CC ORD 2025-07
1726628.1
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.
Section [A] 105.6.2 Fee schedule and [A] 105.6.3 Fee refunds are deleted in their
CC ORD 2025-07
1726628.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-07
1726628.1
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of November, 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. 2025-09 was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 13th day of October, 2025, and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at an adjourned regular meeting of the City Council on the 17th day of November, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk
CC ORD 2025-07
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
CC ORD 2025-07
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
CC ORD 2025-07
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:
CC ORD 2025-07
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 R308.1 Address identification II – A, B, C
CRC R309.1 Townhouse automatic sprinkler system I – A, B, C, D II – A, B, C CRC R309.2 One-and two- family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems
I – A, B, C, D II – A, B, C
CRC R309.3.6.2.2 Calculation procedure I – A, B II – A, B, C CRC R309.6 Fire sprinkler attached garages, and carports with habitable space above
I – A, B, C, D 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), INCLDUING
APPENDICES B, BB, C, AND CC, 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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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, and CC 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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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:
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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:
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Areas are now located in part 7 of Title 24, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Chapter 50
Hazardous Materials – General Provisions
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:
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
(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.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
Appendices
Appendix A is not adopted.
Appendix B is adopted in its entirety.
Appendix BB is adopted in its entirety.
Appendix C is adopted in its entirety.
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
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
Environmental Quality Act and City Clerk shall file such Notice of Exemption with the County Clerk.
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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 13th day of October, 2025.
Shelley Hasselbrink, Mayor
ATTEST:
Windmera Quintanar, MMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Michael S. Daudt, City Attorney
CC ORD 2025-08
1726692.1
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 13th day of October, 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.”
1726692.1
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. 2025-08 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
City of Los Alamitos
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: October 13, 2025 ITEM NUMBER: 13A
To: Mayor Shelley Hasselbrink & Members of the City Council Presented By: Ron Noda, Assistant City Manager/Development Services Director Subject: Capital Improvement Project Updates
SUMMARY
Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) are essential to maintaining and enhancing Los Alamitos’ infrastructure. These projects improve the places where we live, work, and play—ranging from safer streets to American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant playgrounds and modernized public facilities. By prioritizing CIP projects, the City demonstrates its commitment to progress and quality of life. This report provides an update on Fiscal Year 2025–26 CIP projects and presents additional projects for City Council consideration.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Receive and file the presentation; and,
2. Discuss the additional projects recommended by the Traffic Commission; and,
3. Provide direction to staff, if necessary.
BACKGROUND
The City of Los Alamitos is committed to investing in annual Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) that support community growth and sustainability. These projects reflect a fiscal commitment to maintaining safe streets, enhancing public spaces, and strengthening citywide infrastructure. Each year, CIP projects are selected from the City’s 7-year CIP list based on factors such as community needs, available funding, safety priorities, economic development, and anticipated growth. Proposed projects are reviewed by the Budget Standing Committee and incorporated into the City’s annual budget for final approval by the City Council.
The following list provides an overview of current, completed, and upcoming CIP projects, including street improvements, park renovations, public safety upgrades, and infrastructure enhancements. Each project is aligned with the City’s strategic goals and is prioritized based on community needs, safety, funding availability, and long-term impact.
FY 22/23 Street Improvement Project (CIP No. 23/24-03)
This Project included improvements on sections of multiple streets in the City. The scope of work included grinding and overlay, slurry sealing various residential streets, replacing damaged curbs, gutters, and lifted sidewalks, and installing ADA curb ramps and striping.
Below are the streets that were rehabilitated.
Kyle Street (south of Kinmount
St.)
Glacier Circle Essex Drive
Kaylor Avenue (Ball St. to
Kinmount St.)
Vicksburg Circle Enterprise Drive
Maple St. (south of Kinmount
St.)
Carlsbad Circle Midway Drive
Kinmount Street Interior Circle Ticonderoga Drive
Farnham Avenue Ranier Circle Ranger Drive
Catalina Street (Oak St. to Los
Alamitos Blvd. and Cherry St.
to Kyle St.)
Apollo Circle Tarawa Drive
Howard Avenue (Lexington
Ave to Bennington Ave)
Saratoga Dr. Bunker Hill Dr.
Noel St. (north of Katella Ave) Langley Dr. Green Ave (Saratoga Dr. to Ticonderoga Dr.)
