Sonoma City Council
December 3, 2025

City Council:

Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
Ron Wellander, Vice Mayor
Jack Ding
Sandra Lowe
John Gurney

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

OF THE SONOMA CITY COUNCIL
City Council Chambers, 177 First Street West
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84876986131
6:00 PM Regular Meeting

ACCESSING PUBLIC MEETINGS
As a public service to the community, City Council meetings are held in-person, and viewable through a live webcast on the City’s CivicWeb Portal at https://sonomacity.civicweb.net/Portal/Video.aspx, City of Sonoma YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChZjUrg2rNLYxTgQHhFy-Tg, and televised on Comcast Cable Channel 27. Members of the public can also view the meeting via ZOOM, at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84876986131.

If a technical issue arises with Zoom video or the listening phone dial-in option, the City Council meeting will continue unless a Council Member is participating remotely pursuant to the provisions of Assembly Bill 2449.

Members of the public who wish to address the Council by providing public comments during the meeting may do so in-person in the Council Chambers at 177 First Street West, where the meeting is being publicly held. As an alternative, members of the public may also provide written public comment submitted via the City’s online Public Comment form at https://sonomacity.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx or by email to:
[email protected]
PROCESS FOR COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: There will be two opportunities for members of the public to address items not appearing on the agenda. The early public comment period, Agenda Item 1, will be limited to ten speakers. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes. Speakers who do not have an opportunity to speak during the first public comment section will be allowed to make their comments during the later public comment period, Agenda Item 10, provided there were more than 10 people in the first public comment section.

When the Mayor announces these agenda items, please form a line to speak.

In the event a Council Member participates remotely for just cause or an emergency circumstance under Assembly Bill 2449, the City will allow for public comment through the Zoom link.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk (707) 933-2216. Notification 48 hours before the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

Be Courteous - TURN OFF your cell phones and watches while the meeting is in session.

The City Council may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed on the agenda irrespective of how the items are described.

No new items will begin after 9:00pm unless a majority of the members present vote to allow the items to be heard.

Page

REGULAR MEETING

CONVENE, CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL (Gurney, Wellander, Ding, Lowe, Farrar-Rivas)

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
At this time members of the public may address the Council on matters not listed on this agenda, but which are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council. This public comment period will be limited to ten speakers. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes. Speakers who do not have an opportunity to speak during the first public comment section will be allowed to make their comments during the later public comment period, Agenda Item 10, provided there were more than 10 people in the first public comment section. When the Mayor announces these agenda items, please form a line to speak.

Under State Law, unless otherwise permitted under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the merits of the matters presented under this item cannot be discussed or acted upon by the City Council at this time. For items appearing on the agenda, the public will be invited to make comments at the time the item comes up for Council consideration. Please begin by stating your name.

2. MEETING DEDICATIONS

3. COUNCILMEMBERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Committee Reports - Council Members are appointed to various boards and committees - local, county-wide and regional. Any updates from a council member will be shared at this time. A list of all appointments is available on our City Website for easy reference.

Council Members may also make appointments to city commissions at this time.

4. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

5. CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS

6. PRESENTATIONS

7. CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
All items listed on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and will be acted upon by a single motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the Council or staff request specific items to be removed for separate action.

7.1: Waive further reading and Authorize Introduction and/or Adoption of Ordinances by Title Only. (Standard procedural action - no backup information provided)

7.2: Receive the Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 19, 2025 (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)

11.19.2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
4 - 5

8. PUBLIC HEARING

8.1: Public Hearing to Adopt an Ordinance Repealing Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code and Reenacting a New Chapter 14.10 Adopting New Administrative Provisions and Adopting by Reference Parts 1 through 12 of the 2025 California Building Standards Code and local Amendments (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Conduct the Public Hearing and adopt the ordinance. 6 - 67

Agenda Report - 2025 Construction Codes Adoption - Pdf

9. REGULAR CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
(Matters requiring discussion and/or action by the City Council)

9.1: Study Session to Discuss Options for Mobilehome Park Closures and Conversions Under the City of Sonoma Municipal Code and Recent Legislative Changes Under AB 2782 and SB 610 (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Provide direction to City staff on ordinance changes.

Agenda Report - Mobilehome AB2782 Study Session Dec - Pdf 68 - 189

10. SECOND PUBLIC COMMENT (ONLY REQUIRED IF EARLIER PUBLIC SPEAKERS

REMAIN)
At this this time members of the public who did not have the opportunity to speak during the early comment period may address the Council on matters not listed on this agenda, but which are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes. Please form a line to speak.

Under State Law, unless otherwise permitted under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the merits of the matters presented under this item cannot be discussed or acted upon by the City Council at this time. For items appearing on the agenda, the public will be invited to make comments at the time the item comes up for Council consideration. Please begin by stating your name.

11. ADJOURNMENT
I do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing agenda was posted as legally required. Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk.
*********************************************************************************************************************************** Copies of all staff reports and documents subject to disclosure that relate to any item of business referred to on the agenda are usually available for public inspection the Wednesday before each regularly scheduled meeting at City Hall, located at No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma CA. Any documents subject to disclosure that are provided to all, or a majority of all, of the members of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda after the agenda has been distributed will be made available for inspection at the City Clerk’s office, No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma CA during regular business hours. If you challenge the action of the City Council in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described on the agenda or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or prior to the public hearing.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk (707) 933-2216. Notification 48 hours before the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

Appointments to Commission/Committees: The Council may establish and make appointments to a Council committee (made up of two Council Members) with respect to any item appearing on this agenda.

Closed Session: If action is taken during a Closed Session meeting that is required to be reported out at this meeting, the Council will return to Open Session and report out immediately. However, if the Council is unable to do so due to time constraints, it will report out at the immediately following Regular Council Meeting under "REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION".

Motion for Consideration: A Council Member voting with the majority on any item appearing on this agenda may move for reconsideration of that vote provided the motion is in conformance with the rules adopted by the Council governing such motions.

NOTE: Portions of this document may have been drafted with support from AI-based tools, consistent with City of Sonoma policy on use of artificial intelligence. All information represented in this document has been reviewed by City of Sonoma staff.

City Council:

Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
Ron Wellander, Vice Mayor
Sandra Lowe
John Gurney
Jack Ding

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

OF THE SONOMA CITY COUNCIL
City Council Chambers
177 First Street West
Wednesday, November 19, 2025

6:00 PM Regular Meeting
Regular Meeting Minutes, November 19, 2025

REGULAR MEETING

CONVENE, CALL TO ORDER, & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Farrar-Rivas called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL:

PRESENT: Mayor Farrar-Rivas, Vice Mayor Wellander, Council Member Lowe, Council Member Gurney, and Council Member Ding

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session held.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Lowe, seconded by Council Member Gurney, to approve the agenda as presented. Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Bonnie Joy Kaslan, Edith Cortez, Karen Placencia, John Kyle, Ken Stokes, and Loretta Carr provided public comments.

2. MEETING DEDICATIONS
Council Member Ding dedicated the meeting to Edward Denali.

3. COUNCILMEMBERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Council Member Lowe visited Cogir of Sonoma since the last meeting and encouraged other Council Members to do the same.

Council Member Gurney attended a Library Advisory Committee Board meeting on November 13, 2025.

Council Member Ding attended the Redwood Empire Food Bank Fundraising event at the Plaza on November 14, 2025.

On November 6, 2025, Vice Mayor Wellander attended both the Art Walk and the “Youth of the Year Award” ceremony at the Boys and Girls Club. The following day, November 7, 2025, he took part in a North Bay Watershed Association meeting. On November 8, 2025, he joined volunteers at the Cemetery Clean-Up Day held at both Mountain and Veterans Cemeteries. He also attended the annual Veterans Day Service on November 11, 2025, and on November 12, 2025, he attended a reception celebrating Sonoma Family Meals’ transition into managing Unity Kitchen.

Mayor Farrar-Rivas attended a Sonoma Clean Power Board meeting on November 6, 2025. On November 15, 2025, she participated in a Wake Up Sonoma gathering, followed later that day by the 175th Anniversary celebration of the Sonoma Free Masons. On November 17, 2025, she attended the Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission (SVCAC) meeting. And on November 18, 2025, Mayor Farrar-Rivas—along with City Manager Guhin, Community Development Director Gates, and Associate Planner Dunn—took part in the Charging Smart event, where the City of Sonoma received a “Charging Smart” Silver designation from the U.S. Department of Energy.

4. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
City Manager Guhin reported that the Redwood Empire Food and Funds Drive collected more than 1,300 pounds of food and $1,500 in donations. He also provided an update on the upcoming minimum wage increase.

Mr. Guhin highlighted several upcoming community events, including the Lighting of the Plaza on November 22, 2025, and the Lighted Tractor Parade on November 29, 2025. He reminded everyone that City Offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 27, 2025, and Friday, November 28, 2025. Lastly, he shared the latest progress on the Spain Street Paving Project.

5. CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS
None.

6. PRESENTATIONS
Agenda Item #7.2:

Regular Meeting Minutes, November 19, 2025
Item 6.1: "Celebrate Sonoma" - Presentation of Certificate of Recognition in Honor of Phil Coturri

7. CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
Motion by Council Member Ding, seconded by Council Member Lowe, to approve the consent calendar as presented. Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

Item 7.1: Waive further reading and Authorize Introduction and/or Adoption of Ordinances by Title Only. (Standard procedural action - no backup information provided) Item 7.2: Receive Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 5, 2025 (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
Action: The minutes were received.

Item 7.3: Accept the Expenditure Report for the Month of October 2025 (Prapti Aryal, Finance Director)
Action: The expenditure report was accepted.

Item 7.4: Adopt a Resolution of the City of Sonoma City Council Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Contract with R&R Maher in the Amount Not to Exceed $75,000 to Provide On-Call Concrete Services as Needed. (Mike Berger, Public Works Director) Action: Adopted as Resolution 64-2025.

Item 7.5: Adopt a Resolution Accepting the Public Improvements Installed under the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for the Hummingbird Subdivision. (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
Action: Adopted as Resolution 65-2025.

Item 7.6: Adopt a Resolution of the City of Sonoma City Council Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Contract with MCE Corporation for $34,294.20 for Paving at Third Street East (Mike Berger, Public Works Director & Ashley Cotter, Public Works Admin & Project Manager)
Action: Adopted as Resolution 66-2025.

8. PUBLIC HEARING
Item 8.1: Discussion, Consideration and Possible Action to Introduce an Ordinance Repealing Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code and Reenacting a New Chapter 14.10 Adopting New Administrative Provisions and Adopting by Reference Parts 1 through12 of the 2025 California Building Standards Code and local Amendments.

Action: The ordinance was introduced, and the public hearing was scheduled for December 3, 2025.

Public Hearing Open: 6:43 p.m.

Public Comments: Tom Conlon and Julian Mackie.

Public Hearing Closed: 7:16 p.m.

Mayor Farrar-Rivas, seconded by Council Member Lowe, to Introduce an Ordinance Repealing Chapter

14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code and Reenacting a New Chapter 14.10 Adopting New Administrative Provisions and Adopting by Reference Parts 1 through 12 of the 2025 California Building Standards Code and local Amendments and scheduling the next public hearing for December 3, 2025.

Motion carried unanimously.

9. REGULAR CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
None.

10. SECOND PUBLIC COMMENT (ONLY REQUIRED IF PUBLIC SPEAKERS REMAIN FROM ITEM 2.0) None.

11. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Farrar-Rivas adjourned the meeting at 7:18 p.m.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing minutes were duly and regularly received at a regular meeting of the Sonoma City Council on the 3rd of December 2025.
____________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #7.2:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 03 Dec 2025
Department
Community Development
Department
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP
Community Development Director
Agenda Item Title
Public Hearing to Adopt an Ordinance Repealing Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code and Reenacting a New Chapter 14.10 Adopting New Administrative Provisions and Adopting by Reference Parts 1 through 12 of the 2025 California Building Standards Code and local Amendments
Summary
The California Building Standards Commission adopts a new edition of the California Building Standards Code (Title 24, California Code of Regulations) every three years. Each jurisdiction in California must adopt the updated codes, as published or with locally justified amendments.

If not adopted locally, the state versions apply by default. Local adoption by reference allows the City to:
 Amend provisions to address Sonoma-specific conditions (seismic, topographic, wildfire risk); and
 Provide local flexibility while maintaining minimum state standards for public safety.

On November 19, 2025 City Council introduced the ordinance as provided to repeal and reinstate a new Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 14.10 (Link to Agenda, Report, and Video).

The proposed ordinance includes all previously included amendments, unless the state code matched prior amendments, and a few additional amendments as permitted by AB 130. In July 2025 the state adopted AB130 effectively prohibiting jurisdictions from adopting new or more restrictive standards for residential construction except for specific exceptions.

At that meeting City Council asked questions of staff which were responded to but below provides a little more clarification to the questions raised.

Earthquake-activated Gas Shut-off Valves
The requirement for earthquake-activated gas shut-off valves has been included in the Plumbing Code for several cycles. Adoption, however, has always been left to the authority having jurisdiction. Due to the significant number of post-earthquake fires and the effectiveness of these valves, staff recommends requiring them for all new commercial buildings. Due to AB130, we cannot require the valves for new residential construction.

Staff considers this a low-cost, high-value improvement for fire and life safety. Staff estimates the cost would be $150–$500 for the valve and installation. Staff recommends that installation be performed by a qualified person. If there is interest in evaluating potential incentive programs, City Council can direct staff to work on developing a proposed program for council consideration along with the potential budget impact.

Fire resistance requirements
Staff closely monitor setback requirements, fire-resistance ratings, and fire-assembly construction standards, especially when buildings are located close to property lines or adjacent Agenda Item #8.1:

structures. When buildings are located closer than five feet to property lines, fire resistant construction is required. The City's zoning code aligns with these requirements or may be more restrictive.

Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI) Codes
The community has expressed interest in how WUI regulations will apply to new development and existing homes. This will occur on a case by case basis depending on the work being requested by the applicant. Staff is available to assist residents and provide guidance on how these standards apply within our jurisdiction to their proposed project.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt an "Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Repealing Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code in its entirety and reenacting a new Chapter 14.10 Construction Codes, adopting by reference the 2025 California Building Standards Code Parts 1 Through 12, including local amendments, and finding the Ordinance Exempt from CEQA." Alternative Actions
City Council Discretion.

Financial Impact
The fiscal impacts associated with the Code adoption cycle is accounted for in the department budget. Purchase of books and reference materials, as well as training for departmental staff and public awareness programs were included in the budget. Costs of reviewing plans, issuing building permits and conducting inspections are covered by plan check and permit fees.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
2025 Building Code Ordinance
Exhibit A Building Code
Exhibit B Justification
Agenda Item #8.1:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE # _____ - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA REPEALING CHAPTER

14.10 OF THE SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE IN ITS ENTIRETY AND REENACTING A NEW CHAPTER 14.10 CONSTRUCTION CODES, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE PARTS 1 THROUGH 12, INCLUDING LOCAL AMENDMENTS, AND

FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM CEQA
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission adopted the 2025 California Building Standards Codes, consisting of Parts 1 through 12; and
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code Section 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, 18938, and 18941.5 authorize local jurisdictions to adopt the California Building Standards Codes with amendments reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Repealed
Chapter 14.10 Construction Codes of Title 14 Buildings and Construction of the City of Sonoma Municipal Code, enacted through Ordinance 13-2022 is hereby repealed in its entirety.

SECTION 2. Reenactment, Purpose and Authority
New Chapter 14.10 is hereby adopted, incorporating by reference the 2025 editions of the California Building Standards Code, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, Parts 1 through 12 inclusive, with local amendments as set forth attached hereto as “Exhibit A.” The purpose of this Ordinance is also to provide minimum requirements and standards for the protection of the public safety, health, property and welfare of the City of Sonoma. The provisions of these Codes, as amended, shall constitute the Building Regulations of the City of Sonoma. The Codes as adopted by reference and amended by the City are on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official.

The City Council enacts this Ordinance under the authority granted to the City as follows:

A. California Government Code Section 50022 et seq. authorizes the City to adopt by reference the California Building Standards Code and authorizes the City to adopt other uniform codes by reference;
B. California Health & Safety Code Sections 13143.5,17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 authorize the City to adopt the California Building Standards Code with modifications determined to be reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions.

