th day of September, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:

Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk

1726692.1

EXHIBIT A

LOCAL CONDITIONS FINDINGS

FACTUAL FINDINGS ESTABLISHING THE REASONABLE NEED FOR LOCAL

AMENDMENTS TO PORTIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE BASED UPON LOCAL

CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL AND/OR TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS
The Fire Official and City Building Official recommend that certain changes and modifications to the 2025 California Fire Code are reasonably necessary due to local conditions within the City, certain changes and modifications are of an administrative or procedural nature or concern themselves with subjects not covered by the California Building Standards Code, and certain changes and modifications are reasonably necessary to safeguard life and property within the City of Los Alamitos.

Section 1. General Findings
The following findings apply in the City of Los Alamitos and explain why the changes to the Building Standards Code are necessary because of climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions in the city.

I. Climatic Conditions
A. Orange County is located in a semi-arid Mediterranean type climate. It annually experiences extended periods of high temperatures with little or no precipitation. Hot, dry (Santa Ana) winds, which may reach speeds of 70 M.P.H. or greater, are also common to the area. These climatic conditions cause extreme drying of vegetation and common building materials. Frequent periods of drought and low humidity add to the fire danger.

This predisposes the area to large destructive fires (conflagration). In addition to directly damaging or destroying buildings, these fires are also prone to disrupt utility services throughout the County. Obstacles generated by a strong wind, such as fallen trees, street lights and utility poles will greatly impact the response time to reach an incident scene.

B. The climate alternates between extended periods of drought and brief flooding conditions.

Flood conditions may affect the Orange County fire Authority’s ability to respond to a fire or emergency condition. Floods also disrupt utility services to buildings and facilities within the County.

C. Water demand in this densely populated area far exceeds the quantity supplied by natural precipitation; and although the population continues to grow, the already-taxed water supply does not. California is projected to increase in population by nearly 10 million over the next quarter of a century with 50 percent of that growth centered in Southern California. Due to storage capacities and consumption, and a limited amount of rainfall future water allocation is not fully dependable. This necessitates the need for additional and on-site fire protection features.

D. These dry climatic conditions and winds contribute to the rapid spread of even small fires originating in high-density housing or vegetation. These fires spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels of fire protection. The added protection of fire sprinkler systems and other fire protection features will supplement normal fire department

1726692.1
response by providing immediate protection for the building occupants and by containing and controlling the fire spread to the area of origin. Fire sprinkler systems will also reduce the use of water for firefighting by as much as 50 to 75 percent.

II. Topographical conditions
A. Natural; slopes of 15 percent or greater generally occur throughout the foothills of Orange County. The elevation change caused by the hills creates the geological foundation on which communities with Orange County is built and will continue to build. With much of the populated flatlands already built upon, future growth will occur on steeper slopes and with greater constraints in terrain.

B. Traffic and circulation congestion is an artificially created, obstructive topographical condition, which is common throughout Orange County.

C. These topographical conditions combine to create a situation that places fire department response time to fire occurrences at risk and makes it necessary to provide automatic onsite fire-extinguishing systems and other protection measures to protect occupants and property.

III. Geological Conditions
The Orange County region is a densely populated area that has buildings constructed over and near a vast and complex network of faults that are believed to be capable of producing future earthquakes similar or greater in size than the 1994 Northridge and the 1971 Sylmar earthquakes. Earthquake faults run along the northeast and southwest boundaries of Orange County. The Newport-Inglewood Fault, located within Orange County was the source of the destructive 1933 Long Beach earthquake (6.3 magnitude) which took 120 lives and damaged buildings in an area from Laguna Beach to Marina Del Rey to Whittier. In December 1989, another earthquake occurred in the jurisdiction of Irvine at an unknown fault line. Regional planning for reoccurrence of earthquakes is recommended by the state of California, Department of Conservation.

A. Previous earthquakes have been accompanied by disruption of traffic flow and fires. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely to create obstacles similar to those indicated under the high wind section above. The October 17, 1989, Santa Cruz earthquake resulted in one major fire in the Marina District (San Francisco). When combined with the 34 other fires locally and over 500 responses, the department was taxed to its fullest capabilities. The Marina fire was difficult to contain because mains supplying water to the district burst during the earthquake. This situation creates the need for both additional fire protection and automatic on-site fire protection for building occupants. State Department of Conservation noted in their 1988 report (Planning Scenario on a Major Earthquake on the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone, page 59), “unfortunately, barely meeting the minimum earthquake standards of building codes places a building on the verge of being legally unsafe.”

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B. Road circulation features located throughout the County also make amendments reasonably necessary. Located through the County are major roadways, highways and flood control channels that create barriers and slow response times. Hills, slopes, street and storm drain design, accompanied by occasional heavy rainfall, causes roadway flooding and landslides and at times may make an emergency access route impassable.

There are areas in Orange County that naturally have extended emergency response times that exceed the 5 minute goal.

C. Soils throughout the County possess corrosive properties that reduce the expected usable life of water services when metallic pipes are in contact with soils.

D. Portions of the County contain active or former oil production fields. These areas contain a variety of naturally occurring gasses, liquids and vapors. These compounds present toxicity or flammability hazards to building occupants. Evaluation of these hazards and the risks they pose to development is necessary for implementation of appropriate mitigation.

