Norco City Council
November 5, 2025

AGENDA
City Council
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
City Council Chamber – Norco City Hall
2820 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA 92860
CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM
ROLL CALL Greg Newton, Mayor
Robin Grundmeyer, Mayor Pro Tem
Kevin Bash, Council Member
Gregory Bowen, Council Member
Fia Sullivan, Council Member

CLOSED SESSION

CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS
Property: Silverlakes Sports Park - APNs 152060004; 152060011; 152070001; 152070002; and 152070011
Agency negotiator: City Manager
Negotiating parties: City of Norco and Balboa Management Group LLC.

Under negotiation: Price and Terms
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: (2 potential cases)
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION
(Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9)
Name of case: FPPC v. City of Norco (18/789)
RECONVENE PUBLIC SESSION 7:00 PM

REPORT OF ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council Member Kevin Bash
INVOCATION Chaplain Bruce Smith
Cowboys for Christ

INTRODUCTION
Animal Control Superintendent, Donald Davis.

1. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS ON REGIONAL BOARDS

2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
City Council Agenda - November 5, 2025
This is the time when persons wishing to address the presiding governmental body regarding the Consent Calendar, Legislative Matters or items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the legislative body. Please submit a speaker card to the Meeting Clerk. Please limit comments to three minutes or less. The Ralph M. Brown Act limits the governmental body’s ability to respond to comments on non-agendized matters at the time such comments are made. The governmental body shall not discuss or act relative to any general public comment.

3. CONSENT CALENDAR
All items listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and may be enacted by one motion. Prior to the motion to consider any action by the presiding governmental body, any public comments on any of the Consent Items will be heard. There will be no separate action unless members of the governmental body request specific items be removed from the Consent Calendar. Items removed from the Consent Calendar will be separately considered under Item 4 of the Agenda.

3.A. Waive Reading of all Ordinance Adoptions on this Agenda and Read by Title Only
RECOMMENDATION:

Waive reading, by title only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions. Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

Staff Report - Pdf

3.B. Approval of City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 15, 2025.

Staff Report - Pdf

3.C. Quarterly Investment Report for Quarter Ended September 30, 2025 RECOMMENDATION:

Receive and file the Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2025.

Staff Report - Pdf

3.D. Acceptance of the Ingalls Wayfinding Project as Complete (Project No. 54303.16)
RECOMMENDATION:

Accept the Ingalls Wayfinding Project as complete and authorize the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County of Riverside.

Staff Report - Pdf

City Council Agenda - November 5, 2025

3.E. Declaration of Assorted Obsolete City Assets as Surplus Property RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution No. 2025-68, declaring assorted obsolete City assets as surplus property and authorize the City Manager to dispose them through public auction, scrap or donation.

Staff Report - Pdf

3.F. Cooperative Funding Agreement between the City of Norco and the Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District for the Norco Recycled Water Distribution System Project (aka Snipes Park Booster Station Upgrades and Lake Norconian Flow Control Station Replacement)
RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the Cooperative Funding Agreement with Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District (RCFC & WCD) to design and construct the Norco Recycled Water Distribution System Project (aka Snipes Park Booster Station Upgrades and Lake Norconian Flow Control Station Replacement Project), subject to non-substantive changes and approval by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors; and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement.

Staff Report - Pdf

4. ITEM(S) PULLED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

5. LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
There are no Legislative Matters at this time.

6. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
Order of Presentation for Public Hearing Items:

1. Staff Report Presentation

2. Council Questions of Staff

3. Open Public Hearing
a. Public Comment

4. Close Public Hearing

5. Council Discussion and Action

City Council Agenda - November 5, 2025

6.A. First Reading, Ordinance No.1135 (City of Norco): An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, Amending Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction” for the Adoption of, with Amendments, Chapter 15.09, the 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9) , and Chapter 15.130, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (California Code Of Regulations Title 24, Part 7). Code Amendment 2025-06.

RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the introduction and first reading of Ordinance 1135, Amending Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction” for the Adoption of, with Amendments, Chapter 15.09, the 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9), and Chapter

15.130, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (California Code Of Regulations Title 24, Part 7). Code Amendment 2025-06.

Staff Report - Pdf

6.B. First Reading, Ordinance No. 1136 (City of Norco): An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, designating the "Equestrian Landmark" and Adopt Concurrent Resolution designating the "Equestrian Landmark"
RECOMMENDATION:

1. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-69, designating the "Equestrian Landmark"; and

2. Approve the introduction and first read of Ordinance No. 1136, designating the "Equestrian Landmark"
Staff Report - Pdf

6.C. Appeal Hearing: An appeal by the property owner/applicant of the Planning Commission’s condition of approval for Site Plan 2023-10 (Albalos): A request to construct a detached 880 square-foot large vehicle garage with an attached 360 square-foot workshop at 1041 Canyon View Place, within the Norco Hills Specific Plan Zone. (APN 122-600-002).

RECOMMENDATION:

Approve Resolution 2025-70, approving Site Plan 2023-10, but without a condition requiring concealed/no exposed fasteners for the proposed building consisting of metal construction.

Staff Report - Pdf

City Council Agenda - November 5, 2025

6.D. Appeal Hearing: An appeal of the Planning Commission’s approval of Accessory Building Use Permit 2024-12 (Rico): A request to legalize a 3,229 square foot six-stall horse barn with supported overhang and feed area, and to legalize a detached 800 square foot storage garage at 310 Filly Lane, within the A-1-20 (Agricultural, Low-Density) Zone. APN: (153- 051-004).

RECOMMENDATION:

Approve Resolution 2025-71, upholding the Planning Commission's approval of Accessory Building Use Permit 2024-12, with additional clarifying conditions.

Staff Report - Pdf

7. CITY COUNCIL / STAFF COMMUNICATIONS

8. ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in this meeting is encouraged to contact the City Clerk’s Office at (951) 270-5623 or [email protected] at least 48 hours prior to the meeting so that reasonable arrangements can be made to ensure accessibility. Staff reports are on file in the City Clerk’s Office.

Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the presiding governmental body regarding any item on this agenda will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office during normal business hours at Norco City Hall, located at 2870 Clark Avenue in Norco. The meeting is recorded.

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.A.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Prepared By: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Department: City Clerk
SUBJECT:

Waive Reading of all Ordinance Adoptions on this Agenda and Read by Title Only RECOMMENDATION:

Waive reading, by title only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions. Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.B.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Prepared By: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Department: City Clerk
SUBJECT:

Approval of City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 15, 2025.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

City Council - Oct 15 2025 - Minutes DRAFT

MINUTES
City Council
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
City Council Chamber – Norco City Hall
2820 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA 92860
ROLL CALL Greg Newton, Mayor
Robin Grundmeyer, Mayor Pro Tem
Kevin Bash, Council Member
Gregory Bowen, Council Member
Fia Sullivan, Council Member

CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Newton Adjourned to Closed Sessions and City Attorney Burns read the Closed Sessions into the record.

CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS
Property: Silverlakes Sports Park - APNs 152060004; 152060011; 152070001; 152070002; and 152070011
Agency negotiator: City Manager
Negotiating parties: City of Norco and Balboa Management Group LLC.

Under negotiation: Price and Terms
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9:
(1 potential case)
RECONVENE PUBLIC SESSION 7:04 PM

REPORT OF ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Burns stated that there were no reportable actions taken in Closed Session.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Pro Tem Robin Grundmeyer
INVOCATION Pastor Robert Vega
Beacon Hill Assembly of God
PRESENTATIONS National Fire Prevention Month
Red Ribbon Week

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025

1. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS ON REGIONAL BOARDS
The Mayor and City Council reported on Regional Boards and Commissions they attended.

2. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Patrick Wright invited the Mayor and City Council to Kids Funday at Ingalls Event Center.

Bill Naylor spoke regarding issues with delayed notification of electronic agendas.

Rafik Philobos spoke regarding non-permitted pavers in his neighborhood.

Dave Mishriki spoke regarding non-permitted pavers in his neighborhood.

Bonnie Slager reminded community of the NHA meeting with Lansing Corporation as guest speaker.

Dillon Wemple spoke regarding design objective standards.

3. CONSENT CALENDAR
a) Approval of Consent Calendar as Presented
Mayor Newton requested Item 3C be pulled for discussion.

M/S BASH/GRUNDMEYER Approve Consent Calendar as Presented. The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE

3.A. Waive Reading of all Ordinance Adoptions on this Agenda and Read by Title Only
Action: Waived reading, by title only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions. Said

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

3.B. Approval of City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Action: Approved the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of October 1, 2025.

3.D. Approval of Agreement for Telephone System Upgrade and Migration to Zoom UCaaS
Action: 1. Approved the agreement with Packet Fusion for the migration and implementation of the Zoom UCaaS hosted platform, including the procurement of associated licenses and hardware;

2. Authorized an annual change order of up to ten percent (10%) of the contract value to accommodate licensing adjustments and service needs; and 3. Authorized the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to complete the migration.

3.E. Quarterly Purchase Orders Listing Between $25,000 to $49,999 Action: Received and filed the Quarterly Purchase Orders Listing for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2025.

3.F. Approval of Supplemental Agreement for the use of 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant Funds for Project No. 2.NR.65-25 and Adoption of Resolution 2025-64
Action: Approved Supplemental Agreement for the use of 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant Funds for Project No. 2.NR.65-25 and Adopt Resolution 2025-64.

3.G. Amendment for contractual legal services with Fitzgerald Kreditor Bolduc Risbrough LLP (FKBR) and Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-65 amending the FY 2025-26 Budget.

Action: Approved amendment for contractual legal services with Fitzgerald Kreditor Bolduc Risbrough LLP (FKBR) not-to-exceed $50,000 and Adopt Resolution No. 2025- 65 amending the FY 2025-26 Budget to appropriate $50,000 from the General Fund for this agreement.

3.H. Acceptance of Pikes Peak Park Playground Replacement Project (Project No. 4407.8) as Complete

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
Action: Accepted the Pikes Peak Park Playground Replacement Project (Project No. 4407.8) as complete and Authorized the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County of Riverside.

3.I. A request for approval of a Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Engineering for Community Development Department Director/Management services.

Action: Approved a three-year Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Engineering to provide on-call Director/Management Services for the Community Development Department, as needed.

3.J. The City of Norco and the Successor Agency of the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Norco Approval of an assignment of the May 22, 2007, Regulatory Agreement to Heritage Park Norco, LLC, a California limited liability company.

Action: That the City of Norco and Successor Agency of the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Norco approve an assignment of the May 22, 2007, Regulatory Agreement to Heritage Park Norco, LLC, a California limited liability company.

3.K. Waive Reading of all Ordinance Adoptions on this Agenda and Read by Title Only
Action: Waived reading, by title only, of all Ordinances and Resolutions. Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

4. ITEM(S) PULLED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR

3.C. Recap of Actions Taken by the Planning Commission at its Meeting Held on October 8, 2025
Mayor Newton had a question regarding 4A on the Planning Commission Recap, asked about the continued item regarding Filly Lane, the double fee involved, the Condition of Approval, and the agreement. He stated that review of conditions to be added back in at a later date.

Mayor Newton opened Public Comment.

Bill Naylor had question regarding fees.

Mayor Newton closed Public Comment.

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
Following discussion, motion was made.

City Attorney advised Council Member Bash of his participation of the item being heard.

Mayor Newton discussed the Tentative Map, the elevation and the daycare, 5A and 5B appeal to add conditions, parking, screening, landscaping, the developer and parking analysis.

Acting Community Development Director Mark Tomich and Associate Planner Erika Woods Diaz answered questions
City Attorney Burns answered questions and addressed concerns.

M/S NEWTON/SULLIVAN
Appeal item 5B on the Planning Commission Recap. The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
M/S NEWTON/SULLIVAN Approve remainder of Item 3.C. Planning Commission Recap. The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE

5. DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEM(S)

5.A. Adopt Resolution 2025-66, Establishing Update to the Annual Salary Ranges and Benefits for Management Classification of the City of Norco for Fiscal Year 2025-26
City Manager Free presented report.

Mayor Newton opened Public Comment.

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
Bill Naylor spoke regarding position.

Mayor Newton closed Public Comment.

M/S NEWTON/BASH Adopt Resolution 2025-66, Establishing Update to the Annual Salary Ranges and Benefit for the Management Classification of the City of Norco for Fiscal Year 2025-26. The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE

6. PUBLIC HEARING(S)

6.A. Consider Adoption Resolution No. 2025-67 Establishing Certain New User Fees and Increasing Certain Existing User Fees for Various Services and Acceptance of Comprehensive Fee Study and Cost Allocation Plan Financial Director Calhoun presented report.

Mayor Newton opened the Public Hearing.

There were no public comments.

Mayor Newton closed the Public Hearing.

Following discussion, motion was made.

M/S BASH/GRUNDMEYER 1) Adopt Resolution No. 2025-67, updating and adjusting the City’s General Fee Schedule for Fiscal Year 2025-26; and 2) Receive and file the Fee Study and Cost Allocation Plan The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE

6.B. Second Reading, Ordinance 1134 (City of Norco): An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, adopting the 2025 California Building

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
Standard Codes, to amend Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction”. Code Amendment 2025-05
City Clerk presented report.

Mayor Newton opened the Public Hearing.

There were no public comments.

Mayor Newton closed the Public Hearing.

Following discussion, motion was made.

M/S NEWTON/BASH Approve the Second Reading of Ordinance 1134, adopting the 2025 California Building Standard Codes, to amend Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction”. Code Amendment 2025-05. The Motion was carried by the following roll call vote:

AYES: NEWTON, GRUNDMEYER, BASH, BOWEN, AND SULLIVAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE

7. CITY COUNCIL / STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
City Clerk Roa reminded the community to drop off ballots at City Hall and wished her husband of 31 years a happy anniversary.

Council Member Bowen thanked Council Member Sullivan and the community for their participation in the CPUC meeting trip.

Council Member Bash stated that the City Council are meeting commissioners because of the bus trip to the CPUC meeting in Bellflower.

Mayor Newton discussed the State of the City and the CPUC meeting, thanked staff and community.

8. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Newton adjourned the meeting at 8:14 p.m.

CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM

City Council Minutes - October 15, 2025
_________________________________
Dana Roa, CMC
City Clerk

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.C.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director
Prepared By: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director
Department: Finance
SUBJECT:

Quarterly Investment Report for Quarter Ended September 30, 2025 RECOMMENDATION:

Receive and file the Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2025.

SUMMARY:

This report has been prepared to meet the requirements of the City’s Investment Policy and applicable sections of the State of California Government Code.

BACKGROUND:

The City’s Investment Policy requires the Treasurer to render a quarterly report to the legislative body. The report is to be prepared in accordance with Government Code Section 53646(b)(1) and should contain detailed information on all securities, investments, and monies of the local agency; a statement of compliance of the portfolio with the Statement of Investment Policy; and a statement of the City’s ability to meet its cash flow requirements for the next six months. This report, which is for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, meets the requirements of the Investment Policy and Government Code. It covers funds of the City and the Successor Agency to the former Norco Redevelopment Agency.

The attached schedules (Attachments A through D) have been prepared to meet the detailed requirements of the Government Code and the City’s Investment Policy as approved by the Council on April 16, 2025 (Resolution 2025-13). It is to be noted that the Investment Policy excludes certain investments (bond proceeds) from these requirements. This means that bond proceeds are invested in accordance with the provisions of the bond indentures rather than the provisions of the Investment Policy.

Consequently, in determining whether the operating portfolio holdings are in compliance

with the Government Code and the approved Investment Policy, investments of bond proceeds have been excluded.

Attachment A provides a summary schedule of the City’s operating portfolio holdings by type as of September 30, 2025. This summary also provides information on whether or not each investment category complies with the limitations imposed by State law and the City’s Investment Policy. Investments that are subject to the Statement of Investment Policy are operating or idle funds invested by the Treasurer within the provisions of the approved Investment Policy. During the quarter ended September 30, 2025, the operating portfolio decreased by a net amount of $10.8 million from $104.6 million to $93.8 million.

The excess of disbursements over receipts is anticipated during this quarter due to increased spending on capital projects, prepayment of CalPERS unfunded actuarial liability (UAL), semi-annual debt service payments of the Successor Agency, Community Facilities Districts and Water and Sewer Bonds made during this quarter.

During the quarter, the City made total debt service payments of $5.4 million on outstanding Bonds and made annual payment of $2.4 million on the Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL) to the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS).

Additionally, revenue receipts during the first quarter of the fiscal year are typically low due to the seasonal receipt of property tax, vehicle license fees, or electric/gas franchise fees in the fall and spring.

A summary of investments not subject to the provisions of the Investment Policy (bond proceeds and debt service reserve funds) is also shown on Attachment A. These funds are invested in accordance with applicable bond indenture provisions. During the quarter ended September 30, 2025, bond proceeds and debt service reserve fund portfolio increased by a net amount of $2.4 million from $7.0 million to $9.4 million due to the transfer from operating funds for the debt service payments due on October 1, 2025.

Attachment B provides a graphical breakdown of the operating portfolio holdings by investment type as of September 30, 2025. This chart is for investments that are subject to the Investment Policy. The operating portfolio consisted of 26% investment in the State of California Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF), 41% in the CA Management Plan pool (CAMP), 19% in Agency Securities, and the remaining 14% in cash.

Attachment C provides a detailed listing of the City’s portfolio holdings as required by the Government Code. In this listing, “N/A” is used to denote that the information is either not available or applicable. Agency Securities issued by United States Government Sponsored Entities (GSEs) are rated “AA+” by Moody’s rating service and “AAA” by S&P Global rating service.

Attachment D indicates cash balances by Fund as additional information to complement the schedule of investment holdings. For the Operating Funds, the cash balance provides an indication of the financial health of each Fund.

Attachment E: Based on cash balances as of September 30, 2025 and anticipated cash receipts for the next six months, staff estimates that there will be sufficient cash to cover disbursements for the City and Successor Agency for the next six months ending March 31, 2026.

FISCAL IMPACT:

This agenda item will not result in a fiscal impact.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This item is consistent with Strategic Direction #3 - Economic Development and Financial Stability: Assure financial stability by expanding development efforts, diversifying revenue sources and continuing prudent financial management.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

Portfolio Summary (Attachment A)
Summary Charts (Attachment B)
Portfolio Detail (Attachment C)
Detail by Fund (Attachment D)
Certification (Attachment E)

Attachment A
City of Norco, California
Portfolio Summary
As of September 30, 2025
City Investments Subject to Investment Policy Market Value Percentage Policy Maximum Compliance Cash $ 13,656,453 14.56% NA In Compliance
Local Agency Investment Fund 24,050,227 25.64% 100% In Compliance CAMP 38,535,776 41.09% 100% In Compliance
U.S. Government Agency Securities 17,546,904 18.71% 100% In Compliance Total $ 93,789,359 100.00%

8.948%
City Investments Not Subject to Investment Policy Market Value Percentage Community Facilities Districts $ 2,253,245 23.94%
Sewer and Water System 1,951,889 20.74%
Refunding Tax Allocation Bonds 5,206,194 55.32%
Total $ 9,411,328 100.00%

1.338%
Estimated Portfolio Yield
Estimated Portfolio Yield

BEGINNING AND ENDING VALUES BREAKDOWN OF INVESTMENTS
Beg. Market Values Ending Market Values
Breakdown 6/30/2025 9/30/2025 Investments Subject to Investment Policy Portfolio % Rating Cash 14,255,247 13,656,453 Local Agency Investment Fund 24,050,227 25.64% Not Rated Local Agency Investment Fund 26,743,937 24,050,227 Federal Home Loan Banks 17,546,904 18.71% AAA California Asset Management Plan 38,394,016 38,535,776 CA Asset Management Plan 38,535,776 41.09% AAAm U.S. Government Agency Securities 25,164,731 17,546,904 Wells Fargo Checking Account 4,671,921 4.98% Not Rated Total Market Value 104,557,931 93,789,359 US Bank Principal Cash 8,984,532 9.58% Not Rated TOTAL 93,789,359 100%
Attachment B

SUMMARY OF CITY OF NORCO'S PORTFOLIO

INVESTMENTS SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT POLICY
Not Rated
40%
Rated
60%
By Rating
< 1 year
84%
1-3 years
7%
> 3 years
9%
By Maturity (Years)
Local Agency
Investment
Fund
26%
Federal Home
Loan Banks
19%
CA Asset
Management
Plan
41%
Cash and Cash
Equivalents
14%
By Type

Attachment C Page 1
City of Norco, California
Portfolio Details
As of September 30, 2025
Investments Subject to Policy
Cash & Cash Equivalents
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A N/A Checking Accounts N/A Wells Fargo N/A N/A 0.00% N/A 4,671,921 4,671,921 N/A N/A N/A Principal Cash N/A US Bank N/A N/A 0.00% N/A 8,984,532 8,984,532 Subtotal 13,656,453 13,656,453
Local Agency Investment Fund
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A N/A Local Agency Investment Fund XI.15 State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A 24,003,909 24,050,227 Subtotal 24,003,909 24,050,227
California Asset Management Plan
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A N/A California Asset Management Plan XI.13 CA Joint Powers Au N/A N/A N/A N/A 32,500,000 38,535,776 Subtotal 32,500,000 38,535,776
US Bank Custodial Account
04/09/24 04/09/26 3133ETCF2 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 4.520% 4.517% 3,133,000 3,133,000 3,136,008 01/26/24 01/26/28 3130AYPJ9 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 4.500% 4.498% 6,000,000 6,000,000 6,002,940 08/20/24 08/10/29 3130B2FW0 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 4.250% 4.251% 3,400,000 3,400,000 3,402,856 01/28/25 01/28/30 3130B4HU8 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 4.750% 4.746% 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,005,100 17,533,000 17,546,904
Total Investments Subject to Policy 87,693,362 93,789,359

Attachment C Page 2
City of Norco, California
Portfolio Details
As of September 30, 2025
Investments Not Subject to Policy (Bond Proceeds)
Community Facilities Districts
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 65,892 65,892 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 180 180 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 1,486,808 1,486,808 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 112 112 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 392,119 392,119 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 26,891 26,891 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.5 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 216,613 216,613 Subtotal 2,188,615 2,188,615
Local Agency Investment Fund
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A N/A Local Agency Investment Fund (CFD 2002-1) XI.13 State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A 64,505 64,630 Subtotal 64,505 64,630
U.S. and Agency Securities
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
08/27/20 8/27/2025 3136G4Q97 F H L M C M T N XI.5 US Bank AAA 0.000% 0.000% - - - - - -
Total Community Facilities Districts 2,253,121 2,253,245 Investments Not Subject to Policy (Bond Proceeds)
Sewer and Water System
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 299 299 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 724,718 724,718 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 1,226,865 1,226,865 N/A N/A 31846V203 First American Government XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.732% N/A 7 7 Subtotal 1,951,889 1,951,889
Total Sewer and Water System 1,951,889 1,951,889

