ATTACHMENT 2
ORDINANCE NO. _
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF MERCED, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING CHAPTER 17.32, "FIRE
PREVENTION CODE," OF THE MERCED
MUNICIPAL CODE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERCED MAKES THE
FOLLOWING FINDINGS:
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code Section 18938(c) provides that the building standards contained in the 2025 California Fire Code, by the International Code Council shall apply to all occupancies throughout the state and shall become effective 180 days after publication in the California Buildings Standards Code by the California Building Standards Commission; and WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code Section 17958.7 provides that if a city makes an express finding that modifications or changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions, a city may establish more restrictive building standards. The modifications or changes to the 2025 California Fire Code are specifically listed below, and the incorporated express findings regarding to those modifications may be generally characterized as relating to (1) benchmark arrival times and (2) fire sprinkler systems. Findings of local conditions must be filed with the California Building Standards Commission to become effective; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Merced has previously adopted the California Fire Code, 2022 Edition, including the appendix which was published by the International Code Council, with certain amendments as the Fire Code of the City; and
WHEREAS, after due consideration, the City Council of the City of Merced hereby finds that it desires to adopt the 2025 California Fire Code, as the City's Fire Code, with certain amendments to provide further safety protections to the citizens of the City of Merced; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Merced finds that certain local climatic factors require certain amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code.
During winter months, the San Joaquin Valley experiences dense fog requiring X: \Ordinances|2025\Fire|Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 1 emergency response vehicles operated by first responders to proceed at reduced rates and reasonable speed appropriate to conditions, therefore response times may exceed benchmark arrival times. Such delays shall not be considered a failure to meet performance standards attributable to fog conditions; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Merced finds that certain local geological factors require certain amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code.
Merced County is located within an area with potential seismic activity. After a large seismic event, the potential for multiple fires occurring simultaneously will tax available firefighting resources. Built-in fire protection will assist in extinguishing or controlling fires in larger structures, which will increase the availability of firefighting resources after seismic activity; and WHEREAS, The City Council of the City of Merced finds that certain local topographical factors require certain amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code.
The City of Merced, to a great extent, lies on a level plain; as a result, heavy rains have historically caused flooding throughout the City, which has caused and can cause delays for emergency response, or in some situations, make it extremely difficult for responders to access certain areas of the City. Flooding is both a climatic and topographic problem. In addition, two major railroad lines crossing through the City have in the past been responsible and will continue to be responsible for creating delays for emergency vehicles by blocking emergency routes.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERCED DOES ORDAIN
AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. AMENDMENT TO CODE. Chapter 17.32, "Fire
Prevention Code," of the Merced Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
"Chapter 17.32
FIRE CODE
Section:
17.32.010 Adoption.
17.32.020 Issuance of Citations by Designated
Officers and Employees.
17.32.030 Chapter 1, Scope and Administration.
17.32.040 Chapter 2, Definitions.
X:Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3). docx 2 17.32.050 Chapter 3, General Requirements.
17.32.060 Chapter 4, Emergency Planning and
Preparedness.
17.32.070 Chapter 5, Fire Service Features.
17.32.080 Chapter 8, Interior Finish, Decorative
Materials and Furnishings.
17.32.090 Chapter 9, Fire Protection and Life Safety
Systems.
17.32.100 Chapter 11, Construction Requirements
for Existing Buildings.
17.32.110 Chapter 56, Explosives and Fireworks
17.32.120 Chapter 57, Flammable and Combustibl
Liquids.
17.32.130 Appendix 4, Special Detailed
Requirements Based on Use and
Occupancy.
17.32.140 Appendix B, Fire-Flow Requirements for
Buildings.
17.32.150 Appendix BB, Fire-Flow Requirements
for Buildings.
17.32.160 Appendix C, Fire Hydrant Locations and
Distribution.
17.32.170 Appendix CC, Fire Hydrant Locations
and Distribution.
17.32.180 Appendix D, Fire Apparatus Access
Roads.
17.32.190 Appendix E, Hazard Categories.
17.32.200 Appendix F, Hazard Ranking.
17.32.210 Appendix G, Cryogenic Fluids-Weight
and Volume Equivalents.
17.32.220 Appendix H, Hazardous Materials
Management Plans and Hazardous
Materials Inventory Statements.
17.32.230 Appendix I, Fire Protection Systems-
Noncompliant Conditions.