SECTION 3. Findings
Based on the materials presented by and the recommendations of the City’s building official and fire chief, the City Council finds that it is necessary to make procedural and administrative modifications and changes to the California Building Standards Code and to adopt certain appendices to the Agenda Item #8.1:

California Building Standards Code as specifically adopted in this ordinance, to provide more efficient, economical and expeditious enforcement of the building standards of the City of Sonoma, hereinafter referred to as “the City.” The City Council further finds and determines that pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 13143.5,17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 the substantive amendments to California Building Standards Code, which are adopted by this ordinance, as documented in Exhibit B, are reasonable and necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or topographical conditions and do not lessen, diminish, or change the standards set forth within the California Building Standards Code except as authorized by law. Changes that are applicable to residential units meet at least one of the conditions as identified in 17958(b), 17958.5(c) and 17958.7(c).

The city council hereby makes the following express findings of necessity, as applicable, for the amendments to the California Building Standards Code:

Express Finding of Necessity #1: The City's topography and terrain contain areas which are very susceptible to wildland fires, having a local climate characterized by hot, dry summers with periodic high winds which are a predominate factor in the spread of fire by burning embers that are carried by the wind to adjacent exposed areas. This is further compounded by agricultural and recreational use of lands contained within the City, as well as the open space, brush and hills that are part of and immediately adjacent to the City. These topographic and climatic conditions impact the City’s built environment, operations, public services and emergency services in such a way that their effects should be mitigated through appropriate amendments to the construction codes where practical.

These fires spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels of fire protection.

Express Finding of Necessity #2: Earthquake activity represents significant potential hazards which could result in road closures, loss of housing, fires, injuries, collapsed buildings, and isolation of persons requiring assistance. Additionally, soil conditions within the City are such that liquefaction may occur during seismic activity, creating the potential for structure collapse or mudslides. There are only a limited number of thoroughfares through the City, and during periods of traffic congestion resulting from roadway obstructions, emergency services response times are increased. The City is comprised of a relatively large number of historically significant buildings which contain archaic materials and designs which present unique safety, remodeling and upgrading problems due to their age and proximity to earthquake faults. The proximity of the Rogers Creek earthquake fault, located only a few miles from the City, represents a geologic hazard that could significantly impact the public and City operations, public services, infrastructure, housing, emergency services and its economic well-being in such a way that the potential hazards should be mitigated through appropriate amendments to the construction codes where practical.

Express Finding of Necessity #3: Due to the elevation of the City in relation to sea level and periodic storms resulting in significant rainfall, flooding during the rainy season often restricts traffic, has a detrimental effect on structures, housing and their occupants and can impair emergency services’ ability to respond to life threatening emergencies. Additionally, high ground water, clay soils and the location of the “hardpan” within the City can slow rain and surface water absorption, often resulting in localized ponding and flooding. These geological and climatic conditions impact on the public and the City’s operations and emergency services in such a way that their effects should be mitigated through appropriate amendments to the construction codes where practical.

Express Finding of Necessity #4: The City's climate is periodically subject to relatively dry winters, hot dry summers and droughts. The City is also subject to a combination of strong winds, low humidity and high temperatures which may lead to the shutoff of electrical power by the serving utility company, thereby negatively impacting the community and the City’s emergency services. The lack of rainfall can result in water shortages and reductions in available ground water that impact the public health, safety, and welfare of its citizens and businesses in such a way that their effects should be mitigated through appropriate amendments to the construction codes to prohibit the use of equipment Agenda Item #8.1:

or fixtures which waste water and require water conservation measures, the efficient use of potable water, including utilization of fire-resistive construction and fire protection systems to reduce the use of water for fire-fighting, and other water-saving measures.

SECTION 4. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines section 15060(c)(2) states that a project is not subject to CEQA review where the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change to the environment. CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) states that a project is exempt from CEQA “where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.” The approval of the code amendments set forth in the proposed ordinance does not approve any physical development project, and it would not result in a direct or indirect physical change in the environment. The proposed changes to Title 14 are necessary to maintain consistency with state law and ensure a safe built environment. Many of the standards are already being implemented by the City when reviewing construction projects and would not change how these projects are reviewed and approved. For these reasons, the proposed amendments would not have the potential to result in individually or cumulatively significant effects on the environment and these SMC amendments are exempt from review under CEQA.

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

SECTION 6. Effective Date
These construction codes, including the appendices thereto and secondary codes mentioned therein, except as otherwise excluded, are in full force and effect as ordinances of the City of Sonoma, thirty (30) days after the adoption of this ordinance by the City Council or on January 1, 2025, whichever is later.

SECTION 7. Publication.

This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular Council Meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma held on the __ day of _________, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
_________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.1:

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing ordinance was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Sonoma, Sonoma County, California, at a meeting thereof, held on the __________, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.1:

EXHIBIT A
Chapter 14.10
Construction Codes
Sections:

14.10.005 Technical codes adopted.

14.10.010 Administrative provisions.

14.10.015 2025 California Building Code amendments.

14.10.020 2025 California Residential Code amendments.

14.10.025 2025 California Mechanical Code amendments.

14.10.030 2025 California Plumbing Code amendments.

14.10.035 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code amendments.

14.10.040 2025 California Fire Code amendments.

14.10.045 2025 California Green Building Standards Code amendments.

14.10.050 2025 California Existing Building Code amendments.

14.10.055 Board of appeals.

14.10.060 Modification of fee schedules.

14.10.065 Enforcement authority.

14.10.005 Technical codes adopted.

Pursuant to Section 50022.2 of the California Government Code, the following technical codes are adopted by reference as described herein and as amended by the following sections of this Chapter:

A. 2025 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, published by the International Code Council; B. 2025 California Residential Code, published by the International Code Council; C. 2025 California Electrical Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association; D. 2025 California Mechanical Code, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials;
E. 2025 California Plumbing Code, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials;
F. 2025 California Energy Code published by the California Building Standards Commission; G. 2025 California Historical Building Code, published by the California Building Standards Commission;
H. 2025 California Fire Code, published by the International Code Council:

I. 2025 California Existing Building Code, published by International Code Council; J. 2025 California Green Building Standards Code published by the California Building Standards Commission;
Agenda Item #8.1:

K. The California Administrative Code, 2025 Edition, as published by the International Code Council;
L. 2025 California Referenced Standards published by the California Building Standards Commission;
M. 2025 California Wildland Urban Interface published by the International Code Council.

14.10.010 Administrative provisions.

Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Building Code, as amended by the City in this Section, is hereby adopted as the administrative regulations and procedures concerning the construction and reconstruction, alteration and additions to buildings of all the Codes in this Chapter.

Section 101.1, Title is amended to include the following:

These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Sonoma, hereinafter referred to as " this code."
Section 101.2, is Amended
101.2. The provisions of the California Building Code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, moving, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

Section 105.2, is Amended
105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

Building:

1. One-story detached accessory buildings and structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, trellises, arbors, gazebos, pergolas, shade structures for other than motor vehicles, and similar uses, when located on a parcel which contains an existing one- or two-family dwelling, or a Group R or Group U Occupancy building, provided that the building or structure complies with the development regulations of Sonoma Municipal Code Title 19, and the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, and the total height does not exceed 9 feet, and the structure contains no plumbing, electrical wiring or heating appliances or equipment. The permit exemption provided in this paragraph shall not apply to accessory buildings or structures used as habitable space, workshops, studios, offices, pool houses, guest rooms, mechanical or equipment rooms, or other rooms or spaces commonly occupied or used to shelter installed mechanical equipment.

2. Fences constructed of other than stone, masonry or concrete, not over 7 feet in total height. Fences constructed of stone, masonry or concrete, not over 6 feet in total height.

Agenda Item #8.1:

3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall and retaining not more than 3 feet of material, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.

4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.

5. Sidewalks, walkways, nonstructural concrete slabs and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.

6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work not otherwise altering building service equipment or subject to the accessibility requirements contained in Chapters 11A or 11B of the California Building Code.

7. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

8. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a detached one-or two-family dwelling that are less than 18 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons, and are installed entirely above ground.

9. Shade cloth or similar structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, located within an Agriculture zoning district.

10. Swings and other playground equipment with a projected area less than 120 square feet and are accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings not subject to the accessibility requirements contained in Chapters 11A or 11B of the California Building Code.

11. Window awnings for Groups R-3 and U occupancies and for detached one-and twofamily dwellings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.

12. Recovering of awnings on previously approved existing framework.

13. Decks subject to the requirements of the California Residential Code not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a building and do not serve a required exit door or an accessible route.

14. Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height and work not otherwise subject to the accessibility requirements contained in Chapters 11A or 11B of the California Building Code.

15. A tree house that does not exceed 64 square feet in floor area and 8 feet in height measured from the top of the treehouse floor to highest point on the roof and does not exceed a total height of 15 feet measured from grade plane to the top of the treehouse floor or highest point on the roof whichever is higher. For the purposes of this exemption, a tree house is defined as a non-habitable play structure supported in whole or in part by a tree.

16. Flagpoles that are freestanding and not erected upon a building or structure and not more than 15 feet in height above grade plane.

17. In-kind-repair or replacement of 32 square feet or less of drywall, siding, stucco or roofing within any 12-month period.

Electrical:

1. Listed cord-and-plug connected temporary decorative lighting.

2. Reinstallation of existing attachment plug receptacles, but not the outlets therefore.

3. Replacement of branch circuit overcurrent devices of the required capacity in the same location

4. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment operating at less than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy.

Agenda Item #8.1:

5. Minor repair work, including installation or replacement of equipment such as lamps and electric utilization equipment approved for connection to approved permanently installed receptacles.

6. Electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, except equipment and wiring for a power supply and the installation of towers and antennas.

7. Installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus or the process of manufacturing, testing, servicing, or repairing electrical equipment or apparatus.

8. Replacement of flush or snap switches, fuses, lamp sockets, receptacles, contactor or control device and other minor maintenance and repair work, such as replacing worn cords and tightening connections on a wiring device.

9. Portable motors or other portable appliances energized by means of a cord or cable having an attachment plug end to be connected to an approved receptacle when that cord or cable is permitted by the Electrical Code.

10. Repair or replacement of electrodes or transformers of the same size and capacity for signs or gas tube systems.

11. Installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring, apparatus or equipment or the generation, transmission, distribution, or metering of electrical energy or in the operation of signals or the transmission of intelligence by a public or private utility in the exercise of its function as a serving utility.

Mechanical:

1. A portable heating appliance, portable ventilating equipment, a portable cooling unit, or a portable evaporative cooler.

2. A closed system of steam, hot, or chilled water piping within heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.

3. Replacement of any minor component part or assembly of an appliance that does not alter its original approval of the equipment and complies with other applicable requirements of this code.

4. Self-contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds or less of refrigerant or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less and refrigerating equipment that is part of the equipment for which a permit has been issued pursuant to the requirements of this code.

5. A plug-and-cord connected unit refrigeration system.

6. Portable plug-and-cord connected cooking or clothes-drying appliances.

7. Portable plug-and-cord connected ventilation or cooling equipment.

8. Portable plug-and-cord connected evaporative cooler.

9. Portable fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Plumbing:

1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipes; provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.

2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

Agenda Item #8.1:

3. Exterior rainwater catchment systems used for outdoor non-spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 5,000 gallons where the tank is supported directly upon grade and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1 and does not require electrical power or a makeup water supply connection.

4. Exterior rainwater catchment systems used for spray irrigation with a maximum storage capacity of 360 gallons.

Section 105.2.1, is amended to read as follows:
105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacements and repairs must be performed immediately due to unforeseen circumstances where immediate action must be taken to protect life, health, safety, or property, a permit application shall be submitted for the emergency repair within the next building department working business day to the building official.

Section 109.4, is amended to read as follows:
109.4 Investigation fee; work commencing or continuing without a permit. Any person who commences or continues work requiring a permit on a building, structure, site, electrical system, mechanical system, plumbing system or conveying system without first obtaining or otherwise maintaining required permits and required inspection approvals shall be subject to an investigation fee adopted by the city council. The investigation fee shall be in addition to any other fee charged and shall be imposed under this section to defray the costs incurred by the City in connection with its duties to monitor, review, investigate, and enforce this code.

Section 113, is amended to read as follows:

SECTION 113 MEANS OF APPEALS.
113.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall serve as the “local appeals board” and the “housing appeals board” pursuant to Sections 17920.5 and 17920.6 of the California Health and Safety Code. 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.
113.2 Limitations on authority. Any person, firm, corporation, or entity adversely affected by an order, decision or determination made by the building official related to the application or interpretation of this code may make application for appeal. In addition, any member of the city council may call up for review by the board of appeals any order, decision, or determination made by the building official. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.
113.3 Decisions subject to appeal. Final orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code are subject to appeal to the board of appeals.

Agenda Item #8.1:

113.4 Effect of failure to appeal. Failure to file an application for appeal in conformance with the requirements of Sections 113.5 and 113.6 shall constitute a waiver of the right to an administrative hearing on the matter.
113.4 Violation penalties. Any person, firm or corporation who violates a provision of this code, or any other section of Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code, or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof, or allows a violation to continue without taking reasonable means to cure or abate the same after having been ordered to do so, or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire chief, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, is punishable as provided by Section 1.12.010 of the Sonoma Municipal Code. Each violation shall constitute a separate offense for each and every day such person, firm or corporation violates or allows a violation to continue without taking reasonable means to cure or abate the same after having been ordered to do so. A violation of this section or any other section of Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code shall be deemed a public nuisance and is subject to nuisance abatement proceedings as provided by Section 1.12.010 and/or enforcement proceedings otherwise set forth under the Sonoma Municipal Code.
113.5 Deadline for filing of appeal. All such appeals shall be initiated by filing with the city clerk (with a copy to the building official) a written application for appeal on a form provided by the city clerk within 15 calendar days of the date the building official’s decision, notice or order (oral or written) that is properly served, together with any applicable fees pursuant to the fee schedule adopted by the city council.
113.6 Contents of application for appeal. The application for appeal shall state the nature and date of the decision being appealed, the name and address of the appellant and his/her interest in the matter, the property address which is the subject of the appeal, the specific action requested by the appellant to be taken by the appeal body, the signature(s) of the appellant(s), and, unless the appeal is by a member of the city council, the reasons (in conformance with Section 113.2, above) which, in the opinion of the appellant, render the decision unjustified or incorrect.
113.7 Staying of decision or order under appeal. The filing of the application for appeal shall have the effect of staying any decision or order of the building official pertaining to said appeal or the issuance or granting of any permit, certificate or other approval which is related to the appeal unless, at the sole discretion of the building official, such decision, order or action is necessary to protect the life, health, safety, property or well-being of the public or occupants of the building. When the building official makes said determination, the building official shall notify the appellant, in writing, that the decision, order or action under appeal shall continue to be in effect until otherwise overturned by the board of appeals. 113.8 Hearing. Upon receipt of a timely filed application for appeal in proper form and payment of the required fee, the city clerk shall set a hearing date before the board of appeals no later than 60 days after the filing of the application for appeal. Only those matters or issues specifically raised by the appellant shall be considered in the hearing of the appeal. 113.9 Hearing request by building official. The building official may, at any time, request a hearing be held by the board of appeals to review and affirm any final decision of the building official.

Agenda Item #8.1:

113.10 Notice of hearing. Not less than 10 days prior to the hearing, the building official shall serve or cause to be served either personally or by first class mail, postage prepaid, a copy of the notice of hearing upon the appellant.
113.11 Action of board of appeals. Upon the conclusion of the appeal hearing, the appeal board shall render its decision, which shall be final and may not be appealed to the city council.

Notice of the final decision of the board shall be mailed to the appellant by first class mail, postage prepaid.
113.12 Administration of decision. The building official shall take action in accordance with the decision of the board.

14.10.015 2025 California Building Code amendments.