Attachment C Page 3
City of Norco, California
Portfolio Details
As of September 30, 2025
Investments Not Subject to Policy (Bond Proceeds)
Refunding Tax Allocation Bonds
Cash & Cash Equivalents
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A 31846V401 First American Government Obligation XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.582% N/A 133,002 133,002 N/A N/A 31846V401 First American Government Obligation XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.582% N/A 403 403 N/A N/A 31846V401 First American Government Obligation XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.582% N/A 61,385 61,385 N/A N/A 31846V401 First American Government Obligation XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.582% N/A 1,350 1,350 N/A N/A 31846V401 First American Government Obligation XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 3.582% N/A 7,113 7,113 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 95 95 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 40,967 40,967 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 28 28 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 56,351 56,351 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 13 13 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 15 15 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 42,707 42,707 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 107,430 107,430 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 79 79 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 73 73 N/A N/A 9AMMF05B2 US Bank Money Market XI.11 US Bank N/A N/A 0.005% N/A 1,973,169 1,973,169 Subtotal 2,424,181 2,424,181
Local Agency Investment Fund
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
N/A N/A N/A Local Agency Investment Fund (2010 TABs) XI.13 State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A 25,943 25,993 N/A N/A N/A Local Agency Investment Fund (2003 TABs) XI.13 State of California N/A N/A N/A N/A 118,243 118,471 Subtotal 144,186 144,464
U.S. and Agency Securities
Purchase
Date Maturity Date CUSIP # Description of Security
Investment
Policy Account Rating
Coupon
Rate
Yield to
Maturity Face Value Cost Market Value
05/26/21 05/26/26 3130AMG63 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 0.500% 0.508% N/A 1,040,000 1,023,526 05/26/21 05/26/26 3130AMG63 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 0.500% 0.508% N/A 1,055,000 1,038,289 05/26/21 05/26/26 3130AMG63 Federal Home Loan Banks XI.5 US Bank AA+ 0.500% 0.508% N/A 585,000 575,734 Subtotal 2,680,000 2,637,549
Total Refunding Tax Allocation Bonds 5,248,367 5,206,194 Total Investments Not Subject to Policy 9,453,376 9,411,328

Attachment D
City of Norco, California
Portfolio Details by Fund
As of September 30, 2025
Investments Subject to Policy Qtr ended
09/30/25
Fund Description Balance
012 Successor Agency Project Fund 2,012
016 Cal Home Grant Fund 260,631
017 Successor Agency Fund 2,058,811
018 Housing Fund 4,839,604
121 General Fund 26,979,992
122 Miscellaneous Grants Fund 9,673
124 Water Fund 4,368,005
126 Sewer Fund 1,388,759
127/132 Measure R Fund 12,441,592
128 Equipment Replacement Fund 4,735,694
129 Storm Drain Fund 753,008
131 Nancy Newman Fund 34,869
133 Gas Tax Fund (3,586)
134 Benefits and Insurance Fund (12,529)
135 Information Technology Fund 1,621,015
136 SB1 Road Maintenance & Rehab. Fund 1,073,157
137 Measure A Fund 2,550,975
139 NPDES Fund 33,044
140 General Govt Improvement Fund 519,116
141 Park Improvement Fund 3,809,589
142 Fire Improvement Fund 1,054,405
143 Trail Improvement Fund 249,187
144 Water Capital Fund 3,973,143
146 Public Meeting Facilities Fund 1,158,679
147 Sewer Facilities Fund 11,897,819
149 Street Improvement Fund 1,666,929
151 Animal Control Fund 87,034
152 Facility Improvement Fund 136,730
154 Trust Deposit Fund 870,259
156 AQMD Fund 32,176
158 Waste Management Fund (117,153)
162 Supplemental Law Grant Fund 8,333
166 Recyled Water Fund 2,364,416
181 CFD 97-1 212,788
182 CFD 2001-1 906,283
183 CFD 2002-1 165,179
179 LMD #1 (9,311)
176 LMD #2 (26,136)
177 LMD #3 (1,175)
186 LMD #4 292,111
187 LMD #5 70,444
Subtotal - General Ledger 92,455,570
Various Outstanding Checks/Deposits in Transit 1,333,789 Total Cash and Investments 93,789,359

Attachment E
Quarterly Investment Portfolio
For the Quarter Ended September 30, 2025
As required by the Government Code, the Treasurer certifies that the investments reported in the accompanying schedules (Attachments A through D) comply with the City of Norco Investment Policy and that sufficient liquidity along with anticipated revenues are available to meet the City and Successor Agency budgeted expenditure requirements for the next six months ending March 31, 2026.

November 5, 2025
Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Date

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.D.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Amanda Hamilton, Facilities and Maintenance
Director
Prepared By: Amanda Hamilton, Facilities and Maintenance Director
Department: Facilities and Maintenance
SUBJECT:

Acceptance of the Ingalls Wayfinding Project as Complete (Project No. 54303.16) RECOMMENDATION:

Accept the Ingalls Wayfinding Project as complete and authorize the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County of Riverside.

SUMMARY:

The Ingalls Wayfinding Project (Project No. 54303.16), awarded to Square Signs, LLC, dba Front Signs, in the amount of $136,461, has been successfully completed. The project began in January 2025 and concluded in September 2025, with one approved change order in the amount of $2,689, bringing the final project cost to $139,150. The scope included the fabrication and installation of custom wayfinding signage at the Ingalls Event Center to enhance navigation and support the City’s broader branding and marketing strategy.

BACKGROUND:

On December 4, 2024, the City Council awarded a contract to Square Signs, LLC, dba Front Signs, in the amount of $136,461, for the fabrication and installation of wayfinding signage at the Ingalls Event Center. The City Manager was authorized to approve change orders not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the original contract amount.

The project commenced in January 2025 with the manufacturing of signage and concluded in September 2025 with final installation and inspection. One change order was issued during the course of the project in the amount of $2,689 for a sign modification, bringing the total project cost to $139,150.

The scope of work included the design, fabrication, and installation of custom wayfinding signage throughout the event center. The signage was developed to reflect the City’s equestrian identity while supporting broader efforts to improve navigation, enhance visibility, and elevate the venue’s marketability.

The project has been inspected by City staff and determined to be in full compliance with the approved plans, specifications, and contract documents. All work has been completed to the satisfaction of the City, and there are no outstanding deficiencies.

FISCAL IMPACT:

This agenda item will not result in a fiscal impact.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This agenda item is consistent with Strategic Direction No. 5, "Infrastructure and Asset Management."
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

Notice of Completion_Ingalls Wayfinding Signage

Notice of Completion
Ingalls Event Center Wayfinding Project
(Project No. 54303.16)

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.E.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director
Prepared By: Julie Houser, Admin Analyst
Department: Finance
SUBJECT:

Declaration of Assorted Obsolete City Assets as Surplus Property RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution No. 2025-68, declaring assorted obsolete City assets as surplus property and authorize the City Manager to dispose them through public auction, scrap or donation.

SUMMARY:

Staff have accumulated a list of various obsolete City assets which are obsolete/inoperable, have met their useful lives, and no longer meet the City’s operating needs.

BACKGROUND:

Staff has completed a review of various assets in their departments and have determined that the City of Norco has assorted list of assets to be declared as surplus because they are obsolete, inoperable and have reached their useful lives. These assets no longer meet City standards and operating needs. Departments have reviewed these assets and have determined that they have no useful repurposing in their operation for these assets.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Revenues received from the disposition of these assets will be deposited into the Fund that owns the assets.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This item is consistent with Strategic Direction No. 3 – Economic Development and Financial Stability: Assure financial stability by expanding development efforts, diversifying revenue sources and continuing prudent financial management.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

Reso 2025-68
Surplus List (Attachment B)

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-68

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

NORCO, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING ITEMS AS SURPLUS TO BE

AUCTION, SCRAPED OR AUTHORIZED FOR DONATION AS

DESCRIBED
WHEREAS, the City of Norco periodically reviews its assets and equipment that has lived its life expectancy, has discontinuance of use and or is declared inoperable or scrap for surplus; and
WHEREAS, the City of Norco has an assorted number of assets to be declared as surplus that no longer meet City’s standards, technical viability or use; and WHEREAS, the City of Norco has determined that the surplus assets have no useful repurposing and would have a better purpose for public auction or salvaged; and WHEREAS, the City has determined that some assets would have better use if classified as surplus property and made available for donation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Norco, California, does hereby declare as surplus those items as described in Attachment B, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, and authorizes the City Manager to dispose said assets through public auction, scrap or donation.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Norco, California, at a regular meeting held on November 5, 2025.
__________________________
Greg Newton, Mayor
City of Norco, California
ATTEST:
__________________________
Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk
City of Norco, California

Resolution No. 2025-68 – Declaring Items Surplus

November 5, 2025
I, Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Norco, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was introduced and adopted by the City Council of the City of Norco, California, at a regular meeting thereof held on November 5, 2025 by the following vote of the City Council:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Norco, California, on November 5, 2025. ________________________
Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk
City of Norco, California
Attachment B: List of surplus items

City of Norco Surplus List
Items:

Monitors Quantity
LG 32” 1
VA2246M-LED 5
VA2452M 10
VX2757-mhd 2
Workstations Quantity
I5-4590 3
I5-6500 1
I5-7400 1
I5-8500 2
I5-9500T 3
Dell Precision T1700 1
Lenovo ThinkCentre 7483 Core 2 Duo 1
Laptops Quantity
Asus Intel Celeron N4020 2
Lenovo ThinkPad E550 i5-5200 5
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s 1
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 2
Printers/Fax Quantity
Canon ImageClass D340 1
HP Envy 6055 1
HP LaserJet Pro M118dw 1

City of Norco Surplus List
Vehicles & Equipment
#107 - 1989 Ford F350
#439 – 2009 Ford F250
#350 – Flatbed Trailer
#359 – 2005 Carryall Golf Cart
Off Load Cattle Ramp
WW Cattle Chute
8 ft Utility trailer
TR# Rake
Ingersoll-Rand Light Tower
Sullair Air Compressor
WW Bucking Chutes
Servers Quantity
Dell PowerEdge R720 1
HP ProLiant DL360P Gen 8 1
RAID Machine DAS 1
SCADA Sever 1
Misc Quantity
FirstData FD400GT Credit Card Machine 1
HPJE008A v1910 24 Port Switch 4
HP JG349A 8 Port Switch 1
HP J9559A 1410-8G Switch 1
HP J9662A 1410- 16 Port Switch 1
InFocus SmartBoard TV 1
iPad’s and Phones 5+
Lenovo ThinkPad USB-C Doc Gen 2 2
Logitech Headset 2
Logitech keyboard and Mice 5+
SonicWall TZ 105 Wireless 1
Sony TCM-929 Pressman Desktop Cassette Recorder 1

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

3.F.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Sam Nelson, Public Works Director
Prepared By: Victor So, Senior Civil Engineer
Department: Public Works
SUBJECT:

Cooperative Funding Agreement between the City of Norco and the Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District for the Norco Recycled Water Distribution System Project (aka Snipes Park Booster Station Upgrades and Lake Norconian Flow Control Station Replacement)
RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the Cooperative Funding Agreement with Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District (RCFC & WCD) to design and construct the Norco Recycled Water Distribution System Project (aka Snipes Park Booster Station Upgrades and Lake Norconian Flow Control Station Replacement Project), subject to nonsubstantive changes and approval by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors; and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement.

SUMMARY:

The City of Norco is preparing plans and specifications for the construction of the Snipes Park Booster Station Upgrades and Lake Norconian Flow Control Station Replacement Project located at the westerly extents of Neil Snipes Park and at Lake Norconian (See Project Exhibit). RCFC & WCD has agreed to enter into a Cooperative Funding Agreement for design and construction of the proposed recycled water facilities.

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of the Cooperative Funding Agreement is to memorialize the mutual understanding between both parties with respect to construction, ownership, operation and maintenance, including the funding contribution.

RCFC & WCD has agreed to contribute fifty percent (50%) funding of the design contract bid price, ten percent (10%) for administration of the design, fifty percent (50%) of costs associated with construction, fifty percent (50%) of costs associated with utility

relocations, ten percent (10%) for change order costs and ten percent (10%) for construction administration resulting in a not-to-exceed contribution amount of $875,620.

Per the agreement, the City is responsible to prepare the design, specifications, plans, bid advertisement, inspection and project management during construction.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The Norco Recycled Water Distribution Systems Project was originally approved as a Capital Improvement Project (CIP) for Fiscal Year 2023-24 and design work is already underway.

Total design costs incurred to date are $107,200. For Fiscal Year 2025-26, funds in the amount of $1,120,000 ($117,700 for design costs and $1,002,300 for construction costs; Project No. 5100.2, Account Nos.159.965.43270 & 159.965.43270.30) have been budgeted for the project. The City anticipates the project going out to bid for construction in FY 2025-26. Once the project bids are opened staff will review the costs to determine if adjustments will be required to the FY 2025-26 CIP Budget.

Per the Funding Agreement RCFC&WCD will reimburse the City for the project in the maximum amount of $875,620.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This agenda item is consistent with Strategic Direction #5 – Infrastructure and Asset Management: Ensure timely preservation, replacement, improvement and acquisition of infrastructure and capital assets.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):
264930 - Norco Recycled Water
Exhibit A - Norco Recycling

264930
- 1 -

FUNDING AGREEMENT
Norco Recycled Water Distribution Systems
Project No. 2-0-10060
This Funding Agreement ("Agreement"), dated as of __________________, 2025, is entered into by and between the RIVERSIDE COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT, a body corporate and politic ("DISTRICT"), and the CITY OF NORCO, a California municipal corporation ("CITY"). DISTRICT and CITY are collectively referred to herein as "Parties" and individually as "Party". Parties hereby agree as follows:

RECITALS
A. CITY has prepared plans and specifications for improvements to, and augmentation of, CITY's existing recycled water distribution systems, which is presently incomplete. The improvements extend from the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority facility, located at the westerly boundary of CITY, near Prado Basin Park and Baron Drive, to the easterly boundary of CITY, near Pikes Peak Drive and 6th Street. Recycled water supplied through the distribution systems will be utilized to offset potable water demands at various CITY parks and to maintain the water level at Lake Norconian, which is owned by the United States Navy; and
B. The improved and augmented recycled water distribution systems ("NORCO RECYCLED WATER SYSTEMS") consists of a pressure tank, flow meters, booster pumps, and valves as shown in blue on Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. The design, construction, operation and maintenance of NORCO RECYCLED WATER SYSTEMS is hereinafter called "PROJECT"; and
C. City is willing to assume the lead role for PROJECT and, therefore, will provide the administrative, technical, managerial and support services necessary to plan, design, construct and maintain PROJECT; and

264930
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D. CITY plans to advertise, award and administer a public works construction contract for PROJECT during Fiscal Year 2025/2026; and
E. CITY desires that DISTRICT include certain unavoidable utility relocations as part of DISTRICT's financial contribution to construct PROJECT. "UTILITY RELOCATIONS" is defined as the unavoidable relocation of utilities not owned by CITY that (a) conflict with the construction of PROJECT; and (b) cannot be relocated by others under CITY's franchise authority; and
F. UTILITY RELOCATIONS shall be included in the public works construction contract for PROJECT; and
G. CITY desires DISTRICT to share in the cost of PROJECT and contribute funding for PROJECT as set forth herein; and
H. DISTRICT wishes to support CITY's efforts to construct PROJECT by providing a financial contribution toward PROJECT's construction along with associated administrative and ancillary costs subject to the not to exceed amount in RECITAL K; and I. DISTRICT's financial contributions shall be as follows:

1. Fifty percent (50%) of the design proposal cost to offset CITY's costs associated with the engineering design; hydrology and hydraulics; geotechnical analysis; potholing required to complete the design of PROJECT and other typical ancillary costs related to the preparation of improvement plans ("DESIGN CONTRIBUTION"). However,
DESIGN CONTRIBUTION shall not include the fees associated with the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ("MSHCP") or California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"); and

264930
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2. In the event that CITY chooses to hire an engineering consulting firm to prepare IMPROVEMENT PLANS, DISTRICT is also willing to contribute an additional ten percent (10%) of design proposal costs to offset CITY's administrative costs associated with the design contract administration ("DESIGN ADMIN"); and

3. Fifty percent (50%) of the lowest responsive and responsible bid contract amount for the construction of PROJECT and the costs associated with UTILITY RELOCATIONS ("BID PRICE"); and

4. Up to an additional ten percent (10%) of BID PRICE to offset CITY's administrative costs associated with construction contract administration and other typical ancillary costs related to the delivery of the facility ("CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
CONTRIBUTION"); and

5. Up to an additional ten percent (10%) of BID PRICE for construction contract change orders ("CONSTRUCTION CHANGE ORDERS
CONTRIBUTION"); and
J. Altogether, DESIGN CONTRIBUTION, DESIGN ADMIN, BID PRICE, CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION CONTRIBUTION and CONSTRUCTION CHANGE ORDERS CONTRIBUTION are hereinafter called "TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION"; and
K. TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION for PROJECT shall not exceed a total sum of Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620); and
L. DISTRICT wishes to provide only financial assistance to CITY and have no other role; and

264930
- 4 -
M. The purpose of this Agreement is to memorialize the mutual understandings by and between CITY and DISTRICT with respect to the design, construction, ownership, operation and maintenance of PROJECT and the payment of TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the preceding recitals and the mutual covenants hereinafter contained, Parties hereto mutually agree that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated into the terms of this Agreement and as follows:

SECTION I
CITY shall:

1. Pursuant to CEQA, act as Lead Agency and assume responsibility for preparation, circulation and adoption of all necessary and appropriate CEQA documents pertaining to the construction, operation and maintenance of PROJECT.

2. Prepare or cause to be prepared IMPROVEMENT PLANS, in accordance with the applicable CITY standards. CITY shall make reasonable efforts during the preparation of IMPROVEMENT PLANS to avoid utility conflicts associated with UTILITY RELOCATIONS.

3. Following the signing of IMPROVEMENT PLANS, invoice DISTRICT (Attention: Special Projects Section) for the (i) DESIGN CONTRIBUTION and (ii) DESIGN ADMIN, subject to and provided that TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION does not exceed a total sum of Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620) for PROJECT.

4. Prior to advertising PROJECT for public works construction contract, secure all necessary permits, approvals or agreements required by any federal, state and local resource or regulatory agencies pertaining to PROJECT. Such documents may include, but are not limited to, a Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a Section 401

264930
- 5 -
Water Quality Certification issued by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board ("CRWQCB"), a Streambed Alteration Agreement issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit issued by the State of Water Resources Board or CRWQCB and Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority ("REGULATORY PERMITS").

5. Assume sole responsibility for compliance with the requirements of all REGULATORY PERMITS, including any amendments thereto, pertaining to the construction, operation and maintenance of PROJECT.

6. Comply with all mitigation measures, including applicable provisions of CEQA, MSHCP and any CITY established conditions of approval for PROJECT.

7. Be responsible for any and all additional regulation, mitigation and/or litigation costs, and/or mitigation measures to PROJECT resulting from this Agreement and/or permits.

8. Prior to advertising PROJECT for public works construction contract, obtain all necessary permits, licenses, agreements, approvals, rights of way, rights of entry, encroachment permits, and temporary construction easements as may be needed to construct, operate and maintain PROJECT.

9. Upon execution of this Agreement, advertise, award and administer PROJECT pursuant to the applicable provisions of the California Public Contract Code. At the time of advertising for bids, provide DISTRICT with a copy of PROJECT plans, specifications, bid documents and any subsequent addenda thereto.

10. Prior to awarding a public works construction contract for PROJECT, provide DISTRICT seven (7) calendar days following construction bid opening to review and approve or reject bids for construction of PROJECT.

264930
- 6 -

11. Provide DISTRICT with written notice (Attention: Special Projects Section) that CITY has awarded a public works construction contract for PROJECT. The written notice shall include the Contractor's actual bid amounts for PROJECT, setting forth the lowest responsible bid contract amount.

12. Order the relocation of all utilities within CITY rights of way which may conflict with the construction of PROJECT.

13. At the time of providing written notice of the award of a construction contract for PROJECT, invoice DISTRICT (Attention: Special Projects Section) for BID PRICE, subject to and provided that TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION does not exceed a total sum of Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620) for PROJECT. BID PRICE shall be supported by a copy of CITY's bid abstracts for PROJECT.

14. Within thirty (30) days of CITY awarding PROJECT construction contract, pay the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority CITY's contribution percentage, which is CITY's portion of the mitigation fee per 2004 Implementing Agreement for MSHCP.

15. Procure or cause to be procured insurance coverages during the term of this Agreement. CITY shall require its PROJECT construction contractor(s) to furnish original certificate(s) of insurance and original certified copies of endorsements and, if requested, certified original policies of insurance, including all endorsements and any and all other attachments. Prior to CITY issuing a Notice to Proceed to its construction contractor(s) to begin construction of PROJECT, an original certificate of insurance evidencing the required insurance coverage shall be provided to DISTRICT. The procured insurance coverages shall name DISTRICT, County of Riverside, its Agencies, Districts, Special Districts and Departments, their respective directors, officers, Board of Supervisors, employees, elected or appointed officials, agents or representatives as Additional Insured. CITY shall notify

264930
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DISTRICT of any claim by a third party or any incident or event that may give rise to a claim arising from the performance of this Agreement.

16. Construct or cause to be constructed PROJECT pursuant to a CITY administered public works contract in accordance with IMPROVEMENT PLANS.

17. Inspect PROJECT construction or cause PROJECT's construction to be inspected by its construction manager.

18. Require its construction contractor(s) to comply with all Cal/OSHA safety regulations, including regulations concerning confined space and maintain a safe working environment for all CITY employees on the site.

19. Upon completion of PROJECT construction and CITY's acceptance thereof, accept ownership and sole responsibility for the design, operation and maintenance of PROJECT.