17.32.240 Appendix J, Building Information Sign.
17.32.250 Appendix K, Construction Requirements
for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities.
17.32.260 Appendix L, Requirements for Fire
Fighter Air Replenishment Systems.
X: Ordinances\2025 Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 3 17.32.270 Appendix N, Indoor Trade Shows and
Exhibitions.
17.32.280 Appendix P, Temporary Haunted Houses,
Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement
Uses.
17.32.010 Adoption.
Subject to the particular additions, deletions, and
amendments herein set forth in this Chapter, three (3)
certified copies of which are on file in the Office of the City Clerk, the rules, regulations, provisions, and
conditions set forth in that certain code entitled
International Fire Code, 2024 Edition, the 2025
California Fire Code, including appendices Chapter 4,
and Appendices B, BB, C, CC, D, E, F, G, H, 1, J, K, L, N, and P as published by the International Code
Council, is adopted and shall be designated, known, and referred to as the International Fire Code, and the
California Fire Code of and for the City of Merced.
17.32.020 Issuance of Citations by Designated
Officers and Employees.
Officers or employees of the City of Merced Fire
Department, as designated by the Fire Chief or designee, who have the discretionary duty to enforce a statute or ordinance may, pursuant to Section 836.5 of the Penal
Code of the State of California and subject to the
provisions hereof, arrest a person without a warrant
whenever any such officer or employee has reasonable
cause to believe that the person to be arrested has
committed a misdemeanor in the officer's or employee's
presence which s/he has the discretionary duty to
enforce, and to issue a notice to appear and release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court pursuant to Chapter 5C, Citations for Misdemeanors, of
the Penal Code of the State of California (commencing
with Section 853.6).
X: Ordinances|2025\Fire|Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 4 17.32.030 Chapter 1, Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.
A. Section 102.7, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Section 102.7. Referenced codes and standards. The
codes and standards referenced in the Code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80 of the 2025 California Fire Code, and such codes and standards shall be considered
part of the requirements of this Code to the prescribed extent of each such reference, and as further regulated in Section 102.7.1.
B. Section 102.7.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between the
provisions of this Code and the referenced codes and
standards, the provisions of this Code shall apply.
C. Section 102.8, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Section 102.8. Subjects not regulated by this code.
Where applicable standards or requirements are not set
forth in this code, or are contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or bylaws adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other nationally recognized fire safety standards, as approved shall be
deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the
intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the power of the Fire Chief or designee to determine
compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the Fire Chief's or designee's
jurisdiction or responsibility.
X:lOrdinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 5 In instances where a new product or process for use or where alternative materials or methods are being
proposed, the Fire Chief or designee may require that the product or process be evaluated by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES). All tests required as evidence for compliance shall be at no cost to the City.
EXCEPTION: Recognized standards shall not include
any standard which attempts to regulate local authority as to minimum daily staffing levels and incident response
levels. These standards include but are not limited to
NFPA 1710 & 1720.
D. Sections 104.10 and 104.10.1, Chapter 1 of the
2025 California Fire Code, are amended to read as
follows:
Section 104.10. Fire Investigations. The Fire Chief,
Fire Chief Officers and members of the fire investigation team who have been designated by the Fire Chief shall
have the powers of a police officer in performing their duties under this Code.
Section 104.10.1. Assistance from other Agencies.
Police and other enforcement agencies shall have
authority to render necessary assistance in the
investigation of fires when requested to do so.
E. Section 105.2.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Section 105.2.2 Inspection authorized. Before a new
operational permit is approved, the Fire Code Chief or
designee shall inspect the receptacles, vehicles,
buildings, devices, premises, storage spaces, or areas to be used to determine compliance with this Code or any
operational constraints required. In instances where
laws, rules, regulations, provisions, or conditions are enforceable by departments or organizations other than
X:\Ordinances|2025 FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 6 the Fire Department, joint approval shall be obtained from the departments or organizations.
F. Section 105.5, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Section 105.5. Required Operational Permit. The Fire
Chief or designee is authorized to issue operational
permits for the operations set forth in Sections 105.5.1 through 105.5.59.5 of the 2025 California Fire Code.
Before a permit is issued, the Fire Chief or his authorized representatives) shall inspect and approve the
receptacles, vehicles, building devices, premises, storage spaces or areas to be used.