Katella Street Design Project (CIP No. 23/24-04)
Katella Avenue is a major arterial through the City and accommodates over 30,000 vehicles daily. In preparation for repairs of Katella Avenue from Epson Way to the border of Los Alamitos and Cypress (Walker Street), the design includes sidewalk, curb, gutter, and median repairs. Preparing the design, plans and specifications in advance, is a crucial part of a "shovel-ready" project status to qualify for many transportation grants. We are currently assessing and designing Katella Avenue in hopes of applying for grants.
Pine Street Project (CIP No. 24/25-05)
The City was awarded a Federal $5 million Complete Street Grant to re-imagine Pine Street.
Pine Street is recognized as the Los Alamitos Downtown sector by serving as a central gathering point. This reflects the vision of creating a vibrant, walkable, and connected downtown where residents, businesses, and visitors can come together to shop local, support local, and play local. Several events, such as Celebrate Los Al and Winter Wonderland, are held on Pine Street, highlighting its role as a focal point for economic development and future revitalization efforts. Design is nearly completed and will be brought forth to the Traffic Commission at an upcoming meeting.
Bloomfield Avenue Project (CIP No. 24/25-06)
An Active Transportation Plan (ATP) creates a safer, more accessible way for people to walk, bike, and move around Los Alamitos without relying on cars. The adoption of the ATP Plan assisted the City in receiving a $575,000 grant from former Congressional Representative Michelle Steel. The Bloomfield Avenue project will improve sidewalks, create bike lanes, and improve crosswalks, including adding a mid-block HAWK System crosswalk. Design is nearly completed and will be brought forth to the Traffic Commission at an upcoming meeting.
SB-1 Oak Street Project (CIP No. 24/25-03)
SB-1 is a State transportation program dedicated to funding road repairs. The money comes from Gas Taxes and Vehicle Fees, and by law can only be utilized for transportation improvements. Oak Street has been identified for the SB-1 project after the Orange County Sanitation District's project is completed. Oak Street improvements will include grind & overlay, re-striping, repairs to sidewalk, curbs, and gutters, and improved crosswalks. Design
will be brought forth to the Traffic Commission at an upcoming meeting, with construction slated to begin in spring 2026.
FY 25/26 Street Improvement Project (CIP No. 25/26-01)
The citywide street improvement project is a comprehensive effort to repair damaged pavement, resurface or slurry seal aging roads, repair sidewalks, curbs, and gutters, and improve the bicyclist and motorists' commute. The City prioritizes street rehabilitation projects based on the Pavement Management Plan (PMP), which uses a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to evaluate roadway conditions. Walnut Street, Florista Street, and Farquhar Avenue have been chosen for improvements.
Reagan Street Improvement (CIP No. 25/26-06)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is a Federal funding source that assists cities in improving neighborhoods. CDBG funds can be used for various improvements including street and sidewalk improvements, public facilities, and neighborhood revitalization.
The last two park projects, Labourdette Park and Sterns Park, utilized CDBG funds. Annually, the staff presents a list of possible projects to the Planning Commission for their recommendation. The recommended project is then sent to the County of Orange for final approval. The City prioritizes street rehabilitation projects based on the Pavement Management Plan (PMP), which uses a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to evaluate roadway conditions. This year, the Planning Commission recommended Reagan Street, from Katella Avenue to Farquhar Avenue, be improved. The project will include a grind & overlay, striping, and improvements to sidewalks, curbs, and gutters.
Katella Avenue Striping (CIP No. 24/25-07)
Street striping is important for safety and organization for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.
Proper lane and crosswalk markings help people navigate the roads. Beyond safety, wellmarked roads enhance the overall appearance and functionality, supporting the City's commitment to a well-planned, safe transportation network. The Katella Avenue striping project's boundaries were from Epson Way to Walker Avenue. This project has been completed.
Neighborhood Signage Replacement Project (CIP No. 24/25-09) A traffic regulatory signage replacement plan is essential for safety, clarity, efficiency, and aesthetics on city streets. Well-maintained signs ensure that drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians can easily see traffic regulations, directions, and warnings. Part of this project was a citywide assessment to make sure that signage was installed properly and to reduce sign pollution. The Midtown neighborhood will be the first area to be done and is slated to begin in January 2026.
Labourdette Park Project (CIP No. 24/25-02)
The renovation modernized the neighborhood park with new play equipment, upgraded safety surfacing, enhanced ADA accessibility, and updated the landscaping. This project is expected to be completed by next month.