20. Upon completion of PROJECT construction, provide DISTRICT with a copy of CITY's Notice of Completion.

21. Keep an accurate accounting of all PROJECT costs along with CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION CONTRIBUTION and CONSTRUCTION CHANGE ORDERS CONTRIBUTION. The final accounting of construction costs shall include a detailed breakdown of all costs, including, but not limited to, payment vouchers, CITY approved change orders and other such construction contract documents as may be necessary, to establish the actual cost of construction for DISTRICT and CITY approved IMPROVEMENT PLANS and will be included when invoicing DISTRICT.

22. At the time of providing a Notice of Completion, invoice DISTRICT (Attention: Special Projects Section) for CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION CONTRIBUTION and if applicable, CONSTRUCTION CHANGE ORDERS CONTRIBUTION, subject to and provided TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION shall not exceed Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620) for DISTRICT review.

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23. Be responsible to pay amounts in excess of TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION.

SECTION II
DISTRICT shall:

1. Within thirty (30) days after receipt of CITY's invoices (i) pay all approved CITY invoices and (ii) review and approve associated documents as described in the RECITALS and SECTION I herein this Agreement, subject to and provided that TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION shall not exceed Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620) for PROJECT.

2. Not be responsible to pay any amounts that exceed TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION for PROJECT to the CITY.

SECTION III
It is further mutually agreed:

1. All Recitals set forth above are hereby incorporated herein by reference as if set forth fully in the body of this Agreement.

2. Notwithstanding any other provision herein this Agreement, TOTAL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION shall not exceed a total sum of Eight Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Six Hundred Twenty Dollars ($875,620) and shall be used by CITY solely for the purpose of designing and constructing PROJECT as set forth herein. No additional funding whatsoever shall be provided by DISTRICT for any subsequent PROJECT modifications, extensions or repairs.

3. In the event the actual construction cost for PROJECT is less than BID PRICE, CITY shall refund the difference to DISTRICT within thirty (30) days of filing the Notice of Completion for PROJECT.

264930
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4. Under the provisions of this Agreement, DISTRICT shall bear no responsibility whatsoever for the design, construction, ownership, operation or maintenance of PROJECT.

5. CITY shall indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless DISTRICT and the County of Riverside (including their agencies, districts, special districts and departments, their respective directors, officers, Board of Supervisors, elected and appointed officials, employees, agents, representatives, independent contractors, and subcontractors) from any liabilities, claim, damage, proceeding or action, present or future, based upon, arising out of or in any way relating to CITY's (including its officers, elected and appointed officials, employees, agents, representatives, independent contractors and subcontractors) actual or alleged acts or omissions related to this Agreement, performance under this Agreement or failure to comply with the requirements of this Agreement, including, but not limited to (a) property damage; (b) bodily injury or death; (c) payment of attorney fees; or (d) any other element of any kind or nature whatsoever. This Section shall survive any termination of this Agreement until the statute of limitations period has run for any claims that could be asserted under this Agreement.

6. If any provision in this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will nevertheless continue in full force without being impaired or invalidated in any way.

7. This Agreement is to be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. Any action at law or in equity brought by any of Parties hereto for the purpose of enforcing a right or rights provided for by this Agreement shall be tried in a court of competent jurisdiction in the County of Riverside, State of California, and Parties hereto waive all provisions of law providing for a change of venue in such proceedings to any other county. Neither CITY nor DISTRICT shall assign this Agreement without the written consent of the other Party.

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8. This Agreement is made and entered into for the sole protection and benefit of Parties hereto. No other person or entity shall have any right of action based upon the provisions of this Agreement.

9. Any and all notices sent or required to be sent to Parties of this Agreement will be mailed by first class mail, postage prepaid, to the following addresses:

RIVERSIDE COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL CITY OF NORCO
AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 1281 Fifth Street
1995 Market Street Norco, CA 92860
Riverside, CA 92501 Attn: Director of Public Works
Attn: Planning Division

10. This Agreement is the result of negotiations between Parties hereto and the advice and assistance of their respective counsel. The fact that this Agreement was prepared as a matter of convenience by DISTRICT shall have no importance or significance. Any uncertainty or ambiguity in this Agreement shall not be construed against DISTRICT because DISTRICT prepared this Agreement in its final form.

11. Any waiver by DISTRICT or CITY of any breach by any other Party of any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed to be a waiver of any subsequent or other breach of the same or any other provision hereof. Failure on the part of DISTRICT or CITY to require from any other Party exact, full and complete compliance with any of the provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed as in any manner changing the terms hereof or estopping DISTRICT or CITY from enforcing this Agreement.

12. The obligations of DISTRICT are limited by and contingent upon the availability of DISTRICT funds for DISTRICT's financial contribution toward PROJECT as set forth herein. In the event such funds are not forth coming for any reason, DISTRICT shall immediately notify CITY in writing. The Agreement shall be deemed terminated and have no further force and effect immediately upon receipt of DISTRICT's notification by CITY. If CITY has executed any third-party contracts for PROJECT prior to DISTRICT terminating this

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Agreement pursuant to this provision, DISTRICT shall compensate CITY for any work performed prior to DISTRICT terminating this Agreement.

13. This Agreement is intended by Parties hereto as a final expression of their understanding with respect to the subject matter hereof and as a complete and exclusive statement of the terms and conditions thereof and supersedes any and all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, oral or written, in connection therewith. This Agreement may be changed or modified only upon the written consent of Parties hereto.

14. No alternation or variation of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by both Parties and no oral understanding or agreement not incorporated herein shall be binding on either Party hereto.

15. Nothing in the provisions of this Agreement is intended to create duties or obligations to or rights in third parties not Parties to this Agreement.

16. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Each Party of this Agreement agrees to the use of electronic signatures, such as digital signatures that meet the requirements of the California Uniform Electronic Transactions Act ("CUETA") Cal. Civ. Code §§ 1633.1 to 1633.17), for executing this Agreement. Parties further agree that the electronic signatures of Parties included in this Agreement are intended to authenticate this writing and to have the same force and effect as manual signatures. Electronic signature means an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or logically associated with an electronic record and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the electronic record pursuant to CUETA as amended from time to time. CUETA authorizes use of an electronic signature for transactions and contracts among Parties in California, including a government agency. Digital signature means an electronic identifier, created by computer, intended by Party using it to have the same force and effect as the use of a manual signature, and

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shall be reasonably relied upon by Parties. For purposes of this section, a digital signature is a type of "electronic signature" as defined in subdivision (i) of Section 1633.2 of the Civil Code. //
//

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this Agreement on .
(to be filled in by Clerk of the Board)
RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL:

RIVERSIDE COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL

AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT
By
JASON E. UHLEY
General Manager-Chief Engineer
By
KAREN SPIEGEL, Chair
Riverside County Flood Control and Water
Conservation District Board of Supervisors
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:

MINH C. TRAN
County Counsel

KIMBERLY RECTOR
Clerk of the Board
By

KRISTINE BELL-VALDEZ
Deputy County Counsel
By
Deputy
(SEAL)
Funding Agreement with City of Norco
Norco Recycled Water Distribution Systems
Project No. 2-0-10060
10/16/25
MER:blj

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RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: CITY OF NORCO
BY________________________________

LISETTE FREE
City Manager
By

GREG NEWTON
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:

By

COLIN BURNS
City Attorney
By

DANA ROA, CMC
City Clerk
(SEAL)
Funding Agreement with City of Norco
Norco Recycled Water Distribution Systems
Project No. 2-0-10060
10/16/25
MER:blj

TED RIVERSIDE COUNTY

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UNINCORPORATED RIVERSIDE COUNTY

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Legend
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Existing Below Ground District Facilities
Un-budgeted District Facilities
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City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

6.A.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Alma Robles, Community Development Director
Prepared By: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Department: Community Development
SUBJECT:

First Reading, Ordinance No.1135 (City of Norco): An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, Amending Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction” for the Adoption of, with Amendments, Chapter 15.09, the 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9) , and Chapter 15.130, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (California Code Of Regulations Title 24, Part 7). Code Amendment 2025-06.

RECOMMENDATION:

Approve the introduction and first reading of Ordinance 1135, Amending Norco Municipal Code Title 15 “Buildings and Construction” for the Adoption of, with Amendments, Chapter 15.09, the 2025 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9), and Chapter 15.130, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (California Code Of Regulations Title 24, Part 7). Code Amendment 2025-06.

SUMMARY:

The proposed ordinance will adopt the 2025 California Fire Code and Wildland-Urban Interface Code (WUI). State law requires that local government enforces these code editions.

BACKGROUND:

The new Fire Code and Wildland Urban Interface Code (WUI) will become effective January 1, 2026. State law allows local government to amend California Codes, provided that the amendments are more restrictive and are necessary in order to provide a higher level of life safety. Every three years the State of California adopts new model codes based on the latest codes published by the International Code Council (ICC). These codes are reviewed and recommended by the State Building Standards Commission. After publication of the codes, local governments are encouraged by the State of California to adopt and amend these codes to address local climatic,

geographical and topographical conditions as well as administrative provisions. Staff has analyzed these codes and has prepared amendments to ensure that this code meets the specific needs of the City of Norco.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact as a result of this item.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This item is consistent with Strategic Plan Direction No. 3 - Economic Development and Financial Stability: Assure financial stability by expanding development efforts, diversifying revenue sources and continuing prudent financial management.

REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

Ordinance 1135_REVISED Redlined

ORDINANCE NO. 1135

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORCO,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING NORCO MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 15
“BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION” FOR THE ADOPTION OF, WITH
AMENDMENTS, CHAPTER 15.09, THE 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE (CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS TITLE 24, PART 9) “FIRE CODE”, AND CHAPTER 15.130, TO ADOPT THE 2025 CALIFORNIA

WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE (WUI)(CALIFORNIA CODE OF
REGULATIONS TITLE 24, PART 7).

WHEREAS, THE CITY OF NORCO initiated Code Amendment No. 2025-06, amending Title 15 of the Norco Municipal Code to adopt with amendments, the 2025 California Fire Codes and the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code as the Official Fire Codes and Wildland-Urban Interface Code for the City of Norco; and WHEREAS, at the regular meeting on November 5October 1, 2025 the Norco City Council conducted a public hearing and received and considered oral and written testimony concerning the proposed code change; and
WHEREAS, the California Health and Safety Code requires cities and counties to adopt building standards that are consistent with those contained in the California Code of Regulations Title 24; and
WHEREAS, State law allows local governments to amend California Model Codes, providing the amendments are more restrictive and are necessary in order to provide the highest level of life-safety standards and requires that local governments enforce these code editions.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Norco, California, does hereby make the following FINDINGS:

A. California Health & Safety Code, Section 17958.5 and 18941.5 authorizes cities and counties to modify the California Building Standards Code by adopting more restrictive standards and modifications if such standards and modifications are accompanied by express findings that they are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions.

B. The City Council of the City of Norco finds that these local climatic, geological or topographical conditions include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. The City is subject to relatively low amounts of precipitation, very low humidity levels and extremely high temperatures. These climatic conditions are conducive to the spread of drought conditions and fires. For example, during July, August and September, temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. During the same months humidity is usually less than 40% and measurements of less than 10% are not uncommon. These recordings have been documented by the Riverside County Flood Control District and the

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
National Climatic Data Center.

2. The City is subject to extremely strong winds, commonly referred to as "Santa Ana Winds," which can reach speeds of up to 102 miles per hour. In addition, the convergence of the marine shore air flow and the desert air flow create steady winds on a daily basis. Finally, the City is bordered on the south by steep, rugged, brush-covered mountains and parts of the City contain hilly terrain and mounds, which either contribute to or create gusty wind conditions by causing a natural funneling effect and increasing wind speeds over the City.

3. The City is also subject to moderately strong shaking and surface ruptures from seismic activity in the area. The geologic and seismic setting of the City is dominated by the Chino and Elsinore earthquake faults along the southwest portion of the City and a diversity of bedrock and alluvial soils that may significantly affect the intensity of earthquake shaking. The Elsinore fault is located a short distance southwest of the City, while the Chino fault, which is subparallel to the Elsinore fault, is located just inside the City's southwestern boundary. Of the two faults, the Chino fault has the greater potential for surface rupture leading to structural damage of structures in the City. Moreover, the thin alluvial soils found in parts of the City contribute to a moderately high potential for liquefaction in certain areas.

C. The aforementioned geologic and climatic conditions have also contributed to the loss or damage of 450 homes in the Bel Air Fire of 1961; 187 homes in the Chatsworth Fire of 1970; 50 homes in the Mandeville Canyon Fire of 1978; 262 homes in the Anaheim Fire of 1982; 71 homes in the Baldwin Hills Fire of 1985; 33 homes in the Porter Ranch Fire of 1988; 162 homes in the Santa Barbara Fire of 1990; hundreds of acres in the nearby Chino Hills State Park Fire of 1997; the Corona Triangle/Freeway Complex Fire November 15, 2008 burned 318 properties, burned 30,305 plus acres, destroyed 187 single/multiple family homes, damaged 127 homes, damaged or destroyed four commercial properties; 200 acres were burned in the Sierra Pass Fire on September 24, 2013; the Madre Fire which burned 268 acres on September 23, 2013; the Little Fire on August 29, 2013 which burned 97 acres; the Deluz Fire on October 5, 2013 which burned 2236 acres, threatened 300 residents and the Naval Hospital; the Forks Complex Fire October 1, 2013 burned 37,246 acres; the Rim Fire September 3, 2013 which burned 257,314 acres, destroyed 3 commercial buildings and 11 residences; the Thomas Fire on December 4, 2017 burned 281,893 acres, 1063 structures and caused 2 deaths; the Woolsey Fire in November 2018 destroyed 1643 structures and caused 3 deaths; the Palisades Fire in January 2025 destroyed 6,837 structures and caused 12 deaths; and the Eaton Fire in January 2025 destroyed 9418 structures and caused 19 deaths.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
D. These fires, as well as the recent Whittier Earthquake of 1987, Northridge Earthquake of 1994, the Chino Hills Earthquake of 2008 and the recent 2019 Ridgecrest Earthquakes have resulted in the tragic loss of lives along with enormous property losses.

E. For practicality and cost reasons, many new structures are built of wood (Type V) construction. The potential for a conflagration exists due to the design and density of current structures.

F. Electrical supply and telephone communication failures occur due to high winds as well as other reasons. Water supply pumps and early notification of a fire cannot always be counted on.

G. Based upon the recommendations of the Building Official, the City Council finds that the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Fire Standards Code (“amendments”) and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Standard Code ("amendments") are more restrictive than the standards adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, would decrease the potential incidence of property damage, injury and death due to fires and earthquakes, and are reasonable and necessary to mitigate the aforementioned local climatic, geologic or topographical conditions.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Norco, California, does hereby ordain:

SECTION 1. FINDINGS.

Title 15.09 (California Fire Code) is hereby amended to read as follows Existing Chapters and Sections in Title 15.09 not amended below shall remain effective:

Title 15.09
Fire Code
Chapter 15.09

15.09.010 Adoption of the fire code.

Except as stated in this section or as amended in Section 15.09, all of the provisions and appendices of the 2025 California Fire Code, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set forth in each chapter’s matrix, are hereby adopted and shall apply to the City of Norco. In addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California Fire Code are hereby adopted: Chapter 1, Division II of the California Fire

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Code is hereby adopted, except that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and Chapters 3, 25, and Sections 503, 510.2, 1103.2, and 5707 are adopted.

15.09.020 Findings.

The City Council finds that the requirements set out here are reasonable and necessary modifications because of climatic, geological and topographical conditions within the City of Norco.

15.09.030 Title.

This chapter shall be cited as the “Fire Code” of the City of Norco and any references to the “California Fire Code”, “CFC”, “Norco Fire Code, or “Fire Code” shall be deemed to refer to and apply to this chapter.

15.09.040 Amendment—Section 101.4, Severability.

Section 101.4 is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
101.4 Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared to be severable.

15.09.050 Amendment—Section 102.5, Application of residential code.

Section 102.5 of the California Fire Code is hereby amended as follows:
102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residential Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:

1. Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 of this code shall apply.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

2. Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.

3. Automatic fire sprinkler system requirements of this code shall apply to detached accessory buildings 3,600 square feet or greater in accordance with Section 903.2. The provisions contained in Section 903.2.18 of the California Fire Code or Section R317.5.1 of the California Residential Code may be used for the design of the automatic fire sprinkler system for detached private garages.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

15.09.060 Addition-Section 102.13.1, Application of the California WildlandUrban Interface Code.

Section 102.13.1 is hereby added to Section 102.13 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
102.13.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the Riverside County Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.

15.09.070 Addition—Section 104.1.1, Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy and Fire Department.

Section 104.1.1 is hereby added to Section 104.1 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy and Fire Department.

1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee, is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this ordinance and to perform such duties as directed by the City Council.

2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee, is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief’s, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s, direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce ordinances of the City of Norco pertaining to the following:

2.1. The prevention of fires.

2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires.

2.3. The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.

2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.

2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.

2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction.

2.7. The maintenance of means of egress.

2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials.

3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law:

3.1. The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

3.2. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.3. The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.

3.4. The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.5. Officers of the California Highway Patrol.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

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3.6. Code Officers of the City of Norco Code Enforcement Department.

3.7. Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

3.8. The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management.

15.09.080 Amendment-Section 104.2, Determination of compliance.

Section 104.2 is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures:

1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.

2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code.

15.09.090 Amendment-Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1, Liability.

Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1 are hereby deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law.

15.09.100 Addition—Section 104.12, Authority of the Fire Chief to close hazardous fire areas.

Section 104.12 is hereby added to Section 104 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
104.12 Authority of the Fire Chief to close hazardous fire areas. Except upon National Forest Land, the Fire Chief is authorized to determine and announce the closure of any hazardous fire area or portion thereof. Any closure by the Fire Chief for a period of more than fifteen (15) calendar days must be approved by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and/or the City Council within fifteen (15) calendar days of the Fire Chief’s original order of closure. Upon such closure, no person shall go in or be upon any hazardous fire area, except upon the public roadways and inhabited areas. During such closure, the Fire Chief shall erect and maintain at all entrances to the closed area sufficient signs giving notice of closure. This section shall not prohibit residents or owners of private property within any closed area, or their invitees, from going in or being upon their lands. This section shall not apply to any entry, in the course of duty, by a peace officer, duly authorized public officer or fire department personnel. For the purpose of this section, “hazardous fire area” shall mean public or private land that is covered with grass, grain, brush or forest and situated in a location that makes

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
suppression difficult resulting in great damage. Such areas are designated on Hazardous Fire Area maps filed with the office of the Fire Chief.

15.09.110 Amendment and Addition—Section 108.2, 108.2.1, 108.7, 108.7.1, 108.7.2, Fees.

Section 108.2 is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:
108.2 Schedule of permit Fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the City of Norco fee schedule.

Section 108.2.1 is hereby added to Section 108.2 of the California Fire Code read as follows:
108.2.1 Plan Review Fees. When it is determined by the Fire Code official that plans submitted require a full plan review and such plans are received independent of the architectural plans, a fee shall be collected. The fee shall be based on 100% of the cost of service, based on the fee schedule adopted by the City Council.

Section 108.7 is hereby added to Section 108 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
108.7 Cost recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 11374.5(b)(1 ), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement of any provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release, and any rescue or rendering of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt obligation arising from the incident Section 108.7.1 and 108.7.2 are hereby added to Section 108.7 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
108.7.1 Recovery of Administration Citation Fines and Costs. In addition to any other legal remedy for collection of delinquent fines or penalties, the Fire Code official may record a lien on property in an amount equal to the sum of any fine’s delinquent for more than ninety (90) days, plus penalties and interest. Imposition of a lien pursuant to this section must be based on a citation related to the condition or use of real property, or its improvements, owned by the responsible person.
108.7.2 Satisfaction of Lien. Once the City of Norco receives full payment for the outstanding principal, penalties and cost the City shall record a release of property lien to the Riverside County Recorder’s office. This notice of satisfaction shall cancel the posted lien.

15.09.120 Amendment and Addition—Section 112, Board of appeals.

Section 112.1 of the California Fire Code is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:
112.1 Board of appeals established. The Board of Appeals shall be the City Manager. If he or she determines an outside board is needed, he or she shall designate an outside hearing officer to hear the appeal. The Fire Chief and Chief Deputy shall be notified of any appeal and the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy or designee’s shall be in attendance at the appeal hearing. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited, at the expense of the applicant, for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board.

Section 112.2 is hereby added to Section 112 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
112.2 Administrative appeals. Whenever the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s disapproves an application or refuses to grant a permit applied for, or when it is claimed that the provisions of the Fire Code do not apply or that the true intent and meaning of said code has been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, an applicant or allegedly aggrieved person may appeal from the decision of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s to the City Council by filing with the City Clerk a notice of appeal in writing and stating therein the grounds therefor. The notice of appeal must be so filed within thirty days from the date of the decision being appealed. The City Council shall hear said appeal within thirty days after the notice of appeal is filed. The Council’s decision shall be final.

15.09.130 Amendment—Section 113.4, Violations.

Section 113.4 is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced to read as follows:
113.4 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance, or to violate the

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code or ordinance. Punishments and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with the City of Norco ordinances, fee schedule and Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5.

15.09.140 Amendment—Section 202, General Definitions.

Section 202, definition of “Fire Chief” is hereby amended to read as follows:

FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief’s designee.

15.09.150 Amendment—Section 308.1.7, Sky lanterns or similar devices.

Section 308.1.7 is hereby amended to read as follows:
308.7 Sky lanterns or similar devices. A person shall not release or cause to be released a sky lantern or similar device.

15.09.160 Addition-Section 503.1.2.1, Remoteness.

Section 503.1.2.1 is hereby added to Section 503.1.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Unless otherwise approved, where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.

15.09.170 Amendment—Section 503.2.1, Dimensions.

Section 503.2.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 24 feet (7315 mm), 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 (4115 mm). For additional requirements or alternatives see Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines, Standards and Policies, as they may be amended from time to time.

15.09.180 Amendment—Section 503.2.2, Authority.

Section 503.2.2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall be the only authority authorized to designate fire apparatus access roads and fire lanes and to modify the minimum fire lane access widths for fire or rescue operations.

15.09.190 Addition—Section 503.6.1, Automatic opener.

Section 503.6.1 is hereby added to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
503.6.1 Automatic opener. New motorized gates shall be provided with means to be automatically opened remotely by emergency vehicle in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines, Standards and Policies, as they may be amended from time to time.

Exception: Gates serving individual one- and two-family dwelling parcels.

