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SECTION 507 - FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES
507.1 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for fire protection shall be provided to premises upon which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The approved water supply shall be in accordance with this section, Appendix B, and Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
507.3 Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be in accordance with Appendix B as amended and Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with Sections 507.5.1 through 507.5.6, Appendix C, and Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
>507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 300 feet from a hydrant on a public or private street, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official and in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
Exceptions:
1. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, the distance requirement can be increased by the fire code official but shall not exceed 600 feet.
2. For buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2, or 903.3.1.3, the distance requirement can be increased by the fire code official but shall not exceed 600 feet.
507.5.1.1 Hydrant for standpipe systems. Buildings equipped with a standpipe system shall have a fire hydrant located in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
507.5.1.2 Hydrant for fire department connections. A minimum of one fire hydrant is required to be installed in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems when a fire protection system has a fire department connection.
SECTION 509 - FIRE PROTECTION AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION AND ACCESS
509.3 Multi-tenant or multi-unit buildings. When an automatic fire sprinkler system or systems or a fire alarm system or systems are installed in buildings constructed for multiple tenants and/or units and the installed systems protect multiple tenant spaces or units, the fire sprinkler riser(s), fire alarm control unit, and all other related valves, gauges, and/or controls for such systems shall be located in an attached or included room or approved weather resistant enclosure accessible from the exterior of the building. The room or enclosure shall be of a sufficient size as determined by the fire code official to allow firefighters and other emergency responders in full personal protective equipment the ability to operate safely with unrestricted access to all risers, control units, valves, and other installed equipment.
Access doors serving the room or walk-in enclosure are required to be a minimum of 3 feet in width and 6 feet 8 inches in height.
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SECTION 511 - SITE PLANS
511.1 General. The owner of or person responsible for a building or facility shall provide the fire code official with a site plan in accordance with Fire District Standard for Site Plan Content. The owner or responsible person shall provide an updated site plan to the fire code official when any element of the site plan changes.
CHAPTER 6
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
SECTION 606 - COMMERCIAL COOKING EQUIPMENT, SYSTEMS, AND OPERATIONS
606.1 General. Commercial cooking equipment, systems, operations, and commercial kitchen exhaust hoods shall comply with the requirements of this section, Section 904, Section 907, the California Mechanical Code, NFPA 96, and Fire District Standard for Commercial Cooking.
SECTION 608 - MECHANICAL REFRIGERATION
608.11.1.2 Manual Operation. Where required by the fire code official, automatic crossover valves shall be capable of manual operation. The manual valves are required be located outside of the machinery room in an approved location easily accessible to emergency response personnel. The valves can be secured to prevent tampering or unfettered access by unauthorized persons. The valves or the security enclosure are required to be identified as Emergency Controls.
SECTION 610 - CLOTHES DRYER EXHAUST SYSTEMS
610.1 Clothes dryer exhaust duct systems. Clothes dryer exhaust dust systems shall be in accordance with Sections 610.1.1 through 610.1.3.
610.1.3 Reports. Reports in a format acceptable to the fire code official are required to document the required maintenance of clothes dryer exhaust duct systems installed in Group R-1, R-2, R-2.1, and R- 4 occupancies.
CHAPTER 8
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
SECTION 807 - DECORATIVE MATERIALS OTHER THAN DECORATIVE
VEGETATION IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
>807.5.2 Group E. Group E occupancies shall comply with Fire District Standard for Schools and Classrooms.
Note: The remainder of Section 807.5.2 is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for Schools and Classrooms.
>807.5.5 Group I-4. Group I-4 occupancies shall comply with Fire District Standard for Schools and Classrooms.
Note: The remainder of Section 807.5.5 is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for Schools and Classrooms.
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CHAPTER 9
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
SECTION 901 - GENERAL
901.4.2 Non-required fire protection systems. A fire protection system or portion thereof not required by this code, or the California Building Code shall be allowed to be furnished for partial or complete protection provided such installed system meets the applicable requirements of this code and the California Building Code. Partial systems shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Non-Required Systems.
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall either be evacuated, or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down until the fire protection system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires. A fire watch shall be in accordance with Fire District for Systems Out of Service.
901.8 Removal of or tampering with equipment. It shall be unlawful for any person to remove, tamper with, intentionally damage or destroy, or otherwise disturb any fire protection or life safety system, or other appurtenance installed as a component of a fire protection or life safety system required by this code, except for the purpose of extinguishing fire, approved training, recharging or making necessary repairs, or where approved by the fire code official. The fire code official is authorized to approve means for preventing and deterring the unlawful removal of and/or tampering with equipment installed as part of a fire protection or life safety system.
SECTION 903 - AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
903.1 General. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section, Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems, and Fire District Standard for Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.
>903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided:
1. In new buildings and structures in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.22 as amended.
2. In existing buildings and structures where an addition or cumulative additions to the original footprint of the building or structure creates a fire area that is required by Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.22 as amended to have an automatic sprinkler system.
Exception: Group R-3 occupancies.
3. In existing buildings and structures when a change in use results in a fire area that is required by Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.22 as amended to have an automatic sprinkler system.
Exception: Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies in accordance with this section.
903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section.
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903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-1 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-1 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area.
2. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group A-1.
3. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more; or
4. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
5. The fire area contains a multi-theater complex.
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-2 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-2 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
4. The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing a Group A-2 occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area.
2. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group A-3.
3. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more; or
4. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
5. The structure exceeds 12,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing exhibition and display rooms, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire resistance rating without openings.
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-4 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-4 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area.
2. The fire exceeds 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group A-4.
3. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
4. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for all enclosed Group A-5 accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet.
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 5,000 square feet in area.
Note: Conditions 2-7 are not amended. All other provisions of this section remain unchanged.
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903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F- 1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area or 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group F-1.
4. A Group F-1 occupancy is used to manufacture lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.
5. A Group F-1 occupancy is used to manufacture vehicles, energy storage systems or equipment containing lithium-on or lithium metal batteries where the batteries are installed as part of the manufacturing process.
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area.
2. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group M.
3. A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
4. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area or 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group M.
5. The structure exceeds 12,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing a Group M occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire- resistance rating.
903.2.7.2 Group M upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group M fire area where the area used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet.
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area.
2. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group S-1.
3. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
4. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet of new construction area or 12,000 square feet in an existing building where the fire area is increased, or the occupancy classification is changed to Group S-1.
5. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
6. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal powered vehicles where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet.
903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 of the California Building Code, as shown:
1. Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
2. Buildings no more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
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4. A Group S-1 fire area used for repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
5. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal powered vehicles where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet.
903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exist:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
3. Where the fire area of the open parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code, exceeds 12,000 square feet.
903.2.22 Pet dealers and pet boarding facilities. An automatic fire sprinkler system is required to be installed and monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with this code in pet dealer and pet boarding facilities in compliance with Health and Safety Code Sections 122155 and 122385.
Exception: Where an automatic fire alarm system is installed and monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with this code.
903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms. Valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures, and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit in accordance with this section and applicable Fire District Standards.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
2. Limited area sprinkler systems in accordance with 903.3.8.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
4. Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
5. Exception deleted.
6. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
7. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, pre-action and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
8. Underground key or hub gate valves in roadway boxes.
903.4.4 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indicating control valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in all multi-story buildings.
903.6 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11and Section 903 as amended herein.
SECTION 904 - ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section,
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Fire District Standard, and Fire District Standard for Fire Extinguishing Systems, and the applicable referenced standards.
904.2.2 Commercial hood and duct systems. Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by Section 606 to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code, manufacturer’s specifications, NFPA 96, and Fire District Standard for Commercial Cooking Operations.
904.3.3 System interlocking. Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel controls and shutoffs, ventilation activation and other controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents, and other features necessary for the safe and proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard, this code, Fire District Standard for Commercial Cooking Operations, and applicable NFPA standards.
904.3.5 Monitoring. Where a building fire alarm system or a sprinkler monitoring system is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building fire alarm system or sprinkler monitoring system in accordance with NFPA 72.
904.14 Commercial cooking systems. Commercial cooking equipment that produces grease laden vapors shall be provided with a Type I Hood, in accordance with the California Mechanical Code and Section 606 of this code as amended, and an automatic fire extinguishing system that is listed and labeled for its use as follows:
Note: Conditions 1-3 and exceptions are not amended.
SECTION 905 - STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
905.2 Installation standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section, NFPA 14 as amended in Chapter 80, and Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems. Fire department connections for standpipe systems shall be in accordance with Section 912.
SECTION 906 - PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in accordance with this code or readily available in all of the following locations:
Note: Conditions 1-9 are not amended.
10. At all outdoor events, special events, temporary uses, indoor and outdoor trade shows and exhibitions, and outdoor cooking operations in accordance with this code, Appendix N, Appendix O, and applicable Fire District Standards.
906.1.1 Group S storage areas. Where approved by the fire code official, in storage areas of Group S occupancies where forklift, powered industrial truck, or powered cart operators are the primary occupants, portable fire extinguishers, as specified in NFPA 10 and CCR Title 19, shall not be required where the storage area is in accordance with all of the following:
1. Vehicle-mounted extinguishers approved by the fire code official are provided on all forklifts, powered industrial trucks, and powered carts, including those that are designated as back up, reserve, or standby vehicles.
2. Each vehicle is equipped with a 10-pound, 40A:80B:C extinguisher affixed to the vehicle using a mounting bracket approved by the extinguisher manufacturer or the fire code official for vehicular use.
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3. Not less than two spare extinguishers of equal or greater rating shall be available on-site to replace a discharged extinguisher. Spare extinguishers are required to be of size and dimension to be properly restrained by the mounting brackets installed on the vehicles.
4. Vehicle operators shall be trained in the proper operation, use, and inspection of extinguishers through a training program approved by the fire code official.
5. Inspections of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be performed daily.
6. A 10-pound, 40A:80B:C extinguisher is installed at every exterior door in accordance with the applicable provisions of NFPA 10 and CCR Title 19.
906.6 Unobstructed and unobscured. Portable fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view. In rooms or areas in which visual obstruction cannot be completely avoided, means acceptable to the fire code official shall be provided to indicate the locations of extinguishers.
SECTION 907 - FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance, and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.9 are applicable to existing buildings and structures. Fire alarm and detection systems, remote annunciation, reset and silence procedures, listing certification, monitoring, notification appliances, equipment disconnect interfaces, and a posted zone map in new and existing buildings shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Alarm and Monitoring Systems.
907.1.2 Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings and plans for new fire alarm systems, modifications to existing fire alarm systems, and certain maintenance and repairs shall be prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 and Fire District Standard for Fire Alarm and Monitoring Systems and submitted for review and approval prior to system installation or commencing modifications, maintenance, or repairs.
Exception: Emergency repairs as allowed by Fire District Standard for Fire Alarm and Monitoring Systems.
907.1.6 Alarm Signal Verification. Remote monitoring and supervising station services shall attempt to verify an alarm signal originating from a residential or commercial protected premises prior to reporting the alarm signal to the public safety communications center. Verification shall be in accordance with NFPA 72 and Fire District Standard for Alarm Signal Verification.
907.2.30 Pet dealers and pet boarding facilities. An automatic fire alarm system is required to be installed and monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with this code in pet dealer and pet boarding facilities in compliance with Health and Safety Code Sections 122155 and 122385.
Exception: Where an automatic fire sprinkler system installed and monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with this code.
>907.6.3 Initiating device identification. The fire alarm system shall identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level where applicable, and status, including indication of normal, alarm, trouble, and/or supervisory status, as appropriate.
Exceptions:
1. Exception deleted.
2. Exception deleted.
3. Special initiating devices that do not support individual device identification.
4. Fire alarm systems or devices that are replacing existing equipment.
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907.6.6.2 MIY monitoring. Direct transmission of alarms Associated with monitor-it-yourself (MIY) transmitters to a public safety answering point (PSAP) are not be permitted.
907.7 Acceptance tests and completion. Upon completion of the installation, modification, repair, or maintenance, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72 and Fire District Standard for Fire Alarm and Monitoring Systems.
SECTION 912 - FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS
912.1 Installation. Fire department connections shall be installed in accordance with the NFPA standard applicable to the system design and shall comply with Sections 912.2 through 912.7 and Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
912.2.2 Existing buildings. On existing buildings, wherever the fire department connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
>912.5 Signs. A sign in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems shall be mounted on all fire department connections serving automatic sprinklers, standpipes, or fire pump connections. Where the fire department connection does not serve the entire building, a sign shall be provided indicating the portions of the building served.
SECTION 913 - FIRE PUMPS
913.2 Protection against interruption of service. The fire pump, driver, and controller shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism and other adverse conditions.
913.2.3 Alternate source of power. Notwithstanding the availability of a public utility to provide electric service for a fire pump, electrically driven fire pumps shall be provided with an alternate source of power in accordance with NFPA 20 due to historical and foreseeable extended power interruptions along the California Power Grid due to high demand, high heat, public safety power shutoffs, and damage to the power grid caused by destructive natural events common in Southern California such as wildfires, Santa Ana winds, and earthquakes.
913.2.4 Alternate source of fuel. Notwithstanding the availability of a public utility to provide natural gas for a fuel powered fire pump, natural gas fueled fire pumps supplied from the public utility shall be provided with an alternate source of fuel or the ability to accept an alternate source of fuel due to historical and foreseeable extended interruptions of the natural gas supply caused by seismic activity.
913.2.5 Interruption of service. When a fire pump installed to provide the required demand for one or more fire sprinkler systems experiences an interruption of service, the interruption of service shall constitute the fire sprinkler system being out of service regardless of an uninterrupted supply of water to the fire sprinkler system. An interruption of service to a fire pump shall be in accordance with Section 901.7 of this code.
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CHAPTER 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 1003 - GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS
1003.8 Public swimming pools. Public swimming pool enclosures, gates, and means of egress shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, the California Health and Safety Code, and the Fire District Guidance Document for Swimming Pools.
SECTION 1013 - EXIT SIGNS
1013.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. The path of egress travel to exits and within exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs to clearly indicate the direction of egress travel in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Intervening means of egress doors within exits shall be marked by exit signs. Exit sign placement shall be such that any point in an exit access corridor or exit passageway is within 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance of the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.
Exceptions:
1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access.
2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the fire code official.
3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2, R-3, or R-3.1.
4. Exit signs are not required where inmates are housed or held in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3.
5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.
6. In Group S occupancies approved for high-piled combustible storage where forklift, powered industrial truck, and powered cart operators are the primary occupants, exit signs are not required in the aisles, the shipping and receiving areas, or between exits and exit access doors.
CHAPTER 11
EXISTING BUILDINGS
SECTION 1101 - GENERAL
1101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this code. Construction, fire protection, and life safety in existing buildings shall be in accordance with this chapter, this code, the California Building Code, the California Existing Building Code, and other applicable codes.
1101.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing minimum construction, fire protection, and life safety requirements where existing buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of this code or the California Building Code.
SECTION 1103 - FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
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1103.5.3 Group I-2, Condition 2. In addition to the requirements of Section 1103.5.2, existing buildings of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancy shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. The automatic sprinkler system shall be installed within a time frame established by the fire code official.
CHAPTER 12
ENERGY SYSTEMS
SECTION 1203 - EMERGENCY AND STANDBY POWER SYSTEMS
1203.1.6.1 Alternate source of power. Notwithstanding the availability of a public electric utility, an alternate source of power shall be provided when the manufacturer’s instructions, the listing, this code, or applicable referenced standards require equipment to have an uninterruptable power source. The public electric utility is not considered a reliable uninterruptable power source due to historical and foreseeable extended power interruptions along the California Power Grid due to high demand, high heat, public safety power shutoffs, and damage to the power grid caused by destructive natural events common in Southern California such as wildfires, Santa Ana winds, and earthquakes.
1203.1.6.2 Alternate source of fuel. Notwithstanding the availability of a public utility to provide natural gas for a stationary emergency power generator, natural gas fueled stationary emergency power generators supplied from the public utility shall be provided with an alternate source of fuel or the ability to accept an alternate source of fuel due to historical and foreseeable extended interruptions of the natural gas supply caused by seismic activity.
SECTION 1204 - PORTABLE GENERATORS
>1204.10 Fire extinguisher. A listed portable fire extinguisher complying with section 906 with a minimum rating of 2-A:20-B:C shall be provided when a portable generator is in use. Based on the size and approved location of the portable generator, the fire code official is authorized to require additional fire extinguishers and/or fire extinguishers with a higher rating. Extinguishers are required to be located with respect to the portable generator as directed by the fire code official.
SECTION 1205 - SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
1205.3 Other than Group R-3 buildings. Access to systems for buildings, other than those containing Group R-3 occupancies, shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1205.3.1 through 1205.3.3.
1205.3.2 Interior pathways. Interior pathways shall be provided between array sections to meet the following requirements:
1. Pathways shall be provided at intervals not greater than 150 feet throughout the length and width of the roof.
2. A pathway not less than 4 feet wide in a straight line to roof standpipes, ventilation hatches, and permanently installed ladders intended for firefighter use.
1205.3.5 Access ladders. Where access ladders are required and installed in accordance with Fire District Standard for Roof Access, a clear operational area at the base of the ladder of not less than 8 feet by 8 feet is required to be provided. This operational area is required to provide unobstructed access to a perimeter pathway and/or an interior pathway as required by this section and as determined by the fire code official.
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1205.5.1 Vegetation control. A vegetation exclusion zone of not less than 10 feet shall be required around the perimeter of the ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. A noncombustible base of gravel or other noncombustible base approved by the fire code official shall be installed and maintained under the photovoltaic arrays and associated electrical equipment installations. The fire code official is authorized to require additional vegetation exclusion and/or management consistent with the hazards and risks of the location where a ground-mounted photovoltaic array is installed.
SECTION 1207 - ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (ESS)
1207.5.7 Vegetation control. Areas within 10 feet on each side of outdoor ESS shall be cleared of combustible vegetation and other combustible growth. The fire code official is authorized to require additional vegetation exclusion and/or management consistent with the hazards and risks of the location where an outdoor ESS is installed.
1207.6.5 Thermal runaway. Where required by table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, batteries and other ESS shall be provided with a listed device or other approved method acceptable to the fire code official to prevent, detect and minimize the impact of thermal runaway.
CHAPTER 23
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITIES AND REPAIR GARAGES
SECTION 2301 - GENERAL
2301.1 Scope. Automotive motor fuel dispensing facilities, marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities, fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facilities, aircraft motor-vehicle fuel-dispensing facilities, residential fueling operations, and repair garages shall be in accordance with this chapter and the California Building Code, International Fuel Gas Code, and California Mechanical Code. Such operations shall include both those that are accessible to the public and private operations.
CHAPTER 26
FUMIGATION AND INSECTICIDAL FOGGING
SECTION 2601 - GENERAL
2601.1 Scope. Fumigation and insecticidal fogging operations within buildings, structures, and spaces shall comply with this chapter and the California Food and Agricultural Code, Divisions 6 and 7.
Where there are conflicting provisions, the regulations contained in the Food and Agricultural Code shall prevail.
2601.2 Permits. An operational permit is not required to conduct fumigation and insecticidal fogging operations per California State Fire Marshal Informational Bulletin issued 10-03-00. Instead, provide required notification to the fire code official in accordance with Section 2603.3 of this code and the California Business and Professions Code Section 8505.5.
CHAPTER 28
LUMBER YARDS AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL, SOLID BIOMASS AND WOODWORKING
FACILITIES
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 34 of 49
SECTION 2804 - FIRE PROTECTION
2804.5 Water supply. An approved fire hydrant / water supply system capable of supplying 1,500 gallons per minute (gpm) fire flow for 2 hours shall be provided within 150 feet of all portions of the yard. When required fire flow cannot be provided, the fire code official is authorized to impose additional restrictions on pile sizes, locations, and separations.
CHAPTER 31
TENTS, TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT STRUCTURES,
AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
SECTION 3101 - GENERAL
3101.1 Scope. Tents, temporary special event structures, and membrane structures shall comply with this chapter, Fire District Standard for Outdoor Carnivals, Fairs and Public Assemblages, and Fire District Standard for Tents and Temporary Structures. The provisions of Section 3103 are applicable only to temporary tents and membrane structures. The provisions of Sections 3104 and 3106 are applicable to temporary and permanent tents and membrane structures. The provisions of Section 3105 are applicable to temporary special event structures. The provisions of Section 3106 are applicable to inflatable amusement devices. The provisions of Section 3107 are applicable to outdoor assembly events. Other temporary structures shall comply with the California Building Code.
SECTION 3103 - TEMPORARY TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
3103.1 General. Tents and membrane structures used for temporary periods of 30 days or less shall comply with this section and Section 3107. Tents and membrane structures used for a period of 31 to 180 days shall comply with the California Building Code. Other temporary structures erected for a period of 180 days or less shall comply with the California Building Code.
3103.7.2 Location. Tents or membrane structures shall not be located within 20 feet of lot lines, buildings, other tents or membrane structures, drive aisles available for vehicular use, parked vehicles, or internal combustion engines. For the purpose of determining required distances, support ropes and guy wires shall be considered as part of the temporary membrane structure or tent.
SECTION 3105 - TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT STRUCTURES
3105.4 Use period. Temporary special event structures erected in accordance with ANSI E1.21 shall not be erected for a period of more than 30 days.
SECTION 3107 - OUTDOOR ASSEMBLY EVENTS
3107.1 Scope. Outdoor assembly events shall comply with this section, Chapter 4 as applicable, and all applicable Fire District Standards.
CHAPTER 32
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 35 of 49
SECTION 3201 - GENERAL
3201.1 Scope. High-piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with this chapter and Fire District Standard for High Piled Combustible Storage. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, the following material-specific requirements shall apply:
Note: No changes to the numbered list.
SECTION 3205 - HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE
3205.7 Designation of storage heights and areas. Where required by the fire code official, a visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height and area shall be provided.
SECTION 3206 - GENERAL FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY FEATURES
3206.7 Fire department access doors. Where fire department access doors are required by Table 3206.2, fire department access doors shall be provided in accordance with Sections 3206.7.1 through 3206.7.9.
3206.7.3 Access to doors. An all-weather surface of either asphalt or concrete not less than 3 feet in width is required to provide a continuous pathway connecting the exterior landings of the fire access doors. Fire department access doors shall be able to be accessed without the use of a ladder.
3206.7.9 Identification of fire department access doors. Required access doors in any building with a gross floor area greater than 10,000 square feet shall be marked in accordance with Fire District Standard for Identification of Access Doors in Commercial and Industrial Buildings.
SECTION 3208 - RACK STORAGE
3208.3 Flue spaces. Rack storage areas protected with an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided with flue spaces in accordance with Table 3208.3. Required flue spaces shall be maintained.
3208.3.1 Flue space protection and identification. Flue spaces required by Table 3208.3 above the first tier of storage in single-, double-, or multiple-row rack storage installations shall be identified and equipped with approved protection devices in accordance with this section and Fire District Standard for High Piled Combustible Storage. Such devices and means of identification shall not be removed or modified.
CHAPTER 33
FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
SECTION 3301 - GENERAL
3301.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to structures in the course of construction, alteration, or demolition, including those in underground locations. This chapter shall also apply to the site and operations associated with construction, alteration, or demolition. Compliance with NFPA 241 and/or Fire District Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction is required for items not specifically addressed in this chapter.
3301.3 Site safety plan. A site safety plan shall be provided in accordance with Section 3303 and Fire District Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 36 of 49
3301.4 Construction permits. Construction or building permits shall not be issued until the fire code official inspects and approves required fire apparatus access and water supply for the construction site.
The issuance of building permits with regard to the requirements of this section shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Release of Construction Permits.