In instances where laws or regulations are enforceable by departments other than the Fire Department, joint
approval shall be obtained from all necessary
departments concerned. Permits shall be valid for a one (1) year period and may be amended at any time there is a known addition of a permitted operation.
G. Section 105.5.30, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to add the following:
Section 105.5.30. LP-gas.
Storage and Use of LP-gas. Distributors
shall not fill an LP-gas container for which a permit
is required unless the fire code official has issued a
permit for installation for that location.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Containers not exceeding five (5) gallon water
capacity, used for "barbecue' cooking, when used
and stored outside of buildings.
X:Ordinances|2025 FireFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx
2. Approved containers not exceeding sixteen and
four-tenths (16.4) ounces when displayed for sale
in mercantile occupancies.
3. Factory installed containers for recreational
vehicles not exceeding ten (10) gallon water
capacity.
4. Factory installed tanks that are permanently
attached to recreational vehicles.
H. Section 105.5.59, Chapter 1 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is amended to add Sections
105.5.59.1 and 105.5.59.2:
105.5.59.4 Fire extinguishers. Placement of fire
extinguishers inside apartment complexes
105.5.59.5 Wrecking Yard. A permit is required to
operate a wrecking yard.
Section 106.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to add Section 106.1.1,
106.1.2., and 106.1.3:
Section 106,1.1 Elevation Drawings. Elevation
drawings are required on sprinkler submittals.
Section 106.1.2 Hydraulic Calculations. Hydraulic
calculations are required on submittals whenever
additions or modifications are made to an existing
system.
Section 106.1.3 Registered Design Professional. The
construction documents shall be prepared by a
Registered Designed Professional.
Section 106.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to add Section 106.2.5:
X: Ordinances\2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 8 Section 106.2.5. Information on construction detail
page. A construction 'detail' page for all Group A, B, E, F-1, H, I, L, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-3.1, R-4, S-1, S-2, and all other buildings 5,000 square feet or greater in area shall be submitted and approved by the Chief Building
Official or designee prior to permit issuance. The 'detail' page shall be an 8 ½" × 11" document and an
electronically submitted "detail" page for emergency
responder data files. The 'detail' page shall include a site plan showing:
a. Property, site layout
b. Roads, fire access lanes, and building access
points
c. Premises Identification (address, building
identification, suites, room numbers, etc.)
d. Hydrants and FDC locations
e. Knox product locations
f. Fire alarm control locations
g. Fire riser locations
h. Hose valve locations
i. 'Main Electrical' and 'Main Gas
Disconnect locations
j. Hazardous materials storage
Exception: Occupancy Group R-3 One and Two Family
Dwellings.
K. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Sections 108.7:
X: \Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 9 108.7. Inspection Fee. Where an inspection is required by the provisions of this Code or any other purpose as
required by the Fire Chief or designee, the department
shall charge an inspection fee. This fee shall be in
addition to any fire permit charges and any other fees
required by this Code. Inspection fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.
Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 108.8:
108.8. Fire Watch/Stand-by Fee. Where a fire watch
or standby is required by the provisions of this Code or any other purpose as required by the Fire Chiet, the
department shall charge a service fee. Service fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.
M. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to added Section 108.9:
108.9. False Alarms. The owner and occupants of any
premises, which generates more than two (2) false alarms in any calendar year will be required to pay response
costs for any and all false alarms for the third (3rd) and any subsequent false alarm in that time frame. Fees for false alarms shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.
N. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 108.10:
108.10. Permit Fees. An inspection fee for permits
required by Sections 105.5.2 through 105.5.59.5 shall be paid prior to the issuance of the permit and prior to all subsequent renewals. Inspection and permit fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.
O. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 108.11:
X:lOrdinances|2025\Fire|Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 10 108.11. Charge for Fire Suppression. Any person
who, after written notification by the Fire Chief or
designee causes, permits or allows the existence of a fire hazard or hazards as defined by this Code or any person who negligently, or in violation of the law, sets a fire, allows a fire to be set, or allows a fire kindled or attended by him or her to escape onto any public or private
property is liable for the expense of fighting the fire.
These expenses shall include, but not be limited to, all costs for suppression, rescue or emergency medical
services, or investigation. The Fire Chief or designee
shall determine whether said fire hazard caused, or
contributed to the spread of the fire. Each applicable
expense rate shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council or, if no rate is established, the expense rate shall be the actual cost of the product or service.