A. The 2025 California Building Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Appendix Chapter H – Signs
2) Appendix Chapter I - Patio Covers.
3) Appendix Chapter P – Emergency Housing
B. The 2025 Building Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is further amended as follows:

Section 202, Definitions are amended to include:
…ATTRACTIVE NUISANCE. See definition for “Nuisance.”
…BUILDING SERVICE EQUIPMENT. The plumbing, mechanical, electrical and elevator equipment including piping, wiring, ductwork, fixtures and other accessories, components and devices which provide sanitation, lighting, power, security, heating, ventilation, cooling, refrigeration, cooking, firesuppression, alarms and transportation facilities essential to the occupancy of the building or structure for its designated use.
…CITY. See Section 1.04.010 of the Sonoma Municipal Code. …DANGEROUS BUILDING. See definition for “Unsafe Structure.” …NUISANCE. (See definition in Sonoma Municipal Code Section 14.30.020(A)) …OCCUPANCY is the purpose for which a building, or part thereof, is used or intended to be used. …OWNER is any person, agent, firm or corporation having a legal or equitable interest in the property.
…PARTY IN INTEREST means the record owner as the name and address of that person or entity appears on the last equalized assessment roll and if known, the person in real or apparent charge and control of the premises involved, and if known, the holder of any mortgage, trust deed or other lien or encumbrance of record or any other known beneficiary to the building or structure or the land upon which it is located, and if known, residential tenants of a property.

Agenda Item #8.1:

…PERMIT VALUATION, means the estimated total value of the work for which a permit is being issued, including labor, materials, overhead and profit as determined by the building official. Permit valuation shall include the total value of all work for building service equipment, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, and other permanent systems, or portions thereof for which a permit is being issued. Permit valuation shall include the value of all new, replaced or altered casework, appliances, fixtures, equipment and other items and appurtenances attached to or serving a building, structure, or appendage, in kind, based on current estimated replacement costs. Permit valuation shall also include the value of displays, shelving or other elements or fixtures within or immediately adjacent to an accessible route as defined by the California Building Code. Cord and plug connected equipment not otherwise regulated by this code shall be excluded from the calculation of permit valuation. …PERMITEE is the responsible party designated on a permit. The permittee shall either be the property owner, the property owner’s authorized representative or a contractor licensed to perform or oversee the permitted work.
…PERSON. An individual, heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns, and also includes a firm, partnership or corporation, its or their successors or assigns, or the agent of any of the aforesaid. …PUBLIC NUISANCE. See definition for “Nuisance.”
…TECHNICAL CODES are those codes adopted by the city council in Chapter 14.10.015 of the Sonoma Municipal Code containing the provisions for design, construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, demolition, use, location, occupancy and maintenance of buildings and structures and building service equipment as herein defined.
…THIS CODE refers to the provisions in this chapter, together with the technical codes adopted by the city council as amended herein.
…UNSAFE STRUCTURE. Any building or structure which has any or all of the conditions or defects hereinafter described is an unsafe building provided that such conditions or defects exist to the extent that life, health, property, or safety of the public or its occupants are endangered. For the purposes of this code, the term “dangerous building” is synonymous with the term “unsafe building.” (a) Whenever any door, aisle, passageway, or other means of exit is not of sufficient width or size or is not so arranged as to provide safe and adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic. (b) Whenever the walking surface of any aisle, passageway, path of travel, stairway or other means of exit is so warped, worn, loose, torn, obstructed or otherwise unsafe as to not provide safe and adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic.
(c) Whenever the stress in any materials, member, or portion thereof, due to all dead and live loads, is more than one and one-half times the working stress or stresses allowed for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, or location.
(d) Whenever any portion of a building or structure has been damaged by fire, earthquake, wind, flood, or by any other cause, to such an extent that the structural strength or stability thereof is materially less than it was before such catastrophe and is less than the minimum requirements for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, or location. (e) Whenever any portion, member, or appurtenance of a building or structure thereof is likely to fail, to become detached or dislodged, or to collapse and thereby injure persons or damage property.
(f) Whenever any portion of a building or structure, or any member, appurtenance, or ornamentation on the exterior thereof is not of sufficient strength or stability or is not so anchored, attached, or fastened in place so as to be capable of resisting a wind pressure of Agenda Item #8.1:

one-half of that specified for new buildings of similar structure, purpose, or location without exceeding the working stresses permitted for such buildings. (g) Whenever any portion of a building or structure has cracked, warped, buckled, or settled to such an extent that walls or other structural portions have materially less resistance to winds or earthquakes than is required in the case of similar new construction. (h) Whenever the building or structure, or any portion thereof, because of (1) dilapidation, deterioration, or decay; (2) faulty construction; (3) the removal, movement, or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for the purpose of supporting such building; (4) the deterioration, decay, or inadequacy of its foundation; or (5) any other cause, is likely to partially or completely collapse.
(i) Whenever, for any reason, the building, structure, or any portion thereof, including equipment regulated by this code, is manifestly unsafe for the purpose of which it is being used. (j) Whenever the exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean, or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not fall inside the middle onethird of the base. (k) Whenever the building or structure, exclusive of the foundation, shows thirty-three percent or more damage or deterioration of its supporting member or members, or fifty percent damage or deterioration of its non-supporting members, enclosing or outside walls or coverings. (l) Whenever the building or structure has been so damaged by fire, wind, earthquake, or flood or has become so dilapidated or deteriorated so as to become (1) an attractive nuisance to children or, (2) a public nuisance, or (3) freely accessible to persons for the purpose of committing unlawful acts.
(m)Whenever any building or structure has been constructed, exists or is maintained in violation of any specific requirement of this code as applicable, including construction without a permit, or prohibition pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 or of any law or ordinance of this state or jurisdiction relating to the condition or location of said structure or building.
(n) Whenever any building or structure which, whether or not erected in accordance with all applicable laws and ordinances, has in any non-supporting part, member, or portion less than fifty percent, or in any supporting part, member, or portion less than sixty-six percent of the (1) strength, (2) fire-resisting qualities or characteristics, or (3) weather-resisting qualities or characteristics, required by law in the case of a newly-constructed building of like area, height, and occupancy in the same location.
(o) Whenever a building or structure, used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes, because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty construction or arrangements, inadequate light, air or sanitation facilities, or otherwise, is determined by the health officer, fire chief or building official to be unsanitary, unfit for human habitation, or in such a condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease.
(p) Whenever any building, structure or portion thereof, because of obsolescence, dilapidated condition, deterioration, damage, inadequate exits, inadequate maintenance, damage from an earthquake, flood, fire or other calamity, abandonment, exposure to hazardous materials, lack of sufficient fire-resistive construction, faulty electric wiring, faulty or unsafe gas conditions or heating apparatus, unsanitary conditions or other cause, is determined by the fire chief or building official to be a fire hazard, attractive nuisance, hazard to the life, safety or health of the public or occupants of the building.
(q) Whenever any building or structure is in such a condition as to constitute a public nuisance or as otherwise known to common law or equity jurisprudence. (r) Whenever any portion of a building or structure remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the building or structure or portion thereof, or whenever any building or structure so abandoned for a period in excess of six months so as to constitute such building or portion thereof an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.

Agenda Item #8.1:

(s) Whenever any building or structure has been abandoned or becomes vacant, is dilapidated and unsecured or open at exterior doors or windows, leaving the interior of the building exposed to the elements or accessible to entrance by trespassers or is otherwise an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.
(t) Whenever any building, structure or portion thereof, whether structurally damaged or not, is dangerous to human life by reason of being located in an area which is unsafe due to hazard from landslide, settlement, or slippage or any other cause. (u) Whenever any building, structure or portion thereof, because of unfinished, uninspected or uncompleted work required under a building permit and where the permit for the work has expired, or uncompleted work that would have been required under a building permit but where no permit has been issued, is determined by the building official to be a fire hazard, attractive nuisance, hazard to the life, safety or health of the public or occupants of the building. (v) Whenever any building or structure is declared to be substandard as defined in Section 17920.3 of the California Health & Safety Code.

Section 1612.3, Establishment of Flood Hazard Areas is amended to read as follows:
1612.3 Establishment of Flood Hazard Areas. To establish flood hazard areas, the applicable governing authority shall adopt a flood hazard map and supporting data. The flood hazard map shall include, at a minimum, areas of special flood hazard as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in an engineering report entitled "The Flood Insurance Study for the County of Sonoma and Incorporated Areas," dated July 19, 2025 (fifth revision), as amended or revised with the accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and Flood Boundary and Floodway Map (FBFM) and related supporting data along with any revisions thereto. The adopted flood hazard map and supporting data are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be part of this section.

Exception: [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] The flood hazard map shall include, at a minimum, areas of special flood hazard as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Flood Insurance Study (FIS) adopted by the local authority having jurisdiction where the project is located.

14.10.020 California Residential Code amendments.

A. The 2025 California Residential Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter AH (Patio Covers). 2) Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter AQ (Tiny Houses) 3) Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter AS (Strawbale Construction) 4) Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter AX (Swimming Pool Safety Act - Required by CA H&SC 115920-115929).
5) Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter AZ (Emergency Housing) B. Table R301.2 of the 2025 California Residential Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended to clarify design requirements to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

TABLE R301.2

CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA

WIND DESIGN
GROUND
SNOW
LOADo
Speedd
(mph)
Topographic
effectsk
Special
wind regionl
Windborne
debris
zonem

SEISMIC DESIGN
CATEGORYf
0 93 No No No D2

SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM
Weatheringa
Frost
line
depthb Termitec

ICE BARRIER

UNDERLAYMENT
REQUIREDh
FLOOD
HAZARDSg
AIR

FREEZING
INDEXi
MEAN
ANNUAL TEMPj
negligible 12” Yes No
NFIP
1/17/79
FIS
7/19/22
See
SMC 14.25
1500 or
less Not available
MANUAL J DESIGN CRITERIAn
Elevation
Altitude
correction
factore
Coincident
wet bulb
Indoor
winter
design
relative
humidity
Indoor winter
design drybulb
temperature
Outdoor winter
design drybulb
temperature
Heating
temperature
difference
85’ 1.0 67 F 35 F 68 F 28 F 40 F
Latitude Daily
range
Summer
design
gains
Indoor
summer
design
relative
humidity
Indoor summer
design drybulb
temperature
Outdoor
summer
design drybulb
temperature
Cooling
temperature
difference

38.5 20 F — 50 F 75 F 69 F 24 F
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.

C. The 2025 California Residential Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005 and to conform with the requirements of CA Government Code 65852.22(e), eliminate the requirement for a fire-rated wall or floor assembly between a dwelling unit and a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit by adding to section R302.3.1 Dwelling Unit Separation to read as follows:

R302.3.1 Dwelling Unit Separation
The two dwelling units shall be separated by fire-resistance rated assemblies that are vertical, horizontal, or a combination thereof.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Exception: Wall and floor assemblies separating a dwelling unit from a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit, as defined in CA Government Code 65852.22(e).

D. The 2025 California Residential Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended as indicated below.

Revise the Exception in subsection R313.1 to read as follows:

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required where additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed unless otherwise required by the Fire Code.

Revise subsection R313.2 in its entirety, including the exceptions and subsection R313.2.1, and replace to read as follows:

R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings in accordance with the Fire Code as amended by the City of Sonoma.

Exceptions:

1. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with an automatic residential sprinkler system unless otherwise required by the Fire Code as amended by the City of Sonoma.

2. Accessory Dwelling Unit, provided that all of the following are met:

2.1. The unit meets the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit as defined in the Government Code Section 65852.2.

2.2. The existing primary residence does not have automatic fire sprinklers.

2.3. The accessory detached dwelling unit does not exceed 1,200 square feet in size.

2.4. The unit is on the same lot as the primary residence.

R313.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R313.3 or NFPA 13D.

Exception: Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems installed in factory-built housing, mobile homes and manufactured homes, shall be designed and installed in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Section 4302.

14.10.025 California Mechanical Code amendments.

The 2025 California Mechanical Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Appendix B (Procedures to be Followed to Place Gas Equipment into Operation) Agenda Item #8.1:

2) Appendix C (Installation and Testing of Oil (Liquid) Fuel-Fired Equipment)

14.10.030 California Plumbing Code amendments .

A. The 2025 California Plumbing Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Appendix A (Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System). 2) Appendix B (Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste and Vent Systems) 3) Appendix D (Sizing Storm Water Drainage Systems)
4) Appendix H (Private Sewage Disposal Systems)
5) Appendix I (Installation Standards)
6) Appendix J (Combination of Indoor and Outdoor Combustion and Ventilation Opening Design)
B. The 2025 California Plumbing Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended as indicated below.

Amend Section 713.4 to conform with Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District Code to read as follows:
713.4 Public Sewer Availability. The public sewer may be considered to not be available for a proposed building or exterior drainage facility where such public sewer or a building or an exterior drainage facility connected thereto is located more than 300 feet from a proposed building or exterior drainage facility on a lot or premises that abuts and is served by such public sewer.

Section 1211.8, Earthquake-Actuated Gas Shutoff Valves is amended to read as follows 1211.8 Earthquake-Actuated Gas Shutoff Valves. Earthquake-actuated gas shutoff valves designed to automatically shut off the gas at the location of the valve in the event of a seismic disturbance and certified by the Stated Architect as conforming to California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapter 12-16-1, shall be installed in all new non-residential buildings and in existing non-residential buildings that undergo alterations to gas line or additional square footage to existing building. Installation of the valves shall be in accordance with manufacturer's installation instructions.

14.10.035 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code amendments.

Section 101.3 of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005 and as further amended by the adoption of certain appendices, is amended to read as follows:
101.3 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

The purpose of this code is to establish minimum regulations for the safeguarding of life and for property protection. Regulations in this code are intended to mitigate the risk to life and structures from intrusion of fire from wildland fire exposures and fire exposures from adjacent structures and to mitigate Agenda Item #8.1:

structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels. The extent of this regulation is intended to be tiered commensurate with the relative level of hazard present.

The unrestricted use of property in wildland-urban interface areas is a potential threat to life and property from fire and resulting erosion. Safeguards to prevent the occurrence of fires and to provide adequate fire protection facilities to control the spread of fire in wildland-urban interface areas shall be in accordance with this code.

This code shall supplement the jurisdiction's building and fire codes, if such codes have been adopted, to provide for special regulations to mitigate the fire- and life-safety hazards of the wildland-urban interface areas:
(a) The designation, locations, and boundaries of the VHFHS zones in the city of Sonoma as adopted by the city council are set forth on the map labeled “Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the City of Sonoma,” attached as Exhibit A to Ordinance 08-2025, on file with the city clerk’s office. (b) The fire department shall maintain an official copy of the most current VHFHS zones map adopted by ordinance in its administrative offices for public inspection during regular business hours.

14.10.040 2025 California Fire Code amendments.

A. 2025 California Fire Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Appendix Chapter4 – Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy 2) Appendix B – Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
3) Appendix BB - Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
4) Appendix C – Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution 5) Appendix CC – Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution 6) Appendix D - Fire Apparatus Access Roads
7) Appendix E – Hazard Categories
8) Appendix F – Hazard Ranking
9) Appendix H - Hazardous Materials Management Plans (HHMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions (See Sections 5001.5.1 and 5001.5.2) B. 2025 California Fire Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005 and as further amended by the adoption of certain appendices, is amended to read as follows:

Amend subsection 101.1 to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the City of Sonoma Fire Code, hereinafter referred to as “this Code.”
Add a new subsection 101.6 to read as follows:
101.6 Policy manual. The Sonoma County Fire Prevention Policy Manual as well as the Agenda Item #8.1:

Sonoma Valley Fire District’s published Standards and Guidelines shall serve as a supplemental instruction and interpretation manual for this code and are hereby adopted by reference. The fire code official is responsible to amend this manual as necessary to maintain current instruction and interpretations. The information contained in the policy manual shall not be construed to make new code requirements not authorized by this ordinance.

Amend subsection 102.4 to read as follows:
102.4 Application of Building Code. The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the 2025 California Building Code, Volumes 1 and 2, the 2025 California Historical Building Code, the 2025 California Existing Building Code and the 2025 California Residential Code, 2025 California Wildland Urban Interface Code, as adopted and amended by the City of Sonoma, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this Code, which are within the scope of the aforementioned codes, shall be made in accordance therewith.

Amend subsection 103.1 to read as follows:
103.1 Creation of Agency. The Sonoma Valley Fire District Prevention Bureau is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

Add subsection 105.1.1.1 to read as follows:
105.1.1.1 Permit Fees. Permit fees will be based on the Sonoma Valley Fire District’s adopted fee schedule at the time of permit application.

Amend subsection 105.5.59 to read as follows:
105.5.59 Additional Permits. In addition to the permits required by Section 105.6, the following permits shall be obtained from the Bureau of Fire Prevention prior to engaging in the following activities, operations, practices or functions:

1. Production facilities. To change use or occupancy, or allow the attendance of a live audience, or for wrap parties.

2. Pyrotechnics and special effects. To use pyrotechnic special effects, open flame, use of flammable or combustible liquids or gases, welding, and the parking of motor vehicles in any building or location used for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial productions.