SECTION 3303 - ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY CONTROLS
3303.1 Program development and maintenance. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention and site safety program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration, or demolition work. The plan shall address the requirements of this chapter, other applicable portions of this code, and Fire District Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction. The plan is required to include the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted and approved by the fire code official before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall be submitted for approval. The approved site safety plan is required to be provided to everyone who is working on the site and reviewed with those who visit the site.
3303.5 Fire watch and safety standby. Where required by the fire code official or the site safety plan established in accordance with Section 3303.1, a fire watch and safety standby shall be provided for building demolition and for building construction in accordance with section 403.11.1 and Fire District Standard for Systems Out of Service – Fire Watch.
3303.5.1 Fire watch and safety standby during construction. A fire watch and safety standby shall be provided during non-working hours for construction, alteration, or demolition where the building exceeds 30 feet in height above the lowest adjacent grade at any point along the building perimeter, for new multistory construction with an aggregate area exceeding 10,000 square feet of floor area, or as required by the fire code official and Fire District Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction.
Exception: Group R-3 occupancies.
3303.5.2 Fire watch and safety standby personnel. Trained personnel shall be provided to serve as an on-site fire watch and safety standby in accordance with Section 403.11.1. The combination of fire watch duties and site security duties is acceptable.
SECTION 3305 - IGNITION SOURCE CONTROLS
3305.1 Listed and approved. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance, and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions. Installation and/or use of temporary heating devices requires prior approval by the fire code official.
3305.4 Open burning and outdoor fires. Open burning and outdoor fires as defined by Fire District Standard for Open Burning are prohibited at sites where construction, alteration, and/or demolition work is being performed.
3305.5 Hot work. Welding, cutting, grinding, soldering or brazing with open flame torches, torch applied processes, and any other hot work or use of open flame devices is required to be conducted under a hot work program administered by the site safety director in accordance with Chapter 35, Fire
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 37 of 49
District Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction, and Fire District Standard for Hot Work.
3305.7 Cooking and food warming. Cooking and food warming, including the use of microwave ovens and portable electrical devices, shall be prohibited except in approved designated cooking and food warming areas separated from combustible materials by a minimum of 20 feet. Signs with a minimum letter height of 3 inches and a minimum brush stroke of ½ inch shall be posted in conspicuous locations in designated cooking and food warming areas and state:
DESIGNATED COOKING AND FOOD WARMING AREA.
COOKING AND WARMING FOOD OUTSIDE OF A DESIGNATED COOKING AND FOOD WARMING AREA IS PROHIBITED.
Cooking and food warming restrictions and the location of designated cooking and food warming areas are required to be included in the site safety plan.
3305.10 Safeguarding roofing operations. Roofing operations utilizing heat-producing systems or other ignition sources shall be conducted in accordance with Sections 3318.2 and 3318.3, Chapter 35, and Fire District Standard for Hot Work.
SECTION 3307 - FIRE DEPARTMENT SITE ACCESS AND WATER SUPPLY
3307.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for firefighting shall be provided to all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 50 feet of temporary or permanent fire department connections. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or permanent roads capable of supporting vehicle loading under all weather conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are available. Temporary fire apparatus access roadways shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
3307.2 Water supply for fire protection. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available prior to combustible material arriving on the site.
Temporary water supply and fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
Exception: Combustible materials used for the forms for thrust blocks, footings, foundations, slabs, and vertical panels and similar work when approved by the fire code official.
3307.2.1 Combustible building materials. Prior to combustible building materials of the building under construction being delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 1,500 gallons per minute shall be provided. The fire hydrant or one of the hydrants used to provide this fire flow shall be within 300 feet of the combustible building materials, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access road.
Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 300 feet of all combustible building materials, the fire code official is authorized to require additional and/or alternate means of providing adequate water supply for fire protection.
3307.2.2 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 3313.3.1 through 3313.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.
3307.2.2.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet from property lot lines, the water supply shall provide the entire fire flow required by Appendix B as amended for the building when constructed.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 38 of 49
3307.2.2.2 Fire separation of 30 feet up to 60 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of 30 feet up to 60 feet from property lot lines, the water supply shall provide a minimum of 1,500 gallons per minute or 50 percent of the fire flow required by Appendix B as amended for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.
3307.2.2.3 Fire separation of 60 feet or greater. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation greater than 60 feet from a property lot line, a water supply of 1,500 gallons per minute shall be provided.
3307.4 Standpipe supply. Regardless of the presence of combustible building materials, the construction type or the fire separation distance, where a standpipe is required in accordance with Section 3314, a water supply providing a minimum flow of 1,500 gallons per minute shall be provided. The fire hydrant used for this water supply shall be located within 100 feet of the fire department connection supplying the standpipe.
3307.5 Standpipes. In buildings required to have standpipes by Section 905.3.1, not less than one standpipe shall be provided for use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 30 feet in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such standpipes shall be provided with fire department hose connections at locations adjacent to stairways complying with Section 3307.1.2 As construction progresses, such standpipes shall be extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.
CHAPTER 35
WELDING AND OTHER HOT WORK
SECTION 3501 - GENERAL
3501.1 Scope. Welding, cutting, open torches, and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with this chapter and Fire District Standard for Hot Work.
3501.3 Restricted areas. Hot work shall only be conducted in areas designed or authorized for that purpose by the personnel responsible for a Hot Work Program. Hot work shall not be conducted in the following areas unless approval has been obtained from the fire code official:
1. Areas where the sprinkler system is impaired.
2. Areas where there exists the potential of an explosive atmosphere, such as locations where flammable gases, liquids or vapors are present.
3. Areas with readily ignitable materials, such as storage of large quantities of bulk sulfur, baled paper, cotton, lint, dust or loose combustible materials.
4. On board ships at dock or ships under construction or repair.
5. Outdoors in a wildland-urban interface fire area.
6. Other areas or locations as specified by the fire code official.
CHAPTER 40
STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS AND WINES
SECTION 4003 - PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
4003.3 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall be controlled in accordance with Sections 4003.3.1 through 4003.4.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 39 of 49
>4003.3.1 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited, and “No Smoking” signs provided as follows:
1. Throughout indoor and enclosed areas of the premises.
2. Within 25 feet of outdoor storage, dispensing, or open-use areas.
3. “No Smoking” signs shall be placed at all entrances to buildings and enclosed areas.
4. In outdoor areas where flammable or combustible hazardous materials are stored, dispensed or used.
SECTION 4004 - STORAGE
>4004.2 Empty containers. The storage of empty containers previously used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids shall be stored as required for filled containers.
CHAPTER 41
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
SECTION 4103 - PORTABLE FUEL-FIRED HEATING APPLIANCES
4103.1.2 Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances. Portable gas-fired heating appliances located outdoors shall be in accordance with Sections 4103.1.2.1 through 4103.1.2.3.4 and Fire District Standard for Open Flames.
4103.1.2.1 Location. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be in accordance with Sections 4103.1.2.1.1 through 4103.1.2.1.4.
4103.1.2.1.1 Prohibited locations. The use of portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances is prohibited in any of the following locations:
1. Inside of any occupancy.
2. Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.
3. On exterior balconies.
Exceptions:
1. As permitted in Chapter 61.
2. One- and two-family dwellings.
3. When used in accordance with Fire District Standard for Open Flames. 4103.1.2.1.2 Clearance to buildings. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be located not less than 10 feet from buildings.
4103.1.2.1.3 Clearance to combustible materials. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located beneath, or closer than 10 feet to combustible decorations and combustible overhangs, awnings, sunshades or similar combustible attachments to buildings. 4103.1.2.1.4 Proximity to exits. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located within 10 feet of exits or exit discharges.
4103.1.2.1.5 Storage. When stored inside of any occupancy, tent, canopy, or membrane structure, portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be disconnected from the fuel gas container. 4103.1.2.3.3 Container capacity. The maximum individual capacity of gas containers used in connection with portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 40 of 49
Exception: The capacity of an LP-gas container utilized with portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances located on exterior balconies or within 10 feet of a building shall not be greater than 2 ½ pounds [nominal 1-pound LP-gas capacity].
CHAPTER 48
MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND STAGES,
APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
SECTION 4807 - FIRE SAFETY OFFICERS
>4807.1 Where permits are required by the Fire Code, a requirement for standby fire safety officers shall be determined by the fire code official on a case-by-case basis.
SECTION 4811 - PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
4811.1 General. This chapter shall apply to production locations.
>4811.2 Permits. A permit shall be obtained for any of the activities that follow:
a) Use of pyrotechnic special effects.
b) Open flames.
c) Flammable or combustible liquids, gases and dust.
d) Hot work.
e) Presence of motor vehicles within a building.
f) Tents and canopies regulated by Chapter 31.
g) Any additional permits required by the fire code official.
CHAPTER 50
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 5001 - GENERAL
5001.5 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5 and 105.6.
>Permittees shall apply for approval to permanently close a storage, use, or handling facility. Such application shall be submitted at least 30 days prior to the termination of the storage, use, or handling of hazardous materials. Such application shall be accompanied by an approved facility closure plan in accordance with Section 5001.6.3. The 30-day period is not applicable when approved based on special circumstances requiring such waiver.
SECTION 5004 - STORAGE
5004.14 Outdoor storage location. Outdoor storage areas for hazardous materials shall be located as required by Section 5003.12 except where material-specific requirements, including requirements in referenced standards, are provided in other chapters of this code. The fire code official is authorized to impose more restrictive requirements on outdoor storage locations when the materials being stored create or have the potential to create an odor or other nuisance.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 41 of 49
SECTION 5005 - USE, DISPENSING, AND HANDLING
5005.3.3 Outdoor location. Outdoor dispensing and use areas for hazardous materials shall be located as required by Section 5003.12 except where material-specific requirements, including requirements in referenced standards, are provided in other chapters of this code. The fire code official is authorized to impose more restrictive requirements on outdoor use, dispensing, and handling locations when the materials being used, dispensed, or handled create or have the potential to create an odor or other nuisance.
CHAPTER 56
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
SECTION 5601 - GENERAL
5601.1.4 Rocketry. For rocketry requirements see Fire District Standard for Model Rockets and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6, reprinted in Sections 5610, 5611, and 5612.
5601.7 Seizure. The fire code official is authorized to remove or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used in violation of this chapter; the Municipal Code; and California Code of Regulations Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6. Any seizure or removal pursuant to this section shall be in compliance with all applicable regulations, statutes, and laws.
SECTION 5608 - FIREWORKS DISPLAY
5608.1 General. Outdoor fireworks displays; use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience; and pyrotechnic special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical, and group entertainment productions shall comply with this section, California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6; and Fire District Standard for Fireworks and Special Effects.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §980-1006]
Article 13. General Safety Requirements
§991.7 Firing. All public display of fireworks shall be electrically fired. Electrical firing circuits are required to be in accordance with Article 13.5.
Article 15. Public Display
>§999. Mortars, Aerial Shells
(a) General.
(1) Electric firing shall be required for all mortars, cakes, Roman candles, set pieces, and any other fireworks or effects included as part of a public display. Electrical firing circuits are required to be in accordance with Article 13.5.
(2) Multiple-break shells that include a salute as one of the breaks shall be fired in HDPE mortars only.
>§1003. Operation of Display.
(d) Firing.
(1) All firing shall be done upon order or signal of the licensed pyrotechnic operator controlling the display.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 42 of 49
(2) Electric firing shall comply with all of the requirements of Article 13.5 of this chapter. (3) Upon conclusion of firing, no unauthorized person shall be permitted access to the firing area until the licensed pyrotechnic operator has determined the area to be safe and secure. (4) Electric firing shall be required for all mortars, cakes, Roman candles, set pieces, and any other fireworks or effects included as part of a public display. Electrical firing circuits are required to be in accordance with Article 13.5.
SECTION 5611 - MODEL ROCKETS
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1020-1028]
Article 17. Model Rockets
§1022. Model Rocket Standards and Use.
(a) Model rocket standards and use shall comply with: Fire District Standard for Model Rockets and N.F.P.A. 1122, the Code for Unmanned Rockets, Chapter 3, Sections 3-1.1 through 3-1.10, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6 and Appendix A-2-(1987), which is incorporated by reference herein except for Appendices A-2.3 and A-2.4.
§1023. Storage and Sale. No model rocket motors shall be stored, sold or offered for sale at retail unless such model rocket motors have been classified by the California State Fire Marshal.
§1024. Restrictions. The provisions of this article shall not be used to establish the authority to possess, launch or use experimental unlimited or experimental/high powered rocket motors.
SECTION 5612 - EXPERIMENTAL HIGH-POWER ROCKETS AND MOTORS
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1030-1039]
Article 18. Experimental High-Power Rockets and Motors
>§1030. General. Experimental high-power rockets and motors are prohibited.
Note: All other subsections of Article 18 are deleted.
SECTION 5613 - EMERGENCY SIGNALING DEVICES
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1045-1046]
Article 19. Emergency Signaling Devices
>§1045. Fire Hazard. The use of an emergency signaling device creates a fire hazard. The use of an emergency signaling device is prohibited.
§1046. License Required. Manufacturers of emergency signaling devices whose manufacturing operations take place in California must possess a valid fireworks manufacturing license from the State Fire Marshal to manufacture emergency signaling devices.
CHAPTER 57
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 43 of 49
SECTION 5704 - STORAGE
5704.2.7.6 Repair, alteration or reconstruction of tanks and piping. The repair, alteration or reconstruction, including welding, cutting and hot tapping of storage tanks and piping that have been placed in service, shall be in accordance with NFPA 30 and Fire District Standard for Hazardous Materials Tank Abandonment and Removal. Hot work, as defined in Section 202, on such tanks shall be conducted in accordance with Section 3510.
5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited in accordance with the appliable provisions of this section, Chapter 50, and the Municipal Code.
5704.2.13 Abandonment and status of tanks. Tanks taken out of service shall be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14 and Fire District Standard for Hazardous Materials Tank Abandonment and Removal or safeguarded in accordance with Sections 5704.2.13.1 through 5704.2.13.2.3 and API 1604.
5704.2.14 Removal and disposal of tanks. Removal and disposal of tanks shall comply with Sections 5704.2.14.1 and 5704.2.14.2 and Fire District Standard for Hazardous Materials Tank Abandonment and Removal.
>5704.3.3.4 Empty containers or portable tank storage. The storage of empty tanks and containers previously used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids shall be stored as required for filled containers and portable tanks. Portable tanks and containers, when emptied, shall have the covers or plugs immediately replaced in openings.
5704.3.3.9 Idle combustible pallets. Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside an unprotected liquid storage area shall be limited to a maximum pile size of 500 square feet and to a maximum storage height of 6 feet. Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside a protected liquid storage area shall comply with NFPA 13. Pallet storage shall be separated from liquid storage by aisles that are at least 8 feet wide.
SECTION 5706 - SPECIAL OPERATIONS
5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited in accordance with the appliable provisions of this section, Chapter 50, and the Municipal Code.
CHAPTER 58
FLAMMABLE GASES AND FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
SECTION 5806 - FLAMMABLE CRYOGENIC FLUIDS
5806.2 Limitations. Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is prohibited in accordance with the appliable provisions of this section, Chapter 50, and the Municipal Code.
CHAPTER 61
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 44 of 49
SECTION 6104 - LOCATION OF LP-GAS CONTAINERS
6104.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. Within the limits established by law restricting the storage of liquefied petroleum gas for the protection of heavily populated or congested areas, the aggregate capacity of any one installation where LP-gas is the primary source of heat shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons in any location determined by the fire code official to create an unacceptable hazard to persons and/or property.
Exceptions:
1. In particular installations, this capacity limit shall be determined and may be reduced by the fire code official, after consideration of special features such as topographical conditions, nature of occupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed containers, degree of fire protection to be provided, and capabilities of the local fire department.
2. Where LP-gas is not the primary source of heat, the aggregate capacity of LP-gas in use and storage on properties with a Group R use shall not exceed 100 pounds or the maximum allowed by this code, whichever is less.
SECTION 6107 - SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND DEVICES
6107.4 Protecting containers from vehicles. Where exposed to vehicular damage due to proximity to alleys, driveways or parking areas, LP-gas containers, regulators and piping shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 58 and Section 312.
6107.5 Container orientation. Containers in multiple-container stationary installations and containers in storage shall be oriented with relation to one another such that the length axes of the containers are parallel.
Exception: Portable containers.
SECTION 6109 - STORAGE OF PORTABLE LP-GAS CONTAINERS
AWAITING USE OR RESALE
6109.13 Protection of containers. LP-gas containers shall be stored within a suitable enclosure or otherwise protected against tampering. Where required by the fire code official, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 58 and Section 312.
Exception: Deleted
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 45 of 49
CHAPTER 80
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Standards of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District Standard Title
Standard for Access Gates
Standard for Alarm Signal Verification
Standard for Appeals
Standard for Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems
Standard for Building Signage
Standard for Commercial Cooking Operations
Standard for Definitions
Standard for Emergency Responder Communication
Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Standard for Fire Extinguishers in Warehouses
Standard for Fire Extinguishing Systems
Standard for Fire Prevention and Site Safety During Construction Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems
Standard for Fireworks and Special Effects
Standard for Hazardous Materials Tank Abandonment and Removal Standard for High Piled Combustible Storage
Standard for Hot Work
Standard for Identification of Access Doors in Commercial – Industrial Buildings Standard for Key Boxes
Standard for Model Rockets
Standard for Non-Required Systems
Standard for Open Burning
Standard for Open Flames
Standard for Outdoor Carnivals, Fairs, and Public Assemblages Standard for Permits for Construction and Installations Standard for Permits for Regulated Operations
Standard for Release of Construction Permits
Standard for Roof Access
Standard for Schools and Classrooms
Standard for Seasonal Sales Areas
Standard for Site Plan Content
Standard for Special Amusement Areas
Standard for Systems Out of Service
Standard for Tents and Temporary Structures
Standard for Unsafe Structures, Equipment, and Operations.
Standard for Vegetation Fire Hazard Abatement
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 46 of 49
>APPENDIX A
APPEALS
A101.1 General. Appeals shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Appeals.
Note: The remainder of Appendix A is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for Appeals.
APPENDIX B
SECTION B105
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3, R-3.1, and R-4 buildings and townhouses.
The minimum fire-flow and flow duration requirements for one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3, R-3.1, and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.1(1) and B105.1(2).
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3, R-3.1, and R-4 buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two- family dwellings, Group R-3, R-3.1, and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.1(2) and B105.2.
Exception: Remains, unchanged.
TABLE B105.1(1)
REQUIRED FIRE FLOW FOR ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS,
GROUP R-3, R-3.1, AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES
FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA
(square feet)
AUTOMATIC
SPRINKLER SYSTEM
(Design Standard)
MINIMUM FIRE FLOW
(gallons per minute)
FLOW DURATION
(hours)
0-3,600 No automatic sprinkler
system 1,000 1
3,601 and greater No automatic sprinkler
system
Value in Table
B105.1(2)
Duration in Table
B105.2(2) at the
required fire-flow rate
0-3,600
Section 903.3.1.3 of
the California Fire
Code or Section 313.3
of the California
Residential Code
1,000
1 3,601 and greater
Section 903.3.1.3 of
the California Fire
Code or Section 313.3
of the California
Residential Code
1,000 1
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 47 of 49
TABLE B105.2
REQUIRED FIRE FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS, GROUP R-3, R-3.1, AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM (Design
Standard)
MINIMUM FIRE FLOW
(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
25% of the value in Table
B105.1(2). See Note (a)
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at
the reduced flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire
Code
25% of the value in Table
B105.1(2) See Note (b)
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at
the reduced flow rate
(a) The reduced fire flow shall not be less than 1,500 gallons per minute (b) The reduced fire flow shall not be less than 1,500 gallons per minute
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 48 of 49
SECTION 6. Environmental Findings.
The Board hereby finds that the Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Code Amendments would have a significant impact on the environment. The Ordinance adopts the California Fire Code, which will serve to minimize the risk of fire and related hazards, and thereby provide greater environmental protection.
SECTION 7. Violation Penalties
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, or corporation to violate any provision or to fail to comply with any of the requirements of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby. In addition to any other penalties set forth in this Ordinance, any person, firm, partnership, or corporation violating any provision of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby or failing to comply with any of its requirements shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine not exceeding the maximum allowed by law or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person, firm, partnership, or corporation shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or any portion thereof during which any violation of any provision of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby is committed, continued, or permitted by such person, firm, partnership, or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable therefore as provided in this Ordinance.
SECTION 8. Abatement of Nuisance
The violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby shall constitute a nuisance and may be abated by the Board through civil process by means of restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction, or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such nuisances.
SECTION 9. Severability
The Board hereby declares that should any provision, section, paragraph, sentence, or word of this Ordinance or the Code hereby adopted be rendered or declared invalid by any final court action in a court of competent jurisdiction, or by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining provisions, sections, paragraphs, sentences, and words of this Ordinance and the Codes hereby adopted shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 10. Rights Reserved
Nothing in this Ordinance or in the Fire Code hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or proceeding pending in any court, or any rights acquired, or any liability incurred, or any cause or causes of action, or any existing agreement under any ordinance hereby repealed as cited in Section 1 of this Ordinance; nor shall any just or legal right or remedy of any character be lost, impaired, or affected by this Ordinance.
SECTION 11. Publication
The Secretary of the District shall certify to the adoption of this ordinance and shall cause the same or a summary thereof to be published and posted as required by law.
Ordinance No. FD-061 - Page 49 of 49
SECTION 12. Date of Effect
This Ordinance shall take effect at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2026.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of 2025.
L. Dennis Michael, President
ATTEST:
Kim Sevy, Secretary
I, Kim Sevy, Secretary of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced for first reading by the Board of Directors of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District at a regular meeting of said Board held on the day of , 2025, and was finally passed, approved, and adopted by the Board of Directors of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District at a regular meeting of said Board held on the day of , 2025.
Executed this day of , 2025 at Rancho Cucamonga, California.
Kim Sevy, Secretary
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAINED:
DATE:November 19, 2025
TO:Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM:John R. Gillison, City Manager
INITIATED BY: Peter Castro, Deputy City Manager
Zack Neighbors, Director of Building and Safety Services SUBJECT: Consideration of Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 1048 to be Read by Title Only and Waive Further Reading, Adopting the 2025 Edition of the California Building (model) Codes and the 2024 Edition of the International Building Codes. (ORDINANCE NO. 1048) (CITY) RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the 2025 California Model Codes and applicable 2024 International Codes. The effective date of the Ordinance would be January 1,2026.
Additionally, Tuesday, December 23, 2025, will be the last day to submit applications at City Hall and December 31, 2025, will be the last day to submit permit applications by electronic document submittal for projects designed under the current 2022 code standards.
BACKGROUND:
The California Building Standards Commission recently adopted the 2025 Edition of the California Building Codes, which is also known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 (CCR, T-24).
The 2025 California Building Codes include the California Building Code, the California Plumbing Code, the California Mechanical Code, the California Electrical Code, the California Residential Code, the California Green Building Code, and the California Historical Building Code. The ordinance will bring all of the City’s Building and Construction Regulations into compliance with the latest codes adopted by the California Building Standards Commission. Also required is the adoption of the 2021 International Pool and Spa Code and the International Property Maintenance Codes. Under State statute, specific referenced model codes must be adopted by the local jurisdictions within 180 days of the publication date of the model codes. The effective date for local enforcement of the new codes will be January 1, 2026. Additionally, any modifications made by local agencies to the technical regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission may only become effective if the local jurisdiction makes express findings of needs for changes due to local conditions. These modifications must be directly related to local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions in the form of an Ordinance and must be filed directly with the Building Standards Commission after its adoption.