P. Section 109.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Section 109.2. Inspections. The Fire Chief or designee
1s authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of
inspections by approved agencies or individuals. All
reports of such inspections shall be prepared and
submitted in writing for review and approval by the Fire Chief or designee. The Fire Chief or designee is
authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed
necessary to report upon unusual, detailed or complex
technical issues subject to the approval of the City
Council of the City of Merced
The Fire Chief or designee is authorized to inspect, as often as may be necessary, buildings and premises,
including such other hazards or appliances as the Fire
Chief or designee may designate for the purpose of
ascertaining and causing to be corrected any condition
which would reasonably tend to cause fire or contribute to its spread, or any violation of the purpose or provisions X:lOrdinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 11 of this code and of any other law or standard affecting fire safety.
Q. Section 112.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 Fire Code, is
amended to read as follows:
Section 112.1. General. In order to hear and decide
appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by
the Fire Chief or designee relative to the application and interpretation of this Code, a Board of Appeals is hereby reated. The City of Merced Building and Housin
Board of Appeals, whose members are qualified b
experience and training, is appointed to determine the
suitability of alternate materials and types of construction and to provide for reasonable interpretation of the
provisions of this Code. The Fire Chief or designee shall be an ex officio member of the board. The board shall
adopt reasonable rules and regulations for conducting its investigations and shall render decisions and findings in writing to the Fire Chief or designee, with a duplicate copy to the appellant.
R. Sections 113.4 and 113.4.1 Chapter 1 of the 2025
California Fire Code, are amended to read as follows:
113.4. Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this Code or shall tail to comply with any of the requirements thereof 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, in addition to any and all other administrative or civil action, proceeding, or remedy,
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, subject to punishment in accordance with Chapter 1.12 of the Merced
Municipal Code.
X:lOrdinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 12 Section 113.4.1. Abatement of violation.
(a) In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the Fire Chief or designee is authorized
to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful
construction or to restrain, correct or abate a
violation: or to prevent illegal occupancy of a
structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act,
conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on
or about any premises.
(b) Fire hazard. Any person(s) operating or
maintaining any occupancy, premises or vehicle
ubject to this code who shall cause any fire hazar
o exist on premises under his/her control or whe
shall fail to take immediate action to abate a fire
hazard when ordered or notified to do so by the
Fire Chief or his duly authorized representative
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
17.32.40 Chapter 2, Definitions.
A. Chapter 2 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended
herein.
B. Section 202, Chapter 2 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add general definitions:
'False alarm' - is the deliberate reporting of an alarm for which no such fire or emergency actually exists and shall also mean the deliberate or accidental transmission of
alarm signal, either silent or audible, prompting a
response to be made by the Fire Department when an
emergency situation for which the alarm system was
intended does not exist.
X: Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx 13 17.32.050 Chapter 3, General Requirements.
A. Chapter 3 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended
herein.
Section 308, Chapter 3 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 308.1.6.3:
308.1.7 Sky lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an untethered sky lantern.
Section 315, Chapter 3 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 315.7:
Section 315.7 Requirements for Outdoor Storage of
Pallets.
Open yards required by the California
Building Code shall be maintained around
structures. CFC 2803.1 (Yard - An open space,
other than a court, unobstructed from the ground to
the sky, except where specifically provided by the
California Building Code, on the lot on which a
building is situated.) CFC Definitions Section 202.
2. Piles shall be a minimum of 25 feet from a
structure.
Piles shall not be located within 10 feet of a
property line.
The maximum dimensions of a pile shall not
exceed 20 feet x 70 feet.
5. Pile height shall not exceed 20 feet.
6. There shall be 10 feet of aisle ways between
piles.
X: Ordinances 2025 Fire Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx 14 Piles shall be placed in grids not to exceed
140 feet by 150 feet.
8. Each grid shall be separated by an approved
fire apparatus access road.
Permanent pallet storage areas shall be
surrounded with an approved fence. Fences shall
be a minimum of six (6) feet in height.
10. Adequate water supply, as required by the
fire department, shall be provided for fire
suppression needs.
11. Note: Pallets shall not obstruct fire
apparatus access roads or fire apparatus access to
water supplies (fire hydrants, etc.)
BUILDING
-0t 70° →25 70 70•
20 20' X 70°
17.32.060 Chapter 4, Emergency Planning and
Preparedness.