15.09.200 Addition—Section 503.7, Loading areas and passenger drop-off areas.

Section 503.7 is hereby added to Section 503 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
503.7 Loading areas and passenger drop-off areas. On private properties, where fire apparatus access roads are utilized for loading or unloading or utilized for passenger drop-off or pick-up, an additional eight (8) feet of width shall be added to the minimum required width for the fire apparatus access road.

15.09.210 Amendment—Section 505.1, Premises identification.

Section 505.1 is amended to read and Sections 505.1.1 and 505.2 have been added as follows:
505.1 Premises Identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Number, size, location and means of illumination shall comply with the Norco City and Riverside County Fire Department Guideline and/or Standard for premises identification unless an alternative means or method is approved by the Fire Code official. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. The height / size of premises identification shall comply with Norco City and Riverside County Fire Guideline and/or Standards Premises Identification.
505.1.1 Directories. When required by the Fire Code official, multi-story buildings, complexes with multiple buildings may be required to provide directories, premises maps and directional signs. The scale, design and location of the directory sign shall be approved by the Fire Code official and may be required to be illuminated. 505.2 Street and Road Signs. All streets and roads shall be identified with approved signs. Temporary signs shall be installed at each street intersection when construction of new roadways allows passage by vehicle. Signs shall be of an approved size, weather resistant and be maintained until replaced by permanent signs.

15.09.220 Addition—Section 507.5.7, Fire hydrant size and outlets.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Section 507.5.7 is hereby added to Section 507.5 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
507.5.7 Fire hydrant size and outlets. As determined by the Fire Code official, fire hydrant sizes and outlets shall be based on the following:

1. Residential Standard—one (1) four (4) inch outlet and one (1) two and half (2 1/2) inch outlet.

2. Super Hydrant Standard—one (1) four (4) inch outlet and two (2) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlet.

3. Super Hydrant Enhanced—two (2) four (4) inch outlet and one (1) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlet.

15.09.230 Addition—Section 507.5.8, Fire hydrant street marker.

Section 507.5.8 is hereby added to Section 507.5 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department Technical Policy 06-11 Guidelines, as they may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor, developer or person responsible for removal or damage.

15.09.240 Amendment—Section 508, Fire command center.

Sections 508.1, 508.1.1, 508.1.3, 508.1.6, and 508.1.8 are hereby amended to read as follows:
508.1 General. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the California Building Code, in buildings greater than 300,000 square feet in area and in Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and comply with Sections 508.1.1 through 508.1.8.
508.1.1 Location and access. The fire command center shall be located adjacent to the main lobby and shall be accessible from fire department vehicular access or as approved by the Fire Code official. The room shall have direct access from the building exterior at the lowest level of fire department access. 508.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be not less than 0.015 percent of the total building area of the facility served or 200 square feet (19 m2) in area, whichever is greater, with a minimum dimension of 0.7 times the square root of the room area or 10 feet (3048 mm), whichever is greater.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Where a fire command center is solely required because a building is greater than 300,000 square feet (27 870 m2), the fire command center shall have a minimum size of 96 square feet (9 m2) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438 mm) where approved by the fire code official.
508.1.6 Required features. The fire command center shall comply with NFPA 72 and shall contain the following features:

1. The emergency voice/alarm communication system control unit.

2. The fire department communications system.

3. Fire alarm system zoning annunciator panel required by Section 907.6.4.3.

4. Annunciator unit visually indicating the location of the elevators and whether they are operational.

5. Status indicators and controls for air distribution systems.

6. The firefighter’s control panel required by Section 909.16 for smoke control systems installed in the building.

7. Controls for unlocking stairway doors simultaneously.

8. Sprinkler valve and water-flow detector display panels.

9. Emergency and standby power status indicators.

10. A telephone for fire department use with controlled access to the public telephone system.

11. Fire pump status indicators.

12. Schematic building plans indicating the typical floor plan and detailing the building core, means of egress, fire protection systems, fire-fighter air-replenishment systems, fire-fighting equipment and fire department access, and the location of fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions.

13. An approved Building Information Card that includes, but is not limited to, all of the following information:

13.1. General building information that includes property name, address, the number of floors in the building above and below grade, use and occupancy classification (for mixed uses, identify the different types of occupancies on each floor) and the estimated building population during the day, night and weekend.

13.2. Building emergency contact information that includes: a list of the building’s emergency contacts including but not limited to building manager, building engineer and their respective work phone number, cell phone number and e-mail address.

13.3. Building construction information that includes: the type of building construction including but not limited to floors, walls, columns and roof assembly.

13.4. Exit access stairway and exit stairway information that includes: number of exit access stairways and exit stairways in building; each exit access stairway and exit stairway designation and floors served; location where each exit access stairway and exit stairway discharges, interior exit stairways that are pressurized; exit stairways provided with emergency lighting; each exit stairway that allows reentry; exit stairways providing roof access; elevator information that includes: number of elevator banks, elevator bank designation, elevator car numbers and respective floors that they serve;

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

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location of elevator machine rooms, control rooms and control spaces; location of sky lobby; and location of freight elevator banks;

13.5. Building services and system information that includes: location of mechanical rooms, location of building management system, location and capacity of all fuel oil tanks, location of emergency generator and location of natural gas service;

13.6. Fire protection system information that includes: location of standpipes, location of fire pump room, location of fire department connections, floors protected by automatic sprinklers and location of different types of automatic sprinkler systems installed including but not limited to dry, wet and pre-action;

13.7. Hazardous material information that includes: location and quantity of hazardous material.

14. Worktable.

15. Generator supervision devices, manual start and transfer features.

16. Public address system, where specifically required by other sections of this code.

17. Elevator fire recall switch in accordance with ASME A17.1.

18. Elevator emergency or standby power selector switch(es), where emergency or standby power is provided.

19. A master switch for unlocking elevator lobby doors permitted by Section 1010.2.12.1.

Exception: A fire command center solely required because a building is greater than 300,000 square feet in area shall comply with NFPA 72 and contain the features set forth in Section 508.1.6 subsections 5, 8, 10, 12, 13 and 14. The features set forth in Section 508.1.6 subsections 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 shall be required when such building contains systems or functions related to these features. 508.1.87 Fire command center identification. The fire command center shall be identified by a permanent easily visible sign stating, “Fire Dept. Command Center,” located on the door to the fire command center.

15.09.250 Addition Amendment—Section 606.10.1.2 608.11.1.2, Manual operation.

Section 608.11.1.2 has been added and is hereby amended to read as follows:
608.11.1.2 Manual operation. When required by the Fire Code official, automatic crossover valves shall be capable of manual operation. The manual valves shall be located in an approved location immediately outside of the machinery room in a secure metal box or equivalent and marked as Emergency Controls.

15.09.260 Amendment—Section 903.2, Where required.

Section 903.2 is hereby amendeddeleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Section 903.2 Where Required.

1. In all new buildings and structures which are 3,600 square feet or greater, an approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided regardless of occupancy classification. Where the Sections 903.2.1 – 903.2.21 of the

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
California Fire Code require more restrictive requirements than those listed below, the more restrictive requirement shall take precedence.

2. All existing buildings, except for one- and two-family dwellings, shall be retrofitted with automatic fire sprinklers when a structure exceeds 3,600 square feet and changes are made to the building including any of the following: change of use/occupancy, removal of an existing fire wall as defined by the California Building Code, or additions of 50% or more are made to the original building area and the resulting square footage exceeds 5,000 square feet.

3. One- and two-family dwellings shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. Fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured homes and multifamily manufactured homes with two dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Exceptions: Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following:

1. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries not required to have an automatic sprinkler system by Section 1207 for energy storage systems and standby engines, provided that those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

2. Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed in accordance with the California Building Code.

3. Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open on all sides and used for riding only - no commercial, assembly or storage uses.

4. Non-combustible fueling station canopies not exceeding 10,000 square feet when separated from other buildings by a distance of not less than 50 feet.

5. Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all sides and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of vehicles and dining areas with no cooking.

6. Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists, and the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to other structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted.

The following exceptions in the California Fire Code shall not be allowed:
a) Exception in Section 903.2.3
b) Exception in Section 903.2.11.3

15.09.270 Amendment—Section 903.2.8, Residential sprinklered buildings.

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

1. New Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

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2. Existing Buildings Additions/Remodel: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout any existing building when the floor area of the alteration exceeds 50% of the existing structure and the building area exceeds 2,500 square feet of total floor area. Attached garages shall be included in the total floor area calculations.

Existing buildings that are declared by the building department as “New Buildings” because of percentage of building being structurally torn and rebuilt shall install a Residential Fire Sprinkler System.

Exceptions:

1. Detached buildings containing two or less dwelling units with less than 2,500 square feet. Group R-3.1 occupancies not housing bedridden clients, not housing non-ambulatory clients above the second floor, and less than 2,500 square feet.

2. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13113 occupancies housing ambulatory children only, none of whom are mentally ill, and building or portions thereof housing such children are not more than two stories in height, and thereof housing such children have an automatic fire alarm system activated by approved smoke detectors.

3. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.6 occupancies licensed for protective social care which house ambulatory clients only, none of whom is a child (under the age of 18 years), or who is elderly (65 years of age or over).

4. When the cost of installing an automatic sprinkler system exceeds 10% of the cost of the alteration, with the approval of the Fire Code official, the required automatic system may be omitted.

5. Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

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1. Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed in accordance with the California Building Code.

2. Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open on all sides and used for riding only—no commercial, assembly or storage uses.

3. Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all sides and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of vehicles and dining areas with no cooking.

4. Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists, and the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to other structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted.

15.09.280 Amendment—Section 903.3.1.1.1, Fire sprinkler exempt locations.

Section 903.3.1.1.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations. In other than Group I-2, I-2.1 and I-3 occupancies, automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance rated construction or contains electrical equipment.

1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard.

2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents, when approved by the Fire Code official.

3. Fire service access elevator machine rooms and machinery spaces.

4. When approved by the Fire Code official, spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, and associated electrical power distribution equipment, provided

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the CBC or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the CBC, or both.

15.09.27090 Addition—Section 903.3.5.3, Hydraulically calculated systems.

Section 903.3.5.3 is hereby added to Section 903.3.5 of the California Fire Code 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.

15.09.280300 Addition-Section 904.2.2.1, Activation of the Fire Alarm System.

Section 904.2.2.1 is hereby added to Section 904.2.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
904.2.2.1 Activation of the Fire Alarm System. Where a fire alarm signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the automatic fireextinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72.  If a fire alarm signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is not present, one will be required to be installed to provide monitoring for the automatic fire -extinguishing system.

15.09.290310 Addition—Section 3206.4.2, Minimum requirements for client leased or occupant owned warehouses.

Section 3206.4.2 is hereby added to Section 3206.4 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
3206.4.2 Minimum requirements for client leased or occupant owned warehouses. Designs of an automatic sprinkler system for client leased or occupant owned buildings containing high pile storage shall be based on the requirements of NFPA 13. Unless otherwise approved a Professional

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Engineer, licensed in the State of California, shall perform a survey of the building to determine commodity classification, storage configuration, building height and other information related to the development of an appropriate sprinkler system design. The engineer shall also make reasonable efforts to meet with the building owner or operator to understand seasonal or customer related fluctuations to the stored commodities, storage height, and configuration. The sprinkler design shall be based on the most demanding requirements determined through the onsite survey and discussions with the building owner or operator. The technical report shall describe the basis for determining the commodity and sprinkler design selection, how the commodities will be isolated or separated, and include references to the design document(s). If a specific fire test is used as the basis of design, a copy of the fire test report shall be provided at the time of plan review.

15.09.300320 Addition-Section 4107, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles.

Section 4107 is hereby added to Chapter 41 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4107 Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles
Sections 4107.1 through 4107.2.3 are hereby added to Section 4107 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
4107.1 General. Mobile food preparation vehicles that are equipped with appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapors shall comply with this section.
4107.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of systems on mobile food preparation vehicles shall be in accordance with Sections 4107.2.1 through 4107.2.3. 4107.2.1 Exhaust system. The exhaust system, including hood, greaseremoval devices, fans, ducts and other appurtenances, shall be inspected and cleaned in accordance with Section 606.3.
4107.2.2 Fire protection systems and devices. Fire protection systems and devices shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.6.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
4107.2.3 Fuel gas systems. LP-gas containers installed on the vehicle and fuel-gas piping systems shall be inspected annually by an approved inspection agency or a company that is registered with the U.S.

Department of Transportation to requalify LP-gas cylinders, to ensure that system components are free from damage, suitable for the intended service and not subject to leaking. CNG containers shall be inspected every 3 years in a qualified service facility. CNG containers shall not be used past their expiration date as listed on the manufacturer’s container label. Upon satisfactory inspection, the approved inspection agency shall affix a tag on the fuel gas system or within the vehicle indicating the name of the inspection agency and the date of satisfactory inspection.

15.09.31030 Addition—Section 5608.2, Fireworks display firing.

Section 5608.2 is hereby added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Section 5608.2 Fireworks Display Firing. All fireworks displays shall be electronically fired.

15.09.32040 Addition-Section 5608.3, Fallout Area.

Section 5608.3 is hereby added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:
5608.3 Fallout Area. For aerial shells, the minimum required radius of the fallout area shall be 100 ft/in. (22 m/25 mm) of the internal mortar diameter of the largest aerial shell to be fired, unless otherwise approved.

15.09.33050 Addition—Section 5608.4, Seizure of fireworks.

Section 5608.4 is hereby added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Section 5608.4 Seizure of Fireworks. The Fire Code official shall have the authority to seize, take and remove fireworks stored, sold, offered for sale, used or handled in violation of the provisions of Title 19 CCR, Chapter 6. Any seizure or removal pursuant to this section shall be in compliance with all applicable statutory, constitutional, and decisional law and shall comply with NMC 9.20.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

15.09.34060 Addition—Section 5608.5 Firework displays.

Section 5608.5 is hereby added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Section 5608.5 Firework Displays. Fireworks displays shall be in accordance with the regulations of the State Fire Marshal, and with the conditions of the permit as approved by the Fire Code official.

15.09.35070 Addition—Section 5608.6, Retail fireworks.

Section 5608.6 is hereby added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Section 5608.6 Retail Fireworks. The storage, use, sale, possession, and handling of fireworks 1.4G (commonly referred to as Safe & Sane) and fireworks 1.3G is prohibited.

Exception: Fireworks 1.4G and fireworks 1.3G may be part of an electrically fired public display when permitted and conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic operator.

15.09.36080 Addition-Section B103.2.1, Wildland-Urban Interface Area Subdivisions.

Section B103.2.1 is hereby added to Section B103.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows:

B103.2.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Subdivisions. The minimum fire flow for any new subdivision or tract constructed within a Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall be 1,500 gallons per minute.

15.09.37090 Amendment—Table B105.2 of Appendix B, Required fire-flow for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.

Table B105.2 of Appendix B is hereby amended to read as follows:

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TABLE B105.2

REQUIRED FIRE-FLOW FOR BUILDINGS

OTHER THAN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY
DWELLINGS, GROUP R-3 AND R-4

BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES

AUTOMATIC

SPRINKLER
SYSTEM (Design
Standard)

MINIMUM
FIREFLOW
(gallons
per
minute)
FLOW

DURATION
(hours)
No automatic
sprinkler system
Value in
Table
B105.1(2)
Duration in
Table
B105.1(2)
Section 903.3.1.1 of
the California Fire
Code
50% of
the value
in Table
B105.1(2)a
Duration in
Table
B105.1(2)
at the
reduced
flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of
the California Fire
Code
50% of
the value
in Table
B105.1(2)b
Duration in
Table
B105.1(2)
at the
reduced
flow rate
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,000 gallons per minute. b. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

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15.09.380400 Amendment—C103.1, Hydrant spacing.

Section C103.1 of Appendix C is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with the following:

C103.1 Hydrant spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 of the International Fire Code shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants, as determined by Section C102.1. Where more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3. Fire hydrants shall be provided at street intersections.

SECTION 2. FINDINGS.

Title 15.130 (California Wildland-Urban Interface Code) is hereby amended to read as follows
Existing Chapters and Sections in Title 15.130 not amended below shall remain effective:

Title 15.130
Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Chapter 15.130

15.130.010 Adoption of the wildland-urban interface code.

Except as stated in this Section or as amended below in Section 15.130 of this Ordinance, all of the provisions and appendices of the 2025 California WildlandUrban Interface Code, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set for in each chapter's matrix, are hereby adopted and shall apply to the City of Norco. In

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California WildlandUrban Interface Code – Chapter 1, Division II of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is hereby adopted, except that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and sections A101 through A102.2, A102.4, A104, A105.1, A105.4 through A105.4.2, A106 through A106.2 and A107 through A107.5 are adopted.

15.09.020 Findings.

The City Council finds that the requirements set out here are reasonable and necessary modifications because of climatic, geological and topographical conditions within the City of Norco.

15.09.030 Title.

This chapter shall be cited as the “wildland-urban interface code” of the City of Norco and any references to the “California Wildland-Urban Interface Code”, “CWUIC”, “WUI”, or “wildland-urban interface code” shall be deemed to refer to and apply to this chapter.

APPLICATION AND AROPTION OF THE CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE. Except as stated in this Section or as amended below in Section 15.09.380 of this Ordinance, all of the provisions and appendices of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set for in each chapter's matrix, are hereby adopted and shall apply to the City of Norco. In addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code – Chapter 1, Division II of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is hereby adopted, except that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and sections A101 through A102.2, A102.4, A104, A105.1, A105.4 through A105.4.2, A106 through A106.2 and A107 through A107.5 are adopted.

AMENDMENTS TO THE CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE:

A. APPLICABILITY

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

1. A new Section 102.4.1.1 is hereby added to Section 102.4.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
102.4.1.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the City of Norco Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.

B. DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL

1. A new Section 104.l.l is hereby added to Section 104.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and Fire Department.

1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this ordinance and to perform such duties as directed by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.

2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief’s, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce the ordinances of Riverside County pertaining to the following:

2.1The prevention of fires.

2.2The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or
hazardous fires.

2.3The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.

2.4The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.

2.5The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.

2.6The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction.

2.7The maintenance of means of egress.

2.8The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law:

3.1The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

3.2The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.3The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.

3.4The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.5Officers of the California Highway Patrol.

3.6Code Officers of the Riverside County Code Enforcement Department.

3.7Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

3.8The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management.

2. Section 104.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted and replaced with the following:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions.

Such interpretations, policies, procedures:

1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.

2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code.

3. Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
C. PERMITS

1. Sections 105.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
105.2 Permits Required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.

For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.

Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildlandurban interface area:
a) Automobile wrecking yard
b) Candles and open flames in assembly areas
c) Explosives or blasting agents
d) Fireworks
e) Flammable or combustible liquids
f) Hazardous materials
g) Liquefied petroleum gases
h) Landscape and fuel modification zones
i) Lumberyards
j) Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations
k) Open burning
l) Pallet Yards
m) Pyrotechnical special effects material
n) Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures
o) Tire storage
p) Welding and cutting operations.

D. FEES

1. Section 108.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the City of Norco fee schedule.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

2. A new Section 108.7 is added to Section 108 of the California WildlandUrban Interface Code to read as follows:
108.7 Cost recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 11374.5(b)(1 ), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement of any provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release, and any rescue or rendering of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt obligation arising from the incident.

E. INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT

1. Section 109.3.7 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
109.3.7 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code. Punishments and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with the City of Norco ordinances, any applicable fee schedule and Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5 and Government Code Section 51185.

F. DEFINITIONS

1. Section 202, definition of "Fire Chief” in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief’s designee.

G. WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA DESIGNATIONS

1. Section 302.1.1 is added to Section 302.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
302.1.1 Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The City Council has adopted the recommendations of the State Fire Marshal made pursuant to Government Code section 51178 and designated those areas within the County as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones as shown on the Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones Maps published by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The Maps have been adopted under Ordinance No. 1131.

H. SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS

1. Section 501.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface shall be amended as follows:
501.1 Scope. Buildings and structures in a wildland-urban interface area shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and this code. For the purpose of this Chapter, a wildland-urban interface area shall be defined as a geographical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, and other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires, and shall include those areas designated by Ordinance 999 as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Government Code Section 51178.

Exceptions:
a) Group U accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m2) in floor area where located not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings.
b) Group U agricultural buildings not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings.

I. FIRE PROTECTION PLANS

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

1. Section 602.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
602.1 General. A fire protection plan shall be submitted to the Fire Code Official for any proposed subdivision of land or building project. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.

The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.

Submittal of a preliminary fire protection plan shall be required prior to the submission of a final fire protection plan.

Exception: A single-family dwelling (Group R-3 Occupancy) when located on an existing legal parcel.

2. Section 602.3.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
602.3.2 Final Fire Protection Plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in Section 602.3.1 and the following:

1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to:

1.1The plant life-form;

1.2The scientific and common name; and

1.3The expected height and width for mature growth.

2. Identification of irrigated and non-irrigated zones.

3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes.

4. Identification of existing vegetation proposed to remain.

5. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain vegetation in common areas.

6. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing, or modifying areas on the property.

7. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zones.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

8. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants, conditions and restrictions regarding property owner
responsibilities for vegetation maintenance.

J. VEGETATION PLAN

1. Section 603.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new and replacement landscaping shall be selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures.

2. Section 603.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
603.3 Landscape and Fuel Modification plans. Landscape and Fuel Modification plans shall be submitted for any project located in a WUI area. The landscape and Fuel Modification plan shall include development and maintenance requirements for the vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways, and to provide significant fire hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety.

3. Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following:

1. Delineation of the 5-foot (1524 mm) (Zone 0), 30-foot (9144 mm) (Zone 1) and 100-foot (30 480 mm) (Zone 2) fuel management zones from all structures.

2. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation.

3. Identification of irrigated areas.

4. A plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all plant material symbols.

5. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot (9144 mm) zone.

K. MAINTENANCE OF DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

1. Section 604.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
604.1 General. Vegetation and fuels shall be managed to reduce the severity of potential exterior wildfire exposure to buildings and to reduce the risk of fire spreading to buildings as required by applicable laws and regulations.

2. Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
604.3 Requirements. Vegetation and fuels around all buildings and structures shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations:

1. Public Resources Code, Section 4291.

2. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 3, Article 3, Section 1299.03.

3. California Government Code, Section 51182.

4. California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Section 3.07.

5. The requirements of Section 15.09.380, Appendix A of this ordinance and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

3. Section 604.3.1 is added to Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.3.1 Retroactivity. When required by the Fire Code Official, or State Law, existing Defensible Space/Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ) shall require retrofitting, including thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation, to meet this Code or State Law. Upon notification by the Fire Code Official, and when approved, work to bring an existing Defensible Space and FMZ into compliance with this Code, may be done over a two to four (2-4) year period as determined by the Fire Code Official. A compliance plan prepared by the property owner may be requested for review and approval by the Fire Code Official.