3. Live Audiences. To install seating arrangements for live audiences in approved production facilities, production studios and sound stages. See Chapter

48. 4. Apartment, hotel, motel, vacation rental. An operational permit is required to operate an apartment house, hotel, or motel.

5. Bonfires or rubbish fires. An operational permit is required to kindle or authorize the kindling or maintenance of bonfires or rubbish fires.

6. Change of occupancy. An operational permit is required for any change in the Agenda Item #8.1:

occupancy, business or tenancy of any building, facility, or structure.

7. Care facilities. An operational permit is required to operate a care facility as listed:

7.1. Day care with an occupant load greater than eight (8) persons.

7.2. Residential or commercial institutional care facility, occupancies complying with Health and Safety Code Section 13235 are exempt.

8. Emergency responder communications enhancement systems (ERCES).

Where required by the fire code official, an operational permit shall be issued for the operation of an in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system.

9. Fire protection systems. An operational permit is required for buildings and/or facilities with fire protection systems and related equipment such as fire pumps, fire hydrant systems, fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, smoke management systems, and similar systems governed by this code.

10. High-rise building. An operational permit is required to operate a high-rise building as defined by the Building Code.

11. Medical Gas Systems. An operational permit is required for buildings and/or facilities with medical gas systems and related equipment, and similar systems governed by this code.

12. Oil or natural gas well. An operational permit is required to own, operate or maintain an oil or natural gas well.

13. Organized Camps. An operational permit is required to operate an organized camp (Group-C Occupancy).

14. Public Christmas Tree Lot or Pumpkin Patch. An operational permit is required to operate a Christmas tree lot or pumpkin patch, haunted house, or similar facility that is open to the public.

15. Special Event Permit An operational permit is required for any organized procession or assemblage of 50 or more people, which could significantly impact vehicular traffic or create a safety problem. Examples include, but are not limited to: music festivals, elevated stages, outdoor markets, circus, walkathons, runs, marathons, trail rides, bicycle races, celebrations, parades and other similar activities.

16. Winery Caves – Public Accessible. An operational permit is required to operate a Type-2 or Type-3 winery cave that is accessible to the public.

17. Live entertainment. An operational permit is required to operate a business where alcohol is served, while providing live entertainment to the public.

18. Cannabis. An operational permit is required to operate any cannabis facility or operation listed below that is otherwise permitted under the Sonoma Municipal Code:

18.1 Cultivation

18.2 Distribution

18.3 Manufacturing

18.4 Testing/lab

19. Model rockets rental, sale or operation. An operational permit is required to Agenda Item #8.1:

operate, manufacture, import, export, possess, store, rent or sell model rockets as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 12519.

20. CUPA Permit. An operational permit is required to operate any facility described in Sonoma County Code Chapter 29 and shall be required by the Local Fire Chief.

21. Fuel cell power systems. An operational permit is required for stationary fuel cell power systems regulated in Sections 1206.

Add a new subsection 105.6.26 to read as follows:
105.6.26 Local Construction Permits. In addition to the permits required by Section 105.6, the following construction permits shall be obtained from the Bureau of Fire Prevention prior to starting construction:

1. Vegetation Management Plan. A construction permit is required to implement and Vegetation management plan.

2. Fire Protection Plan. A construction permit is required to implement a fire protection

3. Excavation near flammable or combustible liquid pipeline. A construction permit is required to excavate or do any work below grade within ten (10) feet of any pipeline for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquid.

4. Fire-line underground utility piping. A construction permit is required to install, alter, or make improvements to fire-line underground utility piping. A separate utility permit from the building official is required prior to installing any private underground fire protection water piping and associated appliances.

5. Medical gas system. A construction permit is required to install a medical gas system.

6. Oil or natural gas well. A construction permit is required to drill an oil or natural gas well.

Add a new subsection 107.7 to read as follows:
107.7 Cost recovery. Fire suppression, investigation or emergency medical costs are recoverable in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and 13009.1, as may be amended from time to time. Additionally, any person(s) who negligently, intentionally or in violation of law causes an emergency response, including, but not limited to, a traffic accident, spill of toxic or flammable or combustible fluids or chemicals is liable for the costs of securing such emergency, including those costs pursuant to Government Code Section 53150, et seq, as may be amended from time to time. Any expense incurred by the Sonoma Valley Fire District for securing such emergency shall constitute a debt of such person(s) and shall be collectable by the Sonoma Valley Fire District in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, expressed or implied.

Amend subsection 113.4 to read as follows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Any person, firm or corporation who violates a provision of this code, or any other section of Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code, or fails to Agenda Item #8.1:

comply with any of the requirements thereof, or allows a violation to continue without taking reasonable means to cure or abate the same after having been ordered to do so, or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire chief, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, is punishable as provided by Section 1.12.010 of the Sonoma Municipal Code. Each violation shall constitute a separate offense for each and every day such person, firm or corporation violates or allows a violation to continue without taking reasonable means to cure or abate the same after having been ordered to do so. A violation of this section or any other section of Chapter 14.10 of the Sonoma Municipal Code shall be deemed a public nuisance and is subject to nuisance abatement proceedings as provided by Section 1.12.010 and/or enforcement proceedings otherwise set forth under the Sonoma Municipal Code.

Add a new subsection 113.5 to read as follows:
113.5 Authority to issue citations. The Fire Chief and members of the Fire Prevention Bureau who have the discretionary duty to enforce a statute or ordinance may, pursuant to Section 836.5 of the California Penal Code and subject to the provisions thereof, arrest a person without a warrant whenever the Fire Chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau has reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed a violation in the presence of the Fire Chief or member of the Fire Prevention Bureau which he or she has discretionary duty to enforce, and to issue a notice to appear and to release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court, pursuant to the provisions of Section 853.5 et seq. of the California Penal Code.

Amend subsection 114.4 to read as follows:
114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work in or about the structure after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by Section 1.12.010 of the Sonoma Municipal Code. Further, any violation of this section is deemed a public nuisance and may be subject to nuisance abatement proceedings as provided by Section 1.12.010 and/or enforcement proceedings otherwise set forth under the Sonoma Municipal Code.

Amend Section 202 to add the following definition of "ADDITION" between "ACTIVE RF EMITTING DEVICE" and "ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING”:

ADDITION is the increase of area of an existing structure, for which a building permit has been issued, where the increase in floor area is not made exclusively for the provision of accessibility for the physically disabled.

Amend Section 202 to replace the existing definition of "NUISANCE ALARM":

NUISANCE ALARM is an unwarranted alarm caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation or lack of proper maintenance, system servicing testing, construction activities, ordinary household activities, false alarm, other cause when no such danger exists, or an alarm activated by a cause that cannot be determined.

Amend Section 202 to add the following definition of "REMODELED" between "RELOCATABLE POWER TAP and "REMOTE EMERGENCY SHUTOFF DEVICE" to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

REMODELED is work requiring a building permit including, but not limited to, cosmetic or structural repairs, renovations, restorations, alterations or additions to a structure, the total permit valuation of which, as determined by the building official, exceeds $150,000 for buildings containing residential uses or occupancies and $200,000 for all other occupancies over any 36- month period.

Amend Section 202 to add the following definition of "STRUCTURE" between "STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE" and " SUBORDINATE (FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEM)" to read as follows:

STRUCTURE is that which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined together in some definite manner, regardless of property lines.

Add subsection 304.1.3.1 to read as follows:
304.1.3.1 Combustible Vegetation. The fire chief shall notify a property owner by U.S. Postal mail when it is determined that a property is or may become a fire hazard due to combustible vegetation. The property owner may be given the choice of performing hazard abatement work on their own behalf, or authorizing the fire chief to have the work performed. In the event that the property owner does not reply, fails to complete the abatement, or authorizes the fire chief to perform the work on the owner's behalf, the fire chief may cause the work to be performed, then bill the property owner for the cost of such work plus an appropriate administrative fee. Upon the request of the property owner, or in the event that a property owner fails to reply to a bill for weed abatement services, the chief shall request the City Clerk to report the cost of such services to the County Tax Assessor, so that the balance due can be added to the property tax of that parcel of land.

Add subsection 304.1.3.1 to read as follows:
304.1.3.1 Defensible space - neighboring property
Persons owning, leasing, or controlling property within areas requiring defensible spaces are responsible for maintaining a defensible space on the property owned, leased or controlled by said person, within a distance of not less than 30 feet from any neighboring building, structure or property line. Distances may be modified by the fire code official because of a site-specific analysis based on local conditions.

Amend subsection 308.1.7 to read as follows:
308.1.7 Sky lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released a sky lantern or similar device.

Add a new subsection 311.3.1 to read as follows:
311.3.1 Removal of debris after fire. All rubble, waste, rubbish, and other materials lying upon any premises within the jurisdictional area; having been accumulated thereon by reason of a fire and having been rendered useless thereby shall be removed within ten (10) days after notice has been given to do so in writing by the Fire Chief to the owner, lessee, or other person in charge or control of the premises.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Add a new subsection 401.3.2.1 to read as follows:
401.3.2.1 Unwarranted or Nuisance alarm notification. Notification of emergency responders based on a nuisance alarm may be punishable by a fine in accordance with the adopted fee schedule. In addition, the responsible party may be liable for the operational and administrative costs, incurred from the emergency response or mitigation procedures resulting from a nuisance alarm notification.

Add new subsection 401.3.2.2 to read as follows:
401.3.2.2 Multiple nuisance alarm activations. Any occupancy that has more than three nuisance alarms, causing emergency response within a 12-month period may be required to modify, repair, upgrade or replace their system and/or monitoring station as determined by the fire code official.

Amend Section 402.1 by adding the term “NUISANCE ALARM” after the term “LOCKDOWN”.

Amend subsection 501.1 to read as follows:
501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official in accordance with 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods.

Amend subsection 503.1 to read as follows:
503.1 Where Required. Fire apparatus access roads shall comply with the City of Sonoma Municipal Code Standards when applicable, and otherwise shall be provided and maintained in accordance with this Chapter and Appendix D of the CFC.

Add a new subsection 503.2.6.1 to read as follows:
503.2.6.1 Evaluation and maintenance. All existing private bridges and elevated surfaces that are a part of the fire department access roadway, shall be evaluated by a California licensed civil engineer experienced in structural engineering or a California licensed structural engineer, for safety and weight rating, in accordance with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Manual: ``The Manual for Bridge Evaluation,'' Third Edition, or other approved standard. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges. All bridges and elevated structures providing fire department access shall be routinely maintained in accordance with Section 503.2.6 or when directed by the fire code official or authorized designee.

Add the following sentence to the end of subsection 503.2.7:

All buildings located on slopes of greater than five percent (5%) shall also include such additional fire protection measures, as the fire chief deems necessary to mitigate access constraints.

Add subsection 503.6.1 to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

503.6.1 Width. All gate entrances and similar structures shall be at least two feet (2') wider than the width of the traffic lane(s) serving the gate or structure.

Add subsection 503.6.2 to read as follows:
503.6.2 Setbacks. All gates providing access from a public road to a private road or private driveway shall be located at least thirty feet (30') from the roadway and shall open to allow a vehicle to stop without obstructing traffic on the roadway.

Amend subsection 505.1 to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Where required by the fire code official, address numbers shall be provided in additional locations to facilitate emergency response. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Posted address numbers shall be those assigned by the City of Sonoma. Address numbers shall be maintained.

Exceptions:

1. These requirements may be modified with the approval of the fire code official.

2. Illuminated address numbers are not required for existing buildings where approved; reflective numbers are to be installed.
505.1.1 Addresses for buildings. All buildings shall be issued an address by the local jurisdiction which conforms to that jurisdiction's overall address system. Accessory buildings will not be required to have a separate address; however, each unit within a building shall be separately identified.
505.1.2 Numbers for one and two- family dwellings. Numbers for one and two- family dwellings shall be a minimum of 4 inches (101.6mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm). Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole, or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure.
505.1.3 Numbers for other than one and two- family dwellings. Numbers for other than one- and two- family dwellings shall be a minimum of 12 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 1 inch. Suite and unit directional numbers shall be not less than six (6) inches high with a minimum stroke width of three-quarter (0.75) inch. Numbers shall be not less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch. 505.1.4 Complex directory. Where two or more buildings cannot be viewed from the public way or when determined by the fire code official, an approved illuminated complex directory, monument, pole, or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structures at the main entrances to the property. The complex directory, monument, pole, or other approved sign or means shall comply with the requirements of the City’s sign regulations contained in Title 18 of the Sonoma Municipal Code.
505.1.5 Installation, location and visibility of addresses. All buildings shall have a permanently posted address, which shall be placed at each driveway entrance and visible from both directions of travel along the road. In all cases, the address shall be posted at the Agenda Item #8.1:

beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter, and the address shall be visible and legible from the road on which the address is located. 505.1. 5.1 Address signs along one-way roads shall be visible from both the intended direction of travel and the opposite direction.
505.1. 5.2 Where multiple addresses are required at a single driveway, they shall be mounted on a single post. (d) Where a roadway provides access solely to a single commercial or industrial business, the address sign shall be placed at the nearest road intersection providing access to that site.

Add a new subsection 507.1.1 to read as follows:
507.1.1 Emergency water during construction. The emergency water system shall be available on-site prior to combustible construction. Required fire hydrants shall be acceptable to the City of Sonoma and conform to City of Sonoma Standard Plans.

Amend subsection 507.2.2 to read as follows:
507.2.2 Water tanks. Water tanks for private fire protection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22.

Exception: For Group R-3 occupancies, 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, and associated accessory structures up to 3,000 square feet in area, plastic water tanks up to 5,000 gallons in volume may be used. A flammable vegetation clearance of not less than twenty feet (20') shall be maintained around all poly-plastic or similar water tanks.

Amend subsection 507.5 to read as follows:
507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with Sections 507.5.1 through 507.5.8.

Amend subsection 507.5.1 by deleting the subsection and exception and replacing it to read as follows:
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 150 feet (45.179 m) from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official.

Amend subsection 507.5.1.1 to read as follows:
507.5.1.1 Hydrant for fire department connections. Buildings equipped with a water-based fire protection system installed in accordance with Section 903 through 905 shall have a fire hydrant within 50 feet of the fire department connections, or as approved by the fire code official. (Also see Section 912.2).

Add a new subsection 507.5.7 to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

507.5.7 Fire hydrant size and outlets. Shall be in accordance with City of Sonoma Standard Plans, or as approved by the fire code official.

Add a new subsection 507.5.8 to read as follows:
507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in accordance with the City of Sonoma standards or as approved by the fire code official, as may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor, developer or person responsible for removal or damage.

Add a new subsection 901.6.3.2 to read as follows:
901.6.3.2 Records Reporting. Fire detection, alarm, and extinguishing systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Non-required fire protection systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested, and maintained or removed. All inspection, testing and maintenance reports shall be forwarded to the Fire Department in the manner approved by the Fire Authority and referenced by policy manual or published Standards and Guidelines.

Add subsection 901.11 to read as follows:
901.11 Notice of Nuisance Alarm. The officer in charge of fire units responding to a fire alarm signal shall determine whether a true emergency exists. If the officer determines that an emergency does not exist, the chief of the local fire agency or his/her authorized representative may issue a written notice of nuisance alarm to the owner or person in charge or control of the facility where the alarm signal originated.

Add subsection 901.12 to read as follows:
901.12 Unreliable Fire Alarm Systems. The fire chief of the local fire agency or his/her authorized representative may determine that a fire alarm system is unreliable upon receipt of more than four (4) nuisance alarms within a twelve (12) month period. Upon finding that an alarm system is unreliable, the fire chief of the local fire agency or his/her authorized representative may order the following:

1. For any nuisance alarm where the system is not restored, the fire chief may require the system owner to provide standby personnel as defined by Section 901.7 or take such other measures, as the fire chief deems appropriate. Persons or activities required by the fire chief shall remain in place until a fire department approved fire alarm maintenance firm certifies in writing to the fire chief that the alarm system has been restored to a reliable condition. The fire chief may require such tests, as he deems necessary to demonstrate the adequacy of the system.

2. Upon the fifth (5th) and sixth (6th) nuisance alarms from the alarm system within a twelve- (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $150.00, plus the cost of fire engine response, for each occurrence.