A. Chapter 4 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended
herein.
B. Section 403, Chapter 4 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 403.10.5.1:
X: \Ordinances|2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3). docx 15 Section 403.10.5.1. Group S Occupancies greater than 100,000 square feet. An approved fire safety and
evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for buildings greater than
100,000 square feet in aggregate floor area.
17.32.070 Chapter 5, Fire Service Features.
Chapter 5 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.
A. Section 503.2, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections
503.2.1 through 503.2.8.
(a) Roads. Required access roads from every building
to a public street shall be all-weather hard-
surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-
of-way not less than 22 feet in width as measured
from the face of the curb. Such right-of-way shall
be unobstructed and maintained only as access to
the public street.
B. Section 503.2.1, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall
have an unobstructed width of not less than 22 feet as
measured from the face of the curb, exclusive of
shoulders, except for approved security gates in
accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed
vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.
(a) Where new or remodeled building(s) or premises
are provided with automatic security gates, the
following methods of entry shall be required: Key
switch. The key switch shall be keyed the same as
X:\Ordinances 2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 16 the City of Merced approved master key (Knox);
and, Radio Operated controller (Click2Enter or
other approved equipment).
(b) When Fire Department access is blocked due to a
non-automatic gate, any locking devices used on
such gate shall be operable with an approved key
box access key.
C. Section 507.5.4, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire
hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The Fire
Department shall not be deterred or hindered from
gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment
or fire hydrants.
Where fire hydrants and/or Fire Department connections
are installed in inconspicuous locations, the Fire Code )fficial may require hydrant locations to be identifier y the installation of blue reflective markers and the
location of the Fire Department connections to be
identified by green reflective markers.
17.32.080 Chapter 8, Interior Finish, Decorative
Materials and Furnishings.
Chapter 8 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.090 Chapter 9, Fire Protection and Life
Safety Systems.
Chapter 9, as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.
A. Section 901.6.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein:
X:\Ordinances 2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3). docx 17 901.6.3 System Records. All contractors who service, est. install, and/or maintain fire protection system
vithin the City are required to enroll and utilize the
approved single-point repository to file the records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the sher been said a. rapid ed te fire co service
Official through a third party inspection reporting
system. Fees, as applicable, will be paid directly from the contractor to the single-point repository vendor.
B. Section 903.1, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.1.2:
903.1.2. Determination of Building Area. For
purposes of determining building area for automatic fire sprinkler system requirements, the following criteria
shall be used:
1. Area or occupancy separation walls will not
n area of a building
requirements for an automatic sprinkler system.
Exceptions:
a. Party walls located on a lot-line between
two buildings in accordance with California
Building Code, Section 706.
Firewalls without openings installed in
accordance with California Building Code,
Section 706 and with specific fire wall
requirements in Section 903.2 of this Code
based on occupancy.
Determination of building area for
combustible construction shall be measured to the
building perimeter roof drip line, including
architectural features, such as, but not limited to,
X:lOrdinances\2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 18 mansards, towers, porte cocheres, etc., with the
exception of 44" maximum depth roof eaves. For
non-combustible construction, building area shall
include all perimeter roof areas exceeding 44" that
are required by NFPA 13 to have fire sprinkler
protection under the projection. The area of open
shafts or courts need not be included in
calculating floor area. When multiple buildings
are considered as one building per California
Building Code, the combined floor areas shall be
used to determine the automatic fire sprinkler
requirements.
Section 903.1, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.1.3:
903.1.3. Applicability to Existing Buildings. For
existing buildings, an automatic fire extinguishing
system shall be installed in those circumstances
described in this subsection. Installation requirements shall be as set forth for new buildings by Sections
903.2.1 through 903.2.19.1.2.
1. Building Additions. When additions exceed
25% of the existing building square footage and
the total proposed building area is 5,000 square
feet or greater, an automatic fire sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout the building. The
25% threshold shall be cumulative over the life of
the building.
Exception: Building additions of non-combustible
construction and non-combustible uses such as
covered pedestrian walkways.
Change of Occupancy. In existing buildings
5,000 square feet or greater, when a Change of
Occupancy, in accordance with the California
Building Code is made and the proposed new
X:\Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 19 occupancy is more hazardous to life and safety
than the existing occupancy an automatic fire
extinguishing system shall be installed throughout
the building.