Due to the topographical conditions of sprawling development separated by waterways and narrow and congested streets and the expected infrastructure damage inherent in seismic zones described above, 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) resources available for a given structure. Additional fire protection is also justified to match the current resources of firefighting equipment and personnel within the Orange County Fire Authority.

Section 2 –Application of Findings to Amendments in Ordinance No.

Amendments to the 2025 Edition of the California Fire Code set forth in Ordinance No. and identified below are reasonably necessary as administrative or procedural in nature, or to ensure consistency with previously adopted ordinances, or are intended to enhance life and fire safety due to the climatic, topographical, and/or geologic conditions cited below.

1726692.1
2025 California Fire Code
Amendment Findings Legend
CODE

SECTION
TITLE (Clarification) FINDINGS
113.4 Violation penalties Administrative
113.4.2 Infraction & Misdemeanor Administrative
202 General definitions Administrative
304.1.3 OCFA Vegetation Management I
305.6 Hazardous conditions I & II
305.7 Disposal of rubbish I & II
307 Open burning, recreational fires, fire pits, fire rings, and outdoor fireplaces
Administrative
307.6 Fire Pits, Fire Rings, & Outdoor Fireplaces Administrative 307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices I & II
307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or LPG
I & II
307.6.2.1 Where prohibited I & II
324 Fuel modification requirements for new construction I 325 Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways I 326 Unusual circumstances Administrative
327 Use of equipment I
327.1 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames
I
327.2 Spark arresters I
407.5 Hazardous material inventory statement I & II
501.1 Scope Administrative, I, II & III
510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage Administrative 903.2 Where required (Sprinklers) I, II & III
903.2.8 Group R (Sprinklers) I, II & III
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems I & II
2801.2 Permit Administrative
2808.2 Storage site Administrative
2808.3 Size of piles I
2808.4 Pile separation I
2808.7 Pile fire protection I
2808.9 Material-handling equipment I
2808.11 Temperature control I
2808.11.1 Pile temperature control I
2808.11.2 New material temperature control I
2808.12 Water availability for piles I
2808.13 Tipping area I
2808.14 Emergency contact information Administrative
2808.15 Defining maximum separation contact Administrative 2808.16 Push-out area dentification Administrative
4903.3 OCFA Vegetation Management Guideline I

1726692.1
5001.5.2 Hazardous materials inventory statement Administrative 5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances I & III
5608.2 Retail fireworks Administrative
5608.3 Application for permit Administrative
Chapter
80 Reference Standards N/A
2025 NFPA 13 (Sprinkler Systems) Administrative, II & III 2025 NFPA 13-D (Single Family Sprinkler Systems) I & II 2019 NFPA 14 (Standpipe Systems) Administrative
2012 NFPA 24 (Underground Water Supply
Systems)
Administrative & III

2025
California Fire Code
OCFA Amendments
Los Alamitos
Final Version

2 0 2 5 C F C C o d e A m e n d m e n t s p a g e 1
Chapter 1
Scope and Administration
Chapter 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:

Section 112.4 Violation penalties is hereby revised as follows:
112.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or shall fail to comply with any issued orders or notices or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties assessed as prescribed in the OCFA Prevention Field Services adopted fee schedule. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

Section 112.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor is hereby added as follows:
112.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor. Persons operating or maintaining any occupancy, premises or vehicle subject to this code that shall permit any fire or life safety hazard to exist on premises under their control shall be guilty of an infraction.

Persons who fail to take immediate action to abate a fire or life safety hazard when ordered or notified to do so by the chief or a duly authorized representative are guilty of a misdemeanor.

Chapter 2
Definitions
Chapter 2 DEFINITIONS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

Sections 202 GENERAL DEFINITIONS is hereby revised by adding “OCFA” and “Spark Arrester” as follows:

OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority, authority having jurisdiction.

SPARK ARRESTER. A listed device constructed of noncombustible material specifically for the purpose of meeting one of the following conditions:

1. Removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles/debris from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 38366.

2. Fireplaces that burn solid fuel in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 28.

2 0 2 5 C F C C o d e A m e n d m e n t s p a g e 2
Chapter 3
General Requirements
Chapter 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is adopted in its entirety with the exception of Sections 308.1.4, 311.5, 318, and with the following amendments:

Section 304.1.2 Vegetation is hereby revised as follows:
304.1.2 Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines or other growth that is capable of being ignited and endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the premises. Vegetation clearance requirement in urban-wildland interface areas shall be in accordance with Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Type, amount, arrangement, and maintenance of vegetation in a fuel modification area, interior slope, or similarly hazardous area shall be in accordance with OCFA Guideline C-05 “Vegetation Management Guideline:

Technical Design for New Construction, Fuel Modification Plans, and Maintenance Program.”
Section 305.6 Hazardous conditions is hereby added as follows:
305.6 Hazardous conditions. Outdoor fires burning wood or other solid fuel are not allowed when any of the following conditions applies:

1. When predicted sustained winds exceed 8 MPH and relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared.

2. When an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or a public announcement is made.

No outdoor fires using any fuel type are permitted when predicted sustained winds exceed 20 MPH or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

Section 305.7 Disposal of rubbish is hereby added as follows:
305.7 Disposal of rubbish. Rubbish, trash or combustible waste material shall be burned only within an approved incinerator and in accordance with Section 307.2.1.