4. Section 604.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.6 Clearance of brush, vegetative growth, and combustible material from improved parcels. All improved parcels declared a Public Nuisance shall be cleared entirely of combustible material. If the Fire Code Official determines this impractical, the provisions of Section 15.090.380, Section 604.7 may be used.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

5. Section 604.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7 Clearance of fuels or vegetative growth from structures.

Clearance of fuels and vegetative growth from structures shall be per sections 604.7.1 through 604.7.4 of this code.

6. Section 604.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.1 Structures. Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining any Building or structure in, upon, or adjoining any FHSZ, governed by this section, and any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such Buildings, shall at all times maintain around and adjacent to such Building, an effective firebreak made by removing and clearing away, all combustible material on their property for a distance not less than 100 feet from all portions of the Building.

Distances may be increased by the Fire Code Official due to a site-specific analysis based on local conditions and when required, based on a Fire Protection Plan. This section shall not apply to single specimens or stands of protected species of trees, Ornamental Landscape or similar plants used in landscaping and ground covers, that are well-pruned, maintained, and spaced, and do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other nearby vegetation to a structure or from a structure to other nearby vegetation or to interrupt the advance of embers toward a structure.

7. Section 604.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.2 Timing for New Buildings and additions to Existing Buildings.

The provisions of Section 15.090.380, Section 604.7 shall be completed prior to vertical construction of any New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

8. Section 604.7.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.3 Photovoltaic Systems. The clearance requirements around freestanding photovoltaic systems and equipment shall comply with the following:

1. A minimum 10-foot clearance for clusters of panels not exceeding 1,500 square feet of combined panel area.

2. A minimum of 30-foot clearance for clusters of panels greater than 1,500 square feet of combined panel area.

3. Clusters shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

4. Panels and clusters shall be not located within 30 feet of any Building subject to clearance requirements of Section 15.090.380, Section 604 unless the clearance requirements of Section

15.090.380, Section 604 are provided as measured from the perimeter of the panel or cluster.

9. Section 604.8 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8 Defensible Space clearance zones and requirements. The required 100-foot Defensible Space clearance is identified in three (3) distinct zones: Zone 0, 1, and 2.

10.Section 604.8.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.1 Requirements. Defensible Space shall be in accordance with the requirements of Appendix A of this code, Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines and the specific requirements for each zone listed in Section 15.090.380, Sections 604.8.2 through 604.8.5.

11.Section 604.8.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2 Zone 0 purpose and location. Zone 0 reduces the likelihood of structure ignition by reducing the potential for direct ignition of the structure from flame contact, by embers that accumulate at the base of a wall, and/or indirect ignitions when embers ignite vegetation, vegetative debris, or other combustible materials located close to the structure that result in either a radiant heat and/or a direct flame contact exposure to the structure.

Zone 0 is the horizontal area within the first five (5) feet around the structure, including stairs, balconies, attached or adjacent decks, and outbuildings. Zone 0 is measured from the edge of a structure, attached or adjacent decks, patio covers, balconies, and floor projections abovegrade. Zone 0 also includes the area on the roof of a building, and underneath and on top of attached decks, patio covers, balconies, and stair landings.

Advisory Notice: Riverside County Fire Department has local Zone 0 requirements currently in effect for new Buildings and additions to existing Buildings. New State regulations for Zone 0 are currently under development by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Any State regulation more restrictive than this ordinance shall apply. This may require thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation to meet State Law and regulations.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

12.Section 604.8.2.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.1 Non-Combustible Zone 0 for New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, and new or replacement landscape. Fuels, including Combustible Materials and vegetation, are prohibited in Zone 0 for all New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, installation of new landscape, and refurbishment of existing landscape areas.

The application date of Section 15.090.380, Section 604.8.2.1 shall be the later application date when any of the following occur:

1. Fire Department Clearance for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

2. Building permit for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

3. Landscape plans submitted for Riverside County Fire Department review.

4. Replacement of landscape when landscape plans are not required.

13.Section 604.8.2.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.2 Additional requirements in Zone 0.

1. New and existing tree canopies are prohibited within 10 feet of New Buildings, including the addition portion to Existing Buildings.

Exception: Existing protected oak trees shall be trimmed to provide a minimum 5-foot clearance above the roof and 5 feet to the side of any New Building, or the addition portion to an Existing Building.

2. Landscaped roofs are prohibited.

3. Vegetation underneath decks is prohibited.

4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed.

5. Artificial or synthetic grass is prohibited within Zone 0.

6. Vines and climbing plants are not allowed on structures, including decks, patio/shade structures, and any fences within 5 feet of a Building.

7. Combustible mulch and wood chips are prohibited.

8. Firewood is prohibited.

9. All fencing and gates shall be non-combustible. See Article 4, Section 604.11.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

14.Section 604.8.2.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.3 Zone 0 requirements for Existing Buildings.

15.Section 604.8.2.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.3.1 Zone 0 restrictions. The following requirements apply within Zone 0 for all Existing Buildings with landscape installed prior to January 1, 2026:

1. No combustible landscape mulch or wood chips.

2. No firewood.

3. No vegetation underneath decks.

4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed.

5. Roofs and gutters on Buildings shall be maintained free of any leaves, needles, or other vegetative Combustible Materials.

6. The vertical clearance distance for trees and vegetation above any roof shall be not less than 3 feet.

7. A minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided to the side and above any eave or roof projection from the exterior wall of a Building. A minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided below any eave or roof projection. This requirement also applies to any patio cover or other Building projections.

8. New trees are not allowed.

9. New or replacement landscaping shall comply with Section

15.090.380, Sections 604.8.1, 604.8.2.1, and 604.8.2.2.

16.Section 604.8.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.3 Zone 1 purpose and location. Zone 1 reduces the likelihood of fire burning directly to the structure. This is accomplished by modifying Fuels and creating a discontinuity between planting groups that limits the pathways for fire to burn to the structure and reduces the potential for near-to-building ember generation and radiant heat exposures. An additional purpose of this zone is to provide a defendable area for fire personnel to stage and take direct action.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Zone 1 is the area within 5-30 feet of structures and decks, with slopes not greater than 20 percent; 5-50 feet from Buildings and decks, when slopes are greater than 20 percent.

17.Section 604.8.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.3.1 Requirements and allowable items. This is a minimal planting zone which includes very limited trees of a fire-smart type with additional spacing provided. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

18.Section 604.8.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4 Zone 2 purpose and location. Zone 2 is designed to reduce the potential behavior of an oncoming fire in such a way as to drop an approaching fire from the crown of trees to the ground, reducing the flame heights, and the potential for ember generation and radiant heat exposure to structures. Additional benefits of Zone 2 include facilitating direct defense actions and improving the function of Zones 0 and 1.

Zone 2 is the area from the outer edge of Zone 1 to 100 feet from structures and decks.

19.Section 604.8.4.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4.1 Requirements and allowable items. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

20.Section 604.8.4.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4.2 Spacing. Spacing of vegetation and trees at the outer edge of Zone 2 shall be based upon the height of the vegetation within Zone 2 or the adjacent area beyond the 100-foot zone, whichever provides for the greater spacing. This may require clearance outside the 100-foot zone or setting back vegetation and trees within Zone 2 away from the 100-foot line.

21.Section 604.8.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5 General requirements for Zone 0, 1, and 2.

22.Section 604.8.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
604.8.5.1 Dead and dying vegetation. All dead or dying grass, plants, shrubs, trees, branches, leaves, weeds, and tree needles shall be removed.

23.Section 604.8.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.2 Mulch and wood chips within Zones 1 and 2. Use of combustible Mulch and wood chips shall be in accordance with the requirements Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

24.Section 604.8.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.3 Firewood. See Section 7, Section 607.

25.Section 604.8.5.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.4 Clearance from chimney, stovepipe. Any portion of a tree or shrub that extends within 10 feet horizontally or vertically of a chimney outlet or stovepipe outlet shall be removed.

26.Section 604.8.5.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5 Trees. New trees shall be planted and maintained so that the tree’s drip line at maturity is a minimum of 10 feet from any combustible structure.

27.Section 604.8.5.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.1 Tree spacing. The horizontal distance between crowns of new trees and crowns of adjacent trees shall not be less than 20 feet in Zone 1 and not less than 10 feet in Zone 2. Separation distance may be increased for slopes exceeding 20 percent. Required spacing is measured between trees at maturity.

28.Section 604.8.5.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.2 Ground clearance of trees. Trees exceeding 6 feet in height shall be limbed up from the ground 6 feet or 1/3 the height of the tree, whichever is less.

Exception: Fruit trees when approved by the Fire Code Official.

29.Section 604.8.5.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
604.8.5.5.3 Ground cover under tree canopy. When approved ground cover and shrubs are located underneath trees, the vertical clearance to the lowest branch of the tree canopy shall not be less than three times the height of the ground cover or shrub under or adjacent to the tree. The horizontal clearance shall be 3 feet from the trunk of the tree.

30.Section 604.8.5.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6 Continuous tree canopies.

31.Section 604.8.5.6.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.1 New Structures. Continuous tree canopies are not allowed.

Tree spacing shall be in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department.

32.Section 604.8.5.6.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.2 Existing Structures. Continuous tree canopies may be allowed as determined by the Fire Code Official but will require the complete removal of any understory and smaller trees to meet requirements for a shaded fuel zone. Any remaining trees shall be limbed up a minimum of 12 feet from the ground or 1/3 the tree height, whichever is less. The intent is to not allow a crown (canopy) fire to spread unchecked to a structure and to bring any crown fire down to the ground level prior to Zone 1.

33.Section 604.8.5.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.7 Grasses. Natural or annual grasses shall be mowed to a maximum height of 4-inch stubble with clippings removed.

34.Section 604.9 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.9 Fire protection equipment and utilities. The clearance requirements of Section 15.090.380, Sections 604.7 and 604.8 shall apply to communication site towers and their support Buildings; required fire protection water supplies, including water tanks, water supply pumps, and pump houses; and any other utility Structure as required by the Fire Code Official. The Fire Code Official may consider a reduced distance, not less than 30 feet, for communication site towers, water tanks, and Structures with no interior space, based upon a site risk assessment. Also see Section 15.090.380, Appendix A.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

35.Section 604.10 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.10 Planting vegetation under or adjacent to energized electrical lines. No vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines that, at maturity, will grow within 10 feet of the energized conductors.

36.Section 604.11 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11 Fencing.

37.Section 604.11.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.1 Scope. This section only applies to fences, including gates within the fencing, within 5 feet of Building(s), including Decks, (Zone 0) that are in an applicable Fire Hazard Severity Zone req by Chapter 6 of this code.

38.Section 604.11.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.2 New fencing. New fencing and gates shall be constructed of a non-combustible material.

39.Section 604.11.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.3 Existing fencing. Fencing installed prior to January 1, 2026, may remain.

Exception: The entire fencing not parallel and within 5 feet of the building, including gates within the fencing, shall be constructed of a non-combustible material when any portion of the existing fencing within 5 feet is being replaced. Fencing beyond 5 feet from the building is not required to be replaced with non-combustible material.

L. STORAGE OF FIREWOOD AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

1. Section 607.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
607.1 General. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath Buildings or Structures, or on Decks or under eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs. Firewood piles shall

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be located 30 feet (9144 mm) or more from structures unless completely covered by a fire-resistant material. Exposed wood piles located within the defensible space shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm) down to bare mineral soil in all directions. Firewood shall not be stored within Zone 0.

2. Section 607.1.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
607.1.1 Combustible Materials. Combustible Materials, other than vegetation, stored within Zones 1 and 2 shall not be stored so as to pose a hazard to any Building. Piles shall not exceed 100 square feet of area and a maximum height of 10 feet. Piles shall be separated by a minimum of 20-foot clear area.

3. Section 607.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
607.2 Storage for off-site use. Firewood and Combustible Materials not for consumption on the premises shall not be stored within Zones 0, 1, and 2. See Section 15.090.380, Appendix A for storage requirements.

M. BUILDING SITING AND SETBACKS

1. Section 608.1.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
608.1.1 Restricted development setbacks. New Structures and additions to existing Structures shall not be constructed less than 100 feet from any protected habitat, whether on the same or adjacent Parcels, where the 100-foot Defensible Space required under Section 15.090.380, Section 604.7 cannot be provided, unless an alternate method of construction and protection is provided that can ensure the safety of the Structure and emergency responders as approved by the Fire Code Official. Protected habitat includes lands restricted from brush clearance or modification due to Federal or State listed endangered species.

Protected habitat does not include sensitive habitat areas.

2. Section 608.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
608.2 General. All parcels shall provide a minimum 30-foot (9144 mm) setback for all buildings from property lines and the center of a road, except as provided for in Section 15.090.380, Section 608.2.1. [CCR T14 §1276.00(a)] This section applies to new Tract and Parcel maps, new Buildings, and additions to Existing Buildings.

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3. Section 608.2.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
608.2.1 Setback reduction. A reduction in the minimum setback shall be based upon practical reasons, which may include but are not limited to, parcel dimensions or size; topographic limitations; Development density requirements or other Development patterns that promote low-carbon emission outcomes; sensitive habitat or other site constraints, and shall provide for an alternative method to reduce structure-to-structure ignition by incorporating a combination of features such as, but not limited to:

1. Non-combustible block walls or fences; or

2. Non-combustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the furthest extent of the building; or

3. Hardscape landscaping; or

4. A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less than 30 feet (9144 mm). [CCR T14 §1276.01] N. RIDGELINES, FUEL BREAKS, AND GREENBELTS

1. Section 609.2.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
609.2.7.1 Greenbelts. Subdivisions and other developments, which propose Greenbelts as a part of the development plan, shall locate the Greenbelts strategically, as a separation between wildland fuels and Structures. The locations shall be approved by the inspection authority.

2. Section 609.2.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
609.2.7.2 Access to Greenbelts. A minimum of one (1) access point shall be provided to new Greenbelts at an approved location to allow for ongoing maintenance and firefighter access. Additional access points shall be provided when required by the Fire Code Official.

O. APPENDIX A

1. Section A102.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A102.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Section 15.090.380, Sections A102.2 through A102.4 and with Section 15.090.380, Chapter 6.

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2. Section A105.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A105.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the California Fire Code, Section 15.09, and Section 15.090.380, Chapter 6, storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with Section 15.090.380, Sections A105.2 through A105.4.2.

3. Section A105.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A105.4 Combustible Materials. Outside storage of Combustible Materials such as, but not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials, or paper products shall comply with the other applicable sections of this Ordinance and this section. Storage of pallets shall be in accordance with Section 15.09, Section 2810. Storage and processing of wood chips, hogged materials, fines, Compost, Compostable Material, Mulch, solid biomass, raw product, and combustible yard waste and recycle material shall be in accordance with Section 15.09, Section 2808.

15.130.040 Addition – Section 102.4.1.1, APPLICATION OF THE CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE.

A new Section 102.4.1.1 is hereby added to Section 102.4.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
102.4.1.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the Norco Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.

15.130.050 Addition – Section 104.1.1, AUTHORITY OF THE FIRE CHIEF, CHIEF DEPUTY, AND FIRE DEPARTMENT.

A new Section 104.l.l is hereby added to Section 104.1 of the California WildlandUrban Interface Code to read as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and Fire Department.

1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and

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provisions of this ordinance and to perform such duties as directed by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.

2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief’s, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce ordinances of Riverside County pertaining to the following:

2.1The prevention of fires.

2.2The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or
hazardous fires.

2.3The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.

2.4The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.

2.5The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.

2.6The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction.

2.7The maintenance of means of egress.

2.8The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials.

3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law:

3.1The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

3.2The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.3The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.

3.4The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department.

3.5Officers of the California Highway Patrol.

3.6Code Officers of the Norco Code Enforcement Department.

3.7Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

3.8The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management.

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15.130.060 Amendment – Section 104.2, DETERMINATION OF COMPLIANCE.

Section 104.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted and replaced with the following:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures:

1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.

2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code.

15.130.070 Amendment – Section 104.8, LIABILITY.

Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law.

15.130.080 Amendment – Section 105.2, PERMITS REQUIRED.

Sections 105.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
105.2 Permits Required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.

For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.

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Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:
a) Automobile wrecking yard
b) Candles and open flames in assembly areas
c) Explosives or blasting agents
d) Fireworks
e) Flammable or combustible liquids
f) Hazardous materials
g) Liquefied petroleum gases
h) Landscape and fuel modification zones
i) Lumberyards
j) Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations
k) Open burning
l) Pallet Yards
m) Pyrotechnical special effects material
n) Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures
o) Tire storage
p) Welding and cutting operations.

15.130.090 Amendment – Section 108.2, SCHEDULE OF PERMIT FEES.

Section 108.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the City of Norco fee schedule.

15.130.100 Addition – Section 108.7, COST RECOVERY.

A new Section 108.7 is added to Section 108 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
108.7 Cost recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 11374.5(b)(1 ), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection

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and enforcement of any provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release, and any rescue or rendering of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt obligation arising from the incident.

15.130.110 Amendment – Section 109.3.7, VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES.

Section 109.3.7 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
109.3.7 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code.

Punishments and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with the City of Norco ordinances, any applicable fee schedule and Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5 and Government Code Section 51185.

15.130.120 Amendment – Section 202, DEFINITION, FIRE CHIEF.

Section 202, definition of "Fire Chief” in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief’s designee.

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15.130.130 Addition – Section 302.1.1, DESIGNATION OF FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES.

Section 302.1.1 is added to Section 302.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
302.1.1 Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The City Council has adopted the recommendations of the State Fire Marshal made pursuant to Government Code section 51178 and designated those areas within the County as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones as shown on the Local Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones Maps published by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The Maps have been adopted under Ordinance No. 1131.

15.130.140 Amendment – Section 501.1, SCOPE.

Section 501.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface shall be amended as follows:
501.1 Scope. Buildings and structures in a wildland-urban interface area shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and this code. For the purpose of this Chapter, a wildland-urban interface area shall be defined as a geographical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, and other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires, and shall include those areas designated by Ordinance 1131 as moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Government Code Section 51178.

Exceptions:
a) Group U accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m2) in floor area where located not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings.
b) Group U agricultural buildings not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings.

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15.130.150 Amendment – Section 602.1, GENERAL.

Section 602.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
602.1 General. A fire protection plan shall be submitted to the Fire Code Official for any proposed subdivision of land or building project. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.

The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.

Submittal of a preliminary fire protection plan shall be required prior to the submission of a final fire protection plan.

Exception: A single-family dwelling (Group R-3 Occupancy) when located on an existing legal parcel.

15.130.160 Amendment – Section 602.3.2, FINAL FIRE PROTECTION PLAN.

Section 602.3.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
602.3.2 Final Fire Protection Plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in Section 602.3.1 and the following:

1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to:

1.1The plant life-form;

1.2The scientific and common name; and

1.3The expected height and width for mature growth.

2. Identification of irrigated and non-irrigated zones.

3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes.

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4. Identification of existing vegetation proposed to remain.

5. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain vegetation in common areas.

6. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing, or modifying areas on the property.

7. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zones.

8. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants, conditions and restrictions regarding property owner
responsibilities for vegetation maintenance.

15.130.170 Amendment – Section 603.1, GENERAL.

Section 603.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new and replacement landscaping shall be selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures.

15.130.180 Amendment – Section 603.3, LANDSCAPE AND FUEL MODIFICATION PLANS.

Section 603.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
603.3 Landscape and Fuel Modification plans. Landscape and Fuel Modification plans shall be submitted for any project located in a WUI area. The landscape and Fuel Modification plan shall include development and maintenance requirements for the vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways, and to provide significant fire hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety.

15.130.190 Amendment – Section 603.3.1, CONTENTS.

Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:

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603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following:

1. Delineation of the 5-foot (1524 mm) (Zone 0), 30-foot (9144 mm) (Zone 1) and 100-foot (30 480 mm) (Zone 2) fuel management zones from all structures.

2. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation.

3. Identification of irrigated areas.

4. A plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all plant material symbols.

5. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot (9144 mm) zone.

15.130.200 Amendment – Section 604.1, GENERAL.

Section 604.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
604.1 General. Vegetation and fuels shall be managed to reduce the severity of potential exterior wildfire exposure to buildings and to reduce the risk of fire spreading to buildings as required by applicable laws and regulations.

15.130.210 Amendment – Section 604.3, REQUIREMENTS.

Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows:
604.3 Requirements. Vegetation and fuels around all buildings and structures shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations:

1. Public Resources Code, Section 4291.

2. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 3, Article 3, Section 1299.03.

3. California Government Code, Section 51182.

4. California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Section 3.07.

5. The requirements of Chapter 15.130, Appendix A of this ordinance and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

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15.130.220 Addition – Section 604.3.1 RETROACTIVITY.

Section 604.3.1 is added to Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.3.1 Retroactivity. When required by the Fire Code Official, or State Law, existing Defensible Space/Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ) shall require retrofitting, including thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation, to meet this Code or State Law. Upon notification by the Fire Code Official, and when approved, work to bring an existing Defensible Space and FMZ into compliance with this Code, may be done over a two to four (2-4) year period as determined by the Fire Code Official. A compliance plan prepared by the property owner may be requested for review and approval by the Fire Code Official.

15.130.230 Addition – Section 604.6 CLEARANCE OF BRUSH, VEGETATIVE GROWTH, COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL FROM IMPROVED PARCELS.

Section 604.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.6 Clearance of brush, vegetative growth, and combustible material from improved parcels. All improved parcels declared a Public Nuisance shall be cleared entirely of combustible material. If the Fire Code Official determines this impractical, the provisions of Chapter 15.130, Section 604.7 may be used.

15.130.240 Addition – Section 604.7, CLEARANCE OF FUELS OR VEGETATIVE GROWTH FROM STRUCTURES.

Section 604.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7 Clearance of fuels or vegetative growth from structures. Clearance of fuels and vegetative growth from structures shall be per sections 604.7.1 through 604.7.4 of this code.

15.130.250 Addition – Section 604.7.1, STRUCTURES.

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Section 604.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.1 Structures. Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining any Building or structure in, upon, or adjoining any FHSZ, governed by this section, and any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such Buildings, shall at all times maintain around and adjacent to such Building, an effective firebreak made by removing and clearing away, all combustible material on their property for a distance not less than 100 feet from all portions of the Building.