Exceptions:
a. If the area in which the Change of
Occupancy occurs is less than 25% of the
actual floor area of the existing building,
the area of the new occupancy is 5,000
square feet or less, and fire sprinklers are
not required based on occupancy by Section
903, and automatic fire sprinkler system is
not required for any portion of the building.
The 25% limit is cumulative over the life of
the building.
If the area in which the Change of
than 50% o eung tai ed 59, but is less
existing building, only that portion of the
building changing occupancy is required to
have an automatic fire sprinkler system
installed. An approved fire separation shall
be required between portions of the
building with fire sprinklers and those
portions without.
c. If individual or cumulative Change of
Occupancies exceeds 50% of the overall
floor area of the existing building, then the
entire building shall have an automatic fire
sprinkler system installed throughout.
3. Fire Damage Repairs. An automatic fire
sprinkler system shall be installed as a condition
of fire damage repair building permit as follows:
X: \Ordinances\2025 FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 20 a. When a fire occurs in any existing
valuation, an automatic fire sprinkler
system shall be installed throughout the
building as required for a new building in
Section 903.
Fire damage repair costs and building
valuation shall be based on the ICC
Building Valuation Tables in use by the
City's Development Services Department at
the time of the time of submittal of the fire
damage repair permit.
C. Project valuation calculation will be
cumulative across permits within one year
of a fire damaged permit submittal date.
D. Section 903.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. An approved automatic fire
sprinkler system is required in all new buildings and
structures constructed on or after the effective date of this ordinance
orereance, notiehotan ding hese and one roof is five
thousand (5,000) square feet or greater.
EXCEPTION:
In the case of motor vehicle fuel dispensing canopies not connected to an additional structure, and not dispensing or generating hydrogen, an approved automatic fire
sprinkler system is required when the total floor area
under one roof is 10,000 square feet or greater.
If the provisions of the 2025 California Fire Code Section 903.2.1 through 903.2.19.1.2 are more restrictive, then the more restrictive requirement shall apply.
X: \Ordinances\2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 21 E. Section 903.2.8, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add the following:
903.2.8.4 Fire Loop. Fire loop and interconnected
private service main forming a closed circuit so that
water can reach any point in the system from at least two directions is required for new group R developments and additions that result in ten or more dwelling or sleeping units on a parcel or contiguous parcels under common
development.
F. Section 903.2.10, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
03.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. At
utomatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughou
buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in
accordance with Section 406.6 of the California
Building Code as follows:
Where the fire area of the enclosed parking
garage is 5,000 square feet or greater; or
2. Where the enclosed parking garage is
located beneath other groups.
G. Section 903.3 Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire
Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Fire Flow Test. A 10% reduction shall be
made to the static and residual calculations used for
design criteria of automatic sprinkler systems.
903.3.5.4 Fire Flow Test Expiration. Fire flow test
shall expire after twelve (12) months.
H. Section 903.4.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
X:\Ordinances|2025 Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 22 903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble
signals shall be distinctly different and shall be
automatically transmitted to an approved and listed
supervising station or, when approved by the Fire Code
Official, shall sound an audıble signal at a constantly attended location, including, but not limited to, alarm systems flow switches, supervised OS & Y valves and
post indicator valves. Fire suppression monitoring shall include audible and visual notification to all occupants.
I. Section 903, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 903.5.1:
903.5.1 Automatic Sprinkler System. Approval from
the authority having jurisdiction is required before any equipment of the automatic sprinkler system is installed, remodeled, or replaced. Plan submittal is required for
adjustment, repair, reconditioning or replacement, of
more than twenty (20) sprinklers.
Section 903, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire
Code, is amended to add Section 903.7:
903.7 Fire Control Room. An approved fire control
room shall be provided for all buildings protected by an automatic fire sprinkler or other approved system. The
fire control room shall contain all system control valves, fire alarm control panels, other fire equipment, and pre- incident, hazardous material or other plans required by the Fire Code Official. Fire control rooms shall be
located within the building at a location approved by the Fire Code Official and be provided with a means of
access to the room directly from the exterior. The room shall be constructed of not less than 1-hour fire resistive construction. Durable signage shall be provided on the
exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room.
Exception: The Fire Code Official may waive this
requirement for existing and specific buildings based on X: \Ordinances\2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 23 size, configuration, use, and potential life and fire safety hazards.