Soroptimist Park Project (CIP No. 24/25-08)
This project has started and will modernize the park with modern play equipment and safety surfacing. Construction is underway with an anticipated completion by December 2025.
Stansbury Park Project (CIP No. 24/25-10)
Assessment and design for Stansbury Park is underway. This project will evaluate the park's existing conditions, including play equipment, ADA compliance, and landscaping, to identify improvements and enhancements.
Dog Park at Laurel Park (CIP No. 25/26-03)
A brand new dog park will be installed at Laurel Park to provide a safe, fun, and engaging space for residents and their furry family members. The dog park will feature two designated areas for dogs of all sizes, two separate dog run areas, seating for owners, and play amenities.
The project is anticipated to be completed by December 2025.
Fire Alarm System Project (CIP No. 24/25-11)
The upgrading of the fire alarm system in Community Center 1 will provide a high level of safety for guests and staff and meet building and safety standards. The new system will provide faster detection, reliable alerts, and improved emergency response capabilities, helping protect everyone who uses the facility. This project is slated to begin in November.
Council Chamber/Emerency Operations Center (EOC) Conversion (CIP No. 24/25-12) The remodel of Community Center 2 will transform the original 1970s building into a multipurpose space for recreation programs and classes, City Council Chamber, and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Pending approval, the project will begin in November 2025 and is anticipated to be finished in June 2026.
Electic Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations (CIP No. 24/25-14) This project involves the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations as part of the citywide EV Transportation System. These stations will provide an area for the four Circuit vehicles to recharge daily. Housed in the secure public works yard, this project is set to commence in November.
Emergency Generator Project—Police and Information Technology (IT) Departments (CIP No. 22/23-01)
This project ensures that critical facilities, Police Department and IT Department, remain operational during power outages, natural disasters, and other emergencies. The in-ground emergency generator will provide power to the entire Police Department, including the IT room, ensuring that the City can respond effectively with public safety services and continue to operate the City IT equipment.
Emergency Generator Project—Community Center (CIP No. 24/25-15) This project ensures that critical facilities, such as the Community Center's large activity room, remain operational during power outages, natural disasters, and other emergencies. The emergency generator will provide back-up power to the large room in the Community Center, which has been designated as an emergency shelter facility.
Parking Lot Island Removal (CIP No. 25/26-04)
This project has been completed.
Sunburst Field Improvements (CIP No. 25/26-05)
This project will upgrade an actively used recreation facility by addressing items such as the snack shack, ADA requirements, painting of buildings and dugouts, landscaping, and playing surfaces. Public Works services such as landscape maintenance and street sweeping are being revised to provide needed facility maintenance.
DISCUSSION
The Traffic Commission identified several CIP projects as public safety priorities. These projects were not approved in the FY 2025–26 budget and were deferred. It is requested the City Council review the recommendations and provide direction to staff, if appropriate.
Bradbury/Rossmoor Way Traffic Signal Relocation
This project addresses ADA compliance concerns at the intersections of Bradbury and Los Alamitos Boulevard, and Rossmoor Way and Los Alamitos Boulevard. The poles housing the traffic signal lights at these intersections do not meet the minimum ADA clearance for pedestrians. The engineer's estimate for this project is $675,000, and it involves coordination with multiple jurisdictions to bring the entire intersection into compliance.
Los Alamitos Boulevard Sidewalk Repair
This project addresses ADA compliance concerns on the public right-of-way (sidewalk) on Los Alamitos Boulevard between Ball Avenue and Cerritos Avenue. This project will include repairs to the sidewalk to make it ADA-compliant and also add a railing due to the steep decline adjacent to the sidewalk. The engineer's estimate for this project is $120,000.
Citywide Safety Light Replacement
This project will replace the safety lights affixed to the traffic signal poles. The City owns these lights, and the vast majority of them are older-style high-pressure sodium (HPS) bulbs.
Upgrading these lights to LED fixtures will last longer, use less energy, and provide clearer, safer lighting. The engineer's estimate for this project is $140,000.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds for the Fiscal Year 2025–26 Capital Improvement Projects have been approved by the City Council. The three projects recommended by the Traffic Commission are not currently budgeted. If approved, additional funds will need to be appropriated into the adopted FY 2025– 26 CIP budget.
Attachment: 1. Updated Capital Improvement Projects FY 2025-2026