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SECTION 307 OPEN BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES AND PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES is hereby revised as follows:

SECTION 307 OPEN BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES, FIRE PITS, FIRE

RINGS, AND PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES
Sections 307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R occupancies is hereby added as follows:
307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R occupancies. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar exterior devices used at Group R occupancies shall comply with this section.

Exception: Barbeques, grills, and other portable devices intended solely for cooking.

Section 307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices is hereby added as follows:
307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and similar devices fueled by natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas are allowed when approved by the Building Department and the device is designed to only burn a gas flame and not wood or other solid fuel. At R-3 occupancies, combustible construction and vegetation shall not be located within three feet of an atmospheric column that extends vertically from the perimeter of the device. At other R occupancies, the minimum distance shall be ten feet. Where a permanent Building Department approved hood and vent is installed, combustible construction may encroach upon this column between the bottom of the hood and the vent opening. Where chimneys or vents are installed, they shall have a spark arrester as defined in Section 202.

Section 307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefiedpetroleum gas is hereby added as follows:
307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefiedpetroleum gas. Permanent outdoor fireplaces burning wood or other solid fuel shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code with clearance from combustible construction and building openings as required therein. Fires in a fireplace shall be contained within a firebox with an attached chimney. The opening in the face of the firebox shall have an installed and maintained method of arresting sparks.

The burning of wood or other solid fuel in a device is not allowed within 25 feet of combustible structures unless within an approved permanent fireplace. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure or to vegetation

2 0 2 5 C F C C o d e A m e n d m e n t s p a g e 4
shall be eliminated prior to ignition. Fires in devices burning wood or solid fuel shall be in accordance with Sections 305, 307, and 308.

Exceptions:

1. Portable fireplaces and fire rings/pits equipped with a device to arrest sparks shall be located at least 3 feet from combustible construction at R-3 occupancies,

2. Portable fireplaces, and fire pits/rings equipped with a device to arrest sparks, shall be located at least 15 feet from combustible structures at other R occupancies.

Section 307.6.2.1 Where prohibited is hereby added as follows:
307.6.2.1 Where prohibited. The burning of wood and other solid fuels shall not be conducted within a fuel modification zone, Wildfire Risk Area (WRA), WildlandUrban Interface Area (WUI), or in locations where conditions could cause the spread of fire to the WRA or WUI.

Exceptions:

1. Permanent fireplaces that are not located in a fuel modification zone.

2. Where determined by the Fire Code Official that the location or design of the device should reasonably prevent the start of a wildfire.

SECTION 324 FUEL MODIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION is hereby added as follows:
324.1 Fuel Modification Requirements For New Construction. All new structures and facilities adjoining land containing hazardous combustible vegetation shall be approved and in accordance with the requirements of OCFA Guideline C-05 “Vegetation Management Guideline: Technical Design for New Construction Fuel Modification Plans and Maintenance Program.” SECTION 325 CLEARANCE OF BRUSH OR VEGETATION GROWTH FROM ROADWAYS is hereby added as follows:
325.1 Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways. The fire code official is authorized to cause areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of portions of highways and private streets which are improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic, to be cleared of flammable vegetation and other combustible growth. Measurement shall be from the flow-line or the end of the improved edge of the roadway surfaces.

Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.

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SECTION 326 UNUSUAL CIRCUMSTANCES is hereby added as follows:
326.1 Unusual circumstances. The fire code official may suspend enforcement of the vegetation management requirements and require reasonable alternative measures designed to advance the purpose of this code if determined that in any specific case that any of the following conditions exist:

1. Difficult terrain.

2. Danger of erosion.

3. Presence of plants included in any state and federal resources agencies, California Native Plant Society and county-approved list of wildlife, plants, rare, endangered and/or threatened species.

4. Stands or groves of trees or heritage trees.

5. Other unusual circumstances that make strict compliance with the clearance of vegetation provisions undesirable or impractical.

SECTION 327 USE OF EQUIPMENT is hereby added as follows:
327.1 Use of equipment. Except as otherwise provided in this section, no person shall use, operate, or cause to be operated in, upon or adjoining any hazardous fire area any internal combustion engine which uses hydrocarbon fuels, unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrester as defined in Section 202 maintained in effective working order, or the engine is constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire.

Exceptions:

1. Engines used to provide motor power for trucks, truck tractors, buses, and passenger vehicles, except motorcycles, are not subject to this section if the exhaust system is equipped with a muffler as defined in the Vehicle Code of the State of California.

2. Turbocharged engines are not subject to this section if all exhausted gases pass through the rotating turbine wheel, there is no exhaust bypass to the atmosphere, and the turbocharger is in good mechanical condition.

Section 327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames is hereby added as follows:
327.2 Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames. During any time of the year within Wildfire Risk Areas, within or immediately adjacent to any forest- or brush-covered land or non-irrigated grass-covered land, no person shall use or operate any welding equipment, cutting torches, tar pots, grinding devices, or other tools or equipment that may produce a spark, fire, or flame that could result in a wildfire without doing the following:

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1. First clearing away all flammable material, including snags, from the area around such operation for a distance of 30 feet or other approved method to reduce fire spread into the wildlands. If a 30-foot clearing cannot be achieved, then an alternate method shall be approved by the AHJ prior to work starting.