ANALYSIS:
The 2025 California Building Codes are based on the International Building Code, Volumes 1 and 2, 2024 Edition, the International Residential Code, 2024 Edition, and the International Property Maintenance Code, published by the International Code Council (ICC); California Green Building
3 1
5 2
Code 2025 Edition, published by a joint effort of different State agencies; the 2021 International Pool and Spa Code published by the ICC and the American Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP); the Uniform Plumbing and Mechanical Codes, 2024 Editions, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAMPO); and the National Electrical Code, 2026 Edition, published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).The City has previously adopted a number of technical amendments to the building codes because of special local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions. All applicable past amendments are carried over into the new codes at this time. Examples of these past amendments being carried over are the requirements of high wind design criteria, Class A fire retardant roofing materials for new buildings constructed in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, soil reports for new construction due to the special conditions of soil in the City, etc. At the beginning of each municipal code section shown in the Ordinance, there are tables of the code sections which identify the local amendments. It should be noted that the amendments to the administrative provisions and regulations addressing elements of construction that are not regulated by the California Building Standards Commission do not need to meet the test of being necessary due to climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No new fees or changes to the current building permit fee structure are proposed as part of this building code adoption process.
COUNCIL MISSION / VISION / GOAL(S) ADDRESSED:
Promoting and enhancing a safe and healthy community for all: The adoption of these codes will bring our building and construction regulations into compliance with the latest codes and is an excellent demonstration of local government with outstanding vision of maintaining up to- date construction requirements and great public safety.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Ordinance No.1048
Attachment 2 - Adopted Resolution No. 2025-080 at October 15, 2025 CCM
ORDINANCE NO. 1048
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, INCORPORATING THE "INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, VOLUMES 1 AND 2", 2024 EDITION, INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO ; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE, INCORPORATING THE "INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE", 2024 EDITION, INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO ; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, INCORPORATING THE "UNIFORM MECHANICAL CODE", 2024 EDITION, INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO ; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, INCORPORATING THE "UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE", 2024 EDITION, INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, INCORPORATING THE "NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE", 2026 EDITION, INCLUDING ANNEXES THERETO; THE 2025
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE", INCLUDING APPENDICES THERETO; THE 2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE; THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE ; AND THE 2021
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN
AMENDMENTS, DELETIONS, ADDITIONS, EXCEPTIONS, AND PENALTIES, AND AMENDING TITLE 15 OF THE RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL CODE A. RECITALS.
(i) Government Code Section 50022.1, et seq., authorizes the adoption by reference of the Codes specified in the title of the Ordinance. (ii) At least one copy of each of said Codes certified as full, true and correct by the City Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga have been filed in the Office of the City Clerk in accordance with the provisions of Government Code Section 50022.6.
(iii) A duly noticed public hearing, as required by California Government Code Section 50022.3, has been conducted and concluded prior to the adoption of this Ordinance.
(iv) All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
ATTACHMENT 1
B. ORDINANCE.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga ordains as follows:
SECTION 1: In all respects as set forth in the Recitals, Part A, of this Ordinance.
SECTION 2:Chapters 15.04, 15.12, 15.14, 15.16, 15.20, 15.24, 15.26, 15.28, 15.30,
15.32 and 15.34 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code, entitled Buildings and Construction, are hereby amended as provided for herein, provided that said amendments shall not apply to or excuse any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance and provided further that the provisions of Title 15 as exist prior to the adoption of this ordinance shall continue to be applicable to construction for which permits have been issued prior to the effective date of this Ordinance.
SECTION 3: Chapter 15.04 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.04
CODES ADOPTION
Sections:
15.04.010 Codes adoption.
15.04.020 Penalties.
15.04.030 Civil remedies available
"Sec. 15.04.010 Codes adoption.
The 2025 California Building Code, based on the "International Building Code, Volumes 1 and 2", 2024 Edition, including all appendices thereto; the 2025 California Residential Code, based on the "International Residential Code", 2024 Edition, including all appendices thereto; the 2025 California Mechanical Code, incorporating the "Uniform Mechanical Code", 2024 Edition; including all appendices thereto; the 2025 California Plumbing Code, incorporating the "Uniform Plumbing Code", 2024 Edition, including all appendices thereto; the 2025 California Electrical Code, incorporating the " National Electrical Code ", 2026 Edition; including all annexes thereto; the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code; the 2025 California Historical Building Code; the 2025 California Referenced Standards Code; the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code; and the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code; are hereby adopted by reference in their entirety and amended in Chapters 15.04, 15.12, 15.14, 15.16, 15.20, 15.24, 15.26, 15.28,
15.30, 15.32, and 15.34 herein, shall comprise the Building and Construction Regulations of the City of Rancho Cucamonga.
15.04.020 Penalties.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership or corporation to violate any provision or to fail to comply with any of the requirements of this Title 15 or the secondary codes adopted hereby. Any person, firm, partnership or corporation violating any provision of this Title 15 or the secondary codes adopted hereby or failing to comply with any of its requirements shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person, firm, partnership or corporation shall be deemed guilty of separate offense for each and every day or any portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this Title 15 or the secondary codes adopted hereby is committed, continued or permitted by such person, firm, partnership or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable therefor as provided in this section.
15.04.030 Civil remedies available.
The violation of any of the provisions of this Title 15 or the secondary codes adopted hereby shall constitute a nuisance and may be abated by the city through civil process by means of restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such nuisances."
SECTION 4: Chapter 15.12 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.12
BUILDING CODE
Sections:
15.12.005 Section [A]101.4 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Referenced codes.
15.12.010 Section [A]105.2 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Work exempt from permit.
15.12.020 Section [A]113.1 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Board of Appeals.
15.12.030 Sections [A]114.1, [A]114.2, and 114.3 of Chapter 1, Division II amended - Violations
15.12.035 [Reserved]
15.12.040 Section 903 amended — Automatic sprinkler systems.
15.12.050 Table 1505.1 amended — Minimum roof covering classification for types of construction.
15.12.060 Section 1609.3 amended — Basic design wind speed.
15.12.065 Section 1803.5.11 amended — Seismic design categories C through F.
15.12.070 Section 3109.3 added — California Swimming Pool Act.
15.12.080 Section J101 of Appendix J amended — Scope.
15.12.090 Section J101.3 of Appendix J added — Special requirements for hazardous conditions.
15.12.100 Section J103.2 of Appendix J amended — Exemptions.
15.12.110 Sections J104.5 and J104.6 of Appendix J added — Permit application and submittal.
15.12.120 Section J105.1 of Appendix J amended — General.
15.12.130 Section J109.4 of Appendix J amended — Drainage across property lines.
15.12.135 Section J109.5 of Appendix J added — Site and lot grading for drainage.
15.12.140 Section J110.3 of Appendix J added — Temporary erosion control during grading.
15.12.150 Section J112 of Appendix J added — Protection of adjacent property.
15.12.160 Section J113 of Appendix J added — Dust control.
15.12.005 Section [A]101.4 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Referenced codes. Sections [N101.4.1, [N101.4.2, [N101.4.3, [N101.4.4 are deleted.
15.12.010 Section [A]105.2 of Chapter 1, Division II amended - Work exempt from permit.
Section [A]105.2 of the Building Code is hereby amended by amending item 2 to read as follows:
2. Wood, chain-link, plastic, metal or similar fences not over 6 feet in height or masonry, concrete fence not over 3 feet in height above the lowest adjacent grade.
5.12.020 Section [A]113.1 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Board of Appeals.
Section [A]113.1 of Chapter 1, Division II is hereby amended to read as follows:
[A]113.1 General.
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determination made by the Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of 3 members and 2 alternates who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Building Official shall be an ex officio member of and shall act as Secretary to said Board but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official.
15.12.030 Sections [A]114.1, [A]114.2, and 114.3 of Chapter 1, Division II amended - Violations Sections [A]114.1, [A]114.2, and 114.3 of Chapter 1, Division II are hereby amended to read as follows:
[A]114.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish, occupy or maintain any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
[A]114.2 Notice of violation. The Building Official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving removal demolition, maintaining or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A]114.3 Unpermitted structures or systems. No person shall own, use, occupy, or maintain an unpermitted structure or system. For purposes of this chapter, "unpermitted structure or system" shall be defined as any building or structure, electrical system, plumbing system, or mechanical system, or any portion thereof, that was erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, connected, converted, demolished, or equipped, at any point in time, by any person, without the required permit(s) having first been obtained from the Building Official or with a valid permit as issued by the Building Official which subsequently expired and became null-and-void
15.12.035 [Reserved]
15.12.040 Section 903 amended — Automatic Sprinkler Systems.
Amendments to Section 903 shall be those amendments adopted by the City and/or the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District for Section 903 of the 2025 California Fire Code — Automatic Sprinkler Systems, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.
15.12.050 Table 1505.1 amended — Minimum roof covering classification for types of construction.
Table 1505.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Table 1505.1
Minimum Roof Covering Classification for different types of construction for new buildings, re-roofs or additions.
IA IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB
A A A A A A B* B* B*
*See Section 1505.1.1 for Class A Roof Coverings in Very-High Fire Hazard Severity
15.12.060 Section 1609.3 amended — Basic design wind speed.
Section 1609.3 is hereby amended by adding a sentence at the end of the section to read as follows:
The basic wind speed used in the City is 96 miles per hour and Vasd is 75 miles per hour with Exposure C as described in Section 1609.4.3 shall be used.
15.12.065 Section 1803.5.11 amended — Seismic design categories C through F.
Section 1803.5.11 is hereby amended by adding a sentence at the end of the section to read as follows:
The geotechnical investigation shall be conducted for all new structures or additions to existing buildings where the addition is more than 50% of the existing floor area. Any geotechnical reports that are more than 3 years old shall be required to submit an updated geotechnical report.
15.12.070 Section 3109.3 added — California Swimming Pool Act Section 3109.3 is hereby added to read as follows:
3109.3 There shall be three (3) drowning protection measures provided for the construction of a new or the remodel of an existing pool or spa. First required measure: An enclosure that meets the requirements of Section 115923 of the California Swimming Pool Safety Act and isolates the swimming pool or spa from the private single-family home. The second and third required drowning protection measures shall be two (2) of the remaining six (6) measures listed in Section 115922 of the California Swimming Pool Safety Act.
15.12.075 Section 107.3.4 amended- Design professional in responsible charge Section 107.3.4 is hereby amended by amending the first two (2) sentences to read as follows:
It is required that documents be prepared by a registered design professional for all commercial and industrial applications. The building official requires the owner or the owner's authorized agent to engage and designate on the building permit application a registered design professional or a California State licensed contractor who shall act as the registered design professional in responsible charge.
15.12.080 Section J101.1 of Appendix J amended — Scope.
J101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter apply to grading, excavation and earthwork construction, including fills and embankments. Where conflicts occur between the technical requirements of this chapter and the geotechnical report, the geotechnical report shall govern. In addition, the designs of the work as described above need to meet the recognized and accepted civil and geotechnical engineering practices and principles.
15.12.090 Section J101.3 of Appendix J added — Special requirements for hazardous conditions.
Section J101.3 is hereby added to read as follows:
J101.3 Special requirements for hazardous conditions.
Whenever the Building Official determines that any existing excavation or embankment or fill on private property has become a hazard to life and limb, or endangers property, or adversely affects the safety, use or stability of a public way or drainage channel, the owner of the property upon which the excavation or fill is located, or other person or agent in control of said property, upon receipt of notice in writing from the Building Official, shall within the period specified therein repair or eliminate such excavation or embankment to eliminate the hazard and to be in conformance with the requirements of this code.
15.12.100 Section J103.2 of Appendix J - amended — Exemptions.
Section J103.2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
J103.2 Exemptions:
A grading permit is not required for the following:
1. When approved by the Building Official, grading in an isolated, self-contained area if there is no danger to private or public property.
2. An excavation below finished grade for basements and footings of a building, retaining wall or other structure authorized by a valid building permit. This shall not exempt any fill made with the material from such excavation or exempt any excavation having an unsupported height greater than 5 feet (1524mm) after the completion of such structure.
3. Cemetery graves.
4. Refuse disposal sites controlled by other regulations.
5. Excavations for wells or tunnels or utilities.
6. Mining, quarrying, excavating, processing or stockpiling of rock, sand, gravel, aggregate or clay where established and provided for by law, provided such operations do not affect the lateral support or increase the stresses in or pressure upon any adjacent or contiguous property.
7. Exploratory excavations under the direction of soil engineers or engineering geologists.
8. An excavation that (1) is less than 2 feet (610mm) in depth or (2) does not create a cut slope greater than 5 feet (1524mm) in height and steeper than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal.
9. A fill less than 1 foot (305mm) in depth and placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter than 1 unit vertical in 5 units horizontal (20% slope), or a cut less than 3 feet (914mm) in depth, not intended to support structures, or any soil work that does not disturb soil exceeding 50 cubic yards (38.3m) on any one lot and does not obstruct a drainage course.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this Appendix shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this chapter or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
15.12.110 Sections J104.5 and J104.6 of Appendix J added — Permit application and submittal.
Sections J104.5 and J104.6 are hereby added to read as follows:
J104.5 Plan Information. In addition to the requirements in Section J104.2, the permittee shall provide other technical information as required by the Building and Safety Department's handouts, policies and standards.
J104.6 As-built plans. The permittee shall provide a copy of as-built plans to the City for a permanent record at the end of the approved grading work.
15.12.120 Section J105.1 of Appendix J amended — General.
Section J105.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
J105.1 General. Inspections shall be governed by Section 110, Chapter 1, Division II of this code and other requirements established by approved policies and procedures of the Building and Safety Department. An engineer shall provide grading inspections and certifications for the work done at the site.
15.12.130 Section J109.4 of Appendix J amended — Drainage across property lines.
Section J109.4 is amended by adding the following to the end of the section as follows:
For Single Family Lot Drainage:
1. Whenever possible, drainage from single family lots shall flow directly to a street.
2. If it should be determined necessary to allow offsite drainage to flow through a single-family lot (to preserve down lot views, esthetics, accept flow from offsite property, etc.), the following shall apply:
a. Drainage from only one lot shall flow through only one other lot. b. A drainage easement shall be provided/obtained over the lot accepting the drainage. c. The drainage shall be contained within either a concrete/rock lined swale or reinforced concrete pipe.
d. The drainage facility shall be designed with excess capacity to account for the probable lack of necessary maintenance. Therefore, it shall be designed to convey two times the runoff from a 100-year storm with the minimum diameter for a pipe being 12 inches.
15.12.135 Section J109.5 of Appendix J added — Site and lot grading for drainage. Section J 109.5 is hereby added to read as follows:
J109.5 Site and lot grading for drainage. The site or lot grading shall meet the requirements as specified in Section 1804.4 - Site Grading of the California Building Code Volume 2.
15.12.140 Section J110.3 of Appendix J added — Temporary erosion control during grading.
Section J110.3 is hereby added to read as follows:
J110.3 Temporary erosion control during grading work.
The permittee shall put into effect and maintain all precautionary measures necessary to protect adjacent watercourses and public or private property from damage by erosion, flooding, and deposition of mud or debris origination from the site during the grading operation regardless of lot size.
15.12.150 Section J112 of Appendix J added — Protection of adjacent property.
Section J112 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section J112 Protection of adjacent property.
J112.1 General. During grading operations, the permittee shall be responsible for the prevention of damage to adjacent property and no person shall excavate on land sufficiently close to the property line to endanger any adjoining public street, sidewalk, alley, or other public or private property without supporting and protecting such property from settling, cracking, or other damage which might result.
15.12.160 Section J113 of Appendix J added — Dust control.
Section J113 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section J113 Dust control.
J113.1 General. The owner of the site or the project contractor shall put into effect and maintain all precautionary measures necessary to prevent dust blowing from the site to adjacent properties.
Prior to the permit issuance, a dust control sign and required contact information as required by the department's policy shall be installed at the site." SECTION 5: Chapter 15.14 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.14
RESIDENTIAL CODE
Sections:
15.14.010 Section R105.2 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Work exempt from permit.
15.14.020 Section 1.8.8.1 of Chapter 1, Division I amended — Board of Appeals.
15.14.030 Sections R113.1 and R113.2 of Chapter 1, Division II amended- Violations.
15.14.040 Section R301.2.1 amended — Wind design criteria.
15.14.050 Section R401.4.1 amended — Geotechnical evaluation.
15.14.060 Section R902.1 amended — Roofing covering materials.
15.14.070 Appendices deleted.
15.14.010 Section R105.2 of Chapter I, Division II amended — Work exempt from permit.
Section R105.2 of the Residential Code is hereby amended by amending items 1 and 2 and adding new items 11 and 12, under “Building”, to read as follows:
1. One-story detached accessory structure used as tool and storage sheds playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet and 8 feet in maximum height as long as the structure is not located in required setbacks as determined by the Planning Department.
2. Wood, chain-link, plastic, metal or similar fences not over 6 feet in height or masonry, concrete fence not over 3 feet in height above the lowest adjacent grade.
11. Flagpole not to exceed 20 feet in height above ground in a residential lot.
12. Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height.
15.14.020 Section 1.8.8.1 of Chapter 1, Division I amended — Board of Appeals. Section
1.8.8.1 of Chapter 1, Division I is hereby amended to read as follows:
1.8.8.1 General.
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determination made by the Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of 3 members and 2 alternates who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Building Official shall be an ex officio member of and shall act as Secretary to said Board but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official.
15.14.030 Sections R113.1 and R113.2 of Chapter I, Division II amended — Violations.
Sections R113.1 and R113.2 of Chapter 1, Division II are hereby amended to read as follows:
R113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish, occupy or maintain any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
R113.2 Notice of violation. The Building Official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving removal demolition, maintaining or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
15.14.040 Section R301.2.1 amended —Wind design criteria.
Section R301.2.1 is hereby amended to by adding a sentence at the end of the section to read as follows:
The ultimate design wind speed used in the City is 110 miles per hour for Vult and Vasd is 85 miles per hour with Exposure C as described in Section R301.2.1.4.
15.14.050 Section R401.4.1 amended — Geotechnical evaluation.
Section R401.4.1 is hereby amended by adding a sentence at the end of the section to read as follows:
A geotechnical or soil report is required for the new construction or when an addition is more than 50% of the existing floor area. Any reports that are more than 3 years old shall be required to provide an updated report or a soil letter.
15.14.060 Section R902.1 amended - Roofing covering materials.
Section R902.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Roofs shall be covered with materials as set forth in Sections R904 and R905. A minimum Class A or B roofing shall be installed in areas designated by this section. Class A or B roofing required by this section to be listed shall be tested in accordance with UL 790 or ASTM E 108.
Minimum Roof Covering Classification for different types of construction for new buildings, re roofs or additions except for the construction of roofs in very High Fire Hazard Zones.
IA IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB
A A A A A A B* B* B*
*See Section R902.1.1 for Class A Roof Coverings in Very-High Fire Hazard Severity SECTION 6: Chapter 15.16 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.16
MECHANICAL CODE
Sections:
15.16.010 Section 104.5 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Permit fees.
15.16.020 Table 104.5 of Chapter 1, Division II deleted — Mechanical permit fees.
15.16.030 Section 107.1 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — General.
15.16.010 Section 104.5 of Chapter 1, Division II amended - Permit fees. Section 104.5 of the Mechanical Code is hereby amended to read as follows: 104.5 Permit Fees.
The fee for each permit shall be as established by Resolution of the City Council.
15.16.020 Table 104.5 Deleted - Mechanical permit fees.
Table 104.5 of the Mechanical Code is hereby deleted.
15.16.030 Section 107.1 of Chapter 1, Division II amended - General.
Section 107.1 of the Mechanical Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
107.1 General.
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is
hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of 3 members and 2 alternates who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Building Official shall be an ex officio member of and shall act as Secretary to said Board but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official." SECTION 7: Chapter 15.20 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.20
PLUMBING CODE
Sections:
15.20.010 Section 107.1 of Chapter 1, Division ll amended — Board of Appeals.
15.20.020 Section 104.5 amended - Fees.
15.20.030 Table 104.5 deleted - Plumbing permit Fees.
15.20.040 Appendix L deleted.
15.20.050 Section 609.3.1 added — Under concrete slab.
15.20.060 Section H701.2 of Appendix H amended — Multiple installations.
15.20.010 Section 107.1 of Chapter 1, Division II amended — Board of Appeals.
Section 107.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
107.1 General.
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of 3 members and 2 alternates who are qualified by experience and training to pass upon matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Building Official shall be an ex officio member of and shall act as Secretary to said Board but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official.
15.20.020 Section 104.5 amended - Fees.
Section 104.5 is hereby amended to read as follows:
104.5 Fees.
The fee for each permit shall be as established by Resolution of the City Council.
15.20.030 Table 104.5 deleted - Plumbing permit
fees. Table 104.5 is hereby deleted.
15.20.040 Appendix L deleted.
Appendix L is hereby deleted.
15.20.050 Section 609.3.1 added — Under concrete slab.
609.3.1 is hereby added to read as follows:
609.3.1 Copper tubing serving plumbing fixtures within dwelling unit kitchen islands shall be installed without joints and the installation shall satisfy the following requirements.
1. The copper tubing shall be installed within a watertight continuous sleeve that prevents direct contact between the copper tubing and under slab soils. During construction the protective sleeve shall be capped at both ends until the copper tubing is installed and released for inspection.
15.20.060 Section H701.2 of Appendix H amended — Multiple Installations.
Section H701.2 of Appendix H is hereby amended to read as follows:
H701.2 Multiple Installations.
Multiple seepage pit installations shall be served through an approved distribution box. The inlet into the pit shall have an approved vented leg fitting extending not less than 12 inches below the inlet fitting."
SECTION 8: Chapter 15.24 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.24
ELECTRICAL CODE
Sections:
15.24.010 Section 89.108.4.5 added — Permits, fees, applications and inspections.
15.24.020 Section 89.108.8.1 amended — Board of Appeals.
15.24.010 Section 89.108.4.5 added — Permits, fees, applications and inspections. Section 89.108.4.5 is hereby added to read as follows:
89.108.4.5 Qualification of permittee. No person shall be issued a permit under this Chapter until a valid California Contractor's License of the correct classification is presented to the Building Official.
Exception: Owner-builder permit may be issued for Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancy with the approval of the Building Official.
15.24.020 Section 89.108.8.1 amended — Board of Appeals.
Section 89.108.8.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
89.108.8.1 General.
In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the Building Official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of 3 members and 2 alternates who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Building Official shall be an ex officio member of and shall act as Secretary to said Board but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official." SECTION 9: Chapter 15.26 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.26
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
15.26.010 [Section reserved for future amendments.]"
SECTION 10: Chapter 15.28 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.28
REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE
15.28.010 [Section reserved for future amendments.]"
SECTION 11: Chapter 15.30 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.30
INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA
CODE 15.30.010 [Section reserved for future amendments.]" SECTION 12: Chapter 15.32 of Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.32
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
15.32.010 Chapter 3 amended - General Requirements
15.32.010 Chapter 3 General Requirements is amended by deletion of sections 302.4, 302.8, 303.2."
SECTION 13: A new Chapter 15.34 is hereby added to Title 15 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to read as follows:
CHAPTER 15.34
HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
15.34.010 [Section reserved for future amendments.]"
SECTION 14: Penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm partnership, or corporation to violate any provision or to fail to comply with any of the requirements of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby. Any person, firm, partnership, or corporation violating any provision of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby or failing to comply with any of its requirements shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine not exceeding One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person, firm, partnership or corporation shall be
deemed guilty of separate offense for each and every day or any portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby is committed, continued or permitted by such person, firm, partnership or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable therefore as provided in this Ordinance.
SECTION 15: CEQA. The City Council hereby finds that this Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Code Amendments herein would have a significant impact on the environment. The Amendments adopt the California Building Codes, which implement minimum safety standards as required by California Health and Safety Code §17958. The Community Development Director is hereby directed to file a Notice of Exemption in accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 16: Civil remedies available. The violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby shall constitute a nuisance and may be abated by the City through civil process by means of restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such nuisances.