Section 907.6.6, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
907.6.6 Monitoring. All required fire alarm and fire
extinguishing systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72, and this section.
Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not
required for:
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms
required by Section 907.2.11.
Group I-3 occupancies shall be monitored in
accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.4.
Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and
two-family dwellings.
17.32.100 Chapter 11, Construction Requirements
for Existing Buildings.
Chapter 11 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in part as follows:
A. Section 1101, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
B. Section 1102, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
C. Section 1103.1, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
D. Section 1103.2, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
X: \Ordinances|2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx 24 Section 1103.3, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1103.4, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1103.5, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1103.6, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1103.7, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1103.8, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
K. Section 1103.9, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1104.3, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Code, is adopted vitatet amentdme20.25 California
Fire Code.
Section 1104.5, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment
O. Section 1104.6, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1104.7, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1104.8, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
X: lOrdinances|2025\Fire|Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3). docx 25 R. Section 1104.10, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
S. Section 1104.13, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
T. Section 1104.14, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
U. Section 1104.15, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
V. Section 1104.16, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
W. Section 1104.18, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
X. Section 1104.19, Chapter 11 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1104.20, Chapter 11 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
Section 1104.23, Chapter 11 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.
17.32.110 Chapter 56, Explosives and Fireworks.
A. Section 5608 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is
amended to add Section 5608.2 as follows:
Section 5608.2 Fireworks Prohibited Except as
authorized by Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal
Code. The use and sale of 'safe and sane' fireworks for public display shall be permitted within the city, in
accordance with the rules and regulations set forth in
Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal Code. It is
unlawful for any person to possess, store, to offer for X: \Ordinances\2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 26 sale, sell at retail or use or explode any fireworks except as provided in Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal
Code.
17.32.120 Chapter 57, Flammable and Combustible
Liquids.
A. Section 5704.2.9.6.1, Chapter 57 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are
prohibited. Storage of Class I and II Liquids in above- ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited, with the exception of protected tanks designed, installed and
maintained in accordance with the 2025 California Fire
Code. The provisions of this section shall not apply to facilities for the production, generation, or transmission of electric energy that provide power to entities
furnishing retail electrical services to facilities within the City of Merced.
Exception: Listed generators for emergency/standby
power.
B. Section 5704.2.9, Chapter 57 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add Section
5704.2.9.8:
5704.2.9.8 Maintenance of protected above ground
tanks. Protected aboveground tanks and connected
piping shall be maintained in a safe operating condition.
Protected aboveground tanks shall be maintained in
accordance with their listings.
Damage to protected aboveground tanks shall be repaired using material having equal or greater strength and fire resistance or the protected aboveground tank shall be
replaced or taken out of service.
X: Ordinances|2025\Fire|Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 27 C. Section 5704.3.4.2, Chapter 57 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add
subsection 7.1:
7.1 Manufacture of biodiesel in residential occupancies.
The manufacture and storage of biodiesel is prohibited in Residential Occupancies and in U Occupancies
associated with Residential Occupancies.
D. Section 5704.3.4.2, Chapter 57 of the 2025
California Fire Code, is hereby amended by adding
subsection 7.2:
7.2 Manufacture of ethanol in residential occupancies.
The manufacture and storage of ethanol is prohibited in Residential Occupancies and in U Occupancies
associated with Residential Occupancies.
E. Section 5705.3.3, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:
5705.3.3 Heating, lighting, and cooking appliances.
leating, lighting, and cooking appliances that utilize
Class I, II and III liquids shall not be operated within a building or structure.
17.32.130 Appendix 4, Special Detailed
Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy.
Appendix 4 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.140 Appendix B, Fire-Flow Requirements for
Buildings.
Appendix B as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.150 Appendix BB, Fire-Flow Requirements
for Buildings.
X: Ordinances|2025|FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 28 Appendix BB as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.160 Appendix C, Fire Hydrant Locations and
Distribution.
Appendix C as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.170 Appendix CC, Fire Hydrant Locations
and Distribution.
Appendix CC as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.180 Appendix D, Fire Apparatus Access
Roads.
Appendix D as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended
herein.