2. Maintain one serviceable round point shovel with an overall length of not less than forty-six (46) inches and one backpack pump water-type fire extinguisher fully equipped and ready for use at the immediate area during the operation.

3. Stop work when winds are 8 MPH or greater during periods when relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared or public announcement is made, when an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

4. Keep a cell phone nearby and call 911 immediately in case of fire.

Section 327.3 Spark arresters is hereby added as follows:
327.3 Spark arresters. Spark arresters shall comply with Section 202, and when affixed to the exhaust system of engines or vehicles subject to Section 327 shall not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.

Chapter 4
Emergency Planning and Preparedness
Chapter 4 EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendment:

Section 407.5 is hereby revised as follows:
407.5 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement. Where required by the fire code official, each application for a permit shall follow OCFA Guideline G-04 “Completion of the Chemical Classification” in accordance with Section 5001.5.2.

Chapter 5
Fire Service Features
Chapter 5 FIRE SERVICE FEATURES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

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SECTION 501.1 Scope is hereby revised as follows:
501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter and, where required by the fire code official, with OCFA Guideline B-01 “Fire Master Plans for Commercial & Residential Development.” Section 510.1 Emergency responder communication coverage in new buildings is hereby deleted and replaced as follows:
510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage in new buildings. All new buildings shall have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building. This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems. The Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System shall comply with the requirements of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Communications and Technology Division, and where the functionality of performance requirements in the California Fire Code are more stringent, this code.

Exceptions:

1. In buildings or structures where it is determined by the fire code official that the radio coverage system is not needed, including but not limited to the following:

1.1. Existing buildings or structures, unless required by the Building Official and OCFA for buildings and structures undergoing extensive remodel and/or expansion.

1.2. Elevators.

1.3. Structures that meet all of the following:
i. Three stories or less, and
ii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and
iii. Do not exceed 50,000 square feet on any single story.

1.4. Structures that meet all of the following:
i. Residential structures four stories or less, and
ii. Constructed of wood, and
iii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and
iv. Are not built integral to an above ground multi-story parking structure.

Should a structure that is three stories or less and 50,000 square feet or smaller on any single story include subterranean storage or parking, then this ordinance shall apply only to the subterranean areas.

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2. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of the facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency radio coverage system.

Chapter 6
Building Services and Systems
Chapter 6 BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 7
Fire and Smoke Protection Features
Chapter 7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 8
Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
Chapter 8 INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 9
Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Chapter 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

Section 903.2 Where required is hereby revised as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in buildings and structures shall be provided when one of the following conditions exists:

1. New buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.21, an automatic sprinkler system shall also be installed in all occupancies when the total building area exceeds 5,000 square feet as defined in Section 202, regardless of fire areas or allowable area, or is more than two stories in height.

Exception: Subject to approval by the Fire Code Official, open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code

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that are smaller than the area specified in section 903.2.10 (3) or 903.2.10.1 of the California Fire Code.

2. Existing Buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of this code, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in an existing building when an addition occurs and one of the following conditions exists:

2.1. When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area, and the resulting building area exceeds 5000 square feet.

2.2. When an addition exceeds 2000 square feet, and the resulting building area exceeds 5000 square feet.

2.3. An additional story is added above the second floor regardless of fire areas or allowable area.

Exception: Additions to Group R-3 occupancies shall comply with Section 903.2.8 (2).

Section 903.2.8 Group R is hereby revised as follows:
903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area as follows:

1. New Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all new buildings.

2. Existing R-3 Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when one of the following conditions exists:

2.1. When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area and the resulting building area exceeds 5,000 square feet as defined in Section 202.

2.2. An addition when the existing building is already provided with automatic sprinklers.

2.3. When an existing Group R Occupancy is being substantially renovated, and where the scope of the renovation is such that the Building Code Official determines that the complexity of installing a sprinkler system would be similar as in a new building.

The exceptions in this section remain unchanged.

Section 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems is hereby added as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.

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Exception: When static pressure exceeds 100 psi, and when required by the fire code official, the sprinkler system shall not exceed the water supply capacity specified by Table 903.3.5.3.

Chapter 10
Means of Egress
Chapter 10 MEANS OF EGRESS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 11
Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM.

Chapter 12
Energy Systems
Chapter 12 ENERGY SYSTEMS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 20
Aviation Facilities
Chapter 20 AVIATION FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety. 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 PSI
85 80
75 Design %
TABLE 903.3.5.3
Hydraulically Calculated Systems

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Chapter 21
Dry Cleaning
Chapter 21 DRY CLEANING is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 22
Combustible Dust-Producing Operations
Chapter 22 COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING OPERATIONS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 23
Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages
Chapter 23 MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 24
Flammable Finishes
Chapter 24 FLAMMABLE FINISHES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 25
Fruit and Crop Ripening
Chapter 25 FRUIT AND CROP RIPENING is not adopted.

Chapter 26
Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging
Chapter 26 FUMIGATION AND INSECTICIDAL FOGGING is not adopted.

Chapter 27
Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities
Chapter 27 SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety.