3. Upon the seventh (7th) and eighth (8th) nuisance alarms from the alarm system within a twelve- (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $300.00, plus the cost of fire engine response for each occurrence.

Agenda Item #8.1:

4. Upon the ninth (9th) and following nuisance alarms from the alarm system within a twelve (12) month period, the system owner shall pay a mitigation fee to the fire department of $500.00, plus the cost of fire engine response, for each occurrence.

Add subsection 901.12.1 to read as follows:
901.12.1 Hearing on notice. Any person receiving a notice of nuisance alarm who contends that the Fire Chief erroneously determined that the fire alarm system was not functioning as designed, may file a written request with the Fire Chief for a hearing on the determination within ten (10) days after receipt of the notice of nuisance alarm. The Fire Chief shall give the requesting party a hearing on the determination within thirty (30) days of receipt of the request.

The request shall set forth: (1) that the system functioned as designed, or (2) that the nuisance alarm resulted from an act of God, flooding, or other violent natural condition without fault and beyond the control of the requesting party. Within ten (10) days following the hearing, the chief shall give written notice of his or her decision to the requesting party.

Amend subsection 903.2 by deleting subsections 903.2 through 903.2.11.3 and replacing to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in all new buildings, structures and new factory-built housing for which a building permit is required and in existing buildings and structures upon a remodel or addition.

Exceptions:

1. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries and standby engines, provided those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic fire alarm system and are separated from the remainder of the building by fire barriers consisting of not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated walls and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling assemblies.

2. Detached buildings used exclusively as a Group U Occupancy.

3. Detached buildings accessory to Group R-3 occupancies that are not classified as a dwelling unit or a Group U Occupancy and do not exceed 1,000 square feet in gross floor area.

4. Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units, as defined in Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.92.020, that meet the requirements of Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 19.45 and the existing primary residence does not have installed and is not required to install an automatic residential sprinkler system.

5. Shipping containers used as a Group S, Division 2 Occupancy.

6. Unless otherwise required by other sections of the code, a sprinkler system shall not be required when all of the following are met:
a. The addition of floor area to a building results in a total floor area for the building of less than 4,000 square feet or the addition is less than ten percent (10%) of the existing floor area of the building; and
b. The cumulative total building permit valuation for all building permits issued for the subject building within any 36-month period, as determined by the building Agenda Item #8.1:

official, is equal to or less than $150,000 for buildings containing residential uses or occupancies and equal to or less than $200,000 for all other occupancies. c. A change of use or occupancy of the building does not create a higher risk as indicated in Section 102.3 of the California Fire Code.

7. Alterations or additions made solely for the purpose of providing barrier removal pursuant to the requirements of the American Disabilities Act (ADA) and as further provided in exception #4 of California Building Code Section 11B-202.4.

8. In an existing multiple-tenant building that requires a fire sprinkler system, the fire chief has the authority to modify the fire sprinkler requirements when the intended use does not create any increase in fire danger and the cost of installing a complete fire sprinkler system throughout the entire building creates an unreasonable financial hardship, as determined by the fire chief.
[NOTE: Subsection numbers 903.2.1 through 903.2.11.3 are not being incorporated into this Chapter due to local amendments.]
Amend subsection 903.4.3 to read as follows:
903.4.3 Alarms. One exterior approved audible and visual device, located on the exterior of the building as approved by the fire code official, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.

Add subsection 903.4.3.1
903.4.3.1 Interior Alarm. If the building contains sleeping rooms, the interior alarm shall be located in or adjacent to one or more of these rooms. Otherwise, the interior alarm should be placed at a constantly attended location, or as a secondary alternative, the alarm shall be located where people are likely to be present whenever the building is occupied.

Amend subsection 903.6
903.6 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11 and Section 903.2.

Amend subsection 905.3 to read as follows:

Standpipe systems shall be installed where required by Sections 905.3.1 through 905.3.12.

Standpipe systems are allowed to be combined with automatic sprinkler systems.

Exception: Standpipe systems are not required in Group R-3 occupancies.

Amend subsection 905.3.1 to read as follows:
905.3.1 Height. In other than R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies, Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout at each floor level where any of the following occur:

Agenda Item #8.1:

1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

2. Buildings that are three or more stories in height.

3. Buildings where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

4. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

5. On the roof of buildings three or more stories in height when required by the fire code official.

Exceptions:

1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

2. Class I standpipes are allowed in Group B and E Occupancies.

3. Class I standpipes are allowed in parking garages.

4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

5. In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider:

5.1 Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less, and

5.2 Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.

5.3 When determined by the Fire Code Official a standpipe is not warranted in threestory buildings.

Add subsection 905.3.11
905.3.11 Lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries containing combustible electrolyte in vehicles.

Group S-2 public parking garages shall be equipped with Class I standpipe systems extended to have hose connections located within 100 feet of where lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries containing combustible electrolyte battery vehicles may park.

Delete Exception 2 in subsection 905.9 pertaining to valve supervision.

Add subsection 907.8.5 to read as follows:
907.8.5 Fire Alarm Service/Certification Stickers/Tags.  Upon completion of each annual fire alarm service, the licensed fire alarm contractor providing the service shall affix a certification sticker or tag to the front of the main fire alarm panel which indicates the name of the fire alarm company, the date of the service, and the State license number.

Add subsection 910.2.3 to read as follows:
910.2.3 Lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries containing combustible electrolyte in vehicles. Enclosed Group S-2 public parking garages occupancy buildings having lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries containing combustible electrolyte in vehicles shall be provided with a mechanical smoke removal system in accordance with 910.4.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Amend subsection 912.2 to read as follows:
912.2 Location. With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the system will not obstruct access to the buildings for other fire apparatus. The location of the fire department connections shall be within 50 feet of a fire hydrant or as approved by the fire code official (Also see Section 507.5.1.1).

Amend subsection 912.4.1 to read as follows:
912.4.1 Locking Fire Department Connection Caps. KNOX Brand locking FDC Caps keyed to the local Authority Having Jurisdiction are required.

Add subsection 914.12 to read as follows:
914.12 Type 3 winery caves. Type 3 winery caves, as defined in chapter 446 of the California Building Code, shall comply with the following:
914.12.1. Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system complying with this code shall be installed in existing Type 3 winery caves unless equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 903.3.1.1. The fire alarm system shall activate the occupant notification system in accordance with 907.5 when the occupant load exceeds 100 occupants. 914.12.2 Automatic fire sprinkler system. An automatic fire sprinkler system complying with NFPA 13 shall be installed in all new Type 3 winery caves when the occupant load exceeds 100 occupants, or when a change of use in an existing winery cave is approved by the fire code official.

Add new subsection 3315.3 to read as follows:
3315.3 Where required. In buildings of combustible construction required to have automatic sprinkler system by Section 903, automatic sprinkler system shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet (12,192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such automatic sprinkler system shall be extended as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.

Add new subsection 3315.4 to read as follows:
3315.4 Buildings being partially demolished. Where a portion of a building is being demolished and a sprinkler system exists within such a building, such sprinkler system shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such sprinkler system may be partially demolished with the existing building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.

Add subsection 3901.6 to read as follows:
3901.6 Technical Assistance Report. A Technical Assistance Report (TAR) shall be required for all new extraction and processing facilities as set forth in Section 104.8.2 to provide a complete analysis of the facility and operations. Additional Technical Reports are required for extraction equipment not listed I accordance with UL 1389 as set forth in Section 3904.2.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Amend subsection 3903.2 to read as follows:
3903.2 Prohibited occupancies. Extraction processes utilizing flammable gases or flammable liquids shall not be located in a building containing a Group A, E, I or R occupancy, or occupancies regulated by the California Residential Code.

Amend subsection 3903.3 to read as follows:
3903.3 Location. The extraction equipment and extraction processes utilizing hydrocarbon solvents shall be located in a room or area dedicated to extraction. For other than CO2 and nonhazardous extraction process, the extraction equipment and process shall be separated from other occupancies and uses with fire barriers where required by Section 508.4.

Amend subsection 3903.5 to read as follows:
3903.5 Use of flammable and combustible liquids. Extraction and post oil processing operations using flammable liquids or combustible liquids heated above their flashpoint, including dispensing of flammable liquids between containers, shall be performed in one of the following locations:

1. An exhausted chemical fume hood installed in accordance with the California Building Code and California Mechanical Code.

2. A room or approved exhausted enclosure with an approved exhaust system installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code.

Electrical equipment used within the chemical fume hood shall be rated for use in flammable atmospheres. Heating of flammable or combustible liquids over an open flame is prohibited.

Exception 1: The use of a heating element not rated for flammable atmospheres, where documentation from the manufacture, or approved testing laboratory indicates the element is rated for heating of flammable liquids.

Exception 2: Unheated processes at atmospheric pressure using less than 16 oz. (473 ml) of flammable liquids shall not be required to comply with 3903.5(1) or 3903.5(2).

Add subsection 3903.5.1 to read as follows:
3903.5.1 Electrical components. All electrical components within the chemical fume hood, room, or exhausted enclosure shall be approved permanent wiring, interlocked such that the exhaust system shall be in operation for lighting and components to be used.

Add subsection 3903.5.2 to read as follows:
3903.5.2 Refrigerators, Freezers, and Cooling Equipment. Refrigerators, freezers, and other cooling equipment used to store of cool flammable liquids shall be listed for the storage of flammable/combustible liquids or shall be listed for Class I, Division 1 locations, as described in the California Electrical Code.

Amend subsection 3903.6 to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

3903.6 Liquefied petroleum gas. Liquefied petroleum gases (LPG) shall not be released to the atmosphere except where released in accordance with Section 7.3 of NFPA 58. LPG liquid piping systems shall be in compliance with California Fire Code Chapter 61.

Add subsection 3903.6.1 to read as follows:
3903.6.1 Exhaust. An approved exhaust system shall be provided for LPG extractions.

Add subsection 3903.6.1.1 to read as follows:
3903.6.1.1 Installation. The exhaust systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the California Mechanical Code.

Add subsection 3903.6.1.2 to read as follows:
3903.6.1.2 Processes. All LPG extraction operations, including processes for off-gassing spent plant material and oil retrieval, shall be conducted within a chemical fume hood, enclosure, or room in compliance with the California Mechanical Code.

Add subsection 3903.6.2 to read as follows:
3903.6.2 Electrical Systems Electrical equipment shall be in accordance with Section 3903.6.2.1 through 3906.2.5.

Add subsection 3903.6.2.1 to read as follows:
3903.6.2.1 Electrical Bonding and grounding. All conductive equipment and conductive objects within the exhaust room shall be bonded and grounded in accordance with California Electrical Code.

Add subsection 3903.6.2.2 is to read as follows:
3903.6.2.2 Classified Areas. The area within a hood or enclosure used for LPG extractions shall be classified as a Class 1, Division 1 hazardous location in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Areas adjacent to Class 1, Division 1 locations shall be classified in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

Add subsection 3903.6.2.4 to read as follows:
3903.6.2.4 Emergency Power. An automatic emergency power system shall be provided for the following items, when installed:

1. Extraction room lighting

2. Extraction room ventilation system

3. Solvent gas detection system
Exception: Except where required by other sections of this code, extraction room ventilation systems in existing facilities are not required to have a secondary power source, such as emergency or standby power until such time that the medium of extraction or solvent is changed.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Add subsection 3903.6.2.5 to read as follows:
3903.6.2.5 Gas detection systems. Gas detection systems shall be provided with constant non-interlocked power.

Add subsection 3903.7 to read as follows:
3903.7 Means of Egress. For extraction rooms using hazardous materials, each room shall be provided with at least one exit access door complying with the following:

1. The door shall swing in the direction of egress travel.

2. The door shall be provided with a self-closing or automatic closing device.

3. The door shall be equipped with panic or fire exit hardware.

4. The exit access travel distance cannot be increased as allowed in CFC Section 1017.2.2 for extraction/cultivation facilities.

Add subsection 3903.8 to read as follows:
3903.8 Carbon Dioxide Extraction. Carbon dioxide extraction shall comply with sections 3903.8.1, 3903.8.2, and 3903.8.3.

Add subsection 3903.8.1 to read as follows:
3903.8.1 Storage and Handling. All carbon dioxide compressed gas cylinders shall be secured in approved method to prevent falling.

Add subsection 3903.8.2 to read as follows:
3903.8.2 Carbon Dioxide Gas Detection. An approved, listed carbon dioxide detection system complying with CFC Section 5307.4 shall be installed in the carbon dioxide extraction room.

Auto-calibrating and self-zeroing devices or detectors shall be prohibited.

Add subsection 3903.8.3 to read as follows:
3903.8.3 Carbon Dioxide Discharge. The extraction equipment pressure relief devices and blow-off valves shall be piped to the exterior of the building.

Add subsection 3903.9 to read as follows:
3903.9. Signage. The NFPA 704 hazard rating diamond sign, minimum 10” in size, and no smoking signs shall be posted on the exterior of the extraction room door.

Add subsection 3903.9.1 to read as follows:
3903.9.1 Safety data sheets. All applicable safety data sheets (SDS) shall be posted in the approved location.

Add subsection 3903.9.2 to read as follows:
3903.9.2 Warning signage. Applicable hazard warning signage shall be posted throughout the facility as applicable for emergency equipment.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Amend subsection 3904.2.2.3 to read as follows:
3904.2.2.3 Site inspection. Prior to the operation of the extraction equipment, where required by the fire code official, the engineer of record or approved professional, as approved in Section 3904.2, shall inspect the site of the extraction process once equipment has been installed for compliance with the technical report and the building analysis. The engineer of record or approved professional shall provide a report of findings and observations to the fire code official prior to the approval of the extraction process. The field inspection report authored by the engineer of record shall include the serial number of the equipment used in the process and shall confirm that the equipment installed is the same model and type of equipment identified in the technical report.

Add subsection 3904.3 to read as follows:
3904.3 Change of Extraction Medium. Where the medium of extraction or solvent is changed from the material indicated in the technical report or as required by the manufacturer, the technical report shall be revised at the cost of the facility owner and submitted for review and approval by the fire code official prior to the use of the equipment with the new medium or solvent.

Add subsection 5608.1.2 to read as follows:
5608.1.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6 and Chapter 9.21 of the Sonoma Municipal Code prior to the performance of any firework display. Application for such approval shall be made in writing no less than twenty (20) days prior to the proposed display. The application shall be considered and acted upon by the fire code official or authorized designee pursuant to this Chapter and Title 19, Chapter 6, Article 3 - Licenses of the California Code of Regulations. Any permit for a fireworks display may be suspended or revoked at any time by the Fire code official or authorized designee.

Add subsection 5608.2 to read as follows:
5608.2 Limitations. Possession, storage, offer or expose for sale, sell at retail, gift or give away, use, explode, discharge, or in any manner dispose of fireworks is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the districts in which such possession, storage, offer or exposure for sale, retail sale, gifting, use, explosion, discharge, or disposal of fireworks is prohibited (see Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 9.21) Exception: Firework displays authorized pursuant to section 5608.1 for which a permit has been issued.

Add subsection 5704.1.1 to read as follows:
5704.1.1 Tanks Storage prohibited. No existing aboveground tanks for the storage of Class I and Class II liquids outside of buildings (except LPG-Propane) shall be permitted on mercantile, residential, and other congested parcels. Existing tanks on such parcels shall be removed within one (1) year after written notice from the fire code official.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Add subsection 5704.1.2 to read as follows:
5704.1.2 Tank Storage - Other locations. New aboveground tanks for storage of Class I and II liquids on parcels not covered under Section 5704.1.2 shall be enclosed in a flammable liquid storage vault constructed in accordance with the standards of the fire department. Existing tanks on such parcels shall conform to new within one (1) year after written notice from the fire code official.

Add subsection 5704.1.3 to read as follows:
5704.1.3 Existing Tank Storage. Existing tank storage shall meet the requirements of new tank installations within one year of notice from the fire code official.

Delete section 5707 On-Demand Mobile Fueling Operations.

Amend subsection 5806.2 to read as follows:
5806.2 Limitations. Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of the districts in which such storage is prohibited in any area as established by applicable landuse and zoning standards.

Add subsection 6104.2 to read as follows:
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 shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons in any area as established by applicable landuse and zoning standards.

Exception: The capacity limit may be reduced by the fire code official, based on evaluating special features such as topographical conditions, nature of occupancy, and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed LP-gas containers, degree of fire protection to be provided and capabilities of the local fire department.