SECTION 17: Severability. The City Council hereby declares that should any provision, section, paragraph, sentence or word of this Ordinance or the Code hereby adopted be rendered or declared invalid by any final court action in a court of competent jurisdiction, or by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining provisions, sections, paragraphs, sentences and words of this Ordinance and the Codes hereby adopted shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 18: Effective date. This Ordinance shall take effect the later of thirty (30) days after adoption, or January 1, 2026.
SECTION 19: The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance, and the City Clerk shall cause the same to be published within fifteen (15) days after its passage at least once in The Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California, and circulated in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this ____ day of __________________, 20__, , Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Kim Sevy, City Clerk
I, Kim Sevy, CITY CLERK of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 15th day of October 2025, and was passed at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 19th day of November 2025.
Executed this ___ day of __________________ 20__, at Rancho Cucamonga, California.
________________________________
Kim Sevy, City Clerk
RESOLUTION NO. 2025- 080
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, SETTING FORTH FINDINGS IN
SUPPORT OF AMENDMENTS TO THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
CODE, RESIDENTIAL CODE, PLUMBING CODE, ELECTRICAL CODE
AND MECHANICAL CODE BASED ON LOCAL CLIMATIC,
TOPOGRAPHICAL AND/ OR GEOLOGICAL CONDITIONS
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958 provides that the City of Rancho Cucamonga may adopt ordinances and regulations imposing the same or modified or changed building standards as are contained in the codes required to be adopted by the State pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 17922 and 18930; and WHEREAS, the State of California is mandated to adopt the building standards and other rules contained in the model codes specified in Health and Safety Code Section 17922, and to publish said codes, as amended, collectively as the California Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Sections 17958. 5(a) and 18941. 5(b) permit the City to amend building standards in the codes comprising the California Building Standards Code based on findings that such amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga does hereby find and resolve as follows:
Section 1. The Building and Safety Department has recommended that changes and modifications be made to the 2025 Editions of the California Building Code, Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Electrical Code, and Residential Code, and that such modifications are reasonably necessary due to local conditions in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, as described below:
A. Climatic Conditions
1. Hot, dry Santa Ana winds are common to all areas within the City of Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino County in general. These winds, which can cause small fires which spread quickly, are a contributing factor to the high fire danger in the area and create the need for an increased level of fire protection. This added protection will supplement normal fire department response available and provide immediate protection for life and safety of multiple occupancy occupants during fire occurrences.
2. San Bernardino County and the City of Rancho Cucamonga are located in a semi- arid Mediterranean type climate which predisposes all fuels to rapid ignition and spread of fire. Therefore, there exists a need for additional fire protection measures.
Resolution No. 2025- 080 - Page 1 of 4
ATTACHMENT 2
B. Geographical Conditions
1. San Bernardino County and the City of Rancho Cucamonga are located in Seismic Zone 4. There are earthquake faults that run along the northern, eastern and southwestern boundaries of the County. The Cucamonga Fault and San Andreas Fault are the major earthquake faults lying on the northern part of the City. They can create major damages and pose one of the greatest hazards to lives and properties in the county. The San Jose Fault together with the Whittier Fault on the southwest location of the county and the San Jacinto Fault on the eastern part of the County can also create major earthquakes with tremendous damages. Experts predict a major earthquake might occur in our area within the next 50 years. This situation creates a need for additional fire, life, safety protection measures.
2. Traffic and circulation congestion presently existing in the City of Rancho Cucamonga often places fire department response time to fire occurrences at risk. This condition will be exacerbated by any major disaster, including any earthquake wherein damage to the highway system will occur. This condition makes the need for additional on-site protection for property occupants necessary.
C. Topographical Conditions
1. The City is built on soil with high degrees of landslides, rockslides from the adjacent foothills and mountains. In addition, the majority of the City has steep hills and streets with great potential of flooding and erosion problems which inhibit firefighting and rescuing capabilities.
Specific amendments to the 2025 Editions of the California Building Code, Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Electrical Code, and Residential Code, as set forth in City of Rancho Cucamonga Ordinance No. 1048 are found reasonably necessary based on the climatic, geological, and/ or topographic conditions cited above in this Resolution and are listed as follows:
Building Code amendments Findings section( s)
Section 101. 4 Chapter 1 Administrative
Section 105. 2 Chapter 1 Administrative
Section 113. 1 Administrative
Section 114. 1 and 114. 2 Administrative
Section 710A. 3. 3 Administrative
Section 903 A- 1, A- 2
Table 1505. 1 A- 1, A- 2
Section 1609. 3 A- 1
Section 1803. 5. 11 B- 1
Section 3109. 3 Administrative
Section J101, Appendix J Administrative
Section J101. 1, Appendix J Administrative
Section J103. 3, Appendix J Administrative
Section J104. 5 and 104. 6, Appendix J Administrative
Resolution No. 2025- 080 - Page 2 of 4
Section J105. 1, Appendix J Administrative
Section J109. 4, Appendix J Administrative
Section J109. 5, Appendix J Administrative
Section J110. 3, Appendix J Administrative
Section J112. 1, Appendix J Administrative
Section J113. 1, Appendix J Administrative
Residential Code amendments
Section R105. 2, Chapter 1 Administrative
Section 1. 8. 8. 1, Chapter 1 Administrative
Section R113. 1 and R113. 2, Chapter 1 Administrative
Section R301. 2. 1 B- 1
Section R401. 4. 1 C- 1
Section R902. 1 Administrative
Appendices deleted Administrative
Mechanical Code amendments
Section 104. 5, Chapter 1 Administrative
Table 104. 5 Administrative
Section 107. 1 Administrative
Plumbing Code amendments
Section 107. 1, Chapter 1 Administrative
Section 104. 5 Administrative
Table 104. 5 Administrative
Appendix L Administrative
Section 609. 3. 1 Administrative
Section H701. 2 Administrative
Electrical Code amendments
Section 89. 108. 4. 5 Administrative
Section 89. 108. 8. 1 Administrative
Section 2. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and cause a certified copy of the same and Ordinance No. 1048 to be forthwith transmitted to the California Building Standards Commission.
Resolution No. 2025- 080 - Page 3 of 4
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 15'hday of October, 2025.
Denni e, Mayo
ATTEST:
ee City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA )
I, Kim Sevy, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, at a Regular Meeting of said Council held on the 15'hday of October, 2025.
AYES: Hutchison, Kennedy, Michael, Scott
NOES: None
ABSENT: Stickler
ABSTAINED: None
Executed this 16'hday of October 2025, at Rancho Cucamonga, California. e ity Clerk
Resolution No. 2025- 080 - Page 4 of 4
DATE: November 19, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: John R. Gillison, City Manager
INITIATED BY: Jennifer Nakamura, CNU-A, Planning Director Stacy Lee, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: Public Hearing for Consideration of First Reading of Ordinance No. 1049, to be Read by Title Only and Waive Further Reading, Amending Chapter
17.100 of Article V of Title 17 of the Municipal Code to Update the Regulations Regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) in Compliance with State Law and to Establish a Bonus ADU Program. This Item is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15282(h) and 15061(b)(3). (ORDINANCE NO. 1049) (CITY) RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning Commission and Staff recommend the City Council conduct the first hearing of Ordinance No. 1049 to be read by title only and waive further reading, to amend the regulations regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) in compliance with State Law and to establish a Bonus ADU Program.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Rancho Cucamonga has permitted ADUs and JADUs since the State first adopted regulations for “second dwelling units” in 1982. In 2018, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 938 revising Chapter 17.100 to be consistent with State ADU Law at the time. In 2020, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 966, revising Chapter 17.100 to be consistent with additional new ADU laws which were passed by the State legislature.
Since the last code amendment related to ADUs and JADUs, several other statutory changes have been adopted by the State, and several bills have been passed, which necessitate changes to the code. These bills include AB 3182, AB 345, SB 9, AB 1584, AB 2221, SB 897, AB 976, AB 1033, AB 1332, AB 434, SB 477, AB 2533, SB 1211, AB 3057, and SB 1077.
On October 22, 2025, the Planning Commission held an advertised public hearing to make a recommendation to the City Council. After testimony was provided, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended City Council adopt an ordinance to amend Chapter 17.100 of Title 17 of the Municipal Code. The Planning Commission resolution and meeting minutes are included as attachments to this report.
ANALYSIS:
While each of the bills listed above results in changes to State Law related to ADUs and JADUs,
3 1
7 3
staff notes that certain bills, namely AB 2221 (Quirk-Silva), AB 1332 (Carillo), AB 2533 (Carillo), and SB 1211 (Skinner), result in the most significant changes to our local ordinance and Development Code. The City Attorney’s Office drafted an ordinance including these revisions to our current ADU/JADU regulations to be consistent with State Law.
Summary of Significant Legislation:
In January 2023, AB 2221 (Quirk-Silva), became effective and amended the height restrictions to allow for up to 18 feet if the proposed ADU is within one-half mile of public transit (rather than a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor) or if the property has an existing two-story multi- family dwelling, and up to 25 feet if the ADU is attached to the primary dwelling. Staff is proposing changes to Development Code Section 17.100.050.G to comply with these State requirements.
In January 2024, AB 1332 (Carillo), became effective requiring local agencies to do the following:
develop a program for the preapproval of ADU plans by January 1, 2025; accept ADU plan submissions for preapproval from any party and approve or deny such applications; post preapproved ADU plans and the applicant’s contact information on the local agency’s website; and approve or deny within 30 days an application for a detached ADU that utilizes a pre-approved ADU plan by any agency within the State or a plan that is identical to a plan in a previously approved application for a detached ADU. The Building and Safety Department fulfilled this requirement by initiating a program and posting the required information on the department page of the City’s website. Staff proposes changes to Development Code Section 17.100.030 to codify the review timelines consistent with State requirements.
In January 2025, AB 2533 and SB 1211 became effective, which requires local agencies to remove penalties to an applicant for having an unpermitted ADU and to approve necessary permits to correct noncompliance with health and safety standards. Local agencies must provide owners with unpermitted ADUs a checklist of “substandard” conditions that must be repaired or upgraded to receive approval of their building permit. SB 1211 increases the maximum number of detached ADUs allowed on a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling from two to eight, not to exceed the existing number of units within the multi-family dwelling and meets setback and height requirements. The ordinance has been modified accordingly to comply with these State requirements.
Additionally, on March 25, 2024, SB 477 became effective and made changes to the numbering of sections of the Government Code for State ADU and JADU Laws. The proposed code amendment references specific Government Code Sections, which were revised to match the renumbered sections.
Bonus ADU Program:
As part of our Prohousing Designation awarded to the City in April 2024, we committed to increase allowable density in low-density, single-family residential areas by permitting more than one ADU or JADU on a single-family lot in our highest resource areas. To honor this commitment, we have created a bonus ADU program and Section 17.100.050 (Special Allowances) has been added to the chapter. For lots over 20,000 square feet, a second ADU or JADU may be constructed if they meet the development standards outlined in the chapter for ADU’s or JADU’s.
Compliance with the General Plan:
Pursuant to Development Code Section 17.22.040, Development Code amendments may be approved only when the City Council finds that the amendments are consistent with the General Plan goals, policies, and implementation programs. The subject Municipal Code Amendment is consistent with several goals and policies listed in the General Plan, as identified below.
3 1
7 3
General Plan Housing Goal H-1 strategizes for a diverse community with a broad range of housing types and opportunities to accommodate expected new households. Specifically, Policy H-1.1 encourages the development of a wide range of housing options, types, and prices that will enable the City to achieve its share of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA); Policy H-1.2 is to recognize the unique characteristics of elderly and disabled households and address their special needs; and Policy H-1.3 is to facilitate the development of ADUs to provide additional housing opportunities pursuant to State law and established zoning regulations.
General Plan Housing Goal H-4 promotes a community with quality, healthy housing, and Policy H-4.2 is to encourage the revitalization and rehabilitation of substandard residential structures.
General Plan Housing Goal H-5 aims for a city with an efficient process for improving and developing housing. Specifically, Policy H-5.4 is to evaluate and adjust as appropriate residential development standards, regulations, and processing procedures that are determined to constrain housing development, particularly housing opportunities for lower- and moderate-income households and for persons with special needs.
Environmental Assessment:
The proposed code amendments are exempt from or not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15282(h), which establishes a statutory exemption for the adoption of an ordinance regarding second units in a single-family or multifamily residential zone by a city or county to implement the provisions of Sections 65852.1, Article 2 (commencing with Section 66314) or Article 3 (commencing with Section 66333) of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, as set forth in Section 21080.17 of the Public Resources Code. In addition, the Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that amendments to the City’s ADU and JADU regulations in accordance with State Law will have a significant effect on the environment.
Correspondence:
This item was advertised as a public hearing with a large one-eighth page legal advertisement in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin newspaper on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Because the item is a citywide ordinance for an amendment, individual noticing to property owners is not required.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
COUNCIL MISSION / VISION / VALUE(S) ADDRESSED:
The proposed code amendment addresses the City Council’s Core Values of providing and nurturing an excellent quality of life for all; intentionally embracing and anticipating our future; creating equitable opportunity to prosper; and relentless pursuit of improvement. This action meets the Council Core Values by remaining in compliance with State Law and providing the opportunity to develop a more diverse and accessible form of housing, which is a key infill development strategy and will effectively help achieve the City’s vision to create an equitable, sustainable, and vibrant city, rich in opportunity for all to thrive by building on our foundation and success as a world class community.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Planning Commission Resolution No. 2025-035 Attachment 2 – Planning Commission Meeting Minutes, October 22, 2025 Attachment 3 – Ordinance No. 1049
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Historic Preservation Commission and
Planning Commission
Agenda
October 22, 2025
Draft Minutes
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
7:00 p.m.
The regular joint meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Commission was held on October 22, 2025. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Morales at 7:00 p.m.
A. R
oll Call
Pl
anning Commission present: Chairman Morales, Vice Chairman Boling, Commissioner Dopp, Commissioner Daniels and Commissioner Diaz.
Sta
ff Present: Serita Young, Assistant City Attorney; Jennifer Nakamura, Planning Director; Sean McPherson, Principal Planner; Miguel Sotomayor, Principal Engineer ; Stacy Lee, Assistant Planner ; Aracely Estrada, Management Analyst; Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant.
B. Pu
blic Communications
Chai
rman Morales opened the public communications.
Hear
ing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public communications.
C. C
onsent Calendar
C1. C
onsideration to adopt Regular Meeting Minutes of October 8, 2025.
Mo
tion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Daniels . Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D. P
ublic Hearings
D1. TEN
TATIVE PARCEL MAP – ROBERT TOBIN ON BEHALF OF ADRIAN BUIGUES – A request to subdivide an existing 19,252- square-foot parcel into two parcels within the Low (L) Residential Zone, located at 9817 Base Line Road; APN: 1077- 011-02. This item is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a Class 15 exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 – Minor Land Divisions (SUBTPM20935).
Ass
istant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chai
rman Morales opened the public hearing.
Ap
plicant Robert Tobin, along with Architect Doug Andresen were present and available to answer questions.
They stated that they did not receive the Conditions of Approval.
Pl
anning Director Nakamura stated that the Conditions of Approval, along with the Staff Report, was sent to the applicant via email, and was posted on the website on Thursday, October 16th.
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Vice Chairman Boling reiterated that the applicant had been given the opportunity to review the Conditions of Approval provided by staff and therefore had ample time to do so.
Planning Director Nakamura confirmed.
Commissioner Daniels suggested to allow the applicant a few minutes to look over a hard copy of the Conditions of Approval while the Commission deliberates.
Applicant Tobin, along with Architect Andresen reviewed the documents.
Commissioner Daniels stated that he had spoken with the City Engineer regarding the ingress and egress easement on Parcel 2. He noted that he had not realized the easement was intended for Parcel 1, ensuring that any future development on that parcel would access London Avenue rather than Base Line Road. He commented that this was an excellent addition to the map.
Vice Chairman Boling stated that in the Conditions of Approval, number 7, Subsection 1, the Engineering Services Department requires the applicant to provide fiber optic conduit along Base Line Road. He further stated that Subsection 2 requires the same along London Avenue and inquired about the rationale for this requirement, given that London Avenue is a small residential cul-de-sac. He asked to explain how this aligns with the City’s Master Plan for fiber optics.
Principal Engineer Sotomayor explained that it is the City’s requirement for developers to install fiber optic conduit along project frontages to support future connectivity. He added that the City’s long-term goal is to have fiber installed citywide.
Vice Chairman Boling expressed appreciation to the applicant for preparing the proposed parcel map noting that it aligns the subject site with the General Plan and zoning for future use. He added that while it may not reflect the current use, it appropriately prepares the site for future development while respecting the long-term operation of Parcel 1 as a valued community asset, the Child Care Center. He asked staff to confirm that the Child Care Center would be permitted to continue operating as legal nonconforming use, provided that operations are not discontinued for an extended period of time.
Assistant Planner Lee confirmed.
Chairman Morales re-opened the public hearing to allow the applicant an opportunity to respond after reviewing the Conditions of Approval.
Applicant Tobin stated that they had reviewed the Conditions of Approval, found them to be standard, and had no objections. He apologized for the earlier confusion.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed public hearing.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Dopp; seconded by Vice Chairman Boling to adopt Resolution 2025-038 approving Tentative Parcel Map SUBTPM20935. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D2. TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP – JACLYN MCDOWELL ON BEHALF OF MARK REYNOSO – A request to subdivide an existing 76,782- square-foot parcel into two parcels within the Very Low (VL) Residential Zone, Hillside Overlay Zone, and Equestrian Overlay Zone, located at 5451 Moonstone Avenue; APN:
1061-251-32. This item is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a Class 15 exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 – Minor Land Divisions (SUBTPM20985).
Assistant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file) and noted that a few typographical errors had been identified in the Staff Report and draft Resolution; corrections were made, and red-lined copies were provided on the dais. Corrections in the Proposed Lots; changed Parcel 1 from 21,926 sq. ft. to 54,855 sq. ft., and Parcel 2 from 54,855 sq. ft. to 21,926 sq. ft.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Commissioner Dopp inquired about Parcel 2 on the east end of the lot, nothing that the staff report lists the minimum lot width as 142 feet and 383 feet, though it appears to be approximately 9-10 feet. He asked how the measurement was calculated and how it complies with applicable standards.
Assistant Planner Lee responded that staff had expressed similar concerns. However, she noted that there are no objective findings to recommend denial, as the subdivision meets the development standards required for the underlying zone. She added that the measurements are based on definitions of lot depth and lot width as outlined in the Development Code.
Commissioner Daniels stated that the Government Code allows denial of subdivisions based on issues of public health or safety, referencing Section 66474, which provides legal grounds for denial if a project poses serious health problems. He noted that while the subdivision is consistent with the City’s General Plan and zoning, be believes the proposed layout of the two parcels is poor. He expressed concern that the flag portion of the lot may not be properly maintained and could become an eyesore to the community. He then sought assistance from legal counsel.
Assistant City Attorney Young responded that she is not sure we can correlate a bad design to a health problem.
She said we would need a bit more facts, such as studies to back up a denial based on a health issue.
Commissioner Daniels stated that the proposed design creates an untenable situation with the long, narrow flag portion of the lot and the adjoining areas to the west. He commented that the configuration appears to serve no purpose other than to meet the minimum lot size requirements.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
The applicant explained that the lot’s angled design is due to the existing contours of the site. He noted that an existing driveway and a grove of mature trees along that driveway influenced the layout, as they wished to preserve the trees.
He stated that one of the requirements is that the lot must extend completely through the site and connect to both sides. He explained that, although that portion of the lot is not necessary, it was included to meet site requirements. He added that the intent is to divide the property, so the back house and pool remain, with plans to rebuild the house and resurface the pool.
The following individuals spoke in opposition of the project: Larry Weidinger, Gary Drejdan, Maureen Malady-Myers.
The comments included the following concerns:
• Privacy
• Health hazard
• Mountain view
• Wall height
• Habitat area
• Septic
• Bridle trail around property
The applicant provided an explanation on the following:
• Trees – The grove of mature pine trees will be left alone. • Septic – Septic will be done by professional engineers. • Height and placement of the building – They are abiding by all code standards. • Bridle Trail – Will be addressed during planning.
Commissioner Dopp stated that there is a gate at the rear of Parcel 2 and inquired whether the future property owner would be responsible for maintaining the area. H e expressed concern that, while there is an intent to preserve the existing trees, lack of proper maintenance could pose a public health and safety risk, particularly related to wildfires.
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Applicant confirmed and indicated maintaining the area it is something that can be added to the Conditions of Approval.
Hearing no other comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp asked staff to clarify the requirement for property lines to extend from the front to the back of the site. He referenced the applicant’s statement that the lot was designed to reach the east end of the parcel to satisfy a city code requirement and requested confirmation as to whether such a provision exists in the regulations.
Planning Director Nakamura responded that staff would review the subdivision ordinance during deliberations, noting that the cited requirement is not one she is familiar with. She clarified that the current application pertains solely to the lot split and is unrelated to any future approval of the house design, which would be addressed separately through the entitlement process. She emphasized that today’s focus is on the subdivision of the two lots.
Commissioner Dopp stated that he finds it difficult to support a parcel with such an irregular shape due to potential management and liability concerns. He commended that a large portion of the parcel appears unviable as a standalone property. While acknowledging that this is not sufficient grounds for denial, he expressed discomfort with the configuration.
Commissioner Daniels concurred with Commissioner Dopp. He also stated he would like to see the rear flag portion combined with Parcel 1. He explained that as a Commission, part of their responsibility is to try to make good planning and have parcel s that makes sense. With that in mind, he is uncomfortable approving this because he believes it is a terrible design, especially after seeing the amount of land available in Parcel 1.
Commissioner Diaz and Vice Chairman Boling concurred.
Planning Director Nakamura suggested re-opening the public hearing to allow the applicant to return and clarify which concerns they are willing or unwilling to address. She said that she was unable to identify any provision in the subdivision ordinance requiring the east -west lot configuration but stated that staff would further review and examine the matter. Re garding variances, she explained that they may be granted for development standards outlined in Title 17 . Therefore, if a variance related to lot standards were necessary, it could be considered. In response to concerns about the existing trees, she explained that all departments will review the site once a development application is submitted. If the property is located within a high fire hazard zone, there may be requirements for the removal of certain trees and the replanting of fire-adaptive trees as part of the new development.
Chairman Morales reopened the public hearing.
Applicant stated if there is nothing in the code that indicates they have to extend all the way across the subdivision, he would be open to revising that and going with the quickest approval process possible to avoid further delays for his client. He said he would be okay with going perhaps a little bit under 20,000 sq. ft. in Parcel 2 and could easily remove 1,200 sq. ft. right away.
Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Planning Director Nakamura stated the Commissioners have the following choices to make:
• Accept staff’s recommendation for approval,
• If they feel they have the findings to make a denial, they can do so, or • Continue the i tem to a date uncertain and allow staff to work with the applicant to finalize any revisions and to determine what the best path forward would be.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Daniels, to continue this item to a date uncertain. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
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Commissioner Daniels noted that the Commission is not reviewing the development of the parcels at this time and stated he was unclear whether the existing structure would be refurbished. He requested that a small reference map be provided showing the locations of structures on the parcels.
Assistant City Attorney Young responded that it would not be appropriate if only considering a lot split. The potential proposal on a lot split could change over time because it is in preliminary review right now.
Commissioner Daniels asked for clarification on whether the house will remain.
Planning Director Nakamura replied that as staff mentioned in the report, the house is to be demolished but the idea is to rebuild in the same place.
Commissioner Daniels stated that it was not clear as the applicant indicated something different.
D3. DESIGN REVIEW, MINOR EXCEPTION, VARIANCE – VINOVA (LENNAR) - A request for site plan and architectural review of 166 single-family residences within an approved tract map on approximately 70- acres located near the northeast corner of Etiwanda Avenue and Wilson Avenue; (Tracts 16072 and 16072- 2). This item is exemp t from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Section 15162. (Design Review DRC2024- 00395, Minor Exception DRC2025- 00168, Variance DRC2025-00169).