Distances may be increased by the Fire Code Official due to a site-specific analysis based on local conditions and when required, based on a Fire Protection Plan. This section shall not apply to single specimens or stands of protected species of trees, Ornamental Landscape or similar plants used in landscaping and ground covers, that are well-pruned, maintained, and spaced, and do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other nearby vegetation to a structure or from a structure to other nearby vegetation or to interrupt the advance of embers toward a structure.

15.130.260 Addition – Section 604.7.2, TIMING FOR NEW BUILDINGS AND ADDITIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS.

Section 604.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.2 Timing for New Buildings and additions to Existing Buildings. The provisions of Chapter 15.130, Section 604.7 shall be completed prior to vertical construction of any New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

15.130.270 Addition – Section 604.7.3, PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS.

Section 604.7.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.7.3 Photovoltaic Systems. The clearance requirements around freestanding photovoltaic systems and equipment shall comply with the following:

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1. A minimum 10-foot clearance for clusters of panels not exceeding 1,500 square feet of combined panel area.

2. A minimum of 30-foot clearance for clusters of panels greater than 1,500 square feet of combined panel area.

3. Clusters shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet.

4. Panels and clusters shall be not located within 30 feet of any Building subject to clearance requirements of Chapter 15.130, Section 604 unless the clearance requirements of Chapter 15.130, Section 604 are provided as measured from the perimeter of the panel or cluster.

15.130.280 Addition – Section 604.8, DEFENSIBLE SPACE CLEARANCE ZONES AND REQUIREMENTS.
604.8 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8 Defensible Space clearance zones and requirements. The required 100-foot Defensible Space clearance is identified in three (3) distinct zones: Zone 0, 1, and 2.

15.130.290 Addition – Section 604.8.1, REQUIREMENTS.

Section 604.8.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.1 Requirements. Defensible Space shall be in accordance with the requirements of Appendix A of this code, Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines and the specific requirements for each zone listed in Chapter 15.130, Sections 604.8.2 through 604.8.5.

15.130.300 Addition – Section 604.8.2, ZONE 0 PURPOSE AND LOCATION.

Section 604.8.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

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604.8.2 Zone 0 purpose and location. Zone 0 reduces the likelihood of structure ignition by reducing the potential for direct ignition of the structure from flame contact, by embers that accumulate at the base of a wall, and/or indirect ignitions when embers ignite vegetation, vegetative debris, or other combustible materials located close to the structure that result in either a radiant heat and/or a direct flame contact exposure to the structure.

Zone 0 is the horizontal area within the first five (5) feet around the structure, including stairs, balconies, attached or adjacent decks, and outbuildings. Zone 0 is measured from the edge of a structure, attached or adjacent decks, patio covers, balconies, and floor projections above-grade. Zone 0 also includes the area on the roof of a building, and underneath and on top of attached decks, patio covers, balconies, and stair landings.

Advisory Notice: Riverside County Fire Department has local Zone 0 requirements currently in effect for new Buildings and additions to existing Buildings. New State regulations for Zone 0 are currently under development by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Any State regulation more restrictive than this ordinance shall apply. This may require thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation to meet State Law and regulations.

15.130.310 Addition – Section 604.8.2.1, NON-COMBUSTIBLE ZONE 0 FOR NEW

BUILDINGS, ADDITIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS, AND NEW OR REPLACEMENT LANDSCAPE.

Section 604.8.2.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.1 Non-Combustible Zone 0 for New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, and new or replacement landscape. Fuels, including Combustible Materials and vegetation, are prohibited in Zone 0 for all New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, installation of new landscape, and refurbishment of existing landscape areas.

The application date of Chapter 15.130, Section 604.8.2.1 shall be the later application date when any of the following occur:

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1. Fire Department Clearance for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

2. Building permit for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building.

3. Landscape plans submitted for Riverside County Fire Department review.

4. Replacement of landscape when landscape plans are not required.

15.130.320 Addition – Section 604.8.2.2, ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IN ZONE

0. Section 604.8.2.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.2 Additional requirements in Zone 0.

1. New and existing tree canopies are prohibited within 10 feet of New Buildings, including the addition portion to Existing Buildings.

Exception: Existing protected oak trees shall be trimmed to provide a minimum 5-foot clearance above the roof and 5 feet to the side of any New Building, or the addition portion to an Existing Building.

2. Landscaped roofs are prohibited.

3. Vegetation underneath decks is prohibited.

4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed.

5. Artificial or synthetic grass is prohibited within Zone 0.

6. Vines and climbing plants are not allowed on structures, including decks, patio/shade structures, and any fences within 5 feet of a Building.

7. Combustible mulch and wood chips are prohibited.

8. Firewood is prohibited.

9. All fencing and gates shall be non-combustible. See Article 4, Section 604.11.

15.130.330 Addition – Section 604.8.2.3, ZONE 0 REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS.

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Section 604.8.2.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.3 Zone 0 requirements for Existing Buildings.

15.130.340 Addition – Section 604.8.2.3.1, ZONE 0 RESTRICTIONS.

Section 604.8.2.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.2.3.1 Zone 0 restrictions. The following requirements apply within Zone 0 for all Existing Buildings with landscape installed prior to January 1, 2026:

1. No combustible landscape mulch or wood chips.

2. No firewood.

3. No vegetation underneath decks.

4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed.

5. Roofs and gutters on Buildings shall be maintained free of any leaves, needles, or other vegetative Combustible
Materials.

6. The vertical clearance distance for trees and vegetation above any roof shall be not less than 3 feet.

7. A minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided to the side and above any eave or roof projection from the exterior wall of a Building. A minimum 3-foot
clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided below any eave or roof projection. This requirement also applies to any patio cover or other Building projections.

8. New trees are not allowed.

9. New or replacement landscaping shall comply with Chapter

15.130, Sections 604.8.1, 604.8.2.1, and 604.8.2.2.

15.130.350 Addition – Section 604.8.3, ZONE 1 PURPOSE AND LOCATION.

Section 604.8.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
604.8.3 Zone 1 purpose and location. Zone 1 reduces the likelihood of fire burning directly to the structure. This is accomplished by modifying Fuels and creating a discontinuity between planting groups that limits the pathways for fire to burn to the structure and reduces the potential for near-to-building ember generation and radiant heat exposures. An additional purpose of this zone is to provide a defendable area for fire personnel to stage and take direct action.

Zone 1 is the area within 5-30 feet of structures and decks, with slopes not greater than 20 percent; 5-50 feet from Buildings and decks, when slopes are greater than 20 percent.

15.130.360 Addition – Section 604.8.3.1, REQUIREMENTS AND ALLOWABLE ITEMS.

Section 604.8.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.3.1 Requirements and allowable items. This is a minimal planting zone which includes very limited trees of a fire-smart type with additional spacing provided. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

15.130.370 Addition – Section 604.8.4, ZONE 2 PURPOSE AND LOCATION.

Section 604.8.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4 Zone 2 purpose and location. Zone 2 is designed to reduce the potential behavior of an oncoming fire in such a way as to drop an approaching fire from the crown of trees to the ground, reducing the flame heights, and the potential for ember generation and radiant heat exposure to structures. Additional benefits of Zone 2 include facilitating direct defense actions and improving the function of Zones 0 and 1.

Zone 2 is the area from the outer edge of Zone 1 to 100 feet from structures and decks.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

15.130.380 Addition – Section 604.8.4.1 REQUIREMENTS AND ALLOWABLE ITEMS.

Section 604.8.4.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4.1 Requirements and allowable items. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

15.130.390 Addition – Section 604.8.4.2 SPACING.

Section 604.8.4.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.4.2 Spacing. Spacing of vegetation and trees at the outer edge of Zone 2 shall be based upon the height of the vegetation within Zone 2 or the adjacent area beyond the 100-foot zone, whichever provides for the greater spacing. This may require clearance outside the 100-foot zone or setting back vegetation and trees within Zone 2 away from the 100-foot line.

15.130.400 Addition – Section 604.8.5, GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ZONE 0,1 AND 2.

Section 604.8.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5 General requirements for Zone 0, 1, and 2.

15.130.410 Addition – Section 604.8.5.1, DEAD AND DYING VEGETATION.

Section 604.8.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.1 Dead and dying vegetation. All dead or dying grass, plants, shrubs, trees, branches, leaves, weeds, and tree needles shall be removed.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

15.130.420 Addition – Section 604.8.5.2, MULCH AND WOOD CHIPS WITHIN ZONES 1 AND 2.

Section 604.8.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.2 Mulch and wood chips within Zones 1 and 2. Use of combustible Mulch and wood chips shall be in accordance with the requirements Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines.

15.130.430 Addition – Section 604.8.5.3, FIREWOOD.

Section 604.8.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.3 Firewood. See Section 15.130, Section 607.

15.130.440 Addition – Section 604.8.5.4, CLEARANCE FROM CHIMNEY, STOVEPIPE.

Section 604.8.5.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.4 Clearance from chimney, stovepipe. Any portion of a tree or shrub that extends within 10 feet horizontally or vertically of a chimney outlet or stovepipe outlet shall be removed.

15.130.450 Addition – Section 604.8.5.5, TREES.

Section 604.8.5.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5 Trees. New trees shall be planted and maintained so that the tree’s drip line at maturity is a minimum of 10 feet from any combustible structure.

15.130.460 Addition – Section 604.8.5.5.1 TREE SPACING.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Section 604.8.5.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.1 Tree spacing. The horizontal distance between crowns of new trees and crowns of adjacent trees shall not be less than 20 feet in Zone 1 and not less than 10 feet in Zone 2. Separation distance may be increased for slopes exceeding 20 percent. Required spacing is measured between trees at maturity.

15.130.470 Addition – Section 604.8.5.5.2, GROUND CLEARANCE OF TREES.

Section 604.8.5.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.2 Ground clearance of trees. Trees exceeding 6 feet in height shall be limbed up from the ground 6 feet or 1/3 the height of the tree, whichever is less.

Exception: Fruit trees when approved by the Fire Code Official.

15.130.480 Addition – Section 604.8.5.5.3, GROUND COVER UNDER TREE CANOPY.

Section 604.8.5.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.3 Ground cover under tree canopy. When approved ground cover and shrubs are located underneath trees, the vertical clearance to the lowest branch of the tree canopy shall not be less than three times the height of the ground cover or shrub under or adjacent to the tree. The horizontal clearance shall be 3 feet from the trunk of the tree.

15.130.490 Addition – Section 604.8.5.6 CONTINUOUS TREE CANOPIES.

Section 604.8.5.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6 Continuous tree canopies.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025

15.130.500 Addition – Section 604.8.5.6.1, NEW STRUCTURES.

Section 604.8.5.6.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.1 New Structures. Continuous tree canopies are not allowed. Tree spacing shall be in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department.

15.130.510 Addition – Section 604.8.5.6.2, EXISTING STRUCTURES.

Section 604.8.5.6.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.2 Existing Structures. Continuous tree canopies may be allowed as determined by the Fire Code Official but will require the complete removal of any understory and smaller trees to meet requirements for a shaded fuel zone. Any remaining trees shall be limbed up a minimum of 12 feet from the ground or 1/3 the tree height, whichever is less. The intent is to not allow a crown (canopy) fire to spread unchecked to a structure and to bring any crown fire down to the ground level prior to Zone 1.

15.130.520 Addition – Section 604.8.5.7, GRASSES.

Section 604.8.5.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.8.5.7 Grasses. Natural or annual grasses shall be mowed to a maximum height of 4-inch stubble with clippings removed.

15.130.530 Addition – Section 604.9, FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT AND UTILITIES.

Section 604.9 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
604.9 Fire protection equipment and utilities. The clearance requirements of Chapter 15.130, Sections 604.7 and 604.8 shall apply to communication site towers and their support Buildings; required fire protection water supplies, including water tanks, water supply pumps, and pump houses; and any other utility Structure as required by the Fire Code Official. The Fire Code Official may consider a reduced distance, not less than 30 feet, for communication site towers, water tanks, and Structures with no interior space, based upon a site risk assessment. Also see Chapter 15.130, Appendix A.

15.130.540 Addition – Section 604.10, PLANTING VEGETATION UNDER OR ADJACENT TO ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL LINES.

Section 604.10 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.10 Planting vegetation under or adjacent to energized electrical lines.

No vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines that, at maturity, will grow within 10 feet of the energized conductors.

15.130.550 Addition – Section 604.11, FENCING.

Section 604.11 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11 Fencing.

15.130.560 Addition – Section 604.11.1, SCOPE.

Section 604.11.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.1 Scope. This section only applies to fences, including gates within the fencing, within 5 feet of Building(s), including Decks, (Zone 0) that are in an applicable Fire Hazard Severity Zone required by Chapter 6 of this code.

15.130.570 Addition – Section 604.11.3, NEW FENCING.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
Section 604.11.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.2 New fencing. New fencing and gates shall be constructed of a noncombustible material.

15.130.580 Addition – Section 604.11.3, EXISTING FENCING.

Section 604.11.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
604.11.3 Existing fencing. Fencing installed prior to January 1, 2026, may remain.

Exception: The entire fencing not parallel and within 5 feet of the building, including gates within the fencing, shall be constructed of a noncombustible material when any portion of the existing fencing within 5 feet is being replaced. Fencing beyond 5 feet from the building is not required to be replaced with non-combustible material.

15.130.590 Amendment – Section 607.1, GENERAL.

Section 607.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
607.1 General. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath Buildings or Structures, or on Decks or under eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs. Firewood piles shall be located 30 feet (9144 mm) or more from structures unless completely covered by a fireresistant material. Exposed wood piles located within the defensible space shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm) down to bare mineral soil in all directions. Firewood shall not be stored within Zone 0.

15.130.600 Amendment – Section 607.1.1, COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS.

Section 607.1.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
607.1.1 Combustible Materials. Combustible Materials, other than vegetation, stored within Zones 1 and 2 shall not be stored so as to pose a hazard to any Building. Piles shall not exceed 100 square feet of area and a maximum height of 10 feet. Piles shall be separated by a minimum of 20-foot clear area.

15.130.610 Amendment – Section 607.2, STORAGE FOR OFF-SITE USE.

Section 607.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
607.2 Storage for off-site use. Firewood and Combustible Materials not for consumption on the premises shall not be stored within Zones 0, 1, and 2. See Chapter 15.130, Appendix A for storage requirements.

15.130.620 Addition – Section 608.1.1, RESTRICTED DEVELOPMENT SETBACKS.

Section 608.1.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
608.1.1 Restricted development setbacks. New Structures and additions to existing Structures shall not be constructed less than 100 feet from any protected habitat, whether on the same or adjacent Parcels, where the 100-foot Defensible Space required under Chapter 15.130, Section 604.7 cannot be provided, unless an alternate method of construction and protection is provided that can ensure the safety of the Structure and emergency responders as approved by the Fire Code Official. Protected habitat includes lands restricted from brush clearance or modification due to Federal or State listed endangered species. Protected habitat does not include sensitive habitat areas.

15.130.630 Amendment – Section 608.2, GENERAL.

Section 608.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
608.2 General. All parcels shall provide a minimum 30-foot (9144 mm) setback for all buildings from property lines and the center of a road, except as provided for in Chapter 15.130, Section 608.2.1. [CCR T14 §1276.00(a)] This section

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
applies to new Tract and Parcel maps, new Buildings, and additions to Existing Buildings.

15.130.640 Amendment – Section 608.2.1, SETBACK REDUCTION.

Section 608.2.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:
608.2.1 Setback reduction. A reduction in the minimum setback shall be based upon practical reasons, which may include but are not limited to, parcel dimensions or size; topographic limitations; Development density requirements or other Development patterns that promote low-carbon emission outcomes; sensitive habitat or other site constraints, and shall provide for an alternative method to reduce structure-to-structure ignition by incorporating a combination of features such as, but not limited to:

1. Non-combustible block walls or fences; or

2. Non-combustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the furthest extent of the building; or

3. Hardscape landscaping; or

4. A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less than 30 feet (9144 mm). [CCR T14 §1276.01]

15.130.650 Addition – Section 609.2.7.1, GREENBELTS.

Section 609.2.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:
609.2.7.1 Greenbelts. Subdivisions and other developments, which propose Greenbelts as a part of the development plan, shall locate the Greenbelts strategically, as a separation between wildland fuels and Structures. The locations shall be approved by the inspection authority.

15.130.660 Addition – Section 609.2.7.2, ACCESS TO GREENBELTS.

Section 609.2.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows:

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
609.2.7.2 Access to Greenbelts. A minimum of one (1) access point shall be provided to new Greenbelts at an approved location to allow for on-going maintenance and firefighter access. Additional access points shall be provided when required by the Fire Code Official.

15.130.670 Amendment – Appendix A102.1, GENERAL.

Section A102.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A102.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Chapter 15.130, Sections A102.2 through A102.4 and with Chapter 15.130 Chapter 6.

15.130.680 Amendment – Appendix A105.1, GENERAL.

Section A105.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A105.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the California Fire Code, Chapter 15.09, and Chapter 15.130, Chapter 6, storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with Chapter 15.130, Sections A105.2 through A105.4.2.

15.130.690 Amendment – Appendix A105.4 COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS.

Section A105.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows:

A105.4 Combustible Materials. Outside storage of Combustible Materials such as, but not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials, or paper products shall comply with the other applicable sections of this Ordinance and this section.

Storage of pallets shall be in accordance with Chapter 15.09, Section 2810.

Storage and processing of wood chips, hogged materials, fines, Compost, Compostable Material, Mulch, solid biomass, raw product, and combustible yard waste and recycle material shall be in accordance with Chapter 15.09, Section 2808.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
SECTION 32: NMC Chapter 15.09 and Chapter 15.130 areis added in theirits entirety to read as follows:

SECTION 43: EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance shall become effective 30 days after final passage thereof; however, the provisions herein shall not become operative until January 1, 2026.

SECTION 54: SEVERABILITY: If any section, subsection,
sentence, clause, or phrase 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 the Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases hereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more of the sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases hereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 65: POSTING: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance, and the City Clerk shall attest hereto and shall cause the same within 15 days of its passage to be posted at no less than five public places within the City of Norco.

SECTION 76: FILING: The City Clerk must file a certified copy of this Ordinance with the California Building Standards Commission.

Ordinance No. 1135 Code Amendment 2025-06 (2025 California Fire Codes and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code)

November 19, 2025October 15, 2025
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Norco, California, at a regular meeting held on November 19October 15, 2025.
_______________________________
Greg Newton, Mayor
Mayor of the City of Norco, California
ATTEST:
________________________
Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk
City of Norco, California
I, Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Norco, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, duly held on, November 19October 15, 2025 and thereafter at a regular meeting of said City Council duly held on November 19October 15, 2025 it was duly passed and adopted by the following vote of the City Council.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Norco, California, on November 19October 15, 2025. ________________________
Dana Roa, CMC, City Clerk
City of Norco, California

City Council

STAFF REPORT
Date: November 5, 2025 Agenda Item:

6.B.

To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Lisette Free, City Manager
Prepared By: Bill Wilkman, Consultant
Department: Administration
SUBJECT:

First Reading, Ordinance No. 1136 (City of Norco): An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Norco, California, designating the "Equestrian Landmark" and Adopt Concurrent Resolution designating the "Equestrian Landmark" RECOMMENDATION:

1. Adopt Resolution No. 2025-69, designating the "Equestrian Landmark"; and

2. Approve the introduction and first read of Ordinance No. 1136, designating the "Equestrian Landmark"
SUMMARY:

In October 2021, the Norco City Council adopted an Equestrian Historic District to celebrate and preserve Norco’s rich agricultural heritage. To strengthen the City of Norco’s established Equestrian Historic District and support its mission to preserve Norco’s large lot, equestrian lifestyle, the Norco City Council may create a new historic preservation category—an “Equestrian Landmark."
BACKGROUND:

In October 2021, the Norco City Council adopted an Equestrian Historic District to celebrate and preserve Norco’s rich agricultural heritage, while ensuring that its distinct rural atmosphere and enduring animal-keeping, equestrian-oriented lifestyle—those qualities that are unique in the Inland Empire and the entire State of California—are protected for future generations.

The Equestrian Historic District is a demarcated area with properties that share a common equestrian theme. Most of the residentially-zoned neighborhoods in Norco share a variety of elements pertinent to an Equestrian Historic District, including equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, parks with equestrian amenities, large lots (typically a half-acre or larger), and permanent animal-keeping areas. Approximately 6,000 residential properties, encompassing every property within the City’s various

animal-keeping zones, are included in the Equestrian Historic District. The Equestrian Historic District also includes commercial properties lining Sixth Street from Sierra Avenue to California Avenue because they also reflect Norco’s equestrian heritage. The Equestrian Historic District applies to a large portion of the city, with individual properties recognized as “contributors” to the District. The provisions of the Equestrian Historic District center on equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, large lots with dedicated animal-keeping areas, and equestrian-friendly parks.

One of the Norco City Council’s adopted Legislative Platform priorities is to advocate for the equestrian, animal-keeping lifestyle. To strengthen the City of Norco’s established Equestrian Historic District and support its mission to preserve Norco’s large lot, equestrian lifestyle, the Norco City Council may create a new historic preservation category—an “Equestrian Landmark.”
The designation as an Equestrian Landmark would further elevate the recognition of Norco’s profound equestrian heritage by preserving the three elements that are necessary to be recognized as an equestrian community: 1) large lots, 2) equestrian trails, and 3) open space. The "Equestrian Landmark Report" (Attachment A) documents Norco’s unique rural, agricultural heritage that has led to its development as a community of large lots devoted to various forms of animal keeping, most particularly the keeping of horses.

The Equestrian Historic District and Equestrian Landmark would complement each other while supporting the City’s mission to “keep Norco, Norco” and preserving the equestrian-oriented, animal-keeping lifestyle without impacting residents’ ability to improve their property. The Equestrian Landmark would include: (1) all residential properties in the existing Equestrian Historic District, (2) all residential properties in the City of Norco that have a zoning designation that allows animal-keeping by right, (3) all trails in the City of Norco, and (4) all open space in the City of Norco. The attached Resolution (Attachment B) and Ordinance (Attachment C) are intended to formalize these proposals.