Add subsection 6107.5 to read as follows:
6107.5 Anchoring. An approved anchoring system shall be installed on all permanently installed propane/LPG gas containers.

Amend Chapter 80 - Referenced Standard NFPA 13D-22: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes as follows:

Add a double asterisk note following the single asterisk note to read:
**NFPA 13D, additional amended sections as follows:

Add subsection 7.6.1 to read as follows:

7.6.1 Interior Alarm - reference amended CFC 903.4.2.1 Interior Alarm. If the building contains sleeping rooms, the interior alarm shall be located in or adjacent to one or more of these rooms. Otherwise, the interior alarm should be placed at a constantly attended location, or Agenda Item #8.1:

as a secondary alternative, the alarm shall be located where people are likely to be present whenever the building is occupied.

Amend Appendix B, subsection B101.1 to read as follows:

B101.1 Scope. The procedure for determining fire-flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be in accordance with this appendix. This appendix does not apply to structures other than buildings. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official in accordance with 104.9 Alternative Materials and methods.

Amend the definition of FIRE-FLOW in Appendix B, subsection B102.1 to read as follows:

FIRE-FLOW. The flow rate of a water supply, measured at 20 pounds per square inch (psi) (138 kPa) residual pressure, measured in the water main in the vicinity of the flowing hydrant, that is available for firefighting.

Amend the definition of FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA in Appendix B, subsection B102.1 to read as follows:

FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA. The floor area, in square feet, used to determine the required fire flow. The fire-flow calculation area or floor area shall be the total floor area of all floor levels within the exterior walls that are under the horizontal projection of the roof.

Amend Appendix B, subsection B105.1 to read as follows:

B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire-flow requirements for one- and twofamily dwellings having a fire-flow calculation area which does not exceed 3,600 square feet (344.5 m2) shall be 1500 gallons per minute (3785.4 L/min). Fire-flow and flow duration for dwellings having a fire-flow calculation area in excess of 3,600 square feet (344.5 m2) shall not be less than that specified in Table B 105.1.

Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of up to 50 percent, as approved, may be allowed when the building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system Amend Appendix B, subsection B105.2 to read as follows:

B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one-and two-family dwellings shall be as specified in Table B105.1.

Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of up to 50 percent, as approved, may be allowed when the building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The resulting fire-flow shall not be less than 2,000 gallons per minute (5678 l/min) for the prescribed duration as specified in Table B 105.1.

Amend Appendix B, Table B105.1 by deleting footnote a).

Amend Appendix C, subsection C102 to read as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

C102.1 Fire Hydrant Locations. Where fire hydrants are required, fire hydrants shall be provided along required fire apparatus access roads and adjacent public streets, and a fire hydrant shall be located within 50 feet of the Fire Department Connection (FDC), or as approved by the fire code official.

Amend Appendix D, Section D101 to read as follows:

D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this appendix as amended and all other applicable requirements of the International Fire Code. This section applies to residential and commercial developments. Design and construction shall be in accordance with the following sections unless otherwise authorized by the fire code official, in accordance with 104.9 Alternative Materials and methods.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.1 to read as follows:

D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be determined by the fire code official.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.2 to read as follows:

D103.2 Grade. The grade of fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with the local agency requirement for public streets or as approved by the fire code official.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.3 to read as follows:

D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code official.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.4 to read as follows:

D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with the local agency requirements for public streets or as approved by the fire code official.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.4 by deleting Table D103.4:

Amend Appendix D, subsection D103.6 to read as follows:

D103.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent NO PARKING-FIRE LANE signs complying with figure D103.6 and or the California Vehicle Code.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D104.2 to read as follows:
(The exception to D104.2 is deleted)
Amend Appendix D, subsection D106.1 to read as follows:

D106.1 Projects having more than 50 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 50 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

Agenda Item #8.1:

(The exception to D106.1 is deleted)
Amend Appendix D subsection D106 by deleting subsection D106.2.

Add Appendix D subsection D106.4 to read as follows:

D106.4 Multi-residential projects having more than 50 dwelling units. Hotels, motels, condominiums, apartments, townhouses and similar multi-residential projects having more than 50 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

Amend Appendix D, subsection D107.1 to read as follows:

D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of one- and two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 50 shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads and shall meet the requirements of section D104.3.
(The exceptions to D107.1 are deleted.)

14.10.045 California Green Building Code amendments.

A. The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended as follows:

Amend Subsection 301.1 [subsection 301.1.1 remains unchanged] to require a Tier 1 level of compliance (except Tier 1 energy) to read as follows:
301.1 Scope. Buildings shall be designed to include the green building measures specified as mandatory in Chapters 4 and 5 of this code, as applicable. Newly constructed buildings shall also be designed and constructed to include the prerequisite and applicable elective measures to achieve Tier 1 status as prescribed in Appendix A4 and A5 of this code, as applicable, except that the energy efficiency measures set forth in Appendix A4 Division A4.2 and Appendix A5 and Division A5.2 shall not be required. Additions and alterations shall meet the requirements of Section 301 but shall not be required to meet Tier 1 status as prescribed in Appendix A4 or A5 of this code, as otherwise applicable. The building official shall develop CALGreen application checklists to be included in the design and used for construction of structures covered by this code. All buildings subject to the requirements of this code shall meet all applicable requirements of the California Energy Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6).

B. The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is further amended as follows:

Adopt by reference and add Appendix Chapter A4 (Residential Voluntary Measures) and Appendix Chapter A5 (Nonresidential Voluntary Measures) of the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code appendices.

Amend the title and explanatory note of Appendix A4 to read as follows:

Appendix A4
Agenda Item #8.1:

Supplementary Residential Mandatory and Elective Measures The measures contained herein that are necessary to achieve Tier 1 status shall be mandatory pursuant Section 301.1 of this code.

Amend Appendix Section A4.201.1 to read as follows:

A4.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of meeting mandatory Tier 1 status pursuant to Section 301.1 of this code, compliance with the provisions contained in this Appendix A4 Division A4.2 (Energy Efficiency) shall not be required. The provisions contained in this Appendix A4 Division A4.2 are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

Amend Item 2 in Appendix Section A4.601.4.2 to read as follows:

2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency.

2.1. No requirements for this division.

Amend the note in the last paragraph of Appendix Section A4.601.4.2 to read as follows:

Note: Checklists authorized by the building official shall be used to show the mandatory and Tier 1 elective measures that will be incorporated into the project to show compliance with the provisions of Appendix A4.

Delete Appendix Section A4.602 (Residential Occupancies Application Checklist) in its entirety.

Delete Appendix Division A4.7 (Residential Model Ordinance) in its entirety.

Amend the title and explanatory note of Appendix A5 to read as follows:

Appendix A5
Supplementary Nonresidential Mandatory and Elective Measures The measures contained herein that are necessary to achieve Tier 1 status shall be mandatory pursuant Section 301.1 of this code.

Amend Appendix Section A5.201.1 to read as follows:

A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of meeting mandatory Tier 1 status pursuant to Section 301.1 of this code, compliance with the provisions contained in this Appendix A5 Division A5.2 shall not be required. The provisions contained in this Appendix A5 Division A5.2 are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

Amend the first paragraph in Appendix Section A5.601.2.3 to read as follows:

A5.601.2.3 Tier 1. For the purposes of meeting mandatory Tier 1 status pursuant to Section 301.1 of this code, compliance with the provisions contained in Section A5.201 shall not be required. The provisions of Section A5.201 are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Amend the first paragraph in Appendix Section A5.601.2.4 to read as follows:

A5.601.2.4 Measures for Tier 1. In addition to the provisions of Section A5.601.2.1 above, compliance with the following measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 1.

In Table A5.601 (Nonresidential Buildings), delete the row, references, and requirements for Division

5.2 (Energy Efficiency) in its entirety.

Delete Appendix Section A5.602 (Nonresidential Occupancies Application Checklists) in its entirety and replace to read as follows:

A5.602 Nonresidential Occupancies Application Checklists. Checklists authorized by the building official shall be used to show the mandatory and Tier 1 elective measures that will be incorporated into the project to show compliance with the provisions of Appendix A5.

14.10.050 California Existing Building Code amendments.

A. The 2025 California Existing Building Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is amended by adopting by reference and adding the following appendices:
1) Appendix Chapter A1 – Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings.
2) Appendix Chapter A2 – Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced Masonry Wall Buildings with Flexible Diaphragms. 3) Appendix Chapter A3 – Prescriptive Provisions for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light Wood-Frame Residential Buildings. 4) Appendix Chapter A4 – Earthquake Risk Reduction in Wood-Frame Residential Buildings with Soft, Weak or Open Front Walls.

Amend the first sentence in Appendix Chapter A3 Section A301.2 to read as follows:

A301.2 Scope. The provisions of this chapter are voluntary and may be applied to residential light-frame wood construction containing one or more of the structural weaknesses specified in Section A303.

Amend the first sentence in Appendix Chapter A4 Section A401.2 to read as follows:

A401.2 Scope. The provisions of this chapter are voluntary and may be applied to all existing structures that are subject to the requirements of California Residential Code or existing Group R-1 and, R-2 Occupancy buildings of wood construction, or portions thereof, where the structure has a soft, weak or open-front wall line and there exists one or more stories above.

B. The 2025 California Existing Building Code, as adopted by Section 14.10.005, is further amended as follows:

Agenda Item #8.1:

Amend subsection 506.1 to read as follows:
506.1 Compliance. No change shall be made in the use, character of use, occupancy or occupancy classification of any building unless such building is made to comply with the applicable provisions of the California Building Standards Code for the new use or occupancy.

Subject to the approval of the building official, the use or occupancy of existing buildings shall be permitted to be changed and the building may be occupied for purposes in other groups or occupancy classifications without conforming to all of the requirements of this code for those uses, groups or occupancy classifications, provided the new or proposed use complies with the energy and accessibility requirements of the California Building Standards Code for the intended use and provided further that the new or proposed use is less hazardous, based on life safety, exiting and fire risk, than the existing use.

Exception: The building need not be made to comply with Chapter 16 of the California Building Code unless required by Section 506.5.

Delete subsection 506.1.1 in its entirety.

14.10.055 Board of appeals.

The city council is designated as the board of appeals in order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official or the fire chief relative to the application and interpretation of the construction codes adopted by the City within this Chapter. The procedure for appeals shall be established in Section 14.10.010.

14.10.060 Modification of fee schedules.

All fees set forth in sections of the Codes adopted by reference and amended by the City in this Chapter shall be as set forth by resolution of the city council.

14.10.065 Enforcement Authority.

Unless otherwise provided by ordinance or resolution of the city council, the building official of the City is the enforcement officer for all provisions of the technical codes adopted herein except that the fire chief of the City shall be the enforcement officer for all provisions of the California Fire Code and amendments thereto and all building standards adopted by and subject to the enforcement authority of the California State Fire Marshal and published in the State Building Standards Code relating to fire and panic safety and other regulations of the State Fire Marshal.

Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Technical Codes Adopted
Revise Sonoma Municipal
Code Section 14.10.005
Technical Codes Adopted
Revise the versions of the technical codes to be adopted and provide correct references to their respective base codes.

Admin NA
Administrative Provisions
Amend subsections under
Section 101
Clarify the application and scope of the technical codes as it relates to the Administrative Provisions to align with the intent of the technical codes.

Admin 1
Revise Section 105.2 - Work
exempt from permit.

Revise to clarify that accessory buildings used as habitable space, workshops, studios, offices, pool houses, guest rooms,
mechanical or equipment rooms, or other rooms or spaces commonly occupied or used to shelter installed mechanical equipment require a building permit.

Admin 1
Revise Section 109.4
Investigation fee
Revise to clarify who sets the fees and how the fee will be charged. Admin 1 Revise Section 113 Means of
Appeals
Section 113.12 was added to clarify that the building official shall take action in accordance with the decision of the board of appeals.

Admin 1
2025 California Building Code
Revise Section 202
Definitions
Revisions include additional definitions to clarify or reference other definitions provided in the Building Code or Sonoma Municipal Code. 1,2,3,4 1
Revise Section 1612.3
Establishment of Flood
Hazard Areas
Revise this section to establish and reference the City Flood Hazard Maps on which the flood hazard regulations will be based.
3 1
Adopt Appendix H – Signs Provides provisions for the safe installation of signs not otherwise covered by the code. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council. 1,2 1
Adopt Appendix I – Patio
Covers
Provides construction provisions for patio covers that are not otherwise specifically specified in the main body of the code. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council.
1,2 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Adopt Appendix O –
Emergency Housing
Provides alternative minimum construction provisions for emergency housing during a declaration of a state of emergency, local emergency or shelter crises pursuant to the Government Code. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council.
1,2 1
2025 California Residential Code
Adopt Appendix AH – Patio
Covers
Provides alternative minimum construction provisions that relaxes various requirements in the body of the code as they apply to patio covers. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council. 1 1
Adopt Appendix AQ – Tiny
Houses
Relaxes various requirements in the body of the code as they apply to houses that are 400 square feet in area or less. Attention is specifically paid to features such as compact stairs, including stair handrails and headroom, ladders, reduced ceiling heights in lofts and guard and emergency escape and rescue opening requirements at lofts. This appendix chapter has previously been
adopted by the City Council.
1 1
Adopt Appendix AS –
Strawbale Construction
The use of strawbale construction has steadily increased since the 1980s such that there are now buildings of strawbale construction in every state in the U.S. and in more than 50 countries around the globe. Estimates are that there are over 1,000 buildings of strawbale construction in California alone, including both residential and commercial buildings. Appendix S provides prescriptive requirements for the construction of exterior and interior strawbale walls, both structural and nonstructural, in buildings that are under the scope of this code. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council. 1 1
Adopt Appendix AX –
Swimming Pools, Spas and
Hot Tubs
Provides pool barrier and anti-drowning provisions for residential occupancies consistent with the requirements of the California Building Code and the California Health and Safety Code (Swimming Pool Safety Act). This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council.
1 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter AZ -
Emergency Housing
Provides alternative minimum construction provisions for emergency housing during a declaration of a state of emergency, local emergency or shelter crises pursuant to the Government Code. This appendix chapter has previously been adopted by the City Council.
1 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Revise Table R301.2. Added climatic and geographic design criteria to Table R301.2 as needed for the City of Sonoma.
1,4 1
Add Exception 3 to section
R302.3.1
To conform with the requirements of CA Government Code 65852.22(e), eliminate the requirement for a fire-rated wall or floor assembly between a dwelling unit and a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit by adding Exception to section R302.3.1. 1,2,4 1
Revise the Exception in
subsection R313.1
This exception is revised to stipulate that an automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required where additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed unless otherwise required by the Fire Code. This is to clarify that the Fire Code, as amended by the City, must be met as it pertains to triggering sprinkler systems. This revision is needed to conform with the requirements of the Fire Code as amended. 1,2,4 1
Revise and replace
subsection R313.2 in its
entirety, including the
exceptions and subsection
R313.2.1
This amendment clarifies that the Fire Code, as amended by the City, must be met as it pertains to triggering sprinkler systems for one- and two-family dwellings and accessory dwelling units. The amendment also clarifies the NFPA standard to be used for the design when required. This revision is needed to conform with the requirements of the Fire Code as amended and Government Code Section 65852.2. 1,2,4 1
2025 California Mechanical Code
Adopt Appendix B
(Procedures to be Followed to
Place Gas Equipment into
Operation)
This proposed amendment provides necessary safety procedures to follow to place gas equipment into operation.
1,2 1
Adopt Appendix C
(Installation and Testing of Oil
(Liquid) Fuel-Fired
Equipment)
This proposed amendment provides necessary safety procedures for the installation and testing of oil (liquid) fuel-fired equipment.
1,2 1
2025 California Plumbing Code
Adopt Appendix A
(Recommended Rules for
Sizing the Water Supply
System).

Adds guidance and requirements for sizing water supply systems not otherwise covered by the code.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Adopt Appendix B
(Explanatory Notes on
Combination Waste and Vent
Systems)
Adds guidance sizing combination waste and vent systems not otherwise covered by the code.
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix D (Sizing
Stormwater Drainage
Systems)
Adds guidance and requirements for sizing stormwater systems not otherwise covered by the code.
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix E
(Manufactured/Mobile Home
Parks and Recreational
Vehicle Parks)
Provides requirements for Manufactured/Mobile Home and RV Parks not otherwise covered by the code.
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix H (Private
Sewage Disposal Systems)
Provides requirements for private sewage disposal systems (regulated and enforced by the Department of Health Services).
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix I (Installation
Standards)
Provides needed installation standards to complement the plumbing code. 1,2,3,4 1 Adopt Appendix J
(Combination of Indoor and
Outdoor Combustion and
Ventilation Opening Design)
Provides an alternative design for combination of indoor and outdoor combustion and ventilation openings.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 713.4 related
to public sewer availability.