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Chapter 28
Lumber Yards and Agro-Industrial, Solid Biomass and Woodworking Facilities Chapter 28 LUMBER YARDS AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL, SOLID BIOMASS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

Section 2801.2 Permit is hereby revised as follows:
2801.2 Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5. and 105.5.31.

Section 2808.2 Storage site is hereby revised as follows:
2808.2 Storage site. Storage sites shall be level and on solid ground, elevated soil lifts or other all-weather surface. Sites shall be thoroughly cleaned, and approval obtained from the fire code official before transferring products to the site.

Section 2808.3 Size of piles is hereby revised as follows:
2808.3 Size of piles. Piles shall not exceed 15 feet in height, 50 feet in width and 100 feet in length.

Exception: The fire code official is authorized to allow the pile size to be increased where a fire protection plan is provided for approval that includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Storage yard areas and materials-handling equipment selection, design and arrangement shall be based upon sound fire prevention and protection principles.

2. Factors that lead to spontaneous heating shall be identified in the plan, and control of the various factors shall be identified and implemented, including provisions for monitoring the internal condition of the pile.

3. The plan shall include means for early fire detection and reporting to the public fire department; and facilities needed by the fire department for fire extinguishment including a water supply and fire hydrants.

4. Fire apparatus access roads around the piles and access roads to the top of the piles shall be established, identified, and maintained.

5. Regular yard inspections by trained personnel shall be included as part of an effective fire prevention maintenance program.

Additional fire protection called for in the plan shall be provided and shall be installed in accordance with this code. The increase of the pile size shall be based upon the capabilities of the installed fire protection system and features.

Section 2808.3.1 Increase in pile or stack size is hereby deleted in its entirety.

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Section 2808.4 Pile separation is hereby revised as follows:
2808.4. Pile separation. Piles shall be separated from adjacent piles by a minimum distance of 20 feet. Additionally, piles shall have a minimum separation of 100 feet from combustible vegetation.

Section 2808.7 Pile fire protection is hereby revised as follows:
2808.7 Pile fire protection. Automatic sprinkler protection shall be provided in conveyor tunnels and combustible enclosures that pass under a pile. Combustible conveyor systems and enclosed conveyor systems shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system. Oscillating sprinklers with a sufficient projectile reach are required to maintain a 40% to 60% moisture content and wet down burning/smoldering areas.

Section 2808.9 Material-handling equipment is hereby revised as follows:
2808.9 Material-handling equipment. All material-handling equipment operated by an internal combustion engine shall be provided and maintained with an approved spark arrester. Approved material-handling equipment shall be available for moving wood chips, hogged material, wood fines and raw product during firefighting operations.

Section 2808.11 Temperature control is hereby added as follows:
2808.11 Temperature control. The temperature shall be monitored and maintained as specified in Sections 2808.11.1 and 2808.11.2.

Section 2808.11.1 Pile temperature control is hereby added as follows:
2808.11.1 Pile temperature control. Piles shall be rotated when internal temperature readings are in excess of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Section 2808.11.2 New material temperature control is hereby added as follows:
2808.11.2 New material temperature control. New loads delivered to the facility shall be inspected and tested at the facility entry prior to taking delivery. Material with temperature exceeding 165 degrees Fahrenheit shall not be accepted on the site. New loads shall comply with the requirements of this chapter and be monitored to verify that the temperature remains stable.

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Section 2808.12 Water availability is hereby added as follows:
2808.12 Water availability. Facilities with over 2500 cubic feet shall provide a water supply. The minimum fire flow shall be no less than 500 GPM @ 20 psi for a minimum of 1 hour duration for pile heights up to 6 feet and 2-hour duration for pile heights over 6 feet. If there is no water purveyor, an alternate water supply with storage tank(s) shall be provided for fire suppression. The water supply tank(s) shall provide a minimum capacity of 2500 gallons per pile (maximum 30,000 gallons) for piles not exceeding 6 feet in height and 5000 gallons per pile (maximum 60,000) for piles exceeding 6 feet in height. Water tank(s) shall not be used for any other purpose unless the required fire flow is left in reserve within the tank at all times. An approved method shall be provided to maintain the required amount of water within the tank(s).

Section 2808.13 Tipping areas is hereby added as follows:
2808.13 Tipping areas shall comply with the following:

1. Tipping areas shall not exceed a maximum area of 50 feet by 50 feet.

2. Material within a tipping area shall not exceed 5 feet in height at any time.

3. Tipping areas shall be separated from all piles by a 20-foot-wide fire access lane.

4. A fire hydrant or approved fire water supply outlet shall be located within 150 feet of all points along the perimeter of the tipping area.

5. All material within a tipping area shall be processed within 5 days of receipt.

Section 2808.14 Emergency contact is hereby added as follows:
2808.14 Emergency contact. The contact information of a responsible person or persons shall be provided to the Fire Department and shall be posted at the entrance to the facility for responding units. The responsible party should be available to respond to the business in an emergency situation.

Section 2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows is hereby added as follows:
2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows. Rows of Piles shall not exceed 500 feet by 500 feet. Grids shall be separated by a minimum 50-foot clear space used for no other purpose.
2808.16 Push-out / clear area is hereby added as follows:
2808.16 Push-out / clear area. Piles exceeding 20 cubic yards shall be provided with push-out areas. Push-out areas shall be maintained clear at all times to allow

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for the largest pile to be spread out to a depth of 2 feet in height. Push-out areas shall be located within 250 feet of all edges of any pile and shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from any building.