Principal Planner McPherson provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Applicant was present and available to answer questions.
For the record, correspondence from Lozeau Drury, LLP was received following the preparation of the agenda packet, expressing opposition to the project. The correspondence should be referred to for further details.
Resident Edward Aldaz had the following concerns:
• Wall placement
• Health risk – vermin
• Digging close to home
Applicant responded to the wall concerns and said there will be permitted walls built around the homes.
They will be developing everything within property line and the track boundaries.
Principal Planner McPherson clarified that the walls referenced were primarily interior walls to the approved lots. He said this project will also include walls along the perimeter as is standard in a subdivision like this.
Relative to the comment about any additional grading, it has already commenced. There is no expectation that grading beyond the boundaries which have already been graded will occur. The application before the commission tonight is relative to the construction of the homes on those, previously graded lots.
Commissioner Daniels referred to the two different roofing materials being proposed and that several of the units feature standard seam walls. He commented that typically only one type of roofing material is used and asked for the reason behind the use of two.
Applicant explained that it is an architectural feature intended to create diversity.
Commissioner Daniels commented on the gable roof extending over the entrance appears awkward with the flat wall positioned in front of it. He also inquired how the two subdivisions will be phased.
Applicant responded that they are trying to revisit the traditional style in a contemporary way. In terms of the phasing, there are essentially two different product lines. The one- story and two- story homes will be built simultaneously.
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Commissioner Daniels stated that the Fire Department will likely require two access points prior to the storing of lumber for construction and asked if the developer will construct the street network.
Applicant confirmed that approximately 90% of the street network has been constructed.
Commissioner Daniels asked if Lennar designed the parks.
Applicant answered that it is a mutual effort and want to do the best they can for the community.
Commissioner Daniels complimented the project. He said it is very nice and will be a good asset to the development of the community. He asked if Wilson Avenue will be open soon.
Applicant answered that they will open it as soon as they can.
Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that he got to see this at the Design Review Committee meeting. He remembers comments being made about the front wall, possibly making it a balcony. Aside from that , it was decided that most of the designs were appropriate for the neighborhood. He indicated he is a big fan of some of the amenities. For example, the Central Paseo he originally was pushing for with the developer when there was a lack of one on a map that was before them a few years ago. It is nice to see it carried out because it was not a requirement at the time. He said that the design helps create a stronger sense of community within a subdivision, noting that traditional urban studies show such connectivity is often missing in developments characterized by long roads. He added that incorporating amenities and green spaces at a central nexus point will provide an excellent gathering area and be a valuable enhancement to the project.
Commissioner Daniels stated he went through all the minor exceptions and the variances and did not have any problems with the waivers that are being requested which are very minor.
Commissioner Diaz stated that we have 166 new single- family homes coming to an area of the city where people want them, and it is very exciting. She said the issues presented are minor exceptions and expressed no concerns. She supports staffs’ determination that the CEQA report on file remains relevant and applicable, and stated that she looks forward to seeing the project move forward.
Vice Chairman Boling stated, as mentioned previously, there were some issues and concerns addressed at the Design Review Committee meeting related to a couple of the models and elevations. The applicant’s submission and provision of the 3D rendering helped give them a better perspective of what those products are intended to look like. As it pertains to the minor exceptions and variances, they are nominal.
Regarding the letter that was received by the city late in the process challenging the previously certified EIR, there have been no substantial changes nor new uses planned for this project, so he sees no issues or problems. As it pertains to the comment made by the public, he strongly encouraged the resident to speak directly to the applicants representative pertaining to the issues and questions that he has that are beyond the scope of the commission’s actions being taken tonight.
Chairman Morales addressed the public comment regarding rodents, stating that those issues should subside as the site is developed. He thanked the applicant for working collaboratively with staff to ensure the project is completed properly.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Dopp; seconded by Commissioner Daniels to adopt Resolution 2025- 036 approving Design Review DRC2024- 00395, Variance DRC2025- 00169 and Minor Exception DRC2025-00168. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
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D4. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT – CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA – A request to amend Title 17 of the Municipal Code for the development of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) in compliance with State ADU Law. This item is statutorily exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Section 15282(h). A public hearing will be held by the City Council for final action at a future date to be determined. (DRC2025-00072).
Assistant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Commissioner Daniels asked for clarification regarding the A DU pre- approved plans and whether any member of the public may request access to those plans.
Planning Director Nakamura described the pre- approval process. Any licensed contractor, engineer or architect may submit a plan for an ADU. The City conducts an initial review, and once approved, the plans are filed and posted on the City’s website. She noted that anyone may use the City’s pre- approved plans to apply for an ADU, which is the basis of the City’s ADU Pre-Approved Program.
Commissioner Daniels asked Assistant City Attorney Young why penalties cannot be imposed for an unpermitted ADU built two to five years ago and later discovered by the City.
Assistant City Attorney Young responded that she had not reviewed the legislative intent behind the provision but suggested that the state may have recognized the large number of unpermitted additions constructed by property owners for various reasons. She explained that if those additions were built to code and can be legalized, this process provides a pathway for doing so without penalty, thereby creating additional housing units that the City can count toward its housing requirements.
Commissioner Daniels asked if there is a timeframe for compliance, if an ADU is discovered.
Staff responded that they do not believe there is a timeframe.
Planning Director Nakamura mentioned if work is done without building permits there is a 50% penalty.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that the amendment will make it somewhat easier to meet the City’s housing goals. He noted that while the overall impact may be limited due to the small number of lots over 20,000 square feet, it still represents a move in the right direction.
Vice Chairman Boling said he is encouraged at the number of ADU’s that have been developed in the city over the past few years. He expressed appreciation for staff’s diligence in bringing forward Municipal Code Amendments such as this one.
Chairman Morales thanked staff for their hard work in updating the regulations to ensure consistency with state ADU law.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Diaz to adopt Resolution 2025-035 recommending that the City Council approve Municipal Code Amendment DRC2025-00072. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D5. Consideration of a Municipal Code Amendment to amend the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to amend Section 12.20.080 of Chapter 12.20 of Title 12 and Sections 17.20.020 and 17.20.040 of Title 17 of the Municipal Code to Dissolve the Trails Advisory Commi ttee. This Item is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15378(B)(5) and 15061(B)(3).
This Item Will be Forwarded to City Council for Final Action. (DRC2025-00254).
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Planning Director Nakamura provided a brief summary and report on the item. She requested that the Planning Commission make a recommendation to City Council to approve the Municipal Code Amendment in order to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee.
Vice Chairman Boling recommended that staff send a letter of appreciation to the committee members, formally thanking them for their service and notifying them that their duties have concluded.
Planning Director Nakamura confirmed.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Dopp to adopt Resolution 2025-034 recommending that the City Council approve the Municipal Code Amendment DRC2025-00254 to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D6. Consideration of a General Plan Amendment and Municipal Code Amendment to Amend the General Plan Land Use and Community Character Chapter related to Floor Area Ratio on Table LC -1 and Policies Relating First Floor Non-Residential Dimensions and Block Lengths; Amend the General Plan Mobility and Access Chapter to add Dimension Standards for Street Typologies, Remove the Proposed 8th Street Trail and Amend the Truck Routes Map Pursuant to AB98; Amend Municipal Code Table 17.130.050-1 to Update Floor Area Ratio and Ground Floor Non- Residential Dimensions for Form Based Zones; and Amend Municipal Code Section 17.138.030 Regarding Block Length for Form Based Zones. An Addendum to the General Plan EIR Has Been Prepared for this Project. (CONTINUED TO NOVEMBER 12 TH, 2025
MEETING)
Planning Director Nakamura requested that this item be continued to November 12 th, 2025, meeting to allow additional time to finalize remaining details.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Chairman Morales announced that this item will remain open to the November 12th HPC/PC meeting.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Diaz to continue this item to November 12
th Planning Commission meeting. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
E. General Business
E1. Consideration to Approve a Resolution Adopting bylaws for the Design Review Committee
Management Analyst Estrada provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that several Commissioners previously requested clarification regarding absences, so he appreciates the effort.
Commissioner Daniels thanked staff for doing a great job.
Vice Chairman Boling thanked staff for helping to address concerns that come up which have the potential to delay developer and resident applications. He said t hese steps moving forward, reflect the City’s pro- business and pro-resident position.
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Commissioner Diaz expressed appreciation to staff for their efforts on this item and that it responds to the needs raised by the Commissioners.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Diaz; seconded by Vice Chairman Boling to adopt Resolution 2025- 033 repealing Resolution 79- 61 and approving the bylaws for the Design Review Committee. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
F. Director Announcements
Planner Director Nakamura announced that one meeting is scheduled for both November and December.
She noted there will be no second meeting in November due to the Thanksgiving holiday and no second meeting in December, as it falls on Christmas Eve and City Hall will be closed until after the new year.
She provided an update on the Planning Commissions memo which was presented to City Council last week. City Council expressed their appreciation for the work the Commissioners do and know that density bonus projects are very difficult and complicated. They are considering the following actions:
1) Sharing the memo with the City’s lobbyists, who can communicate the real-world impacts of certain housing laws during meetings with state representatives.
2) Having Council Member Kristine Scott, who serves on the Board for the Inland Empire Division of the League of California Cities, raise the issue at their next meeting to explore whether other cities may wish to collaborate on a unified message regarding density bonus law projects and their impacts.
G. Commission Announcements - None
H. Adjournment
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Diaz , seconded by Vice Chairman Boling to adjourn the meeting.
Hearing no objections, Chairman Morales adjourned the meeting at 8:54 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant
Planning Department
Approved:
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ORDINANCE NO. 1049
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 17.100 OF ARTICLE V OF TITLE 17 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE TO UPDATE THE REGULATIONS
REGARDING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (ADUS) AND
JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (JADUS) IN
COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND TO ESTABLISH A
BONUS ADU PROGRAM, AND FINDING THE ITEM TO BE
EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA), PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES
SECTION 15282(H).
A. RECITALS
The City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga does ordain as follows:
1. The City of Rancho Cucamonga (the “City”), has prepared Municipal Code Amendment, as described in the title of this Ordinance. Hereinafter in this Ordinance, the subject Municipal Code Amendment is referred to as “the amendment.”
2. The City is a municipal corporation, duly organized under the constitution and laws of the State of California.
3. As shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance, the amendment proposes to amend Chapter
17.100 of Article V of Title 17 of the Municipal Code to update the regulations regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (“JADUs”).
4. Portions of the City’s current regulations for ADUs and JADUs require amendment to remain consistent with State Law. Hereinafter in this Ordinance, the subject Municipal Code Amendment is referred to as the “Amendments.”
5. Senate Bill (“SB”) 477, effective March 25, 2024, amended Accessory Dwelling Unit Law (“ADU Law”) (formerly Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22) (now Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code), which reorganized ADU Law and has led to references to ADU Law in the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to be no longer applicable.
6. Additionally, the State of California adopted amendments to Government Code Sections 66313, 66314, and 66323, altogether known as SB 1211, effective January 1, 2025, which further amend standards and requirements for ADUs and JADUs.
7. Moreover, Assembly Bill (“AB”) 2533 prohibits the City from denying a permit for an unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, unless a finding can be made that correcting the violation is necessary to comply with conditions that would otherwise deem a building substandard under Section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code. This law also specifies the City’s obligations to inform the public of this prohibition, the prohibition to require a homeowner to pay impact fees, and the prohibition against penalizing an applicant for having an unpermitted ADU or JADU.
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8. On October 22, 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga conducted a noticed public hearing with respect to the Amendments and, following the conclusion thereof, adopted Resolution No. 2025-035 recommending that the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga adopt the Amendments.
9. On November 19, 2025, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga conducted a noticed public hearing on the Amendments and concluded said hearing on that date.
10. All legal prerequisites prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
B. ORDINANCE
The City Council finds the foregoing recitals and their findings to be true and correct and hereby incorporates such recitals and their findings into this Ordinance.
SECTION 1. Findings. Based upon the substantial evidence presented to this Council during the above-referenced public hearing, this Council hereby finds and concludes that the changes proposed to Title 17 (Development Code) in the Amendments are consistent with the Development Code and the General Plan’s goals, policies and implementation programs. Pursuant to Section
17.22.040(C) of the Municipal Code, amendments to the Municipal Code “may be approved only when the [C]ity [C]ouncil finds that the Development Code/zoning map amendment[s] [are] consistent with the [G]eneral [P]lan goals, policies, and implementation programs.” The Amendments are consistent with the following Housing Element program:
General Plan Housing Goal H-1 strategizes for a diverse community with a broad range of housing types and opportunities to accommodate expected new households.
Specifically, Policy H-1.1 is to encourage the development of wide range of housing options, types, and prices that will enable the City to achieve its share of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA); Policy H-1.2 is to recognize the unique characteristics of elderly and disabled households and address their special needs; and Policy H-1.3 is to facilitate the development of ADUs to provide additional housing opportunities pursuant to State law and established zoning regulations. General Plan Housing Goal H-4 promotes a community with quality, healthy housing, and Policy H-4.2 is to encourage the revitalization and rehabilitation of substandard residential structures.
General Plan Housing Goal H-5 aims for a city with an efficient process for improving and developing housing. Specifically, Policy H-5.4 is to evaluate and adjust as appropriate residential development standards, regulations, and processing procedures that are determined to constrain housing development, particularly housing opportunities for lower- and moderate-income households and for persons with special needs.
SECTION 2. CEQA. The proposed Amendments (the “Project”) are exempt from or not subject to the requirements of CEQA, pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15282(h), which establishes a statutory exemption for the adoption of an ordinance regarding second units in a single-family or multifamily residential zone by a city to implement the provisions of Sections 65852.1, Article 2 (commencing with Section 66314) or Article 3 (commencing with Section 66333) of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code, as set forth in Section 21080.17 of the Public Resources Code. In addition, the City Council finds that the Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that amendments
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to the City’s ADU and JADU regulations in accordance with State Law will have a significant effect on the environment.
SECTION 3. Action. The City Council hereby amends Chapter 17.100 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Article I (In General) of Title 17 (Development Code) of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code in its entirety, to read as shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference. The Amendments have been processed, including, but not limited to, public notice, in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”).
SECTION 4. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of any competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the Ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 5. Effect of Ordinance. This Ordinance is intended to supersede any ordinance, resolution, and administrative regulations of the City of Rancho Cucamonga adopted by the City Council in conflict with the terms of this Ordinance.
SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect 30 days after the date of its adoption. The City Clerk is directed to cause this Ordinance to be published and/or posted as required by law.
SECTION 7. Enforcement. Neither the adoption of this Ordinance nor the repeal of any other Ordinance of this City shall in any manner affect the prosecution for violations of ordinances, which violations were committed prior to the effective date hereof, nor be construed as a waiver of any penalty or the penal provisions applicable to any violation thereof.
SECTION 8. Submission of Ordinance to HCD. In compliance with Government Code Section 66326, the Planning Director is hereby directed to submit a copy of this Ordinance to the Department of Housing and Community Development within sixty (60) days after adoption.
SECTION 9. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause it to be published in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 19th day Of November, 2025.
L. Dennis Michael, Mayor
I, Kim Sevy, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 19th day of November, 2025, and was passed at a Regular
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Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the 3 rd day of December, 2025, by the following vote:
_______________________________
Kim Sevy, City Clerk
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAINED: COUNCILMEMBERS:
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EXHIBIT A
Amended Chapter:
Chapter 17.100 (Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs))
“CHAPTER 17.100 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS
Section 17.100.010: Purpose.
Section 17.100.020: Applicability.
Section 17.100.030: Approval required.
Section 17.100.040: General allowances.
Section 17.100.050: Special allowances.
Section 17.100.060: Development standards for Accessory Dwelling Units.
Section 17.100.070: Development standards for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.
Section 17.100.080: Design standards.
Section 17.100.090: Sales, rental, and occupancy requirements.
Section 17.100.100: Existing nonconforming units.
17.100.010 Purpose.
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) are a valuable form of housing in the City. These units meet the City's General Plan housing policies related to the development of a variety of housing options, including ones that serve the unique needs of elderly and disabled households; rehabilitation of deteriorating housing units, providing housing stock accessible to lower- and moderate-income households; and meeting the City's share of regional housing needs.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish development standards for the construction and operation of ADUs and JADUs on lots zoned to allow single-family or multi-family residential use, including mixed-use zones, in a manner that is consistent with the requirements of State Law.
17.100.020 Applicability.
The provisions of this Chapter apply to all lots that are zoned to allow single-family or multi-family residential use. ADUs shall be deemed to be an accessory single-family residential use consistent with the General Plan and zoning designations for the lot.
ADUs are defined as an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons, and is located on a lot with an existing or proposed primary dwelling. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multi-family dwelling is, or will be, situated.
JADUs are defined as a unit that is no more than 500 square feet in size and contained entirely within a single-family residence. A JADU may include separate sanitation facilities or may share sanitation facilities with the existing structure.
17.100.030 Approval required.
A. A building permit is required for the construction of ADUs and JADUs, which must satisfy the requirements of the California Building Standards Code, Government Code Title 7 Division 1 Chapter 13, and the Chapter herein.
B. The application shall be approved or denied within 60 days after the City receives the completed application, or in accordance with the deadline required by Government Code
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Section 63317, as that section may be amended from time to time.
C. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter to the contrary, no minor exception from any requirement of this Chapter shall be approved, nor shall any application for such a minor exception be accepted for processing.
D. Where a building permit application for an ADU or JADU is submitted with an application for a single-family dwelling or multi-family dwelling that is subject to discretionary review under this Chapter, the ADU or JADU application will be considered separately without discretionary review or public hearing, following the approval of the main dwelling unit(s).
E. Pre-approved ADU plans are available on the City’s website under the Building and Safety Department page. An application for a preapproved detached ADU plan must be approved or denied within 30 days within the current triennial California Building Standards Code rulemaking cycle or a plan that is identical to a plan used in an application for a detached ADU approved within the current triennial California Building Standards Code rulemaking cycle.
17.100.040 General allowances.
There are four categories of ADUs and JADUs in Government Code Section 66323 that are subject to the standards set forth in Title 7 Division 1 Chapter 13 Article 2 of the Government Code. Their applicability depends on whether the ADU or JADU will be located on a lot with a single-family or multi-family dwelling and meets the specific requirements as follows:
A. Category 1: One ADU and one JADU per lot with an existing/proposed single-family dwelling if all of the following conditions apply:
1. The ADU or JADU is within the proposed space of a single-family dwelling or existing space of a single-family dwelling or accessory structure and may include an expansion of not more than 150 square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing accessory structure and shall be limited to ingress and egress only.
2. The space has exterior access from the existing/proposed single-family dwelling.
3. The side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.
4. The JADU complies with the requirements of Government Code Section 66333 and with the requirements set forth in Section 17.100.060.
B. Category 2: One detached, new construction ADU for a lot with an existing/proposed single- family dwelling that does not exceed four-foot side and rear yard setbacks if all of the following conditions apply. The ADU may be combined with a JADU as described in subsection (A)(1).
1. The ADU shall be no more than 800 square feet in size.
2. The ADU shall not exceed a height limit of 16 feet unless it is located within a half mile of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor. In which case, the ADU shall not exceed a height limit of 18 feet.
3. An additional two feet are allowed only if necessary to match the roof pitch of the primary dwelling.
4. The ADU shall be subject to four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
C. Category 3: Multiple ADUs, up to 25 percent of existing multi-family dwelling units, or at least one ADU, with an existing/proposed multi-family dwelling provided that the units are within the portions of existing multi-family dwelling structures that are not used as livable spaces, including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages, if each unit complies with state building standards for dwellings.
D. Category 4: Multiple ADUs, not to exceed the numbers specified below, located on a lot with an existing/proposed multi-family dwelling but are detached from the multi-family dwelling and are subject to the setback and height requirements in Section 17.100.050. If the existing multi- family dwelling has a side or rear yard setback of less than four feet, the modification of the existing multi-family dwelling shall not be required as a condition of approving the application to construct an ADU that satisfies the requirements of this subsection.
1. On a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling, not more than eight detached ADUs.
However, the number of ADUs allowable pursuant to this clause shall not exceed the
Ordinance No. 1049 – Page 7 of 11
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number of existing units on the lot.
2. On a lot with a proposed multi-family dwelling, not more than two detached ADUs.
17.100.050 Special allowances.
Additional ADUs shall be allowed under the following circumstances.
A. Eligibility for an Additional ADU. In all residential zones where ADUs are permitted, an additional ADU may be permitted, if all the following conditions are met:
1. The lot contains an existing or proposed primary, single-family dwelling unit.
2. The lot is a minimum size of 20,000 square feet.
B. Development Standards. The additional ADU shall comply with all applicable development standards for ADUs set forth in Section 17.100.060.
C. Unit Type Flexibility. The additional ADU may either be attached, detached, or a conversion, subject to compliance with the California Building Standards Code.
D. Ministerial Review. Applications for an additional ADU under this section shall be subject to ministerial review and approval, provided that the proposed ADU complies with all applicable standards of this section and any other relevant sections of this Chapter.
17.100.060 Development standards for Accessory Dwelling Units.
Except for applications submitted pursuant to Section 17.100.040, all ADUs shall comply with the following development standards:
A. Code Compliance. ADUs shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of the latest edition of the California Building Standards Code and other applicable codes adopted by the City unless specifically exempted in this Chapter.
B. Existing Lots and Uses. ADUs shall be permitted if the existing or proposed lot and dwelling meet the following requirements:
1. The lot on which the ADU is proposed to be established shall contain at least one existing permanent dwelling unit or the application for the ADU shall be made concurrently with an application for at least one dwelling unit on the same lot.
2. The zoning regulations for the lot allow for the development of a single-family dwelling or multi-family use.
C. Facilities. The ADU shall have a separate entrance and shall contain kitchen and bathroom facilities separate from those of the main dwelling.
D. Utility Services. The ADU may be metered separately from the main dwelling for gas, electricity, communications, water and sewer services.
E. Fire Sprinklers. ADUs shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the primary residence. For existing multi-family dwellings, the construction of an ADU shall not trigger a requirement for fire sprinklers to be installed.
F. Size and Height. The size and height of the ADU shall comply with the requirements indicated in Table 17.100.050-1 as follows:
TABLE 17.100.050-1 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS Accessory Dwelling
Unit Type Minimum Size Maximum Size (1) Height (2)
Attached 220 sq. ft.
50% of main
dwelling unit or
1,200 sq. ft.,
whichever is less
25 feet
Detached 350 sq. ft. 1,200 sq. ft. 16 feet or 18 feet (3, 4) Table Notes:
(1) The maximum size for ADUs do not include optional accessory structures, such as a garage. (2) ADUs constructed above a garage shall not exceed the height limits of the underlying zone.
Ordinance No. 1049 – Page 8 of 11
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(3) ADUs shall not exceed 18 feet in height, or 20 feet to match the roof pitch of the primary structure, when located within a half mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor. (4) ADUs shall not exceed 18 feet in height when located on a lot with an existing or proposed multi-story, multi-family dwelling.
G. Lot Coverage. ADUs shall conform to the lot coverage requirements for the zone in which it is located, except where the application of the lot coverage requirement would not permit the construction of an 800-square-foot ADU that is at maximum 16 feet in height and at minimum has four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
H. Setbacks. ADUs shall comply with the following setback requirements:
1. ADUs shall maintain at least a four-foot setback from the side and rear property lines.
2. ADUs shall maintain the front yard setback standard of the underlying zone, unless the front yard setback standard would not permit construction of an 800-square-foot ADU that is at maximum 16 feet in height and at maximum has four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
3. Notwithstanding the above, no setback shall be required for an ADU that is within an existing structure or within a structure constructed in the same location and dimensions as an existing structure.