This amendment is needed to be consistent with the Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District Code.
3 1
[New] Revise Section 1211.8
Earthquake Actuated Gas
Shutoff Valves
This amendment provides for non-residential structures by requiring automatic shutoff valves which activate in the event of an earthquake.2 NA 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Amend 101.3 Purpose Provides clarification of the location of VHFHS maps that were adopted in 2025.

There were no hazards areas prior.
1 6
2025 California Fire Code
Adopt Appendix Chapter 4-
Special Detailed
Requirements Based on Use
and Occupancy
Provides needed special detailed requirements based on use and occupancy for residential care facilities licensed by governmental agencies. 1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Adopt Appendix Chapter B –
Fire Flow Requirements for
Buildings
Provides a needed procedure for calculating the amount of water needed for firefighting purposes in portions of buildings or buildings hereafter constructed. 1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter BB –
Fire Flow Requirements for
Buildings
Provides a needed procedure for calculating the amount of water needed for firefighting purposes for school buildings required by the Government Code. 1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter C –
Fire Hydrant Locations and
Distribution
Provides needed recommendations for the locations and minimum distribution of fire hydrants.
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter CC -
Fire Hydrant Locations and
Distributions
Provides needed recommendations for the locations and minimum distribution of fire hydrants for school buildings required by the Government Code. 1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter D Provides needed minimum specifications for fire apparatus access roads. 1,2,3,4 1 Adopt Appendix Chapter E Provides needed additional information, explanations, and examples to illustrate and clarify hazardous material categories and classifications. 1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter F Provides needed firefighter warning placard designations based on hazard classification categories.
1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter H Provides a template for businesses when the type and quantity of hazardous materials stored requires a Hazardous Materials Management Plan and Inventory Statement.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 101.1 –
Title
Names this section of the Ordinance “City of Sonoma Fire Code” 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 101.6 –
Policy Manual
Allows the SVFD to create and maintain a policy manual as supplemental instruction and interpretation to this code.
1,2,3,4 1
[NEW] Amend subsection
102.4 application of building
code
Changes the language of the model code highlighting that the City of Sonoma amended the code.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 103.1 –
Creation of Agency
Names the Sonoma Valley Fire District as the code official as it relates to the 2022 CA Fire Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 105.1.1.1
Permit Fees
Identifies the fee schedule as adopted by the Fire District as the City fee 1,2,3,4 1 Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend Section 105.5.59 –
Additional Permits
Adds additional required (operational) permits – Needed to be consistent with local amendments to be adopted by other Sonoma County jurisdictions. Specifically permits for fuel cell power systems. Amended to remove the term medical, and statement added when allowed by state and local zoning ordinance. Amended to add “CUPA Permit” as a required operational permit. “CUPA” means Certified Unified Program Agencies
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Section 105.6.26 -
Local Construction Permits
Adds additional required construction permits - Needed to be consistent with local amendments to be adopted by other Sonoma County jurisdictions including a construction permit for gates across fire apparatus access roads 1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Section 107.7 –
Cost Recovery
Adds cost recovery language for fire suppression, investigation or emergency medical costs in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and 13009.1, and when costs are incurred by negligence or violation of law in accordance with Government Code Section 53150
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 113.4 –
Failure to comply with stop
work order
Amends the code to establish that a failure to comply with a stop work order is an infraction and the penalties are set forth in Sonoma Municipal Code (SMC) Chapter

1.12. Needed to be consistent with SMC
1,2,3,4 1
[NEW] Add a new subsection
113..5 Authority to issue
citations
Amends the code empowering fire officials to take immediate action when fire-related violations are observed, improving the enforcement of fire safety regulations and ensuring a faster response to potential hazards.
1,2,3,4 6
[NEW] Amend subsection
114.4 Failure to comply
Amends the model code language with a reference to the City of Sonoma Municipal Code
1,2,3,4 6
Amend Section 202 to add
the definition of "ADDITION"
Amends the code to provide a needed definition to be consistent with previous City ordinances and policies pertaining to fire sprinkler system requirements and triggers. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 202 to add
the definition of “NUISANCE
ALARM”
Provide a needed definition to be consistent with local amendments and changes to model code language.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend Section 202 to add
the definition of
"REMODELED”
Provide a needed definition to be consistent with previous City ordinances and policies pertaining to fire sprinkler system requirements and triggers. Establishes the trigger for requiring a fire sprinkler system in existing buildings when cosmetic or structural repairs, renovations, restorations, alterations or additions to a structure, the total valuation of which, as determined by the building official, exceeds $150,000 for buildings containing residential uses or occupancies and $200,000 for all other occupancies over any 36-month period.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 202 to add
the definition of
"STRUCTURE"
Provide a needed definition to be consistent with previous City ordinances and policies pertaining to fire sprinkler system requirements and triggers. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 304.1.3 by
adding subsection 304.1.3.1 -
Combustible Vegetation
Provide a needed definition to be consistent with previous City ordinances and policies pertaining to weed abatement.
1,2,3,4 1
Add subsection 304.1.3.1 -
Defensible space
Provide a defensible space of not less than 30 feet between vacant lots and neighboring structures.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 308.1.7 –
Sky Lanterns
Makes it illegal to release sky lanterns (open flame) within the City limits. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 311.3.1 –
Removal of debris after a fire.

Requires 10 days following notification from the Fire Chief that all debris from a fire will be removed.
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new subsection
401.3.2.1
Provides for the ability for cost recovery for Nuisance fire alarms. 1,2,3,4 1 Add a new Sub Section
401.3.2.2 – Multiple nuisance
alarm activations
Provides the ability to require occupancies that experience multiple nuisance alarm activations in a 12-month period to modify, repair, upgrade or replace the fire alarm system or service.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 501.1 –
Fire service features.

Authorizes the fire code official to authorize alternative design and construction features such as fire apparatus access roads, access to roofs, premises identification, key boxes, fire protection water supplies, fire protection equipment identification and access, etc., when done in accordance with Section 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods. This code change is needed to provide flexibility in enforcement provided that the material, method or work offered is at least equivalent in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance durability and safety.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Add a new subsection
503.2.6.1for evaluation and
maintenance of bridges.

Provides requirements for evaluation and maintenance of bridges for the safety of emergency responders.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend 503.2.7 for buildings
located on slopes of greater
than five percent (5%).

Adds needed requirement for additional fire protection measures, as the fire chief deems necessary to mitigate access constraints by building on slopes greater than five percent (5%).
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Subsection
503.6.1– Width
Adds subsection requiring gate entrances to be wider than the roadway to allow for emergency vehicle access – this is in alignment with Sonoma County Requirements. 1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Subsection
503.6.2– Setbacks
Adds subsection requiring gates along public and private roads be set back to allow vehicles to clear the roadway and not obstruct traffic on the public roadway or emergency vehicle access.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 505.1 –
Premises identification
(including subsection
modifications)
Amends the code to clarify that the City of Sonoma assigns address numbers and clarifies the criteria for address identification.
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new subsection
507.1.1 - Emergency water
during construction.

Adds subsection to require emergency water system on-site prior to installing combustible construction.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 507.2.2
Water Tanks
Amends the code to require instillation of water tanks to comply with National Standards and allows for a more cost-effective solution for 1 and 2 family dwellings. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 507.5.1 –
Where fire hydrants are
required
Amends the code to continue the previous requirement for on-site hydrants (508.5.1) 1,2,3,4 1 Amend subsection 507.5.1.1
Hydrant for Fire Department
Connections
Amends the code to match existing amendments requiring a fire hydrant within 50 feet of a buildings fire sprinkler connection.
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new subsection
507.5.7- Fire hydrant size and
outlets
Requires Fire hydrant size and outlets to comply with City of Sonoma standard plans 1,2,3,4 1 Add a new subsection
507.5.8- Fire hydrant street
marker
Requires Fire hydrant street markers to comply with City of Sonoma standard plans 1,2,3,4 1 Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
[NEW] Add a new subsection
901.6.3.2
Amends the code to establish a procedure for service contractors who are obligated to report inspection findings by this code to report to us based on our procedures. 1,2,3,4 6
Add subsection 901.11 -
Notice of Nuisance Alarm
Amends the code to establish a procedure for written notification of a nuisance alarm.

Needed to enforce penalties for false fire/smoke/sprinkler alarms. 1,2,3,4 1
Add section 901.12-
Unreliable Fire Alarm
Systems
Amends the code to establish procedures and penalties for false fire/smoke/sprinkler alarms.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 901.12.1 –
Hearing on Notice
Provides a procedure and opportunity to a building owner to dispute a notice of nuisance alarm.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 903.2 -
Fire Sprinklers - Where
Required
Amends the code to be consistent with previous City ordinances and policies pertaining to fire sprinkler system requirements and triggers. Ensures CA State laws designed to stimulate affordable housing are protected and addressed with exceptions. Additionally protects property owners remodeling to comply with ADA requirements.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 903.2.10.3 –
Group S-2 public parking
garages
Requires a more robust and effective fire sprinkler system in public parking garages where vehicles powered by lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries are parked. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 903.4.2 -
Alarms
The proposed amendment provides clearer guidance to building owners, fire protection system designers and system installers.
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Subsection
903.4.2.1
Relocates within the code an existing amendment that requires an interior bell when a fire sprinkler system activates.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 903.6 Clarifies fire sprinkler requirements for existing buildings and structures. 1,2,3,4 1 Amend subsection 905.3 –
Required Installations
Clarifies when standpipe systems shall be installed in alignment with other amendments within this code.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend subsection 905.3.1-
Height (Standpipes)
Amends the code to consider the roof as an additional story for buildings three or more stories in height thereby expanding the class III standpipe system requirement 1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 905.3.11 –
Group S-2 public parking
garages
Identifies the type and location of standpipes in newly constructed S-2 parking garages to provide the fire protection necessary to extinguish vehicle fires powered by lithium, lithium-ion and other batteries.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
[NEW] Add a new Subsection
907.8.5 – Certification (fire
alarm systems)
Requires contractors to install a label to fire alarm systems when installed or tested indicating the name of company, the date testing performed, and State License Number.
1,2,3,4 6
Add Subsection 910.2.3
lithium, lithium-ion and other
batteries containing
combustible electrolyte in
vehicles.

Require a mechanical smoke removal system in parking garages to ensure smoke and toxic gasses are removed to the exterior during a fire event. This will add additional protection to the occupants and first responders. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 912.2 –
Location
Amends the code to ensure placement of required fire protection systems do not obstruct emergency vehicle access.
1,2,3,4 1
[NEW] Amend subsection
912.4.1
This is a carry of an existing amendment to a different code section that requires tamper proof locks on fire department connections to fire sprinklers (arson prevention) this is a requirement and the amendment provides the approved lock type.
1,2,3,4 1
Add a new Subsection 914.12
through 914.12.2
Adds subsection defining fire protection requirements for new and existing type 3 wine caves.
1,2,3,4 1
Add section 3315.3 -
Buildings under construction.

Amends the code to provide an added measure of fire safety for buildings high buildings undergoing construction.
1,2,3,4 1
Add section 3315.4 -
Buildings being demolished
Amends the code to provide an added measure of fire safety during the demolition of multi-story buildings.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Section 3901.6 –
Technical Assistance Report
Requires a technical assistance report for all new plant extraction and processing facilities.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Section 3903.2 –
Prohibited Occupancies
Does not allow extraction processing that utilizes flammable gasses to liquids to be located in Assembly, Education, Institutional, and Residential Occupancies. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 3903.3 –
Location
Provides for safety and separation when hazardous processes are used in the extraction process.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 3903.5 –
Use of flammable and
combustible liquids
Regulates the location and type of equipment used when flammable and combustible liquids are used for extraction.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Add Subsection 3903.5.1 –
Electrical Components
Regulates components and wiring and safety shut off within chemical flume hoods used for plant extraction.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.5.2 -
Refrigerators, Freezers, and
Cooling Equipment
Regulates the listing and location of Refrigerators, freezers, and other cooling equipment used to store or cool flammable liquids and points to the California Electric Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 3903.6 –
Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Regulates the release of LPG in compliance with additional referenced standards and other sections of this code.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.1 –
Exhaust
Requires an approved exhaust system when LPG extractions occur. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.6.1.1 –
Installation
The above exhaust systems (item 106) will be installed per the requirements of the California Mechanical Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.1.2 –
Processes
Requires LPG extraction processes be conducted under a hood, enclosure or room that is compliant with the CA Mechanical Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.2 –
Electrical Systems
Clarifies and points to new code amendments the electrical system requirements for plant extraction.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.2.1 –
Electrical Bonding &
Grounding
Ensures all equipment and conductive objects are bonded and grounded in accordance with the California Electrical Code
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.2.2 –
Classified Areas
Ensures special areas within a plant extraction hood or enclosure meet conditions required in the California Electrical Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.2.4 –
Emergency Power
Requires emergency power in portions of the plant extraction process to enhance safety.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3903.6.2.5 –
Gas Detection Systems
Gas detection systems when required will not turn off when other equipment is off. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.8 –
Carbon Dioxide Extraction
Ensures amendments in this code are references in relation to CO2 plant extraction. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.8.1 –
Storage and Handling
CO2 Tanks must be secured to prevent falling. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.8.2 –
CO2 Gas Detection
Requires specific CO2 detection in compliance with other sections of this code. 1,2,3,4 1 Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Add Subsection 3903.8.3 –
CO2 Discharge
Protects CO2 from being exhausted into the building or area. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.9 -
Signage
Sets minimum size requirements for safety signage. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.9.1 –
Safety Data Sheets
Requires all materials safety data sheets are posted in an approved location. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 3903.9.2 –
Warning Signage
Requires applicable hazard warning signage shall be posted throughout the facility as applicable for emergency equipment.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection
3904.2.2.3 – Site Inspection
Allows for an inspection by specialized personnel prior to operation of plant extraction facilities.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 3904.3 –
Change of Extraction Medium
Requires revision of any technical reports when the medium of extraction is changed. 1,2,3,4 1 Add Subsection 5608.1.2
Permit Required
Adds code language pointing to the City Municipal Code requiring a permit for fireworks displays.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Section 5608.2 –
Limitations
Adds code language pointing to the City Municipal Code regarding the prohibition of possession, storage, use or sale of fireworks.
1,2,3,4 1
Add section 5704.1.1 - Tanks
Storage prohibited
Amends the code to remove the threat of fire and explosive danger from tank storage of class I and II liquids in mercantile, commercial and residential parcels. 1,2,3,4 1
Add Section 5704.1.2 - Tank
Storage - Other locations
Amends the code to assure that new tank installations meet current safety requirements for class I and II liquids. Additionally existing tanks in approved locations must meet the same safety requirements within one year. 1,2,3,4 1
Add Section 5704.1.3 -
Existing Tank Storage
Amends the code to upgrade existing tank installations to meet current safety requirements for class I and II liquids.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Subsection 5806.2 –
Limitations
Aligns the limitations of flammable and cryogenic fluids with city land use and zoning standards.
1,2,3,4 1
Add Subsection 6104.2
Maximum Capacity Within
Established Limits
Aligns the limitations of liquefied petroleum gas with city land use and zoning standards.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Add Section 6107.5 - Seismic
Anchoring
Amends the code to require approved seismic anchoring for installed propane/LPG gas containers
1,2,3,4 1
Add subsection 7.6.1 Interior
alarm
Clarifies location of interior alarms 1,2,3,4 1
Amend the definition of FIREFLOW in Appendix B,
subsection B102.

This revision clarifies where the pressure for fire-flow is measured. 1,2,3,4 1 Amend the definition of FIREFLOW CALCULATION AREA
in Appendix B, subsection
B102.1
Floor area was clarified to provide consistency in calculating fire flow. 1,2,3,4 1 Amend Appendix B,
subsection B105.1 – Fire flow
for one- and two-family
dwellings
This is amended to increase the minimum required fire-flow from 1000 to 1500 gallons per minute. The language to reduce fire-flow requirements based on sprinkler system installation is not automatic.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix B,
subsection B105.2 – Fire flow
for buildings other than oneand two-family dwellings
The language to reduce fire-flow requirements based on sprinkler system installation is not automatic.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix B, Table
B105.1 by deleting footnote
a).