Chapter 29
Manufacture of Organic Coatings
Chapter 29 MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC COATINGS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 30
Industrial Ovens
Chapter 30 INDUSTRIAL OVENS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 31
Tents, Temporary Special Event Structures and Other Membrane Structures Chapter 31 TENTS, TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT STRUCTURES AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 32
High-Piled Combustible Storage
Chapter 32 HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 33
Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition
Chapter 33 FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION is adopted in its entirety as amended by SFM.

Chapter 34
Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage
Chapter 34 TIRE REBUILDING AND TIRE STORAGE is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

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Chapter 35
Welding and Other Hot Work
Chapter 35 WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 36
Marinas
Chapter 36 MARINAS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 37
Combustible Fibers
Chapter 37 COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 39
Processing and Extraction Facilities
Chapter 39 PROCESSING AND EXTRACTION FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 40
Storage of Distilled Spirits and Wines
Chapter 40 STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS AND WINES is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 48
Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and Production Locations
Chapter 48 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND

STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 50
Hazardous Materials – General Provisions
Chapter 50 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – GENERAL PROVISIONS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

Section 5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) is hereby revised as follows:

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5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall follow OCFA Guideline G-04 “Completion of the Chemical Classification”, which shall be completed and approved prior to approval of plans, and/or the storage, use or handling of chemicals on the premises.

Section 5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances is hereby added as follows:
5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances. No person shall use or store any amount of extremely hazardous substances (EHS) in excess of the disclosable amounts (see Health and Safety Code Section 25500 et al) in a residential zoned or any residentially developed property.

Chapter 51
Aerosols
Chapter 51 AEROSOLS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 53
Compressed Gases
Chapter 53 COMPRESSED GASES is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 54
Corrosive Materials
Chapter 54 CORROSIVE MATERIALS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 55
Cryogenic Fluids
Chapter 55 CRYOGENIC FLUIDS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 56
Explosives and Fireworks
Chapter 56 EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

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Section 5608.2 Firing is hereby added as follows:
5608.2 Firing. All fireworks display, regardless of mortar, device, or shell size, shall be electrically fired.

Section 5608.3 Application for permit is hereby added as follows:

Section 5608.3 Application for permit. A diagram of the grounds on which the display is to be held showing the point at which the fireworks are to be discharged, the fallout area based on 100 feet per inch of shell size, the location of all buildings, roads, and other means of transportation, the lines behind which the audience will be restrained, the location of all nearby trees, telegraph or telephone line, or other overhead obstructions shall be provided to OCFA.

Chapter 57
Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Chapter 57 FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 58
Flammable Gases and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids
Chapter 58 FLAMMABLE GASES AND FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUIDS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Chapter 59
Flammable Solids
Chapter 59 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 60
Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials
Chapter 60 HIGHLY TOXIC AND TOXIC MATERIALS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 61
Liquefied Petroleum Gases
Chapter 61 LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES is adopted in its entirety.

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Chapter 62
Organic Peroxides
Chapter 62 ORGANIC PEROXIDES is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 63
Oxidizers, Oxidizing Gases and Oxidizing Cryogenic Fluids Chapter 63 OXIDIZERS, OXIDIZING GASES AND OXIDIZING CRYOGENIC FLUIDS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 64
Pyrophoric Materials
Chapter 64 PYROPHORIC MATERIALS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 65
Pyroxylin (Cellulose Nitrate) Plastics
Chapter 65 PYROXYLIN (CELLULOSE NITRATE) PLASTICS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 66
Unstable (Reactive) Materials
Chapter 66 UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIALS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 67
Water-Reactive Solids and Liquids
Chapter 67 WATER-REACTIVE SOLIDS AND LIQUIDS is adopted in its entirety.

Chapter 80
Referenced Standards
Chapter 80 REFERENCED STANDARDS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

NFPA 13, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems is hereby amended as follows:

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Section 9.2.1.7 is hereby revised as follows:

9.2.1.7 Concealed spaces filled with noncombustible insulation shall not require sprinkler protection when approved by the fire code official.

Section 9.4.3.1 is hereby revised as follows:

9.4.3.1 When fire sprinkler systems are installed in shell buildings of undetermined use (Spec Buildings) other than warehouses (S occupancies), fire sprinklers of the quick-response type shall be used. Use is considered undetermined if a specific tenant/occupant is not identified at the time the fire sprinkler plan is submitted.

Sprinklers in light hazard occupancies shall be one of the following:
(1) Quick-response type as defined in 3.3.223.4.16
(2) Residential sprinklers in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 12 (3) Quick-response CMSA sprinklers
(4) ESFR sprinklers
(5) Standard-response sprinklers used for modifications or additions to existing light hazard systems equipped with standard-response sprinklers. (6) Standard-response sprinklers used where individual standard-response sprinklers are replaced in existing light hazard systems Section 16.12.3.3 is hereby revised as follows:

16.12.3.3 Fire department connections (FDC) shall be of an approved type. The location shall be approved and be no more than 150 feet from a public hydrant. The FDC may be located within 150 feet of a private fire hydrant when approved by the fire code official. The size of piping and the number of 2½” inlets shall be approved by the fire code official. If acceptable to the water authority, it may be installed on the backflow assembly. Fire department inlet connections shall be painted OSHA safety red or as approved. When the fire sprinkler density design requires more than 500 gpm (including inside hose stream demand), or a standpipe system is included, four 2½” inlets shall be provided.