I. Parking. In addition to the parking required for the main dwelling (listed in Table 17.64.050- 1), parking for accessory dwelling units shall be provided as follows:
1. Newly constructed, detached ADUs shall provide a minimum of one parking space, unless otherwise exempt. The parking space(s) may be provided as tandem parking, in an enclosed garage, and/or in setback areas.
2. If parking for the ADU is provided in a garage that also provides parking for the main dwelling, the provided space(s) shall be for the exclusive use of the ADU. The space(s) shall be separated from any garage spaces for the main dwelling by a wall or other permanent barrier and shall have a separate or independent garage door.
3. ADUs shall utilize the same vehicular access that serves the existing main dwelling, unless the ADU has access from a public alley contiguous to the lot or is located on a corner lot for which secondary access is permitted for parking outside the street side setback. A vehicular driveway that provides access to required parking shall have a minimum width of 10 feet.
4. When a required garage, carport, or covered parking structure for the main dwelling is converted or demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU, replacement of parking spaces that are eliminated by the construction of the ADU shall not be required as long as the ADU remains in use as a legal ADU.
5. Parking shall not be required for an ADU in any of the following instances:
a. Where the ADU is located within a one-half mile walking distance of public transit, such as a bus stop or train station.
b. Where the ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant district. c. Where the ADU is part of the existing or proposed primary dwelling or an existing accessory structure.
d. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
e. When there is a car share station located within one block of the ADU. f. When a permit application for an ADU is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family or multi-family dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU or the parcel satisfies any other criteria listed in this subdivision.
17.100.070 Development standards for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.
Except for applications submitted pursuant to Section 17.100.040, all JADUs shall comply with the following development standards:
Ordinance No. 1049 – Page 9 of 11
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ATTACHMENT 3
A. A JADU shall be a minimum of 220 square feet and a maximum of 500 square feet in floor area, not including the floor area of a shared sanitation facility.
B. A JADU shall be contained entirely within the walls of the existing or proposed single-family dwelling, including attached garages or other enclosed uses. Enclosed uses within the dwelling, such as attached garages, are considered a part of the existing or proposed single- family dwelling. Therefore, JADUs are not allowed in accessory structures.
C. An exterior entry apart from the main entrance to the existing or proposed single-family residence shall be provided for the JADU.
D. A JADU may include separate sanitation facilities or may share sanitation facilities with the main dwelling. If shared, the JADU shall have interior entry, separate from the main entrance to the structure, to allow access to the shared sanitation facilities.
E. A JADU shall include an efficiency kitchen, which shall include the following:
1. A cooking facility with appliances.
2. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the JADU.
F. Additional parking shall not be required for a JADU.
17.100.080 Design standards.
Except for applications submitted pursuant to Section 17.100.040, ADUs and JADUs located in the front yard, adjacent to the main dwelling, and/or visible from the public right-of-way shall comply with the following design standards:
A. Exterior stairs shall not be visible from any public right-of-way, excluding alleys or trails, except those leading from the finished grade to the first floor.
B. The color, material, and texture of the roof shall be substantially the same as the main dwelling.
C. The color, material, and texture of all building walls shall be substantially the same as the main dwelling.
D. Permitted driveways and walkways shall occupy no more than 50 percent of the front yard area, in accordance with Section 17.56.070.
E. Additional design considerations may be necessary for historic resources to prevent adverse impacts on any property that is listed in the California Register of Historical Resources. An ADU or JADU proposed for a property under a Mills Act contract must comply with all Mills Act guidelines, including conformance to the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. Pursuant to Section 17.18.100, any alteration made for preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, or relocation of historic resources may be made according to the requirements of the latest adopted state historical building code.
17.100.090 Sales, rental, and occupancy requirements.
A. Sales and Separate Conveyance. The sale or separate conveyance of an ADU separate from the main dwelling is prohibited, except when all the following conditions apply:
1. The ADU or primary dwelling was built or developed by a qualified nonprofit corporation.
2. There is an enforceable restriction on the use of the land pursuant to a recorded contract between the qualified buyer and the qualified nonprofit corporation that satisfies all of the requirements specified in Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
3. The property is held pursuant to a recorded tenancy in common agreement that includes all the following conditions:
a. The agreement allocates to each qualified buyer an undivided, unequal interest in the property based on the size of the dwelling unit that each qualified buyer occupies. b. A repurchase option that requires the qualified buyer to first offer the qualified nonprofit corporation to buy the ADU or main dwelling if the buyer desires to sell or convey the property.
Ordinance No. 1049 – Page 10 of 11
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ATTACHMENT 3
c. A requirement that the qualified buyer occupy the ADU or primary dwelling as the buyer’s principal residence.
d. Affordability restrictions on the sale and conveyance of the ADU or primary dwelling that ensure the ADU and primary dwelling will be preserved for low-income housing for 45 years for owner-occupied housing units and will be sold or resold to a qualified buyer.
e. If the tenancy in common agreement is recorded after December 31, 2021, it shall also include all the following:
i. Delineation of all areas of the property that are for the exclusive use of a cotenant.
Each cotenant shall agree not to claim a right of occupancy to an area delineated for the exclusive use of another cotenant, provided that the latter cotenant’s obligations to each of the other cotenants have been satisfied. ii. Delineation of each cotenant’s responsibility for the costs of taxes, insurance, utilities, general maintenance and repair, improvements, and any other costs, obligations, or liabilities associated with the property. This delineation shall only be binding on the other parties to the agreement, and shall not supersede or obviate the liability, whether joint and several or otherwise, of the parties for any cost, obligation, or liability associated with the property where such liability is otherwise established by law or by agreement with a third party. iii. Procedures for dispute resolution among the parties before resorting to legal action.
4. A grant deed naming the grantor, grantee, and describing the property interests being transferred shall be recorded in the county in which the property is located. A Preliminary Change of Ownership Report shall be filed concurrently with this grant deed pursuant to Section 480.3 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
5. Notwithstanding Government Code Section 66324, if requested by a utility providing service to the primary dwelling, the ADU has a separate water, sewer, or electrical connection to that utility.
6. Nothing in this section limits the ability of an ADU to be sold or otherwise conveyed separate from the primary dwelling as a condominium. However, it does not imply it is allowed outside of meeting all the conditions in this section.
B. Rental Terms. Any rental of an ADU or JADU shall be for a period exceeding 30 consecutive days.
C. Owner Occupancy for JADUs. The owner must reside in either the remaining portion of the primary dwelling or in the newly created JADU. Owner occupancy shall not be required when the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
17.100.100 Existing nonconforming units.
A. Notwithstanding any other law, and except as provided in subsection B, the City will not deny a permit for an unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, based on the following:
1. The ADU or JADU is in violation of building standards pursuant to Division 13 Part 1.5 Chapter 5 Article 1 of the Health and Safety Code.
2. The ADU or JADU does not comply with Title 7 Division 1 Chapter 13 Article 2 or Article 3 of the Government Code, as applicable, or a local ordinance regulating ADUs or JADUs.
B. Notwithstanding subsection A, the City may deny a permit to an unpermitted ADU or JADU described in subsection A if the local agency finds that a correction of the violation is necessary to comply with the standards identified in Section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code.
C. Homeowners may obtain a confidential third-party code inspection from a licensed contractor to determine the unit’s existing condition or potential scope of building improvements prior to
Ordinance No. 1049 – Page 11 of 11
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submitting a building permit application.
D. A homeowner applying for a permit for a previously unpermitted ADU or JADU constructed before January 1, 2020, shall not be required to pay impact fees or connection or capacity charges except when utility infrastructure is required to comply with Section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code and when the fee is authorized by subdivision (e) of Section 66324 of the Government Code.
E. Subject to compliance with Section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code, upon receiving an application to permit a previously unpermitted ADU or JADU constructed before January 1, 2020, an inspector may inspect the unit for compliance with health and safety standards and provide recommendations to comply with code that may be necessary to obtain a permit.
Should the inspector find noncompliance with health and safety standards, the City shall not penalize the applicant for having the unpermitted ADU or JADU and will approve necessary permits to correct noncompliance with health and safety standards.”
DATE: November 19, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: John R. Gillison, City Manager
INITIATED BY: Jennifer Nakamura, CNU-A, Planning Director SUBJECT: Public Hearing for Consideration of First Reading of Ordinance No. 1050, to be Read by Title Only and Waive Further Reading, Amending Section
12.20.080 of Chapter 12.20 of Title 12 and Sections 17.20.020 and
17.20.040 of Title 17 of the Municipal Code to Dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee. This Item is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15378(B)(5) and 15061(B)(3). (DRC2025-00254) (ORDINANCE NO. 1050) (CITY)
RECOMMENDATION:
Planning Commission and Staff recommends the City Council conduct first reading of Ordinance No. 1050, to be read by title only and waive further reading, to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee.
BACKGROUND:
The Trails Advisory Committee is an advisory committee of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Gov. Code, § 54950), that is tasked with discussing and providing recommendations to the City Council on the development of the City's trail system and trail design standards. Since the establishment of the Committee in 1981, the Committee has also been tasked with reviewing and make recommendations to the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga regarding trail locations and the application of trail design standards for development proposals within the City. The committee is made up of two Planning Commissioners, as well as bicyclists and equestrians and is scheduled to meet monthly.
The last meeting of the committee was on May 10, 2023.
On October 22, 2025, the Planning Commission held an advertised public hearing to make a recommendation to the City Council. After testimony was provided, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended City Council adopt an ordinance to dissolve the Trails Committee.
The Planning Commission resolution and meeting minutes are included as attachments to this report.
ANALYSIS:
During the development of the Housing Element, the City was required to identify programs and policies to streamline residential development. Policy H-5.1 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga 2021-2029 Housing Element states that the City will consider new policies, codes and procedures that have the potential to reduce procedural delays, provide information early in the development
3 1
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process regarding development costs, and charge only those fees necessary to adequately carry out needed public services and improvements. Program HE-10 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga 2021-2029 Housing Element states that the City will continue to evaluate and improve the permit processing procedures to facilitate residential development. In addition, as part of our Prohousing Designation awarded to the City in April 2024, we committed to streamline the processing of housing development applications through the reduction in the number of public meetings required. The dissolution of the Trails Advisory Committee will streamline the City’s processing of housing development applications through the elimination of a public meeting and the elimination of duplicate reviews since the City has adopted a trails implementation plan that sets forth the standards for the development of trails by project applicants. The proposed amendment will remove all references to the Trails Advisory Committee, including Section 12.20.080 of Chapter
12.20 of Title 12 and Sections 17.20.020 and 17.20.040 of Title 17 of the Municipal Code. This committee will be formally dissolved once the ordinance is effective, 30 days after second reading.
Once the ordinance is adopted, letters thanking the Trails Advisory Committee members for their service will be sent to all current members of the committee.
This item was advertised in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin on November 5, 2025. Because it is a city-wide amendment, individual property owner notice is not required.
The proposed amendments are exempt from to the requirements of CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15378(b)(5) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that either the Committee dissolution or the proposed Amendments, eliminating references to the dissolved Trails Advisory Committee within the Municipal Code, will not have a significant effect on the environment, and because the Project constitutes and administrative process of the City and/or organizational and administrative activities of the City that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
COUNCIL MISSION / VISION / VALUE(S) ADDRESSED:
This action meets the Council value of relentless pursuit of improvement by streamlining the development review process to allow for faster housing development.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Planning Commission Resolution
Attachment 2 – Planning Commission Meeting Minutes, October 22, 2025 Attachment 3 – Draft Ordinance No. 1050
ATTACHMENT 1
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Historic Preservation Commission and
Planning Commission
Agenda
October 22, 2025
Draft Minutes
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
7:00 p.m.
The regular joint meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Commission was held on October 22, 2025. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Morales at 7:00 p.m.
A. Roll Call
Planning Commission present: Chairman Morales, Vice Chairman Boling, Commissioner Dopp , Commissioner Daniels and Commissioner Diaz.
Staff Present: Serita Young , Assistant City Attorney; Jennifer Nakamura, Planning Director; Sean McPherson, Principal Planner; Miguel Sotomayor, Principal Engineer ; Stacy Lee , Assistant Planner ; Aracely Estrada, Management Analyst; Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant.
B. Public Communications
Chairman Morales opened the public communications.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public communications.
C. Consent Calendar
C1. Consideration to adopt Regular Meeting Minutes of October 8, 2025.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling ; seconded by Commissioner Daniels . Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D. Public Hearings
D1. TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP – ROBERT TOBIN ON BEHALF OF ADRIAN BUIGUES – A request to subdivide an existing 19,252-square-foot parcel into two parcels within the Low (L) Residential Zone, located at 9817 Base Line Road; APN: 1077 -011-02. This item is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a Class 15 exemption under CEQ A Guidelines Section 15315 – Minor Land Divisions (SUBTPM20935).
Assistant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Applicant Robert Tobin, along with Architect Doug Andresen were present and available to answer questions.
They stated that they did not receive the Conditions of Approval.
Planning Director Nakamura stated that the Conditions of Approval, along with the Staff Report, was sent to the applicant via email, and was posted on the website on Thursday, October 16th.
ATTACHMENT 2
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Vice Chairman Boling reiterated that the applicant had been given the opportunity to review the Conditions of Approval provided by staff and therefore had ample time to do so.
Planning Director Nakamura confirmed.
Commissioner Daniels suggested to allow the applicant a few minutes to look over a hard copy of the Conditions of Approval while the Commission deliberates.
Applicant Tobin, along with Architect Andresen reviewed the documents.
Commissioner Daniels stated that he had spoken with the City Engineer regarding the ingress and egress easement on Parcel 2. He noted that he had not realized the easement was intended for Parcel 1, ensuring that any future development on that parcel would access London Avenue rather than Base Line Road. He commented that this was an excellent addition to the map.
Vice Chairman Boling stated that in the Conditions of Approval, number 7, Subsection 1, the Engineering Services Department requires the applicant to provide fiber optic conduit along Base Line Road. He further stated that Subsection 2 requires the same along London Avenue and inquired about the rationale for this requirement, given that London Avenue is a small residential cul-de-sac. He asked to explain how this aligns with the City’s Master Plan for fiber optics.
Principal Engineer Sotomayor explained that it is the City’s requirement for developers to install fiber optic conduit along project frontages to support future connectivity. He added that the City’s long-term goal is to have fiber installed citywide.
Vice Chairman Boling expressed appreciation to the applicant for preparing the proposed parcel map noting that it aligns the subject site with the General Plan and zoning for future use. He added that while it may not reflect the current use, it appropriately prepares the site for future development while respecting the long-term operation of Parcel 1 as a valued community asset, the Child Care Center. He asked staff to confirm that the Child Care Center would be permitted to continue operating as legal nonconforming use, provided that operations are not discontinued for an extended period of time.
Assistant Planner Lee confirmed.
Chairman Morales re-opened the public hearing to allow the applicant an opportunity to respond after reviewing the Conditions of Approval.
Applicant Tobin stated that they had reviewed the Conditions of Approval, found them to be standard, and had no objections. He apologized for the earlier confusion.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed public hearing.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Dopp; seconded by Vice Chairman Boling to adopt Resolution 2025-038 approving Tentative Parcel Map SUBTPM20935. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D2. TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP – JACLYN MCDOWELL ON BEHALF OF MARK REYNOSO – A request to subdivide an existing 76,782 -square-foot parcel into two parcels within the Very Low (VL) Residential Zone, Hillside Overlay Zone, and Equestrian Overlay Zone, located at 5451 Moonstone Avenue; APN:
1061-251-32. This item is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a Class 15 exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 – Minor Land Divisions (SUBTPM20985).
Assistant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file) and noted that a few typographical errors had been identified in the Staff Report and draft Resolution; corrections were made, and red-lined copies were provided on the dais. Corrections in the Proposed Lots; changed Parcel 1 from 21,926 sq. ft. to 54,855 sq. ft., and Parcel 2 from 54,855 sq. ft. to 21,926 sq. ft.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Commissioner Dopp inquired about Parcel 2 on the east end of the lot, nothing that the staff report lists the minimum lot width as 142 feet and 383 feet, though it appears to be approximately 9-10 feet. He asked how the measurement was calculated and how it complies with applicable standards.
Assistant Planner Lee responded that staff had expressed similar concerns. However, she noted that there are no objective findings to recommend denial, as the subdivision meets the development standards required for the underlying zone. She added that the measurements are based on definitions of lot depth and lot width as outlined in the Development Code.
Commissioner Daniels stated that the Government Code allows denial of subdivisions based on issues of public health or safety, referencing Section 66474, which provides legal grounds for denial if a project poses serious health problems. He noted that while the subdivision is consistent with the City’s General Plan and zoning, be believes the proposed layout of the two parcels is poor. He expressed concern that the flag portion of the lot may not be properly maintained and could become an eyesore to the community. He then sought assistance from legal counsel.
Assistant City Attorney Young responded that she is not sure we can correlate a bad design to a health problem.
She said we would need a bit more facts, such as studies to back up a denial based on a health issue.
Commissioner Daniels stated that the proposed design creates an untenable situation with the long, narrow flag portion of the lot and the adjoining areas to the west. He commented that the configuration appears to serve no purpose other than to meet the minimum lot size requirements.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
The applicant explained that the lot’s angled design is due to the existing contours of the site. He noted that an existing driveway and a grove of mature trees along that driveway influenced the layout, as they wished to preserve the trees.
He stated that one of the requirements is that the lot must extend completely through the site and connect to both sides. He explained that, although that portion of the lot is not necessary, it was included to meet site requirements. He added that the intent is to divide the property, so the back house and pool remain, with plans to rebuild the house and resurface the pool.
The following individuals spoke in opposition of the project: Larry Weidinger, Gary Drejdan, Maureen Malady-Myers.
The comments included the following concerns:
• Privacy
• Health hazard
• Mountain view
• Wall height
• Habitat area
• Septic
• Bridle trail around property
The applicant provided an explanation on the following:
• Trees – The grove of mature pine trees will be left alone. • Septic – Septic will be done by professional engineers. • Height and placement of the building – They are abiding by all code standards. • Bridle Trail – Will be addressed during planning.
Commissioner Dopp stated that there is a gate at the rear of Parcel 2 and inquired whether the future property owner would be responsible for maintaining the area. H e expressed concern that, while there is an intent to preserve the existing trees, lack of proper maintenance could pose a public health and safety risk, particularly related to wildfires.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Applicant confirmed and indicated maintaining the area it is something that can be added to the Conditions of Approval.
Hearing no other comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp asked staff to clarify the requirement for property lines to extend from the front to the back of the site. He referenced the applicant’s statement that the lot was designed to reach the east end of the parcel to satisfy a city code requirement and requested confirmation as to whether such a provision exists in the regulations.
Planning Director Nakamura responded that staff would review the subdivision ordinance during deliberations, noting that the cited requirement is not one she is familiar with. She clarified that the current application pertains solely to the lot split and is unrelated to any future approval of the house design, which would be addressed separately through the entitlement process. She emphasized that today’s focus is on the subdivision of the two lots.
Commissioner Dopp stated that he finds it difficult to support a parcel with such an irregular shape due to potential management and liability concerns. He commended that a large portion of the parcel appears unviable as a standalone property. While acknowledging that this is not sufficie nt grounds for denial, he expressed discomfort with the configuration.
Commissioner Daniels concurred with Commissioner Dopp. He also stated he would like to see the rear flag portion combined with Parcel 1. He explained that as a Commission, part of their responsibility is to try to make good planning and have parcel s that makes sense. With that in mind, he is uncomfortable approving this because he believes it is a terrible design , especially after seeing the amount of land available in Parcel 1.
Commissioner Diaz and Vice Chairman Boling concurred.
Planning Director Nakamura suggested re-opening the public hearing to allow the applicant to return and clarify which concerns they are willing or unwilling to address. She said that she was unable to identify any provision in the subdivision ordinance requiring the east -west lot configuration but stated that staff would further review and examine the matter. Regarding variances, she explained that they may be granted for development standards outlined in Title 17. Therefore, if a variance related to lot standard s were necessary, it could be considered. In response to concerns about the existing trees, she explained that all departments will review the site once a development application is submitted. If the property is located within a high fire hazard zone, there may be requirements for the removal of certain trees and the replanting of fire-adaptive trees as part of the new development.
Chairman Morales reopened the public hearing.
Applicant stated if there is nothing in the code that indicates they have to extend all the way across the subdivision, he would be open to revising that and going with the quickest approval process possible to avoid further delays for his client. He said he would be okay with going perhaps a little bit under 20,000 sq. ft. in Parcel 2 and could easily remove 1,200 sq. ft. right away.
Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Planning Director Nakamura stated the Commissioners have the following choices to make:
• Accept staff’s recommendation for approval,
• If they feel they have the findings to make a denial, they can do so, or • Continue the i tem to a date uncertain and allow staff to work with the applicant to finalize any revisions and to determine what the best path forward would be.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Daniels, to continue this item to a date uncertain. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Commissioner Daniels noted that the Commission is not reviewing the development of the parcels at this time and stated he was unclear whether the existing structure would be refurbished. He requested that a small reference map be provided showing the locations of structures on the parcels.
Assistant City Attorney Young responded that it would not be appropriate if only considering a lot split. The potential proposal on a lot split could change over time because it is in preliminary review right now.
Commissioner Daniels asked for clarification on whether the house will remain.
Planning Director Nakamura replied that as staff mentioned in the report, the house is to be demolished but the idea is to rebuild in the same place.
Commissioner Daniels stated that it was not clear as the applicant indicated something different.
D3. DESIGN REVIEW, MINOR EXCEPTION, VARIANCE – VINOVA (LENNAR) - A request for site plan and architectural review of 166 single-family residences within an approved tract map on approximately 70- acres located near the northeast corner of Etiwanda Avenue and Wilson Avenue; (Tracts 16072 and 16072- 2). This item is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Section 15162. (Design Review DRC2024 -00395, Minor Exception DRC2025 -00168, Variance DRC2025-00169).
Principal Planner McPherson provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Applicant was present and available to answer questions.
For the record, correspondence from Lozeau Drury, LLP was received following the preparation of the agenda packet, expressing opposition to the project. The correspondence should be referred to for further details.
Resident Edward Aldaz had the following concerns:
• Wall placement
• Health risk – vermin
• Digging close to home
Applicant responded to the wall concerns and said there will be permitted walls built around the homes.
They will be developing everything within property line and the track boundaries.
Principal Planner McPherson clarified that the walls referenced were primarily interior walls to the approved lots. He said this project will also include walls along the perimeter as is standard in a subdivision like this.
Relative to the comment about any additional grading, it has already commenced. There is no expectation that grading beyond the boundaries which have already been graded will occur. The application before the commission tonight is relative to the construction of the homes on those, previously graded lots.
Commissioner Daniels referred to the two different roofing materials being proposed and that several of the units feature standard seam walls. He commented that typically only one type of roofing material is used and asked for the reason behind the use of two.
Applicant explained that it is an architectural feature intended to create diversity.
Commissioner Daniels commented on the gable roof extending over the entrance appears awkward with the flat wall positioned in front of it. He also inquired how the two subdivisions will be phased.
Applicant responded that they are trying to revisit the traditional style in a co ntemporary way. In terms of the phasing, there are essentially two different product lines. The one -story and two-story homes will be built simultaneously.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Commissioner Daniels stated that the Fire Department will likely require two access points prior to the storing of lumber for construction and asked if the developer will construct the street network.
Applicant confirmed that approximately 90% of the street network has been constructed.
Commissioner Daniels asked if Lennar designed the parks.
Applicant answered that it is a mutual effort and want to do the best they can for the community.
Commissioner Daniels complimented the project. He said it is very nice and will be a good asset to the development of the community. He asked if Wilson Avenue will be open soon.
Applicant answered that they will open it as soon as they can.
Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that he got to see this at the Design Review Committee meeting . He remembers comments being made about the front wall, possibly making it a balcony. Aside from that, it was decided that most of the designs were appropriate for the neighborhood. He indicated he is a big fan of some of the amenities. For example, the Central Paseo he originally was pushing for with the developer when there was a lack of one on a map that was before them a few years ago. It is nice to see it carried out because it was not a requirement at the time. He said that the design helps create a stronger sense of community within a subdivision, noting that traditional urban studies show such connectivity is often missing in developments characterized by long roads. He added that incorporating amenities and green spaces at a central nexus point will provide an excel lent gathering area and be a valuable enhancement to the project.
Commissioner Daniels stated he went through all the minor exceptions and the variances and did not have any problems with the waivers that are being requested which are very minor.
Commissioner Diaz stated that we have 166 new single-family homes coming to an area of the city where people want them, and it is very exciting. She said the issues presented are minor exceptions and expressed no concerns. She supports staffs’ determination that the CEQA report on file remains relevant and applicable, and stated that she looks forward to seeing the project move forward.
Vice Chairman Boling stated, as mentioned previously, there were some issues and concerns addressed at the Design Review Committee meeting related to a couple of the models and elevations. The applicant’s submission and provision of the 3D rendering helped give them a better perspective of what those products are intended to look like. As it pertains to the minor exceptions and variances, they are nominal.
Regarding the letter that was received by the city late in the process challenging the previously certified EIR, there have been no substantial changes nor new uses planned for this project, so he sees no issues or problems. As it pertains to the comment made by the public, he strongly encouraged the resident to speak directly to the applicants rep resentative pertaining to the issues and questions that he has that are beyond the scope of the commission’s actions being taken tonight.
Chairman Morales addressed the public comment regarding rodents, stating that those issues should subside as the site is developed. He thanked the applicant for working collaboratively with staff to ensure the project is completed properly.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Dopp; seconded by Commissioner Daniels to adopt Resolution 2025 - 036 approving Design Review DRC2024 -00395, Variance DRC2025 -00169 and Minor Exception DRC2025-00168. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
D4. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT – CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA – A request to amend Title 17 of the Municipal Code for the development of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) in compliance with State ADU Law. This item is statut orily exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Section 15282(h). A public hearing will be held by the City Council for final action at a future date to be determined. (DRC2025-00072).
Assistant Planner Lee provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Commissioner Daniels asked for clarification regarding the A DU pre -approved plans and whether any member of the public may request access to those plans.
Planning Director Nakamura described the pre -approval process. Any licensed contractor, engineer or architect may submit a plan for an ADU. The City conducts an initial review, and once approved, the plans are filed and posted on the City’s website. She noted that anyone may use the City’s pre-approved plans to apply for an ADU, which is the basis of the City’s ADU Pre-Approved Program.
Commissioner Daniels asked Assistant City Attorney Young why penalties cannot be imposed for an unpermitted ADU built two to five years ago and later discovered by the City.
Assistant City Attorney Young re sponded that she ha d not re viewed the legislative intent behind the provision but suggested that the state may have recognized the large number of unpermitted additions constructed by property owners for various reasons. She explained that if those additions were built to code and can be legalized, this process provides a pathway for doing so without penalty, thereby creating additional housing units that the City can count toward its housing requirements.
Commissioner Daniels asked if there is a timeframe for compliance, if an ADU is discovered.
Staff responded that they do not believe there is a timeframe.
Planning Director Nakamura mentioned if work is done without building permits there is a 50% penalty.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that the amendment will make it somewhat easier to meet the City’s housing goals. He noted that while the overall impact may be limited due to the small number of lots over 20,000 square feet, it still represents a move in the right direction.
Vice Chairman Boling said he is encouraged at the number of ADU’s that have been developed in the city over the past few years. He expressed appreciation for staff’s diligence in bringing forward Municipal Code Amendments such as this one.
Chairman Morales thanked staff for their hard work in updating the regulations to ensure consistency with state ADU law.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Diaz to adopt Resolution 2025-035 recommending that the City Council approve Municipal Code Amendment DRC2025-00072. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D5. Consideration of a Municipal Code Amendment to amend the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to amend Section 12.20.080 of Chapter 12.20 of Title 12 and Sections 17.20.020 and 17.20.040 of Title 17 of the Municipal Code to Dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee. This Item is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15378(B) (5) and 15061(B)(3).
This Item Will be Forwarded to City Council for Final Action. (DRC2025-00254).
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Planning Director Nakamura provided a brief summary and report on the item. She requested that the Planning Commission make a recommendation to City Council to approve the Municipal Code Amendment in order to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee.
Vice Chairman Boling recommended that staff send a letter of appreciation to the c ommittee members, formally thanking them for their service and notifying them that their duties have concluded.
Planning Director Nakamura confirmed.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling; seconded by Commissioner Dopp to adopt Resolution 2025-034 recommending that the City Council approve the Municipal Code Amendment DRC2025-00254 to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
D6. Consideration of a General Plan Amendment and Municipal Code Amendment to Amend the General Plan Land Use and Community Character Chapter related to Floor Area Ratio on Table LC-1 and Policies Relating First Floor Non-Residential Dimensions and Block Lengths; Amend the General Plan Mobility and Access Chapter to add Dimension Standards for Street Typologies, Remove the Proposed 8th Street Trail and Amend the Truck Routes Map Pursuant to AB98; Amend Municipal Code Table 17.130.050-1 to Update Floor Area Ratio and Ground Floor Non -Residential Dimensions for Form Based Zones; and Amend Municipal Code Section 17.138.030 Regarding Block Length for Form Based Zones. An Addendum to the General Plan EIR Has Been Prepared for this Project. (CONTINUED TO NOVEMBER 12 TH, 2025
MEETING)
Planning Director Nakamura requested that this item be continued to November 12 th, 2025, meeting to allow additional time to finalize remaining details.
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Chairman Morales announced that this item will remain open to the November 12th HPC/PC meeting.
Motion: Moved by Vice Chairman Boling ; seconded by Commissioner Diaz to continue this item to November 12th Planning Commission meeting. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
E. General Business
E1. Consideration to Approve a Resolution Adopting bylaws for the Design Review Committee
Management Analyst Estrada provided a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file).
Chairman Morales opened the public hearing.
Hearing no comments from the public, Chairman Morales closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Dopp stated that several Commissioners previously requested clarification regarding absences, so he appreciates the effort.
Commissioner Daniels thanked staff for doing a great job.
Vice Chairman Boling thanked staff for helping to address concerns that come up which have the potential to delay developer and resident applications. He said these steps moving forward , reflect the City’s pro- business and pro-resident position.
HPC/PC Draft Minutes
Commissioner Diaz expressed appreciation to staff for their efforts on this item and that it responds to the needs raised by the Commissioners.
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Diaz; seconded by Vice Chairman Boling to adopt Resolution 2025-033 repealing Resolution 79-61 and approving the bylaws for the Design Review Committee. Motion carried unanimously, 5-0.
F. Director Announcements
Planner Director Nakamura announced that one meeting is scheduled for both November and December.
She noted there will be no second meeting in November due to the Thanksgiving holiday and no second meeting in December, as it falls on Christmas Eve and City Hall will be closed until after the new year.
She provided an update on the Planning Commissions memo which was presented to City Council last week. City Council expressed their appreciation for the work the Commissioners do and know that density bonus projects are very difficult and complicated. They are considering the following actions:
1) Sharing the memo with the City’s lobbyists, who can communicate the real-world impacts of certain housing laws during meetings with state representatives.
2) Having Council Member Kristine Scott, who serves on the Board for the Inland Empire Division of the League of California Cities, raise the issue at their next meeting to explore whether other cities may wish to collaborate on a unified message regarding density bonus law projects and their impacts.
G. Commission Announcements - None
H. Adjournment
Motion: Moved by Commissioner Diaz , second ed by Vice Chairman Boling to adjourn the meeting.
Hearing no objections, Chairman Morales adjourned the meeting at 8:54 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant
Planning Department
Approved:
ATTACHMENT 3
ORDINANCE NO. 1050
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA,
CALIFORNIA, DISSOLVING THE TRAILS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE, APPROVING A MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT
TO AMEND SECTION 12.20.080 OF CHAPTER 12.20 OF TITLE
12 AND SECTIONS 17.20.020 AND 17.20.040 OF TITLE 17 OF
THE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ELIMINATE REFERENCES TO THE
TRAILS ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND MAKING A FINDING OF
EXEMPTION FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT PURSUANT TO SECTION S 15061(B)(3) AND
15378(B)(5)
The City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga does ordain as follows:
Section 1. Recitals.
A. The City of Rancho Cucamonga (the “City”) is a municipal corporation, duly organized under the constitution and laws of the State of California.
B. Policy H-5.1 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga 2021-2029 Housing Element states that the City will consider new policies, codes and procedures that have the potential to reduce procedural delays, provide information early in the development process regarding development costs, and charge only those fees necessary to adequately carry out needed public services and improvements. Program HE-10 of the City of Rancho Cucamonga 2021- 2029 Housing Element states tha t the City will continue to evaluate and improve the permit processing procedures to facilitate residential development. Additionally, one of the City’s pro- housing designation commitments is to streamline the processing of housing development applications through the reduction in the number of public meetings required.
C. The Trails Advisory Committee is an advisory committee of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Gov. Code, § 54950), that is tasked with discussing and providing recommendations to the City Council on the development of the City's trail system and trail design standards . Since the establishment of the Committee in 1981, the Committee has also been tasked with review ing and make recommendations to the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga regarding trail locations and the application of trail design standards for development proposals within the City. The Committee, however, has not met in nearly two years.
D. In accordance with Policy H-5.1, Program HE -10 and the City’s pro -housing designation commitments, t he City desires to dissolve the Trails Advisory Committee. The dissolution of the Committee will streamline the City’s processing of housing development applications through the elimination of a public meeting before the Committee and the elimination of duplicate reviews since the City has adopted a trails implementation plan that sets forth the standards for the development of trails by project applicants.
E. Additionally, the City is proposing amendments to the Municipal Code to eliminate references to the Trails Advisory Committee. The City has prepared Municipal Code Amendment DRC2025-00254, as described in the title of this Ordinance, which include amendments to the City’s Development Code. Hereinafter in this Ordinance, the subject Municipal Code Amendment is referred to as the “Amendments”.
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 2 of 7
F. On October 22, 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga conducted a noticed continued public hearing with respect to the A mendments and, following the conclusion thereof, adopted Resolution No. 202 5-034 recommending that the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga adopt the Amendments.
G. On ________ ____, 2025, the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga conducted a noticed public hearing on the Amendments and concluded said hearing on that date.
H. All legal prerequisites prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
Section 2. Ordinance.
A. Recitals. The City Council finds the foregoing recitals and their findings to be true and correct, and hereby incorporates such recitals and their findings into this Ordinance.
B. Findings.
1) Based upon the substantial evidence presented to this Council during the above-referenced public hearing, this Council hereby finds and concludes that the changes proposed to Title 17 (Development Code) in the Amendments are consistent with the Development Code and the General Plan’s goals, policies and implementation programs. Pursuant to Section
17.22.040(C) of the Municipal Code, amendments to the Municipal Code “may be approved only when the [C]ity [C]ouncil finds that the Development Code/zoning map amendment[s] [are] consistent with the [G]eneral [P]lan goals, policies, and implementation programs.” The Amendments are consistent with the following Housing Element Goal:
a) H-5.1: Development Review Processes. The City will consider new policies, codes and procedures that have the potential to reduce procedural delays, provide information early in the development process regarding development costs, and charge only those fees necessary to adequately carry out needed public services and improvements 2) The Amendments have been processed, including, but not limited to, public notice, in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”).
C. CEQA. The dissolution of the Trails Advisory Committee and the proposed Amendments (the “Project”) are exempt from or not subject to the requirements of CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15378(b)(5) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that either the Committee dissolution or the proposed Amendments, eliminating references to the dissolved Trails Advisory Committee within the Municipal Code, will not have a significant effect on the environment , and because the Project constitutes and administrative process of the City and/or organizational and administrative activities of the City that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. The City Council has reviewed the administrative record concerning the Committee dissolution and the proposed Amendments and the proposed CEQA determination, and based on its own independent judgment, finds that the Committee dissolution and the Amendments set forth in this Ordinance are not subject to, or exempt from, the requirements of CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15378(b)(5).
D. The City Council hereby dissolves the Trails Advisory Committee effective upon the effective date of this Ordinance.
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 3 of 7
E. The City Council hereby amends Subsection (B) of Section 12.20.080 (Performance Measures and Implementation) of Chapter 12.20 (Complete Street Program) of Title 12 (Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places) of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to read as shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
F. The City Council hereby amends Section 17.04.020 (Planning Agency) of Article I (In General) of Title 17 (Development Code) of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to delete Subsection (C) and renumber Subsections ( D) through (G) to Subsections ( C) through (F), respectively, to read as shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
G. The City Council hereby amends Subsection (C)(3) of Section 17.20.040 (Major Design Review) of Chapter 17.20 (Planning Commission Decisions) of Article II (Land Use and Development Procedures) of Title 17 (Devel opment Code) of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code to read as shown in Exhibit A of this Ordinance, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
Section 3. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of any competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to wheth er any portion of the Ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 4. Effect of Ordinance. This Ordinance is intended to supersede any ordinance, resolution, and administrative regulations of the City of Rancho Cucamonga adopted by the City Council and the Planning Commission in conflict with the terms of this Ordinance.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect 30 days after the date of its adoption.
The City Clerk is directed to cause this Ordinance to be published and/or posted as required by law.
Section 6. Enforcement. Neither the adoption of this Ordinance nor the repeal of any other Ordinance of this City shall in any manner affect the prosecution for violations of ordinances, which violations were committed prior to the effective date hereof, nor be construed as a wai ver of any penalty or the penal provisions applicable to any violation thereof.
Section 7. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause it to be published in the manner required by law.
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 4 of 7
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this __ day of ________, 2025.
L. Dennis Michael, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________
Kim Sevy, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA )
I, Kim Sevy, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the ____ day of ________, 2025, and was passed at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga held on the ____ day of ________, 2025.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAINED:
Executed this ____ day of ________, 2025, at Rancho Cucamonga, California.
______________________________________
Kim Sevy, City Clerk
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 5 of 7
EXHIBIT A
Amendments to Subsection (B) of Section 12.20.080 of Chapter 12.20 of Title 12 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code
Amended Subsection:
Subsection (B) of Section 12.20.080 (Performance Measures and Implementation)
Subsection 12.20.080(B):
“B. The city shall conduct targeted outreach and encourage public participation in its decisions concerning street design and use. Community input includes the park and recreation commission.”
Amendments to Section 17.04.020 of Article I of Title 17 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code
Amended Section:
Section 17.04.020 (Planning Agency)
Section 17.04.020:
Ҥ 17.04.020 Planning agency.
Government Code § 65100 requires each jurisdiction to establish a planning agency to carry out the land use and planning functions of the jurisdiction. The functions of the planning agency, as designated by the title, shall be carried out by the following bodies. In the absence of an assignment, the city council shall retain responsibility and authority as the legislative body of the city.
A. Planning director. The planning director, or designee, shall have the responsibility and authority to administer and enforce this title as follows:
1. Application process. Receive and review all applications for development pursuant to this title. Processing includes but is not limited to the certification of completed applications, the establishment of a permanent file, posting of public notices, collec tion of applicable fees, preparation of reports, processing of appeals, and presentation of staff reports to the development review committees, planning commission, historic preservation commission, and city council.
2. Interpretation. Interpret the provisions and advise the public on the requirements of this title.
3. Amendment. Initiate action for amendment of this title where it is determined that such amendment would better implement the general plan goals and objectives and increase its effectiveness and/or improve or clarify the contents of this title.
4. Permit issuance. Issue permits under this title and certify that all such permits are in full conformance with its requirements.
5. Coordination. Refer and coordinate matters related to the administration of this title with other agencies and city departments and provide information on the status of all development permits.
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 6 of 7
6. Authority. Serve as the administrative zoning body and exercise that authority set forth in Government Code § 65900 et seq.
B. Design review committee. The design review committee is responsible for reviewing the architecture (including material, finish, colors, and trim), site layout, building plotting, landscaping, compatibility with surrounding properties, and, when appropriate, signs, of new development. The committee's emphasis is on quality design in the community as described in the city's general plan and this title. The design review committee consists of two planning commissioners and the planning director (or designee).
C. City manager. The city manager or designee shall oversee the work of the planning director and shall exercise such other powers and duties as are prescribed by state law or local ordinance, or as directed by the city council.
D. Planning commission. Pursuant to Government Code § 65101, and as provided in chapter 2.20, the city has an established planning commission. The planning commission shall have the following land use responsibilities:
1. Hear and decide applications for entitlements as provided in article II (Land Use and Development Procedures).
2. Initiate studies of amendments to this title and make recommendations to the city council for amendments as provided in article II (Land Use and Development Procedures) and in Government Code § 65853.
3. Hear and make recommendations to the city council on applications for zoning amendments, the general plan and amendments thereto, specific plans, prezoning, and other related planning studies.
4. Exercise such other powers and duties as are prescribed by state law or local ordinance, or as directed by the city council.
E. Historic preservation commission. Members of the planning commission are appointed to serve as the city's historic preservation commission. The historic preservation commission is responsible for determining which buildings and/or sites are historic, designating local historic landmarks, and approving alterations to local landmarks.
F. City council. The city council is the legislative body of the city and shall have the following land use responsibilities:
1. Hear and decide appeals of the planning commission.
2. Hear and decide applications for permits and entitlements as listed in article II (Land Use and Development Procedures).
3. Direct planning-related policy amendments and special studies as necessary or desired.
4. Exercise such other powers and duties as are prescribed by state law or local ordinance.”
Ordinance No. 1050 - Page 7 of 7
Amendments to Subsection (C)(3) of Section 17.20.040 of Chapter 17.20 of Article II of Title 17 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code
Amended Subsection:
Subsection (C)(3) of Section 17.20.040 (Major Design Review)
Subsection 17.20.040(C)(3):
“3. Proposals submitted pursuant to this section may also require review by other necessary committees as applicable.”
be
DATE: November 19, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: John R. Gillison, City Manager
INITIATED BY: Michael Parmer, Engagement and Special Programs Director Chris Beeman, Deputy Director of Electric Utility Services SUBJECT: Public Hearing to Consider a Resolution Amending Electric Rates, Pursuant to the Requirements and Authority of Chapter 3.46 of Title 3 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code. (RESOLUTION NO. 2025- 094) (CITY)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommend the City Council adopt the attached resolution amending the existing electric rates, pursuant to the requirements and authority of Chapter 3.46 of Title 3 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code.
BACKGROUND:
On August 31, 2001, the City Council established the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Utility (RCMU) and adopted Chapter 3.46 of Title 3 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code. This chapter outlines the Electricity Service Rules and Regulations, and authorizes that rates, fees, and charges may be amended by resolution as needed.
In the electric utility industry, it is standard practice to conduct a Cost-of-Service Study every three to five years to ensure rates remain fair, equitable, and aligned with the actual cost of providing service. RCMU’s most recent study was completed in June 2022.
RCMU’s electric rate structure currently includes 15 distinct customer classifications, covering residential, commercial, industrial, lighting, and electric vehicle (EV) charging services. To support this rate review, RCMU engaged Utility Financial Solutions (UFS), a firm with extensive experience in municipal utility rate studies and a strong track record of providing data-driven, fiscally responsible recommendations. Their expertise and historical data help ensure that our rates support both customer fairness and the long-term financial stability of the utility.
ANALYSIS:
The Cost-of-Service Study and Rate Design, conducted by Utility Financial Solutions (UFS), has been completed. This comprehensive analysis serves several key purposes to ensure RCMU’s electric rates remain fair, equitable, and financially sustainable. This study provides the foundation for proposed rate adjustments and supports the City’s commitment to responsible utility management and transparency.
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The study was designed to:
Align electric rates with the actual cost of service for each customer class. Determine RCMU’s overall revenue requirement to support operations and capital needs.
Identify any cross-subsidies that may exist between different rate classes. Evaluate the cost of existing power supply contracts and assess future load forecasts. Review the costs associated with operations, maintenance, and infrastructure replacement.
Recommend rate adjustments necessary to meet both revenue targets and capital reserve goals.
Establish appropriate fixed monthly customer charges for each rate class; and Provide recommendations on rate design to ensure long-term rate stability and fairness.
Historically, RCMU has implemented uniform rate increases across all customer classes. While this approach has helped maintain overall system stability, it has resulted in the residential customer charge falling below the actual cost to serve that class. In effect, commercial and industrial customers have been subsidizing a portion of the residential service costs.
Rate Classes Average Monthly Bill ($)
Average
Monthly
Difference
(%)
Customer
Charge %
Difference
Energy
Charge &
Difference
Current Proposed kWh kW
Residential - Single
Family (725 kWh) $108.37 $112.13 3.4% 27.3% N/C
Residential - Multi
Family (765 kWh) $118.04 $121.53 2.9% 27.3% N/C
Small Commercial
(2425 kWh) $489.62 $496.00 1.3% 7.7% 1%
Medium Commercial
(21,075 kWh; 60 kW) $3,736.66 $3,797.38 1.6% N/C 1.7% N/C Medium TOU (115,507
kWh; 314 kW) $19,851.01 $20,136.32 1.4% N/C 1.4% N/C
Large Commercial
(273,621 kWh/586 kW) $45,233.35 $45,755.97 1.1% N/C 1.2% N/C Large Industrial (1,192
MWh/2,280 kW) $178,603.19 $180,857.37 1.2% N/C 1.2% N/C Electric Vehicle
(173,793 kWh/658 kW) $25,725.44 $25,909.42 0.72% N/C 1% N/C Street Lighting (1 LED
Pole/31.9 kWh) $4.64 $4.90 5.3% N/C 7.9%
Irrigation Systems
(909 kWh) $167.83 $164.91 -0.9% 5.4% -1.8%
Wireless Technology $78.49 $79.72 1.5% 6.6% N/C
Traffic Control (500
kWh) $74.74 $78.01 4.2% N/C 5.4%
Outdoor Lighting (80
kWh) $20.43 $20.79 1.7% N/C 6.5%
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5 9
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5 9
This rate study proposes a significant adjustment to the residential customer charge to better align it with the true cost of service. With RCMU anticipating substantial growth in residential accounts—both single-family and multi-family—it is essential to begin correcting this imbalance.
Addressing the residential customer charge now will help ensure that rates more accurately reflect the cost of maintaining and operating the electric utility for each customer class.
If approved by the City Council, the revised electric service rates will take effect on January 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027. Customers will see the changes reflected on their February 2026 and February 2027 utility bills.
These adjustments are based on a cost-of-service analysis and reflect the City’s commitment to setting fair, reasonable, and financially prudent rates. As a municipal utility, RCMU operates on a cost-recovery basis—there is no profit margin, nor are there shareholder dividends as with investor-owned utilities. The proposed RCMU rates will continue to be lower than comparable neighboring investor-owned utility rates by the approximate percentages - residential rates 58%; commercial rates 35%; and industrial rate 44%. Our rates are designed solely to cover the actual costs of providing reliable electric service to our community.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If approved by the City Council, the proposed amendments to RCMU’s electric rates, fees, and charges are projected to increase annual revenue to the Utility Fund by approximately 2% per year over the next 2 years, or approximately $410,000 per year. This increase will support the continued financial stability of the utility and help ensure adequate funding for operations, maintenance, and capital improvements.
COUNCIL MISSION / VISION / VALUE(S) ADDRESSED:
This item addresses the City Council’s vision to build on our success as a world-class community by ensuring that the appropriate cost and rate structure for its Municipal Utility is followed to meet the community’s needs.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment 1 – Resolution
Attachment 2 – Electric Rates & Tariffs Year 1 (Redline) Attachment 3 – Electric Rates & Tariffs Year 2 (Redline)
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-094
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ELECTRIC RATES AND
CHARGES, PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND AUTHORITY OF
CHAPTER 3.46 OF TITLE 3 OF THE RANCHO
CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL CODE
A. Recitals
1. The City Council of the City of Rancho Cucamonga has previously adopted Chapter 3.46 of Title 3 of the Rancho Cucamonga Municipal Code establishing Electricity Service Rules and Regulations and authorizing that the rates, fees and charges arising, directly or indirectly, under said legislation be adopted pursuant to resolution, and thereafter, be amended from time to time by resolution.