As with the Equestrian Historic District, an Equestrian Landmark would not impose any new restrictions, requirements or obligations on structures or property owners beyond existing zoning regulations. The Equestrian Landmark designation would not apply to any improvements on individual properties. Rather, the Equestrian Landmark focuses on the open spaces created by the large lots in the city and a property’s contribution to Norco’s equestrian heritage, as reflected in its rural, large lots—not the buildings and other improvements on the large lot. This is very different from other cities’ historic districts that are based on architecture, as the creation of an Equestrian Landmark will not impose new restrictions on structures.

The process of creating an Equestrian Landmark is public and transparent. On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the Historic Preservation and Agricultural Heritage Commission held a noticed public hearing to discuss the Equestrian Landmark designation. Public notices with a "Frequently Asked Questions" insert were mailed to all property owners in the City of Norco, as well as property owners within a 300-foot radius from Norco's boundaries. The Commission recommended that the City Council move forward with the Equestrian Landmark designation and adopt the prepared Resolution (Attachment B).

To designate the Equestrian Landmark, the Norco City Council will adopt the prepared Resolution (Attachment B) and approve the introduction and first read of the prepared Ordinance (Attachment C).

FISCAL IMPACT:

This agenda item will not result in a fiscal impact.

RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

This agenda item is consistent with Strategic Plan Direction No. 4, “Communication and Stakeholder Experience," as well as the City Council's adopted Legislative Platform, "Advocate for the equestrian and animal-keeping lifestyle." REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:

Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):

Attachment A - Equestrian Landmark Report
Attachment B - Resolution 2025-69
Attachment C - Ordinance 1136

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

2870 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA 92860

CITY COUNCIL
Greg Newton Mayor
Robin Grundmeyer Mayor Pro Tem
Kevin Bash Council Member
Gregory Bowen Council Member
Fia Sullivan Council Member

HISTORIC PRESERVATION & AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE COMMISSION Sam Tavallodi Chair
James Yellis Vice Chair
Michelle Heasley Commission Member
Chelsea Keene Commission Member
Dan Letbetter Commission Member
Michael Moller Commission Member
Carolyn Morse Commission Member
Savannah Shaw-Owens Youth Commissioner Member

CONTRACTUAL SUPPORT
Bill Wilkman, MA
Wilkman Historical Services
3681 Sunnyside Drive #2772
Riverside, CA 92516
(951) 288-1078

CONTRIBUTING STAFF MEMBERS
Lisette Free City Manager
Colin Burns City Attorney
Alma Robles Community Development Director
Kelli Anderson Communications Manager

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Section 1: Executive Summary
In October 2021, the Norco City Council adopted an Equestrian Historic District to celebrate and preserve Norco’s rich agricultural heritage, while ensuring that its distinct rural atmosphere and enduring animal-keeping, equestrian-oriented lifestyle—those qualities that are unique in the Inland Empire and the entire State of California—are protected for future generations. A Historic District is a demarcated area with properties that share a common theme. Most of the residentially-zoned neighborhoods in Norco share a variety of elements pertinent to an Equestrian Historic District, including equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, parks with equestrian amenities, large lots (typically a half-acre or larger), and permanent animal-keeping areas. Approximately 6,000 residential properties, encompassing every property within the city’s various animal-keeping zones, are included in the Equestrian Historic District (Exhibit A).

One of the Norco City Council’s adopted Legislative Platform priorities is to advocate for the equestrian, animal-keeping lifestyle. To strengthen the established Equestrian Historic District, the Norco City Council may create a new historic preservation category—an “Equestrian Landmark.” The designation as an Equestrian Landmark would further elevate the recognition of Norco’s profound equestrian heritage by preserving the three elements that are necessary to be recognized as an equestrian community: 1) large lots, 2) equestrian trails, and 3) open space. The Equestrian Historic District and Equestrian Landmark would complement each other while supporting the City’s mission to “keep Norco, Norco” and preserving the equestrian-oriented, animal-keeping lifestyle without impacting residents’ ability to improve their property.

This report documents Norco’s unique rural, agricultural heritage that has led to its development as a community of large lots devoted to various forms of animal keeping, most particularly the keeping of horses.

Norco’s early history was oriented around crop and poultry farming. The Citrus Belt Land Company recorded the area’s first subdivisions in 1909 and 1910. Situated generally between First and Fifth Streets, these subdivisions were largely devoted to grain, row crops, and orchard farming. In 1923, entrepreneur Rex Clark bought all of Citrus Belt’s unsold lands and created a new town he named “Norco.” Norco was a somewhat utopian concept oriented around a town center that was in turn flanked by farms. These farms were generally two to five acres in size. The town center included all services and merchandise necessary to run a farm. Rex Clark marketed his town as a place where a rugged individual could find prosperity on a small farm. He largely promoted the use of these properties for poultry ranching.

The advent of Norco as “Horsetown USA” began to emerge in the late 1940s. During this time, Norconians found that small family farms could not compete with larger farms where products could be produced more efficiently on a much larger scale. Norco’s foundation as a place of small selfsustaining family farms was shaken by this trend. Something had to happen if Norco was to survive as a community of rural, large lots. The necessary change began to happen as Norco’s family farmers began to give way to “gentleman farmers” who kept horses and other farm animals as a hobby.

Businesses designed to service these gentleman farmers also sprung up. These included boarding stables, farriers, veterinarians, feed stores, and other such businesses. Norco’s reputation as a community of large lots where animal keeping was encouraged took hold quickly, becoming well established by the mid-1950s. That heritage remains in place as an essential foundation of Norco’s identity.

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Gentleman farmers resisted efforts by developers to build small lot subdivisions, eventually spearheading an effort to incorporate Norco as an independent municipality oriented around a rural lifestyle. This effort was successful, and in 1964, the town of Norco became the City of Norco with the slogan, “City Living in a Rural Atmosphere.”
Equestrian trails first began to appear in 1965, when activists encouraged the City of Norco to install equestrian trails along streets in Norco’s many rural neighborhoods. Starting with just a small number of streets, today equestrian trails can be found along most streets in the city. To complement these trails, public parks are improved with arenas, holding pens, accessible mounting ramps, hitching posts, and trailer staging areas. Norco’s Sixth Street is a commercial corridor with equestrian trails on both sides of the street. Additionally, several of these businesses accommodate horses with such improvements as corrals, hitching posts, and water troughs.

The Equestrian Historic District applies to all non-commercial zones within the boundaries of Exhibit A that permit animal keeping and all commercially zoned properties along Sixth Street, from Sierra Avenue to California Avenue. The Historic District does not add any new restrictions to privately owned properties. Instead, its provisions center on equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, large lots with dedicated animal-keeping areas, and equestrian-friendly parks.

To further celebrate Norco’s rural, agriculture heritage on individual lots, it is proposed to create a new form of landmark, known as an Equestrian Landmark. As with the Equestrian Historic District, an Equestrian Landmark would not center on property improvements; rather it would center on a property’s contribution to Norco’s heritage as reflected in its rural, large lots. The Equestrian Landmark designation would apply to (1) all residential properties in the existing Equestrian Historic District, (2) all residential properties in the City of Norco that have a zoning designation that allows animal-keeping by right, (3) all trails in the City of Norco, and (4) all open space in the City of Norco. The Equestrian Landmark designation would be established by resolution of the Norco City Council.

Section 2: Historical Context
Norco has a unique rural, agriculture heritage that extends back to its earliest development in 1909 in the Orchard Heights area south of Fifth Street. In 1923, this heritage was expanded when Rex Clark came to the area and created his own rural community north of Fifth Street that was given the name “Norco.” Today, the Orchard Heights name has faded into history and everything north and south of Fifth Street is known as Norco. Norco’s unique rural, agriculture heritage is still reflected today in its emphasis on animal keeping on large lots. The city’s trademarked moniker, “Horsetown USA,” demonstrates Norco’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting its established rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.

2.1 NORCO’S EARLY HISTORY
Norco’s heritage is that of a rural community devoted to agricultural and animal-keeping uses. Prior to 1909, Norco was an expanse of largely undeveloped land, used by local Indians for hunting and gathering and by owners of area ranchos for grazing. Early in the 1900s, the first evidence of land improvements began to appear in the form of quarries in the Norco Hills. Around the same time, the area that would become Norco got its first permanent structure, a power generating plant built in 1902 by William E. Pedley, a local entrepreneur and innovator (Tibbet and Wilkman, Historic Resources Survey - Pre-1946: ii). Pedley’s power plant building was located near the Santa Ana River north of Viceroy Street in northeast Norco.

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Orange/Orchard Heights
In 1908, the first significant development of
Norco lands was spurred by the sale of Rancho
La Sierra (Sepulveda) to investors Willits Hole
and George Pillsbury. At that time, Rancho La
Sierra (Sepulveda) was owned by the Sterns
Rancho Company and included land east and
west of the Norco Hills ridgeline. Hole retained
ownership of the land east of the Norco Hills
ridgeline and created his own agricultural
community of La Sierra Heights. The Citrus Belt
Land Company bought much of the Rancho land
west of the Norco Hills ridgeline and created
two subdivisions, Orange Heights Tract #1 and
Orange Heights Tract #2 covering the land roughly between First and Fifth Streets. These tracts were recorded in 1909 and 1910, respectively, and consisted of farm lots, most commonly about 10 acres in size.

Orange Heights functioned as a farming suburb of Corona, having no commercial, industrial, or office uses within its boundaries. The Citrus Belt Land Company also owned many acres of undivided land north of the Orange Heights Tracts, a portion of which was improved with a company-owned farm located northeast of today’s intersection of Hamner Avenue and Sixth Street. The Citrus Belt Land Company provided irrigation and domestic water to Orange Heights via its Orange Heights Water Company (Ibid). As citrus crops proved to be unsuccessful, citrus groves were removed and replaced with row crops and stone fruit orchards. Accordingly, the area’s name was changed to “Orchard Heights.”
The Advent of the Town of Norco
In 1923, entrepreneur Rex Clark purchased all of the unsold Citrus Belt lots along with vacant lands and Citrus Belt’s farm north of Fifth Street. He also purchased the Orange Heights Water Company and expanded its water system to serve land he proposed to subdivide north of the Orange Heights Tracts. Starting in 1923, Clark began to record a series of Norco Farms tracts. Unlike Orchard Heights, the town of Norco was designed to be a self-sustaining community of farms supported by a town center with nearly everything needed to operate a small farm. Clark’s real estate development company was named the North Corona Land Company, and he used a contraction of the first two words in this name to devise the name “Norco” for his new town (Ibid: iii). As Norco grew, Orchard Heights became just another part of Norco.

Clark was a visionary and his concept for Norco
was, in many respects, utopian. He promoted his
town as a place where a rugged individual could
achieve prosperity through hard work and
ingenuity on a small ranch or farm. Clark particularly
promoted the idea of self-sustaining poultry farms.

Clark’s town was equipped with nearly everything a
landowner would need to establish and maintain a
family farm. It had a town center with a general
store, pavilion, auto repair shop, gasoline pumps,
and elementary school. The town center also
Figure 1. Orange Heights Farm c. 1920
Figure 2. Norco Poultry Farm c. 1930

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

included a lumberyard, concrete block manufacturing operation, machine shop, and irrigation pipe making equipment. All of these facilities were owned by the North Corona Land Company (Ibid).

Using these facilities, a landowner could build a house, construct farm buildings, and bring water to crops. The North Corona Land Company could sell a farmer a tractor and its machine shop could maintain it. At the Norco Garage, a resident could buy a vehicle, purchase fuel, and have nearly any vehicle serviced. At the Norco Pavilion, farmers could meet, display their products, and exchange ideas. The Norco Store sold groceries, feed, clothing, hardware, and other merchandise. One could have a meal at the store’s café, borrow books from its volunteer-run library, and board guests in rooms located on the second floor.

The offices of the North Corona
Land Company and the Orange
Heights Water Company were
located across from the Norco
Store. In 1929, E.L. Upham, an
entrepreneur from Pasadena,
California, built the first privately
constructed commercial
building with a drug store and
other commercial lease spaces.

In Figure 3, Upham’s drug store
is to the left and the Orange
Heights Water Company’s
offices are to the right. Clark’s
elementary school, located west
of the commercial center, included large, turfed fields that served as a park and playground for the community (Ibid). To the west of the Norco School, a subdivision of small town lots were designed to be occupied by people who wanted to live in a village-like community, but who did not want to be farmers.

Clark aggressively promoted his town through advertisements in local newspapers and by offering free excursions from his Los Angeles headquarters to Norco. He also improved a number of farm lots with residences and farm buildings to demonstrate his vision and to provide “turnkey” farms for buyers wanting to get started without delay (Ibid: iii).

The Decline of Norco
In 1929, Rex Clark opened his Lake Norconian
Resort Supreme, where he hoped to lure wealthy
patrons for a pampered experience in a luxury hotel
and spa. The resort was built on land Clark had
originally intended to improve with a poultry farm.

This plan changed when he discovered hot mineral
water while drilling a well. Unfortunately, the
Norconian Resort opened at the dawn of the Great
Depression, and it operated at a loss from the
beginning (Ibid: iv).

With the Norconian Resort draining Clark’s
resources, his ability to attend to the needs of
Norco was significantly diminished. Advertising for
Figure 3. Upham's Drug Store and Orange Heights Water Company c. 1930 Figure 4. Rex Clark with a Rendering of his
Norconian Resort

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

land sales in Norco dropped off after the Resort’s opening and land public improvements slowed. By 1945, many of the lots in Clark’s Norco Farms tracts remained unsold (Ibid).

The Great Depression was as hard on the Norco community as it was on the Norconian Resort. While poultry farming fared better than most businesses during the Depression, foreclosures were common.

With these trends, property values dropped and building activity was greatly reduced (Ibid). To survive, Norco needed to be reinvented.

World War II
Norco, like much of the
United States, did not come
out of the Depression until
World War II injected new
life into the U.S. economy. In
1941, the U.S. Navy
purchased the Norconian
Resort and converted it into
a Naval Hospital. The Naval
Hospital created a demand
for housing and boosted the
local economy.

World War II was also a
demarcation point for Norco.

Rex Clark’s vision of Norco
as village of small selfsustaining farms was in its last days, as agriculture shifted to large-scale operations. The demand for housing, which brought people and prosperity, also brought a demand for urban services and a reduced tolerance for the negative environmental consequences of poultry farming and minimal infrastructure. In the two decades following World War II, Norco would face the challenge of redefining itself in rapidly urbanizing Southern California. (Ibid)

2.2 THE EMERGENCE OF HORSETOWN USA
Norco’s post-World War II period was one of a
community that needed to reinvent itself to survive.

While eggs may have remained a necessity after the
war, the economic viability of producing them on small
family farms declined. Rex Clark’s self-sufficient farm concept was beyond revival after the war. Southern
California was the center of massive growth
associated with the impacts of war investments. While
the small ranches associated with Rex Clark’s Norco
Farms tracts north of Fifth Street offered limited
opportunities for further subdivision, there was
enough subdividable land elsewhere in Norco where
developers could create viable small lot subdivisions.

Many times, these areas were under further pressure
to be annexed to the City of Corona (Ibid).

Figure 5. Naval Hospital Corona c. 1943
Figure 6. Two Gentlemen on Horseback in Norco
c. 1926

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Equestrian Lifestyle
A substandard water system kept Norco out of the crosshairs of large-scale developers for a while.

However, when a modern water system was installed between the late 1950s and the early 1960s, development pressures grew significantly. This led to conflicts between existing residents and land speculators (Wilkman, Historic Resources Context Statement, 1946-1966: 39).

It's not surprising that today’s Norco is a rural community focused on horses—blame it on Rex Clark.

Clark set Norco’s direction when he subdivided most of the area north of Fifth Street into lots that were typically two to five acres in size. From 1923 through the mid-1940s, this was an area dominated by small, family run poultry ranches. When the efficiencies of agri-businesses made these mom-andpop operations obsolete, the usefulness of these small farm properties for economic farming operations was out of the question.

Over time, the void left by Norco’s family farmer was filled by “gentleman farmers,” typically middleclass working individuals or families seeking enough land to enjoy a nostalgic lifestyle centered on farm animals. While the animals associated with these people included chickens, ducks, geese, goats, sheep, cows, and other farm animals, horses became the most popular animal for Norco’s new gentleman farmers. Horses were readily adaptable for many uses, as they could be ridden for pleasure, used in competitive events, and groomed for show (Ibid).

Exotic Animals
Norco was a haven for equestrian and farm animal
enthusiasts; however, it also accommodated exotic
animals. Circus companies used Norco as a place to
house their animals between shows, and trainers of
exotic animals took advantage of Norco’s animalfriendly traditions to set up shop in the community (Ibid:48-49).

Development Pressures
Rex Clark’s small acreage properties north of Fifth
Street were not particularly attractive to developers,
as they were too small for significant subdivision. So, most of Norco’s lands north of Fifth Street and east of Hamner Avenue remained nearly unchanged. (Ibid: iii)
South of Fifth Street, in the old Orchard Heights area, there were a significant number of larger parcels, many 10 or more acres in size. Here, a developer could more easily create a profitable subdivision of small suburban lots. However, the area also had many gentleman farmers. These property owners were as committed to a rural lifestyle as those living north of Fifth Street, and they added momentum for anti-development efforts (Ibid).

West of Hamner Avenue was another matter altogether. Flanking the Norconian to the north, west, and south, was a huge expanse of vacant land, just waiting for a developer to build any type of project the market would demand. While remote from the developed part of town, Norco’s gentleman farmers also saw suburban intrusions into this area as threatening to the town’s rural lifestyle (Ibid).

Figure 7. Some of Gene Holter's Exotic Animals

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Organized Resistance
Norco’s rural, agricultural
heritage would not be given
up without a fight. To more
effectively resist suburban
development, Norconians
used the area’s many rural
organizations to pressure
the County of Riverside to
deny small lot subdivisions
and annexations. These
organizations provided the
social structures from which
Norco’s rural activists
emerged. In their absence,
Norco would likely not have
been able to preserve its rural heritage. No annexation proposal, rezoning attempt, or development proposal escaped the scrutiny of the activists associated with these groups. Such groups included the Norco Hillbilly Riders, Norco Valley Riders, Norco Saddle Pals, Equestrian Trails Incorporated (ETI) Corral 32, Hoof-beats, and Norco Western Riders. The Norco Grange, the Norco Farm Bureau, and the Norco Agricultural Association were also active in promoting Norco’s rural lifestyle. Of these, the Norco Valley Riders, ETI Corral 32, the Norco Farm Bureau, and the Norco Agricultural Association led the way toward the preservation of Norco’s rural lifestyle (Ibid: 42).

Norco’s many rural organizations
maintained social ties through a
variety of events. Historic
newspapers document numerous
gymkhanas, rodeos, races, parades,
and horse shows. The most
prominent of these events was the
Norco Valley Fair, a major community
event that has its roots in an event
called the “Fall Festival,” held in
October of 1948. The Fall Festival
included a parade, dances, horse
races, a livestock show, boxing,
wrestling, and other events. For
children, there were bicycle races,
potato sack races, foot races,
baseball games, and a Soap Box Derby. In 1949, the event’s name was changed to the “Norco Valley Fair.” Following the name change, the Norco Valley Fair adopted a new venue at the then recently completed Norco Community Center, converted in 1949 to a park and community center from its former use as the Norco (Elementary) School (Ibid: 47).

Every week, other events were conducted by Norco’s many equestrian clubs. Some of these events took place at the Norco Community Center, while other events took place at the nearby Horsemen’s Park, an equestrian venue once located north of where the I-15 Freeway now passes under Sixth Street. Smaller events were held at the many private ranches in Norco (Ibid).

Figure 8. Anti-Annexation Poster c. 1964
Figure 9. The Norco Valley Fair at the Community Center c. 1950

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Today, there are five major events that celebrate Norco’s rural, agricultural heritage and equestrianoriented atmosphere:

1. Day of the Cowboy Rodeo: An annual event
organized and operated by the City of Norco
that celebrates National Day of the American
Cowboy and features various rodeo events,
including bull riding, roping and barrel racing,
alongside family-friendly pre-rodeo activities
and entertainment.

2. Horsetown Parade of Lights: An annual
event organized and operated by the City of
Norco that celebrates Christmas and the
holiday season and features a festive parade
of equestrians, floats, bands, and community
groups illuminating Sixth Street.

3. Norco Fair: An annual, four-day event held
over Labor Day weekend, organized and operated by an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, that features wholesome, family fun festivities, rodeo events, entertainment, community exhibits, a parade, and a junior livestock show. Proceeds are donated to local community groups.

4. Norco Horseweek: An annual spring festival organized and operated by an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, that celebrates Norco’s heritage with a variety of family-friendly, equestrianthemed events over 10 days, including rodeos, community competitions, a parade, and more.

Proceeds are donated to local community groups.

5. Norco Mounted Posse PRCA Rodeo: An annual event organized and operated by the Norco Mounted Posse (an all-volunteer, non-profit organization) that celebrates the traditions of “Horsetown USA” and centers around a professional rodeo featuring bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and team roping, alongside live entertainment and community activities. Proceeds are donated to local community groups.

Incorporation
Norconians soon tired of protecting the town’s
rural heritage via battles with the County of
Riverside. The Board of Supervisors tended to see
Norco as a small, insignificant area with little
political influence. Developers, on the other hand,
tended to be influential and well-funded for the
promotion of their developments. The answer to
this dilemma was to incorporate Norco as an
independent municipality. After a hard-fought
battle, Norco was incorporated on December 24,
1964 (Ibid).

Figure 10. Equestrians Carry American Flags at the
2022 Day of the Cowboy Rodeo at Ingalls Event Center
Figure 11. Norco's First City Council c. 1965

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Equestrian Trail History
Norco’s rural, agricultural heritage and equestrian-oriented atmosphere are deeply rooted in its equestrian trails and other amenities. Norco’s trails are a unique and ubiquitous component in the city’s infrastructure. The advent of dedicated equestrian trails began in the mid-1960s. Today, most of Norco’s streets are lined by equestrian trails consisting of a decomposed granite riding surface and separated from vehicular traffic by two-rail fencing. Recreational trails are also located in Norco’s River Trails Park, a complex of equestrian trails in the Santa Ana Riverbed along Norco’s north boundary, and in the Norco Hills situated along Norco’s east border (Ibid: 33).

Prior to Norco’s incorporation as a municipality, accommodations for horseback riding in and around Norco were informal at best. Riders freely used local streets at their own risk. Open areas, particularly in the hills and in the Santa Ana River, were crisscrossed with trails across private and public lands that had no official designation as public riding trails (Ibid).