NFPA 13D 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Oneand Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes is hereby amended as follows:

Section 7.1.2 is hereby revised as follows:

7.1.2 The sprinkler system piping shall not have separate control valves installed unless supervised by a central station, proprietary, or remote station alarm service.

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NFPA 24, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances is hereby amended as follows:

Section 6.2.8.1 is hereby added as follows:

6.2.8.1 All indicating valves controlling fire suppression water supplies shall be painted OSHA red.

Exceptions:
(1) Brass or bronze valves on sprinkler risers mounted to the exterior of the building may be left unpainted.
(2) Where OS&Y valves on the detector check assembly are the only control valves, at least one OS&Y valve shall be painted red.

Section 6.2.9 is hereby revised as follows:

All connections to private fire service mains for fire protection systems shall be arranged in accordance with one of the following so that they can be isolated:
(1) A post indicator valve installed not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building (a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a post indicator valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the post indicator valve.
(b) Post indicating valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when a property line or other physical barriers make it impossible to have a post indicating valve 40 ft (12m) away. (c) Post indicating valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when building driveway or fire access roadways or other building traffic make it impractical to be 40 ft (12 m). (2) A wall post indicator valve on risers located within the building, either a nonrising stem gate valve with a wall post indicator or a listed butterfly valve with an indicating handle extending out through the building wall. (3) A backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building
(a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the backflow preventer.
(b) Backflow preventer valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when a property line or other physical barriers make it impossible to have a backflow preventer valve 40 ft (12 m) away.

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(c) Backflow preventer valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when building driveway or fire access roadways or other building traffic make it impractical to be 40 ft (12 m).
(4) Indicating control valves installed in a fire-rated room accessible from the exterior
(5) Indicating control valves in a fire-rated stair enclosure accessible from the exterior as permitted by the AHJ
(6) Any other valve type or location as permitted by the AHJ Section 10.1.5 is hereby added as follows:

10.1.5 All ferrous pipe and joints shall be polyethylene encased per AWWA C150, Method A, B, or C. All fittings shall be protected with a loose 8-mil polyethylene tube or sheet. The ends of the tube or sheet shall extend past the joint by a minimum of 12 inches and be sealed with 2-inch-wide tape approved for underground use.

Galvanizing does not meet the requirements of this section.

Exception: 304 or 316 Stainless Steel pipe and fittings Section 10.4.1.1 is hereby revised as follows:

10.4.1.1 All bolted joint accessories shall be cleaned and thoroughly coated with asphalt, bituminous, or other corrosion-retarding material after installation.

Exception: Bolted joint accessories made from 304 or 316 stainless steel.

Section 10.4.1.1.1 is hereby added as follows:

10.4.1.1.1 All bolts used in pipe-joint assembly shall be 316 stainless steel.

Section 10.4.3.2 is hereby deleted and replaced as follows:

10.4.3.2 Where fire service mains enter the building adjacent to the foundation, the pipe may run under a building to a maximum of 24 inches, as measured from the interior face of the exterior wall to the center of the vertical pipe. The pipe under the building or building foundation shall be 304 or 316 stainless steel and shall not contain mechanical joints or it shall comply with 10.4.3.2.1 through

10.4.3.2.4.

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Appendices
Appendix A is not adopted.

Appendix B is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Appendix BB is adopted in its entirety.

Appendix C is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM.

Appendix CC is adopted in its entirety.

Appendix D is not adopted.

Appendix E is not adopted.

Appendix F is not adopted.

Appendix G is not adopted.

Appendix H is adopted in its entirety.

Appendix I is not adopted.

Appendix J is not adopted.

Appendix K is not adopted.

Appendix L is not adopted.

Appendix M is not adopted.

Appendix N is not adopted.

Appendix O is not adopted.

Appendix P is not adopted.

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

LOCAL AMENDMENT FINDINGS
I. Climatic Conditions
A. Orange County is located in a semi-arid Mediterranean type climate. It annually experiences extended periods of high temperatures with little or no precipitation. Hot, dry (Santa Ana) winds, which may reach speeds of 70 M.P.H. or greater, are also common to the area. These climatic conditions cause extreme drying of vegetation and common building materials. Frequent periods of drought and low humidity add to the fire danger. This predisposes the area to large destructive fires (conflagration). In addition to directly damaging or destroying buildings, these fires are also prone to disrupt utility services throughout the County. Obstacles generated by a strong wind, such as fallen trees, street lights and utility poles will greatly impact the response time to reach an incident scene.

B. The climate alternates between extended periods of drought and brief flooding conditions.

Flood conditions may affect the Orange County Fire Authority’s ability to respond to a fire or emergency condition. Floods also disrupt utility services to buildings and facilities within the County.