Table D103.4, Appendix D of the 2025 California
Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Table D103.4 - REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH WIDTH TURNAROUNDS
(feet) (feet) REQUIRED
0-150 22 None required
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot "Y" or 96-foot-
151—500 22 diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot "Y" or 96-foot-
501—750 26 diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
X: Ordinances/2025 FireFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx 29 Over 750 Special approval required
Section D103.5, Appendix D of the 2025
California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates
securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply
with all of the following criteria:
1. The minimum gate width shall be 22 feet
(6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists
of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not
less then 14 feet (4267 mm).
2. Gates shall be of the swinging or sliding
type.
Construction of gates shall be of materials
that allow manual operation by one person.
4. Gate components shall be maintained in an
operative condition at all times and replaced or
repaired when defective.
Electric gates shall be equipped with a
means of opening the gate by fire department
personnel for emergency access. Emergency
opening devices shall be approved by the Fire
Code Official.
6. Manual opening gates shall not be locked
with a padlock or chain and padlock unless they
are capable of being opened by means of forcible
entry tools or when a KNOX padlock is installed
at the gate location.
Locking device specifications shall be
submitted for approval by the Fire Code Official.
X: \Ordinances\2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 30 Electric gate operators, where provided,
shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
9. Gates intended for automatic operation
shall be designed, constructed and installed to
comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200.
C. Figure D103.1, Appendix D of the 2025
California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
Figure D103.1 - DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS
ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND
96-Foot diameter cul-de-sac measured at
flow line to flow line; Typical radius 33' inside
and 47' outside.
60-Foot "Y" - Minimum road width 22';
Typical radius 33' inside and 47' outside.
3. Minimum clearance around a fire hydrant—
Minimum road width 22'
120-Foot Hammerhead-Minimum road
width 22'; Typical radius 33' inside and 47'
outside.
Acceptable Alternative to 120-Foot
Hammerhead—Minimum road width 22'; Typical
radius 33' inside and 47' outside.
Section D103.6.1, Appendix D of the 2025
California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:
D103.6.1 Roads 22 to 26 feet in width. Fire apparatus
access roads 22 to 26 feet wide shall be posted on both sides as a fire lane.
X: \Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 31 E. Section D104 as set forth in the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without
amendments.
Section D105 as set forth in the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without
amendments.
G. Section D106 as set forth in the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without
amendments.
H. Section D107 as set forth in the 2025 California
Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without
amendments.
NOTE: Refer to Fire Prevention Policy FPG-01 for
examples of fire apparatus access roads.
17.32.190 Appendix E, Hazard Categories.
Appendix E as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.200 Appendix F, Hazard Ranking.
Appendix F as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.210 Appendix G, Cryogenic Fluids-Weight
and Volume Equivalents.
Appendix G as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.220 Appendix H, Hazardous Materials
Management Plans and Hazardous Materials
Inventory Statements.
X: Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 32 Appendix H as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.230 Appendix I, Fire Protection Systems-
Noncompliant Conditions.
Appendix I as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.240 Appendix J, Building Sign Information.
Appendix Jas set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.250 Appendix K, Construction Requirements
for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities.
Appendix K as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.260 Appendix L, Requirements for Fire
Fighter Air Replenishment Systems.
Appendix L as set forth in the 2025 California Fire
Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.270 Appendix N, Indoor Trade Shows and
Exhibitions.
Appendix Nas set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.
17.32.280 Appendix P - Temporary Haunted
Houses, Ghost Walks, and Similar Amusement Uses.
Appendix Pas set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments."
SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its adoption.
X:\Ordinances|2025\FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3) docx 33 SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance, is for any reason held 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, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereot, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 4. PUBLICATION. The City Clerk is directed to cause a summary of this Ordinance to be published in the official newspaper at least once within fifteen (15) days after its adoption showing the vote thereon.
The foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Merced on the _day of _ 2025, and was passed and adopted at a regular meeting of said City Council held on the _ day , 2025, by the following called vote:
AYES: Council Members:
NOES: Council Members:
ABSTAIN: Council Members:
ABSENT: Council Members:
APPROVED:
MATTHEW SERRATTO, MAYOR
Mayor
X: \Ordinances\2025\Fire\Fire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 34 ATTEST:
D. SCOTT MCBRIDE, CITY CLERK
BY:
Assistant/Deputy City Clerk
(SEAL)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
CRAIG J. CORNWELL, CITY ATTORNEY
-Cornwell 10/9/2025
City Attorney Date
X:\Ordinances|2025 FirelFire Code Update Ordinance - 2025 Edition (3).docx 35