In 1965, an article in the Corona Daily Independent referred to an equestrian trails proposal by Luther Smith, a member of ETI Corral 32. At a club meeting held on May 11, 1965, Smith proposed that a committee be formed to encourage the City of Norco to incorporate trail planning and regulations into the City’s General Plan and Municipal Code. He also suggested a trail be built along Fifth Street as the first step in the process of establishing street-side trails in Norco. Ben Weaver and Jerry Riley, also members of ETI Corral 32, volunteered to work on the committee. Soon thereafter, a larger committee was formed consisting of members from ETI Corral 32, the JR Spread Homeowners Association, and the Norco Valley Riders (Corona Daily Independent, 5-12-1965: 14).

A month later, Smith, as a representative of the Equestrian Trails Committee, appeared before the City of Norco Planning Commission to ask that the City support the planning, construction, and regulation of equestrian trails. Smith told the Commission, “If we are going to be a horse community, we need trails.” He suggested a 15-foot strip be cleared on the north side of Fifth Street and improved as an equestrian trail (Corona Daily Independent, 6-15-1965: 3).

Smith also presented the Planning Commission with a proposed ordinance to address equestrian trails in Norco. The proposed ordinance included the following provisions:
• If necessary, a tax could be levied on horses to cover the cost of trail maintenance. • Riding and hiking groups would have permission to remove any obstruction, except utility equipment, fire hydrants, and traffic control signs.
• Horses and pedestrians would have exclusive use of designated equestrian trails and would have the same rights on such trails.

Smith emphasized that the proposed ordinance was his own creation and not the product of the Equestrian Trails Committee (Ibid).

Later in 1965, the Norco Valley Riders went on record as supporting equestrian trails in Norco, with trails to be immediately constructed on Pedley Avenue and Fifth Street. The club also recommended that equestrian under-crossings be included in the design of any freeway extension through Norco (Corona Daily Independent, 9-22-1965: 3).

Figure 12. Equestrians on
Third Street c. 1924

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

The Equestrian Trails Committee took the matter even further. At a committee meeting held on September 30, 1965, the committee recommended the following trails:
• South side of Fifth Street from California Avenue to Hillside Avenue, and on the north side of Fifth Street from Hillside Avenue to Parkridge Avenue.
• West side of Pedley Avenue.
• North side of Second Street, from Hillside Avenue to Parkridge Avenue. • North side of Parkridge Avenue to the river bottom.

The committee also recommended a future trail on Valley View Avenue to be installed when the street was widened (Corona Daily Independent, 10-1-1965: 3).

At its meeting on September 30, 1965, the Equestrian Trails Committee adopted an expanded version of Luther Smith’s equestrian trails ordinance for presentation to the City of Norco. The amended ordinance included the following provisions:
• The establishment of a riding trails committee to advise the City Council. • Riding and hiking groups would have permission to remove any obstruction, except utility equipment, fire hydrants, and traffic control signs, from designated equestrian trails. • Trails would be defined as meaning a right-of-way reserved for the exclusive use of horses and pedestrians.
• Horsemen would be required to exercise “reasonable control” over horses. • Horsemen would be required to observe all traffic ordinances. • Parking would be prohibited on designated trails.
• Suitable markers would be established and maintained for the guidance of trail users and motor vehicles.
• The City Council would have the power to levy a tax on horses to cover trail maintenance. • The City Council would have the power to terminate, modify, or extend permission to use trails at any time (Ibid).

In November of 1965, the City Council designated seven streets to be improved with equestrian trails. The seven streets consisted of Park Drive and First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Streets.

The Council also voted to request that the State of California install several equestrian under-crossings when the freeway was extended through Norco (Corona Daily Independent, 11-24-1965:
3). Ultimately, the freeway was built below grade, thus allowing equestrians to travel over the freeway.

Pressure for equestrian trails did not, however, end with the City Council’s November 1965 action. A year later, a petition was circulated by horseback calling for an equestrian trail on Hillside Avenue from Sixth Street to the Santa Ana River. The petition was a joint effort of ETI Corral 32 and Mrs. June Stangel. When asked why the petition specified Hillside Avenue, Mrs. Stangel said, “This is just the first of many streets on which we want horse trails. We had to start somewhere.” Among the petition’s early signers were Mayor Gil Cox and Planning Commission Chairman H.G. McNeil (Corona Daily Independent, 11-12-1965: 1).

Figure 13. Equestrian Trail Sign
c. 1968

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Aside from creating trails along existing streets, new developments also included equestrian trails.

The JR Spread, a series of subdivisions recorded in 1963 and 1964, was the first new residential development to provide equestrian trails as part of its large lot tract improvements. The JR Spread includes trails to the rear of some lots and along many of its streets. The subdivision also includes a riding arena maintained by the homeowner association. Norconians worked to influence other proposed developments to include equestrian features.

In 1965, the Norco Agricultural Association (NAA) appointed a five-person committee to work with Del Walton of the Union Hawaii Corporation in his proposed development of 1,050 acres north of the Norconian. The NAA urged Walton to increase lot sizes and to include equestrian trails (Corona Daily Independent, 7-15-1965: 3).

Later in 1965, the City of Norco Planning Commission approved a 14.3-acre tract at Parkridge Avenue and Pulaski Street, with the provision that lots be a minimum of one half-acre and include easements for equestrian trails (Corona Daily Independent, 8-10-1965: 3).

In February of 1966, the City of Norco Planning Commission considered a proposal of Hemlock Terrace Corporation to develop 136 acres northeast of River Road and southwest of Corydon Avenue.

The tract was modeled after the JR Spread development with 225 minimum 20,000 square foot “horse ranches,” equestrian trails, and an equestrian arena (Corona Daily Independent, 2-14-1966: 3).

Section 3: Equestrian Lifestyle Today
Streets, Trails & Equestrian Amenities
Street curbing in Norco is designed to work well with horses. In the older parts of the city, curbing is largely absent, and only center paving is found. Newer areas feature rolled curbs. Areas with just center paving and rolled curbs are more equestrian friendly and they allow driveways to occur along any part of a property’s frontage. Some areas have standard curb and gutter, but this is the exception rather than the rule.

Today, in support of Norco’s rural heritage, equestrian trails are required in any new development in the city’s various animal-keeping zones. Exhibit B is a map of
existing equestrian trails. The most extensive system
of trails in recently approved subdivisions may be
found in the Norco Hills Specific Plan area and the
Norco Ridge Ranch Specific Plan area, located in the
southeasterly and easterly parts of the city.

A typical equestrian trail has a decomposed granite
riding surface flanked with two-rail fencing. Originally, trail fencing consisted of wooden posts and rails. This proved to be problematic, however, as the wood
tended to deteriorate and warp. Now, Norco has
adopted white vinyl trail fencing made of polyvinyl
chloride plastic (PVC). The City of Norco is in the
process of installing vinyl fencing as funding is
available. In some areas, trail fencing is missing, but over time all streets with equestrian trails will have uniform fencing.

Figure 14. Equestrian Trail on Sixth Street
with White Vinyl (PVC) Fencing

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

In most residential areas, trails are located on only one side of the street. In these areas, trail fencing is usually situated on the street side of the trail. In newer areas, trails can be found on both sides of the street, with
fencing situated on both sides of each trail.

Along the Sixth Street commercial corridor, trails are
uniformly located on both sides of the street and trail fencing is located on both sides of each trail. Many
Sixth Street businesses also accommodate horses on
their private properties. Typical private improvements
include corrals, watering troughs, and hitching posts.

These improvements make it practical to use one’s
horse to travel from home to the Sixth Street business
district and go shopping, eat at a restaurant, or conduct other business.

In addition to trails, most of Norco’s parks feature
equestrian amenities, including riding arenas, round
pens, accessible mounting ramps, and/or hitching
posts. Corydon Staging Area and Ingalls Event Center also allow equestrians to park their horse trailer, tack up their horse, and access equestrian trails, open space, and the Santa Ana Riverbed via horseback. Maps of City parks, facilities, and equestrian amenities are found in Exhibits C, D and E.

Agrarian Architecture Character
Norco’s rural, agricultural heritage
even extends to its architecture.

Norco’s agrarian architecture
character, specifically found in
commercial areas including Sixth
Street, features simple designs
that are inspired by traditional
farming structures, often
incorporating elements of barns,
stables, and agricultural buildings.

Qualities that reflect this style
include pitched gable roofs, barnshaped facades, overhanging eaves, open front porches,
exposed beams, corbels, and knee braces. The overall character has rustic charm and utilizes a mix of natural materials like wood, stone, brick, and metal, with a focus on functionality, practicality, and durability.

Event Centers
Norco’s rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere, large-lot properties, and picturesque views feel refreshingly removed from congestion or chaos, but its strategic, freeway-convenient location has positioned the city as an equestrian, sports and event destination that is home to two major event centers, welcoming over three million visitors annually.

Figure 16. Business on Sixth Street Showcasing Agrarian Architecture Figure 15. An Equestrian Enjoys the
Public Riding Arena at Pacer Park

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

The 80-acre, municipally operated Ingalls Event
Center, nestled in the scenic Norco Hills,
showcases a collection of versatile venues that
can be utilized for a wide spectrum of special
events, including rodeos, livestock shows,
festivals, private parties, and equestrian
competitions. The Event Center features two
world-class covered arenas, a spacious steelframed multi-purpose barn, an indoor banquet hall, an open-air turf area, and ample parking areas. The
Event Center also includes two areas that honor
the spirit and contributions of former residents—
the George A. Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza and
the Kathy Azevedo Spirit of Norco Monument.

Metal, equestrian-themed art installations are
staged throughout the Event Center and include
sculptures of horses, equestrians, farm animals,
plants, and a stagecoach.

SilverLakes Sports Park is a 130-acre multipurpose venue with 24 soccer fields, five equestrian arenas, a 10,000-seat concert facility, a
1,500 horse stall capacity, and a restaurant with
banquet amenities. SilverLakes hosts a wide range
of events, including youth and professional soccer
tournaments, equestrian competitions, and largescale music festivals and concerts. The venue also features family-friendly festivals, cultural festivals, food and wine festivals, and offers spaces for
weddings, corporate events, and private parties.

Section 4: Equestrian Historic District
In October 2021, the Norco City Council adopted an Equestrian Historic District to celebrate and preserve Norco’s rich agricultural heritage, distinct rural atmosphere, and enduring animal-keeping lifestyle. The demarcated area includes properties that share an equestrian theme and pertinent features, including equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, parks with equestrian amenities (e.g., arenas, hitching posts, etc.), large lots (typically a half-acre or larger), and permanent animal-keeping areas. Approximately 6,000 residential properties, encompassing every property within the city’s various animal-keeping zones, are included in the Equestrian Historic District (Exhibit A). Additionally, the District includes commercial properties lining Sixth Street from Sierra Avenue to California Avenue because they also reflect the equestrian heritage.

To qualify for inclusion in the Equestrian Historic District, an area must feature the following elements:
• An equestrian trail on at least one side of most streets • Equestrian trail fencing along the street side of most trails • Over 50% of the lots contain 20,000 square feet or more • A dedicated animal keeping area on most lots
Figure 17. The Arenas at Ingalls Event Center
Figure 18. SilverLakes Fields & Equestrian Arenas

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Contributors to an Equestrian Historic District shall consist of:
• Equestrian trails
• Equestrian trail fencing
• City parks with equestrian amenities/improvements
• Large lots, 20,000 square feet or larger, or legal nonconforming lots of less than 20,000 square feet
Contributors do not include any improvements on privately owned properties, unless the property is designated as an individual Cultural Heritage Landmark.

The period of significance is 1909 to the present.

Section 5: Equestrian Landmark
To strengthen the City of Norco’s established Equestrian Historic District and support its mission to preserve Norco’s large lot, equestrian lifestyle, the Norco City Council may create a new historic preservation category—an “Equestrian Landmark.”
The Equestrian Historic District applies to a large portion of the city, with individual properties recognized as “contributors” to the District. The provisions of the Equestrian Historic District center on equestrian trails, equestrian trail fencing, large lots with dedicated animal-keeping areas, and equestrian-friendly parks. The designation as an Equestrian Landmark would further elevate the recognition of Norco’s profound equestrian heritage by preserving the three elements that are necessary to be recognized as an equestrian community: 1) large lots, 2) equestrian trails, and 3) open space. The Equestrian Historic District and Equestrian Landmark would complement each other while supporting the City’s mission to “keep Norco, Norco” and preserving the equestrian-oriented, animalkeeping lifestyle without impacting residents’ ability to improve their property.

The Equestrian Landmark would include: (1) all residential properties in the existing Equestrian Historic District, (2) all residential properties in the City of Norco that have a zoning designation that allows animal-keeping by right, (3) all trails in the City of Norco, and (4) all open space in the City of Norco.

As with the Equestrian Historic District, an Equestrian Landmark would not impose any new restrictions, requirements or obligations on structures or property owners beyond existing zoning regulations. The Equestrian Landmark designation would not apply to any improvements on individual properties. Rather, the Equestrian Landmark focuses on the open spaces created by the large lots in the city and a property’s contribution to Norco’s equestrian heritage, as reflected in its rural, large lots—not the buildings and other improvements on the large lot. This is very different from other cities’ historic districts that are based on architecture, as the creation of an Equestrian Landmark will not impose new restrictions on structures.

The process of creating an Equestrian Landmark is public and transparent. The Equestrian Landmark designation would be recommended by the City of Norco Historic Preservation and Agricultural Heritage Commission at a noticed public hearing and would then ultimately be established by resolution of the Norco City Council at a noticed public meeting. Both meetings provide the opportunity for public comments.

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Section 6: Resources
Tibbett, Casey and Bill Wilkman
2012 Historic Resources Survey - Pre-1946, LSA Associates and Wilkman Historical Services, Riverside, California
Wilkman, Bill
2012 Historic Context Statement - 1946-1966, Wilkman Historical Services, Riverside, California Corona Daily Independent
1954 “Owner of Strange Animals Buys Ranch in Norco,” October 5, Page 1. 1960 “Roundup of News of the Norco Area,” August 10, Page 3. 1962 “Half Zebra, Half Pony Born at Holter’s Farm,” January 24, Page 1. 1962 “Mais Oui, Monsieur, Zee French Poodles Dig Norco,” January 25, Page 1. 1962 “Norco Couple Trainers of Seals, Whales, Porpoises,” February 23, Page 1. 1965 “Norco Horse Show Slated for Saturday,” May 12, Page 14. 1965 “Riders Ask for Trails,” June 15, Page 3.
1965 “Car-Horse Conflict Flares,” June 17, Page 3.
1965 “NAA Names Group to Work with Walton,” July 15, Page 3. 1965 “Riding Trails Backed,” July 27, Page 3.
1965 “Norco Tract Map Gets OK,” August 10, Page 3
1965 “Vaughn to Head Norco Riders,” September 22, Page 3. 1965 “Proposed Sites for Trails Designated,” October 1, Page 3. 1965 “Norco Trail Committeemen Bow to 213 Petitioners,” October 29, Page 3. 1965 “Another Day, Another Petition,” November 12, Page 1. 1965 “Playground for Horsemen,” November 24, Page 3.

Historical Maps and Aerial Photographs
City of Norco
2021 Map of Equestrian Historic District Boundaries
2021 Map of Equestrian Trails
2025 Map of Equestrian Amenities
2025 Map of Recreational Facilities, Event Centers & Park Arenas 2025 Map of City Parks
1967 United States Geological Survey
Corona North Quadrangle, Photo revised 1981
Persons Consulted
Alma Robles, Community Development Director
Colin Burns, City Attorney
Kelli Anderson, Communications Manager
Kevin Bash, City Council Member
Lisette Free, City Manager
California Office of Historic Preservation

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Section 7: Exhibits
Exhibit A: Map of Equestrian Historic District Boundaries

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Exhibit B: Map of Equestrian Trails

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Exhibit C: Map of Equestrian Amenities

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Exhibit D: Map of Recreational Facilities, Event Centers & Park Arenas

EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK REPORT October 2025

Exhibit E: Map of City Parks

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-69

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
NORCO DESIGNATING THE “EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City of Norco has a unique rural, agrarian heritage that has led to its development as a community of large lots devoted to various forms of animal keeping, most particularly the keeping of horses; and
WHEREAS, Norco’s early history was oriented around crop and poultry farming when, in 1923, entrepreneur Rex Clark bought all of The Citrus Belt Land Company’s unsold lands and created a new town to be named “Norco;” and WHEREAS, Norco was a utopian concept oriented around a town center flanked by farms of two to five acres in size; and
WHEREAS, the advent of Norco as “Horsetown USA” began to emerge in the late 1940s when Norco’s family farmers began to give way to “gentleman farmers” who kept horses and other farm animals as a hobby; and
WHEREAS, businesses designed to service these gentleman farmers also sprung up, including boarding stables, farriers, veterinarians, feed stores, and other equestrianrelated businesses; and WHEREAS, Norco’s reputation as a large lot, animal-keeping community took hold quickly, becoming well established by the mid-1950s; and WHEREAS, the early gentleman farmers resisted efforts by developers to build small lot subdivisions, as such subdivisions would destroy the city’s equestrian lifestyle that relies on, and requires, large lots for animal-keeping; and WHEREAS, eventually, the gentleman farmers spearheaded an effort to incorporate Norco as an independent municipality oriented around a rural lifestyle and, in 1964, the town of Norco became the City of Norco; and
WHEREAS, equestrian trails first began to appear in 1965, when activists encouraged the City to install equestrian trails along streets in Norco’s many rural neighborhoods. Today, equestrian trails can be found along most streets in the city. To complement these trails, parks are improved with equestrian amenities, such as arenas, accessible mounting ramps and hitching posts. Norco’s Sixth Street is a commercial corridor with equestrian trails on both sides of the street. Additionally, businesses began to accommodate horses with corrals, hitching posts, and water troughs; and

WHEREAS, since before 1950, and as more fully detailed in the staff report supporting the Equestrian Landmark designation, the City of Norco has expended significant resources building a city-wide infrastructure of trails, open space, and amenities to support its equestrian lifestyle, an equestrian lifestyle that has defined the cultural, social, and historic heritage of the city for over 75 years; and WHEREAS, Norco’s equestrian heritage remains an essential foundation of Norco’s cultural, social, and historic identity; and
WHEREAS, to honor and preserve the city’s agrarian heritage, rural atmosphere, and equestrian-oriented, animal-keeping lifestyle, the City Council adopted an Equestrian Historic District in October 2021; and
WHEREAS, Norco’s equestrian heritage depends on large, animal-keeping lots, equestrian trails, and open space; and
WHEREAS, the following properties exemplify and are essential to the City of Norco’s long established equestrian lifestyle: (1) all residential properties in the Norco Historic District, (2) all residential properties in the City of Norco that have a zoning designation that allows animal-keeping by right, (3) all trails in the City of Norco, and (4) all open space in the City of Norco (hereafter, cumulatively, “Equestrian Landmark Properties”); and
WHEREAS, the Equestrian Landmark Properties are eligible for designation as a cultural landmark and shall comprise that cultural landmark because the large, animalkeeping lots, equestrian trails, and open space retain their historic integrity from 1950 and prior when gentleman farmers set out to create an equestrian community and, as set forth in the RECITALS of this Resolution and the staff report supporting this Resolution, exemplify and reflect special elements of the city’s cultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic, engineering, architectural, and natural history; identify with persons and events significant in Norco local history; embody distinctive characteristics of the style, type, period and method of construction; have unique physical characteristics and views and vistas representing an established and familiar visual feature of the city; reflect distinctive examples of park or community planning; have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history; and are at least 50 years old; and WHEREAS, the City of Norco has fought to defend its animal-keeping, equestrianoriented lifestyle since before the 1950s, and continuing to do so today, the City Council hereby desires to designate the Equestrian Landmark Properties as the “Equestrian Landmark” pursuant to Chapter 20.15 of the Norco Municipal Code.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Norco does hereby RESOLVE:

Section 1: The RECITALS provided in this resolution are true and correct and are incorporated into the operative part of this resolution.

Section 2: There is hereby created and established the Equestrian Landmark. The Equestrian Landmark shall include all Equestrian Landmark Properties.

Section 3: The Equestrian Landmark shall not include any improvements on residential properties but shall apply to the real property of residential properties. As used in this resolution, “residential property” means any property in the City of Norco with zoning that allows both animal-keeping by right and a single-family residence to occur concurrently on the property.

Section 4: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this resolution is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of this resolution. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this resolution, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

Section 5: The City Council finds the adoption of this resolution is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.

Section 6: This resolution shall take effect upon its adoption by the City Council, and the City Clerk shall certify the vote adopting the resolution.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 5th day of November, 2025 by the City Council of the City of Norco pursuant to the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_______________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
City Clerk

ORDINANCE NO. 1136

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
NORCO DESIGNATING THE “EQUESTRIAN LANDMARK”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City of Norco has a unique rural, agrarian heritage that has led to its development as a community of large lots devoted to various forms of animal keeping, most particularly the keeping of horses; and
WHEREAS, Norco’s early history was oriented around crop and poultry farming when, in 1923, entrepreneur Rex Clark bought all of The Citrus Belt Land Company’s unsold lands and created a new town to be named “Norco;” and WHEREAS, Norco was a utopian concept oriented around a town center flanked by farms of two to five acres in size; and
WHEREAS, the advent of Norco as “Horsetown USA” began to emerge in the late 1940s when Norco’s family farmers began to give way to “gentleman farmers” who kept horses and other farm animals as a hobby; and
WHEREAS, businesses designed to service these gentleman farmers also sprung up, including boarding stables, farriers, veterinarians, feed stores, and other equestrianrelated businesses; and WHEREAS, Norco’s reputation as a large lot, animal-keeping community took hold quickly, becoming well established by the mid-1950s; and WHEREAS, the early gentleman farmers resisted efforts by developers to build small lot subdivisions, as such subdivisions would destroy the city’s equestrian lifestyle that relies on, and requires, large lots for animal-keeping; and WHEREAS, eventually, the gentleman farmers spearheaded an effort to incorporate Norco as an independent municipality oriented around a rural lifestyle and, in 1964, the town of Norco became the City of Norco; and
WHEREAS, equestrian trails first began to appear in 1965, when activists encouraged the City to install equestrian trails along streets in Norco’s many rural neighborhoods. Today, equestrian trails can be found along most streets in the city. To complement these trails, parks are improved with equestrian amenities, such as arenas, accessible mounting ramps and hitching posts. Norco’s Sixth Street is a commercial corridor with equestrian trails on both sides of the street. Additionally, businesses began to accommodate horses with corrals, hitching posts, and water troughs; and