C. Water demand in this densely populated area far exceeds the quantity supplied by natural precipitation; and although the population continues to grow, the already-taxed water supply does not. Due to storage capacities and consumption, and a limited amount of rainfall future water allocation is not fully dependable. This necessitates the need for additional and on-site fire protection features.

D. These dry climatic conditions and winds contribute to the rapid spread of even small fires originating in high-density housing or vegetation. These fires spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels of fire protection. The added protection of fire sprinkler systems and other fire protection features will supplement normal fire department response by providing immediate protection for the building occupants and by containing and controlling the fire spread to the area of origin. Fire sprinkler systems will also reduce the use of water for firefighting by as much as 50 to 75 percent.

II. Topographical conditions

A. Natural; slopes of 15 percent or greater generally occur throughout the foothills of Orange County. The elevation change caused by the hills creates the geological foundation on which communities with Orange County is built and will continue to build. With much of the populated flatlands already built upon, future growth will occur on steeper slopes and with greater constraints in terrain.

B. Traffic and circulation congestion is an artificially created, obstructive topographical condition, which is common throughout Orange County.

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

III. Geological Conditions
The Orange County region is a densely populated area that has buildings constructed over and near a vast and complex network of faults that are believed to be capable of producing future earthquakes similar or greater in size than the 1994 Northridge and the 1971 Sylmar earthquakes.

Earthquake faults run along the northeast and southwest boundaries of Orange County. The Newport-Inglewood Fault, located within Orange County was the source of the destructive 1933 Long Beach earthquake (6.3 magnitude) which took 120 lives and damaged buildings in an area from Laguna Beach to Marina Del Rey to Whittier. In December 1989, another earthquake occurred in the jurisdiction of Irvine at an unknown fault line. Regional planning for reoccurrence of earthquakes is recommended by the state of California, Department of Conservation.

A. Previous earthquakes have been accompanied by disruption of traffic flow and fires. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely to create obstacles similar to those indicated under the high wind section above. The October 17, 1989, Santa Cruz earthquake resulted in one major fire in the Marina District (San Francisco). When combined with the 34 other fires locally and over 500 responses, the department was taxed to its fullest capabilities. The Marina fire was difficult to contain because mains supplying water to the district burst during the earthquake. This situation creates the need for both additional fire protection and automatic on-site fire protection for building occupants. State Department of Conservation noted in their 1988 report (Planning Scenario on a Major Earthquake on the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone, page 59), “unfortunately, barely meeting the minimum earthquake standards of building codes places a building on the verge of being legally unsafe.”
B. Road circulation features located throughout the County also make amendments reasonably necessary. Located through the County are major roadways, highways and flood control channels that create barriers and slow response times. Hills, slopes, street and storm drain design, accompanied by occasional heavy rainfall, causes roadway flooding and landslides and at times may make an emergency access route impassable. There are areas in Orange County that naturally have extended emergency response times that exceed the 5 minute goal.

C. Soils throughout the County possess corrosive properties that reduce the expected usable life of water services when metallic pipes are in contact with soils.

Due to the topographical conditions of sprawling development separated by waterways and narrow and congested streets and the expected infrastructure damage inherent in seismic zones described above, 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) resources available for a given structure. Additional fire protection is also justified to match the current resources of firefighting equipment and personnel within the Orange County Fire Authority.

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

AMENDMENT FINDINGS LEGEND
CODE

SECTION
TITLE (Clarification) FINDINGS
112.4 Violation penalties Administrative
112.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor Administrative
202 General definitions Administrative
304.1.2 OCFA vegetation management I
305.6 Hazardous conditions (outdoor fires) I & II
305.7 Disposal of rubbish I & II
307 Open burning, recreational fires, fire pits, fire rings, and outdoor fireplaces
Administrative
307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings Administrative 307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices (outdoor fires) I & II
307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or LPG I & II 307.6.2.1 Where prohibited (burning of solid fuels) I & II 324.1 Fuel modification requirements for new construction I 325.1 Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways I 326.1 Unusual circumstances (vegetation management) Administrative 327.1 Use of equipment (IC engines and spark arresters) I 327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames
I
327.3 Spark arresters I
407.5 Hazardous material inventory statement I & II
501.1 Scope (fire service features) Administrative, I, II & III 510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage Administrative 903.2 Where required (sprinklers) I, II & III
903.2.8 Group R (sprinklers) I, II & III
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems I, II & III
2801.2 Permit (biomass storage and handling) Administrative 2808.2 Storage site Administrative
2808.3 Size of piles I
2808.4 Pile separation I
2808.7 Pile fire protection I
2808.9 Material-handling equipment I
2808.11 Temperature control I
2808.11.1 Pile temperature control I
2808.11.2 New material temperature control I
2808.12 Water availability (for piles) I
2808.13 Tipping area I
2808.14 Emergency contact information Administrative
2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows Administrative, I 2808.16 Push-out / clear area Administrative, I
5001.5.2 Hazardous materials inventory statement Administrative 5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances I, II & III
5608.2 Firing (commercial fireworks) Administrative
5608.3 Application for permit (commercial fireworks) Administrative

Chapter
80 Reference Standards N/A
2025 NFPA 13 (commercial sprinkler systems) Administrative, II & III 2025 NFPA 13D (single family sprinkler systems) I & II
2025 NFPA 24 (underground water supply systems) Administrative & III