2. City staff has prepared a comprehensive schedule of the rates, fees and charges that reflect the reasonable and prudent costs relating to the acquisition and distribution of electric power to retail customers and are recommending that the City Council adopt the recommended rates and fees. These rates do not present the City an opportunity to achieve profits or to impose charges in excess of the costs reasonably related to the development, maintenance and expansion of a municipal electric distribution system. The City Council has dir ected City staff to regularly review the operations of the City’s electric utility to ensure that the rates are sufficient to cover all prudent business costs, reserves and capital equipment acquisition but not exceeding the amount necessary for the same. The rates, fees and charges reflect the reasonable costs to the City system only and do not reflect any excess rates, fees, or charges that are in excess of the reasonable costs of providing the electrical services as set forth hereinafter.
3. The City Council has reviewed the adoption of this Resolution pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, and has determined that the adoption of the Electric Rules and Regulations has no foreseeable potential to a result in a significant impact upon the environment and is exempt from CEQA review pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). Further, the City Council has determined that the adoption of the fees is exempt from substantive environmental review under Section 15273 of the State CEQA Guidelines as no capital projects for system expansion are included in the proposed action.
4. All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
B. Resolution
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA, HEREBY
RESOLVES,
Section 1.: The facts set forth in the Recitals, Part A of this Resolution, are true and correct.
Section 2.: The rates, fees and charges assessed under Chapter 3.46 of Title 3 shall be as set forth on Attachment 1 hereto and incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein on January 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027.
Section 3.: The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
ATTACHMENT 1
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 19th day of November 2025.
Table of Contents
Electric Rates and Tariffs
RESIDENTIAL 1
SMALL COMMERCIAL 4
MEDIUM COMMERCIAL 6
MEDIUM COMMERCIAL (TIME-OF-USE) 9
LARGE COMMERCIAL 12
LARGE INDUSTRIAL 15
STREET LIGHTING 18
TRAFFIC CONTROL 21
OUTDOOR AREA LIGHTING 22
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS 24
WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY 25
NET ENERGY METERING 27
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 30
STANDBY DEMAND CHARGE 33
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING 36
POWER COST ADJUSTMENT FACTOR 38
SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT CHARGE 39
ATTACHMENT 2
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
1 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
RESIDENTIAL
A. Applicability
Applicable to individual accommodations devoted primarily to domestic purposes where service includes lighting, appliances, heating, cooking and power consuming appliances or combination thereof in a residential accommodation.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge $/kWh/Meter
Summer and Winter
Tier 1 – Baseline Quantities 0.11910
Tier 2 – 101% to 130% of Baseline 0.14000
Tier 3 – Over 131% of Baseline 0.25686
Customer Charge - $/Meter/Day
Single-Family Residence 0.280.40
Multi-Family Residence 0.260.37
D. Special Conditions
1. Summer and Winter Seasons are defined as follows:
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year . A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. Customer Charge: For purposes of applying the Customer Charge, the following definitions shall be used:
Single-Family Residence: A building of single occupancy, which does not share common walls, floors, or ceiling with other residential dwelling units.
Multi-Family Residence: Apartments, mobile homes, condominiums, townhouses or a building of multiple occupancy which shares common walls and/or floors and ceilings with other residential dwelling units.
3. Voltage. Service will be supplied at one (1) standard voltage.
4. Baseline Quantities: The residential allocation shall be 16.1 kWhs per day in Summer Season and 10.6 kWhs per day in the Winter Season.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
2 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
5. Customer-Owned Electrical Generating Facilities.
Upon written approval by the Utility, momentary parallel operation may be permitted to allow the Customer to test the auxiliary/emergency generating facilities.
6. Medical Support Assistance
Eligible customers under this schedule upon application and certification from a medical doctor shall receive a monthly discount to assist customers with doctor - prescribed life support equipment. To qualify, a customer must submit an application and satisf actory proof that a full -time occupant of the customer’s residence requires a life support device. A qualifying life support device may be any one of the following or such other equipment as the Utility may deem eligible:
aerosol tents, apnea monitors, co mpressors or concentrators, electrostatic or ultrasonic nebulizers, electric nerve stimulators, hemodialysis machines, kidney dialysis machines, intermittent positive pressure breathing machines, iron lungs, pressure pads, pressure pumps, respirators, or s uction machines. Customers must reapply annually to demonstrate eligibility for the discount.
The monthly discount applies to energy charges only. All other charges and taxes are calculated at the standard rates. Program qualifications and rules are subject to change and are based on funding availability. In the event the Utility becomes aware of any false or fraudulent statements or information submitted in writing or verbally by the Customer, the Utility reserves the right to back bill the Customer for services rendered under this program.
7. Low Income Assistance
A low -income assistance program is available under this schedule for income qualified customers. To be considered for this discount, an application must be filled out with supporting documentation of proof of income. Total combined gross annual household income, both taxable and nontaxable, must meet the current income levels of the San Bernardino County (Very Low) Income Limits Documentation System. Customers must reapply annually to demonstrate eligibility for the discount.
The monthly discount applies to energy charges only. All other charges and taxes are calculated at the standard rates. Program qualifications and rules are subject to change and are based on funding availability. In the event the Utility becomes aware of any false or fraudulent statements or information submitted in writing or verbally by the Customer, the Utility reserves the right to back bill the Customer for services rendered under this program.
8. Billing Calculation
A Customer’s bill is calculated according to the rates and conditions above. The charges are calculated by applying the Rate Charges when applicable to the actual billing determinants (kilowatt hours [kWh]).
9. Power Cost Adjustment Factor (PCAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section E.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
3 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
10. Change of Law Adjustment Factor (CLAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section F.
11. State Mandated Public Purpose Programs Charge
State law requires all California electric utilities to establish a public purpose program charge of 2.85% of electric retail revenues to fund qualifying energy efficiency programs, renewable energy resources, research and demonstration projects, and services for low-income electricity customers.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
4 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
SMALL COMMERCIAL
A. Applicability
Applicable to single and three -phase general service including lighting and power Customers, except for the Customer whose monthly Maximum Demand, in the opinion of the Utility, is expected to exceed 20 kW or has exceeded 20 kW in any three (3) months during the preceding twelve (12) months is ineligible for service under this Schedule.
Effective with the date of ineligibility of any Customer served under this Schedule, the Customer's account shall be transferred to another applicable Rate Schedule.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge $/kWh/Meter/Month
Summer 0.187680.18907
Winter 0.129760.13115
Customer Charge- $/Meter/Day
Single Phase 1.001.10
Three Phase 1.151.25
D. Special Conditions
1. Summer and Winter Seasons are defined as follows:
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1 st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1 st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year. A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. Voltage. Service will be supplied at one (1) standard voltage
3. Temporary Discontinuance of Service
Where the use of energy is seasonal or intermittent, no adjustments will be made for a temporary discontinuance of service. Any Customer, prior to resuming service within twelve (12) months after such service was discontinued, will be required to pay all charges which would have been billed if service had not been discontinued.
4. Customer-Owned Electrical Generating Facilities
Upon written approval by the Utility, momentary parallel operation may be permitted to allow the Customer to test the auxiliary/emergency generating facilities.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
5 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
5. Installation of Demand Meters
Where a Customer's usage exceeds an average of 4,500 kWh per month in the preceding 12 -month period, the Utility may, at its sole option, install a demand Meter on the account at the Utility’s expense.
6. Billing Calculation
A Customer’s bill is calculated according to the rates and conditions above. The charges are calculated by applying the Rate Charges when applicable to the actual billing determinants (kilowatt hours [kWh], demand [kW], etc.).
7. Power Cost Adjustment Factor (PCAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section E.
8. Change of Law Adjustment Factor (CLAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section F.
9. State Mandated Public Purpose Programs Charge
State law requires all California electric utilities to establish a public purpose program charge of 2.85% of electric retail revenues to fund qualifying energy efficiency programs, renewable energy resources, research and demonstration projects, and services for low-income electricity customers.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
6 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
MEDIUM COMMERCIAL
A. Applicability
Applicable to single and three -phase service including lighting and power Customers whose monthly Maximum Demand registers, or in the opinion of the Utility is expected to register, above 20 kW and below 200 kW. The Customer whose monthly Maximum Demand, in the opinion of the Utility, is expected to reach 200 kW or has reached 200 kW for any three (3) months during the preceding twelve (12) months is ineligible for service under this Schedule. Effective with the date of ineligibility, such Customer’s account shall be transferred to another applicable Rate Schedule. Further, any Customer served under this Schedule whose monthly Maximum Demand has registered 20 kW or less for twelve (12) consecutive months is eligible for service under another applicable Rate Schedule.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge - $/kWh/Meter/Month
Summer Season 0.083590.08647
Winter Season 0.067250.07013
Customer Charge - $/Meter/Month 145.00
Demand Charge - $/kW of Billing Demand/Meter/Month
Facilities Related 14.00
Time Related (Summer) 16.50
D. Special Conditions
1. Summer and Winter Seasons are defined as follows:
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1 st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1 st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year. A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. 3. Voltage
Service will be supplied at one (1) standard voltage.
4. Billing Demand
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
7 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
The Billing Demand shall be the kilowatts of Maximum Demand, determined to the nearest kW. The Demand Charge shall include the following billing components. The Time Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or estab lished for) the monthly billing period. The Facilities Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period. However, when the Utility determines the Customer's Meter will record l ittle or no energy use for extended periods of time or when the Customer's Meter has not recorded a Maximum Demand in the preceding eleven (11) months, the Facilities Related Component of the Demand Charge may be established at fifty percent (50%) of the Customer's Connected Load.
5. Maximum Demand
The Maximum Demand in any month shall be the measured maximum average kilowatt input, indicated or recorded by instruments, during any 15-minute metered interval in the month, but, where applicable, shall not be less than the diversified resistance welder load computed in accordance with the section designated Welder Service in Rule 2. Where the demand is intermittent or subject to violent fluctuations, a 5-minute interval may be used.
6. Temporary Discontinuance of Service
Where the use of energy is seasonal or intermittent, no adjustments will be made for a temporary discontinuance of service. Any Customer resuming service within twelve (12) months after such service was discontinued will be required to pay all charges which would have been billed if service had not been discontinued.
7. Customer-Owned Electrical Generating Facilities
Upon written approval by the Utility, momentary parallel operation may be permitted to allow the Customer to test the auxiliary/emergency generating facilities.
8. Billing Calculation
A Customer’s bill is calculated according to the rates and conditions above. The charges are calculated by applying the Rate Charges when applicable to the actual billing determinants (kilowatt hours [kWh], demand [kW], etc.).
9. Power Cost Adjustment Factor (PCAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section E.
10. Change of Law Adjustment Factor (CLAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section F.
11. State Mandated Public Purpose Programs Charge State law requires all California electric utilities to establish a public purpose program charge of 2.85% of electric retail revenues to fund qualifying energy efficiency programs, renewable energy resources, research and demonstration projects, and services for low-income electricity customers.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
8 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
MEDIUM COMMERCIAL (TIME-OF-USE)
A. Applicability
Applicable to single and three -phase service including lighting and power Customers whose monthly Maximum Demand registers, or in the opinion of the Utility is expected to register 200 kW through 500 kW. The customer whose monthly Maximum Demand, in the opinion of the Utility, is expected to exceed 500 kW or has exceeded 500 kW for any three (3) months during the preceding twelve (12) months is ineligible for service under this Schedule and effective with the date of ineligibility, such Customer’s account shall be transferred to Large Commercial. Further, any Customer served under this Schedule whose monthly Maximum Demand has registered below 200 kW for twelve (12) consecutive months is ineligible for service under this Rate Schedule and shall be transferred to another applicable Rate Schedule.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge - $/kWh/Meter/Month
Summer Season – On-Peak 0.116680.11915
Mid-Peak 0.083680.08615
Off-Peak 0.056180.05865
Winter Season – Mid-Peak 0.060180.06265
Off-Peak 0.043680.04615
Customer Charge - $/Meter/Month 400.00
Demand Charge - $/kW of Billing Demand/Meter/Month
Facilities Related 14.25
Time Related Summer – On-Peak 13.50 Summer – Mid-Peak 3.50
Power Factor Adjustment - $/KVA 0.27
D. Special Conditions
1. Time periods are defined as follows:
On-Peak: Noon to 6:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
Mid-Peak: 8:00 a.m. to noon and 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. winter weekdays except holidays.
Off-Peak: All other hours.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
9 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Holidays are New Year's Day (January 1), Washington's Birthday (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Veteran’s Day (November 11), Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November), and Christmas (December 25).
When any holiday listed above falls on Sunday, the following Monday will be recognized as an off-peak period. No change will be made for holidays falling on Saturday.
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1 st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1 st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year. A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. Voltage
Service will be supplied at one (1) standard voltage.
3. Billing Demand
The Billing Demand shall be the kilowatts of Maximum Demand, determined to the nearest kW. The Demand Charge shall include the following billing components. The Time Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly bill ing period. The Facilities Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period. However, when the Utility determines the Customer's Meter will record little or no energy use for extended periods of time or when the Customer's Meter has not recorded a Maximum Demand in the preceding eleven (11) months, the Facilities Related Component of the Demand Charge may be established at fifty percent (50%) of the Customer's Connected Load.
4. Maximum Demand
Maximum Demand shall be established for the On -Peak, Mid-Peak, and Off-Peak periods. The Maximum Demand in any month shall be the measured maximum average kilowatt input, indicated or recorded by instruments, during any 15-minute metered interval in the m onth, but, where applicable, shall not be less than the diversified resistance welder load computed in accordance with the section designated Welder Service in Rule 2. Where the demand is intermittent or subject to violent fluctuations, a 5-minute interval may be used.
5. Power Factor Adjustment
The Customer’s bill will be increased each month for power factor by the amount shown in the Rates section above for service metered and delivered at the applicable voltage level, based on the per kilovar of maximum reactive demand imposed by the Utility.
The maximum reactive demand shall be the highest measured maximum average kilovar demand indicated or recorded by metering during any 15-minute interval in
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
10 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
the month. The kilovars shall be determined to the nearest unit. A device will be installed on each kilovar meter to prevent reverse operation of the meter.
6. Temporary Discontinuance of Service
Where the use of energy is seasonal or intermittent, no adjustments will be made for a temporary discontinuance of service. Any Customer resuming service within twelve (12) months after such service was discontinued will be required to pay all charges which would have been billed if service had not been discontinued.
7. Customer-Owned Electrical Generating Facilities
Upon written approval by the Utility, momentary parallel operation may be permitted to allow the Customer to test the auxiliary/emergency generating facilities.
8. Billing Calculation
A Customer’s bill is calculated according to the rates and conditions above. The charges are calculated by applying the Rate Charges when applicable to the actual billing determinants (kilowatt hours [kWh], demand [kW], kilovar [kVa], etc.).
9. Power Cost Adjustment Factor (PCAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section E.
10. Change of Law Adjustment Factor (CLAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section F.
11. State Mandated Public Purpose Programs Charge
State law requires all California electric utilities to establish a public purpose program charge of 2.85% of electric retail revenues to fund qualifying energy efficiency programs, renewable energy resources, research and demonstration projects, and services for low-income electricity customers.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
11 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
LARGE COMMERCIAL
A. Applicability
Applicable to general services including lighting and power Customers. This Schedule is applicable to and mandatory for all Customers whose monthly Maximum Demand, in the opinion of the Utility, is expected to exceed 500 kW or has exceeded 500 kW in any three (3) months during the preceding twelve (12) months. Any existing Customer on this Schedule whose monthly Maximum Demand has registered 500 kW or less for twelve (12) consecutive months is ineligible for service under this Schedule and shall be transferred to another applicable Rate Schedule. Service under this Schedule is subject to Meter availability.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge - $/kWh/Meter/Month
Summer Season – On-Peak 0.127360.12927
Mid-Peak 0.080300.08221
Off-Peak 0.050950.05286
Winter Season – Mid-Peak 0.070810.07272
Off-Peak 0.047490.04940
Customer Charge - $/Meter/Month 515.00
Demand Charge - $/kW of Billing Demand/Meter/Month
Facilities Related 15.00
Time Related Summer – On-Peak 17.00 Summer – Mid-Peak 5.00
Power Factor Adjustment - $/KVA 0.27
D. Special Conditions
1. Time periods are defined as follows:
On-Peak: Noon to 6:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
Mid-Peak: 8:00 a.m. to noon and 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. winter weekdays except holidays.
Off-Peak: All other hours.
Holidays are New Year's Day (January 1), Washington's Birthday (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Veteran’s Day (November 11), Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November), and Christmas (December 25).
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
12 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
When any holiday listed above falls on Sunday, the following Monday will be recognized as an off-peak period. No change will be made for holidays falling on Saturday.
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1 st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1 st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year. A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. Voltage
Service will be supplied at one standard voltage.
3. Maximum Demand
Maximum Demands shall be established for the On-Peak, Mid-Peak, and Off-Peak periods. The Maximum Demand for each period shall be the measured maximum average kilowatt input indicated or recorded by instruments, during any 15-minute metered interval, but, where applicable, not less than the diversified resistance welder load computed in accordance with the section designated Welder Service in Rule 2. Where the demand is intermittent or subject to violent fluctuations, a 5 - minute interval may be used.
4. Billing Demand
The Billing Demand shall be the kilowatts of Maximum Demand, determined to the nearest kW. The Demand Charge shall include the following billing components. The Time Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period for each of the On -Peak, Mid -Peak, and Off -Peak Time Periods. The Facilities Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period. However, when the Utility determines the Customer's Meter will record little or no energy use for extended periods of time or when the Customer's Meter has not recorded a Maximum Demand in the preceding eleven (11) months, the Facilities Related Component of the Dem and Charge may be established at fifty percent (50%) of the Customer's Connected Load. Separate Demand Charge(s) for the On-Peak, Mid-Peak, and Off-Peak Time Periods shall be established for each monthly billing period. The Demand Charge for each time period shall be based on the Maximum Demand for that time period occurring during the respective monthly billing period.
5. Power Factor Adjustment
The Customer’s bill will be increased each month for power factor by the amount shown in the Rates section above for service metered and delivered at the applicable voltage level, based on the per kilovar of maximum reactive demand imposed by the Utility.
The maximum reactive demand shall be the highest measured maximum average kilovar demand indicated or recorded by metering during any 15 -minute metered interval in the month. The kilovars shall be determined to the nearest unit. A device will be installed on each kilovar Meter to prevent reverse operation of the Meter.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
13 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
6. Temporary Discontinuance of Service
Where the use of energy is seasonal or intermittent, no adjustments will be made for a temporary discontinuance of service. Any Customer, prior to resuming service within twelve (12) months after such service was discontinued, will be required to pay all charges which would have been billed if service had not been discontinued.
7. Customer-Owned Electrical Generating Facilities
Upon written approval by the Utility, momentary parallel operation may be permitted to allow the Customer to test the auxiliary/emergency generating facilities.
8. Contracts
An initial three -year facilities contract may be required where Applicant requires new or added serving capacity exceeding 2,000 kVA.
9. Billing Calculation
A Customer’s bill is calculated according to the rates and conditions above. The charges are calculated by applying the Rate Charges when applicable to the actual billing determinants (kilowatt hours [kWh], demand [kW], kilovar [kVa], etc.).
10. Power Cost Adjustment Factor (PCAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section E.
11. Change of Law Adjustment Factor (CLAF)
The rates above are subject to an adjustment as provided in Rule 12, Section F.
12. State Mandated Public Purpose Programs Charge
State law requires all California electric utilities to establish a public purpose program charge of 2.85% of electric retail revenues to fund qualifying energy efficiency programs, renewable energy resources, research and demonstration projects, and services for low-income electricity customers.
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
14 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
LARGE INDUSTRIAL
A. Applicability
Applicable to general services including lighting and power Customers delivered at the utility’s primary distribution voltage level of 12 kV. This Schedule is applicable to and mandatory for all Customers whose monthly Maximum Demand, in the opinion of the Utility, is expected to exceed 500 kW or has exceeded 500 kW in any three (3) months during the preceding twelve (12) months. Any existing Customer on this Schedule whose monthly Maximum Demand has registered 500 kW or less for twelve (12) consecutive months is ineligible for service under this Schedule and shall be transferred to another applicable Rate Schedule. Service under this Schedule is subject to Meter availability.
B. Territory
Within the entire territory served.
C. Rates
Energy Charge - $/kWh/Meter/Month
Summer Season – On-Peak 0.103700.10559
Mid-Peak 0.080990.08288
Off-Peak 0.054180.05607
Winter Season – Mid-Peak 0.075420.07731
Off-Peak 0.049870.05176
Customer Charge - $/Meter/Month 515.00
Demand Charge - $/kW of Billing Demand/Meter/Month
Facilities Related 13.50
Time Related Summer – On-Peak 20.00 Summer – Mid-Peak 5.00
Power Factor Adjustment - $/KVA 0.27
D. Special Conditions
1. Time periods are defined as follows:
On-Peak: Noon to 6:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
Mid-Peak: 8:00 a.m. to noon and 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. summer weekdays except holidays.
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. winter weekdays except holidays.
Off-Peak: All other hours.
Holidays are New Year's Day (January 1), Washington's Birthday (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Veteran’s Day (November 11), Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November), and Christmas (December 25).
CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA MUNICIPAL UTILITY
ELECTRIC RATES & TARIFFS
15 Effective Date: January 1, 2026
When any holiday listed above falls on Sunday, the following Monday will be recognized as an off-peak period. No change will be made for holidays falling on Saturday.
The Summer Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on June 1 st and continue until 12:00 a.m. on October 1 st of each year. The Winter Season shall commence at 12:00 a.m. on October 1st of each year and continue until 12:00 a.m. on June 1st of the following year. A pro rata computation will be made for seasonal billing purposes.
2. Voltage
Service will be supplied at one standard voltage.
3. Maximum Demand
Maximum Demands shall be established for the On-Peak, Mid-Peak, and Off-Peak periods. The Maximum Demand for each period shall be the measured maximum average kilowatt input indicated or recorded by instruments, during any 15-minute metered interval, but, where applicable, not less than the diversified resistance welder load computed in accordance with the section designated Welder Service in Rule 2. Where the demand is intermittent or subject to violent fluctuations, a 5 - minute interval may be used.
4. Billing Demand
The Billing Demand shall be the kilowatts of Maximum Demand, determined to the nearest kW. The Demand Charge shall include the following billing components. The Time Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period for each of the On -Peak, Mid -Peak, and Off -Peak Time Periods. The Facilities Related Component shall be for the kilowatts of Maximum Demand recorded during (or established for) the monthly billing period. However, when the Utility determines the Customer's Meter will record little or no energy use for extended periods of time or when the Customer's Meter has not recorded a Maximum Demand in the preceding eleven (11) months, the Facilities Related Component of the Dem and Charge may be established at fifty percent (50%) of the Customer's Connected Load. Separate Demand Charge(s) for the On-Peak, Mid-Peak, and Off-Peak Time Periods shall be established for each monthly billing period. The Demand Charge for each time period shall be based on the Maximum Demand for that time period occurring during the respective monthly billing period.
5. Power Factor Adjustment
The Customer’s bill will be increased each month for power factor by the amount shown in the Rates section above for service metered and delivered at the applicable voltage level, based on the per kilovar of maximum reactive demand imposed by the Utility.
The maximum reactive demand shall be the highest measured maximum average kilovar demand indicated or recorded by metering during any 15 -minute metered interval in the month. The kilovars shall be determined to the nearest unit. A device will be installed on each kilovar Meter to prevent reverse operation of the Meter.