This prevents a reduction in needed fire-flow for residential structures. 1,2,3,4 1 Amend Appendix C,
subsection C102 - Fire
Hydrant Locations
Amends the code to continue to standardize the location of fire department connections for more efficient fire scene operations.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D, Section
D101 - Fire apparatus access
roads
Amends the code to allow the fire code official some flexibility when done in accordance with section 104.9 Alternative Materials and Methods. Flexibility in enforcement provided that the material, method or work offered is at least equivalent in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance durability and safety. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.1 - Access
road width with a hydrant
Amendment allows local authorities to determine fire department access specifications instead of the International Fire Code.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.2 - Grade of
fire apparatus access roads
The grade of fire apparatus access roads is specific to the type of equipment available and should be determined locally.
1,2,3,4 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.3 - minimum
turning radius
Turning radius is specific to the fire apparatus used. 1,2,3,4 1 Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.4 - Deadend fire apparatus access
roads
This change allows a local jurisdiction to determine dead-end requirements for width and turnaround provisions.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.4 by
deleting Table D103.4
Allows local standards 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D103.6 - NO
PARKING- FIRE LANE signs
Change allows local jurisdiction to apply the sign requirements of the California Vehicle Code in design and placement rather than basing it on solely on road width. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D104.2 by
deleting exception to D104.2
The exception provided for a reduction in fire department access in structures with a gross building area up to 124,000 square feet.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D106.1 – Fire
apparatus access roads for
multi-family projects having
more than 50 dwelling units
Modifies when two fire apparatus access roads are required – Changes the requirement from 100 dwelling units to 50 dwelling units. 1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D106 by deleting
subsection D106.2
This section referred to projects of 200 or more dwelling units and repeats the two access requirement regardless of sprinklers
1,2,3,4 1
Add Appendix D, subsection
D106.4 – Fire apparatus
access roads for multiresidential projects having
more than 50 dwelling units
Amends the code to allow fire department access for emergency operations and/or evacuations.
1,2,3,4 1
Amend Appendix D,
subsection D107.1 -– Fire
apparatus access roads for
projects having more than 50
dwelling units
Amends the code to allow fire department access for emergency operations and/or evacuations.
1,2,3,4 1
2025 California Green Building Standards Code
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend Section 301 –
Requires mandatory
compliance with Tier 1 status
of the code except for energy
efficiency provisions and
additions and alterations.

Amends the code to require that the prerequisite and applicable elective measures to achieve Tier 1 status, as specified in the code become mandatory for all new buildings except that the Energy Efficiency Measures in Appendix A4 Division A4.2 and Appendix A5 and Division A5.2 need not be met. Tier 1 Energy measures would be very costly to implement given the recent increase in the mandatory energy requirements of the 2022 California Energy Code. This amendment is recommended to promote a higher level of sustainability in construction while maintaining the cost effectiveness of energy code requirements set forth by the California Energy Commission.

This amendment also stipulates that the additional CALGreen Tier1 requirements do not apply to additions and alterations. The application of additional Tier 1 requirements would be very difficult to comply with for existing buildings. This amendment establishes green building requirements that are more restrictive than what is otherwise required by state law and are in substantial conformance with what is being recommended for adoption by the majority of other building officials throughout Sonoma County. This code amendment will help provide regional consistency of green building regulations.
1,4 1
Adopt by reference and add
Appendix Chapter A4
(Residential Voluntary
Measures) and Appendix
Chapter A5
(Nonresidential Voluntary
Measures) of the 2022
California Green Building
Standards Code appendices.

These appendices provide the prerequisite and applicable elective measures to achieve the Tier 1 level of compliance. The tier 1 requirements (excluding Tier 1 - Energy measures) are recommended to promote a higher level of sustainability in construction while maintaining the cost effectiveness of energy code requirements set forth by the California Energy Commission.
1,4 1
Amend the title and
explanatory note of Appendix
A4.

Clarifies the title to reflect that the appendix provides supplementary residential mandatory and elective measures rather than voluntary measures. 1,4 1
Amend Appendix Section
A4.201.1
This change is needed to clarify that the provisions contained in Appendix A4 Division A4.2 (Energy Efficiency Measures) are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.
1,4 1
Amend Item 2 in Appendix
Section A4.601.4.2
This amendment clarifies that the Tier 1 Energy Efficiency measures do not apply. 1,4 1 Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend the note in the last
paragraph of Appendix
Section A4.601.4.2
This amendment clarifies that the building department may develop and require completed forms to show CALGreen compliance.
1,4 1
Delete Appendix Section
A4.602 (Residential
Occupancies Application
Checklist)
Checklists for CALGreen +Tier 1 will be customized for the City of Sonoma, therefore, the code provided checklist is not needed.
1,4 1
Delete Appendix Division
A4.7
This deletes a division which contains a model ordinance which is not necessary in the code.
1,4 1
Amend the title and
explanatory note of Appendix
A5
Clarifies the title to reflect that the appendix provides supplementary nonresidential mandatory and elective measures, rather than voluntary measures. 1,4 1
Amend Appendix Section
A5.201.1
This change is needed to clarify that the provisions contained in Appendix A5 Division A5.2 (Energy Efficiency Measures) are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.
1,4 1
Amend Appendix Section
A5.601.2.3
This change is needed to clarify that the provisions contained in Appendix A5 Division A5.2 (Energy Efficiency Measures) are entirely voluntary and are intended only as a means to encourage buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.
1,4 1
Amend the first paragraph in
Appendix Section A5.601.2.4
The amendment is needed to clarify that the Tier 1 requirements are not voluntary. 1,4 1 Delete Appendix Section
A5.602 (Nonresidential
Occupancies Application
Checklist)
Checklists for CALGreen +Tier 1 will be customized for the City of Sonoma, therefore, the code provided checklist is not needed.
1,4 1
2025 California Existing Building Code
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend subsection 506.1. and
delete subsection 506.1.1
related to a change of
occupancy in existing
buildings.

This amendment is necessary to clarify that the requirements of the California Existing Building Code apply to buildings undergoing a change in use or occupancy.

It also clarifies that the structural requirements of Chapter 16 of the California Building Code do not apply to existing buildings undergoing a change of use unless otherwise required by section 506.4 of the California Existing Building Code. The change is needed to clarify the scope and application of the California Existing Building Code as it applies to a change of use or occupancy. 1,2,3,4 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter A1 –
Seismic Strengthening
Provisions for Unreinforced
Masonry Bearing Wall
Buildings
This appendix chapter is needed to provide appropriate alternative design criteria and requirements for Seismic Strengthening of for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings and provide conformance with the City’s Unreinforced Masonry Building ordinance (SMC Chapter 14.24).
2 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter A2 –
Earthquake Hazard
Reduction in Existing
Reinforced Concrete and
Reinforced Masonry Wall
Buildings with Flexible
Diaphragms
This appendix chapter is needed to provide appropriate alternative design criteria and requirements for the reduction of earthquake hazards in certain existing reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings. This appendix chapter can be used as alternative structural provisions for buildings subject to Chapter 14.24 of the Sonoma Municipal Code - Review, Rehabilitation and Abatement of Existing Seismically Unsafe Buildings.
2 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter A3 –
Prescriptive Provisions for
Seismic Strengthening of
Cripple Walls and Sill Plate
Anchorage of Light WoodFrame Residential Buildings
This appendix chapter is needed to provide appropriate alternative design criteria and voluntary requirements for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light Wood-Frame Residential Buildings.
2 1
Adopt Appendix Chapter A4 –
Earthquake Risk Reduction in
Wood-Frame Residential
Buildings with Soft, Weak or
Open Front Walls.

This appendix chapter is needed to provide appropriate alternative design criteria and voluntary requirements for Earthquake Risk Reduction in Wood-Frame Residential Buildings with Soft, Weak or Open Front Walls.
2 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

Exhibit B
Reasons for Local Amendments

Code / Action / Section to be
Added or Amended
[NEW] Identifies a
substantive new
amendment not
previously adopted by
the City Council.

Reason for Amendment Finding of
Necessity #
17958(b),
17958.5(c)
and
17958.7(c)
Finding
Amend the first sentence in
Appendix Chapter A3 Section
A301.2 regarding Prescriptive
Provisions for Seismic
Strengthening of Cripple
Walls and Sill Plate
Anchorage of Light WoodFrame Residential Buildings
This amendment is needed to establish that the provisions of Appendix Chapter A3 (Prescriptive Provisions for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light Wood-Frame Residential Buildings) are voluntary. 2 1
Amend the first sentence in
Appendix Chapter A4 Section
A401.2 regarding Earthquake
Risk Reduction in WoodFrame Residential Buildings
with Soft, Weak or Open
Front Walls.

This amendment is needed to establish that the provisions of Appendix Chapter A4 (Prescriptive Provisions for Seismic Strengthening of Cripple Walls and Sill Plate Anchorage of Light Wood-Frame Residential Buildings) are voluntary. 2 1
Agenda Item #8.1:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 03 Dec 2025
Department
Community Development
Department
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP
Community Development Director
Agenda Item Title
Study Session to Discuss Options for Mobilehome Park Closures and Conversions Under the City of Sonoma Municipal Code and Recent Legislative Changes Under AB 2782 and SB 610 Summary
Key Areas for Discussion

1. Mandatory Relocation Impact Report (RIR)
Provide more specificity on what is contained in the RIR and the relocation plan? Any person applying to change the use, close, or cease operations of a mobilehome park must file a comprehensive Mobilehome Relocation Impact Report (RIR). Applications will not be considered complete until this report is filed and approved. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance contains more specificity regarding what is required in the RIR and the required relocation plan.

The example ordinances provide a range of level of specificity.

2. Notification and Timeline
Require additional, or extend timing of noticing requirements pre or post application submittal?
The City’s current notice to provide the mobilehome owners and residents the RIR 15 days before the hearing will change to at least 60 days in compliance with the state law. The City can modify other deadlines and noticing periods including if a noticing must be sent to mobilehome owners before application submittal. The example cities provided a variety of noticing timelines for pre-application, before public hearing, and post hearing.

Change City Manager to Director of Community Development? Currently the City Manager is identified as the lead, however most jurisdictions identify the Planning or Community Development Director as the lead to process the applications.

Add an approval expiration and extension procedure.

The City’s code does not currently have a period of time for the permit to be executed before expiring and an extension procedure. The standard period for development permits in Sonoma is 2 years.

3. Relocation and Payments
Clarify components of the relocation plan to determine and identify appropriate relocation assistance?
State law provides a “replacement and relocation plan that adequately mitigates the impact upon the ability of the displaced residents of the mobilehome park to be converted or closed to Agenda Item #9.1:

find adequate housing in a mobilehome park” is to be provided with the RIR. Some jurisdictions provide more detail on what is to be included in the relocation plan provided as part of the RIR.

Require a housing specialist to be identified to assist? The City currently requires the RIR include a list of potential housing specialists to assist park residents with relocation. Some jurisdictions and the Sonoma Tri-Park Committee ordinance require the owner to pay for a housing specialist to help prepare the relocation plan and assist the homeowners and residents.

Clarify timing when the payments shall be made?
The Tri-Park Committee ordinance requires the payments be made not less than 90 days before the date to vacate the mobilehome park.

Identify provision of additional relocation assistance for low income households and/or disabled households?
Some jurisdictions provide specific types of relocation assistance for low-income and/or disabled households that could be included in the relocation plan.

Expand comparable parks to include those within a certain radius of the City and/or other counties?
The Tri-Park Committee ordinance identifies comparable parks to be up to a distance of 20 miles or in Sonoma or Napa Counties and of similar Cal EPA’s CalEnviroScreen score.

Currently, the City’s code states comparable parks are only those in Sonoma County.

4. Valuation / Appraisal
Appraiser selected and managed by the City or approved list provided to select from? Currently the City has the consultant preparing the RIR to complete or have the appraisal completed for the “fair market value” of each mobilehome. The state law just requires that the “in-place market value” must be appraised by a state certified appraiser and submitted as part of the RIR.

Should the scope of the appraisal include the park?
The proposed ordinance from the Tri-Park Committee includes an appraisal for the mobilehome park to be included in the RIR comparing values. Two of the four example jurisdictions require this.

5. Review Procedures and Findings
Planning Commission or City Council to approve? Allow for appeals to Council? Currently the City requires approval by City Council along with most jurisdictions. However, the City Council can identify the Planning Commission as the approval body. This would allow for an appeal process to City Council.

How to involve mobilehome owners and residents in the process? Currently the City only requires standard noticing and public hearing. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance provides for additional opportunity during the public hearing for residents so it is equal to the applicant.

Should development be reviewed concurrently with a closure/conversion? Agenda Item #9.1:

Currently the City states an RIR is to be provided with a change of use request. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance requires a special use permit to be considered concurrent with the required development approvals or an additional finding is required in the instance that no development is concurrently proposed. The example jurisdictions provide a variety of treatments from development must be heard after the closure request to allowing development agreements concurrently with the closure request.

Should decision be made at the public hearing or time given for consideration after close of the public hearing?
A few jurisdictions and the Tri-Park Committee ordinance allow for a decision to be made after the close of the public hearing, but within 60 – 90 days.

Should conditions necessary to mitigate impacts be required? The City’s current wording is that conditions may be necessary. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance requires conditions to mitigate while other example ordinances state findings should include conditions necessary to mitigate.

6. Consistency Findings (Housing Element/RHNA/ lower income housing availability) Should language be strengthened to require denial if housing availability negatively impacted or require conditions to mitigate impact.

State law requires that the a finding shall be made as to whether a closure will result in or materially contribute to a shortage of housing opportunities and choices for low- and moderate income households. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance proposes a finding that the closure will not reduce affordable housing stock to the extent that the closure/conversion would be inconsistent with the Housing Element.

7. Resident Purchase / Right of First Refusal (ROFR)
Add ROFR to the RIR information if being provided? Add ROFR as a potential relocation assistance option?
The City currently requires the Council to make a finding regarding if ROFR is provided.

However, the codes does not specify in the RIR or the relocation plan any information to be submitted.

8. Public Outreach
Require resident/mobilehome owner questionnaire to be included in the RIR? The RIR requires information on each mobilehome, its owner, and its occupants to be provided.

Most of the example jurisdictions and the Tri-Park Committee ordinance require questionnaires be completed by the mobilehome owner and occupant households and provided with the RIR.

Require an informational meeting held by the applicant for the affected mobilehome owners and residents before the public hearing?
The Tri-Park Committee ordinance proposes to require a community meeting be held by the applicant at least 30 days before the public hearing and attended by City staff.

9. Enforcement Tools
Require recordation of agreement and/or require affidavit of compliance completeness before issuance of building permit?
Agenda Item #9.1:

The City currently requires a written agreement to ensure compliance, but it is not required to be recorded nor does the ordinance clearly state when the compliance need to be completed by. The Tri-Park Committee ordinance provides that the mitigation measures are to be completed before issuance of building permits. The example jurisdictions also tie the completion of mitigation before construction and some require recorded or written letters stating that they have complied.

10. Reconsideration
Include a revocation process?
Most jurisdictions and the Tri-Park Committee ordinance include a revocation process.

11. Other
Add provision for exemption from relocation assistance requirements based on reasonable use or economic value?
The Tri-Park Committee ordinance and a couple example ordinances allow for an exemption from relocation assistance. State law requires an exemption for bankruptcy.

Add additional finding for closure not heard concurrently with a change of use? The Tri-Park Committee ordinance requires an additional finding be made if a change of use in not heard concurrently.

Next Steps
Staff is requesting direction and any further questions or requests for additional information.

We will take the direction provided and present a draft ordinance in the early 2026. City staff will continue to work with residents and park owners through the process to ensure everyone has the time and forum to provide input before a public hearing.

Recommended Council Action
Provide direction to City staff on ordinance changes.

Alternative Actions
At Council discretion.

Financial Impact
Not applicable.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
MH Option Matrix
Agenda Item #9.1:

MH Jurisdictions Matrix
City of Sonoma Ordinance 05-2004
Watsonville Ord
Yucaipa Ord
Oxnard Ord
Goleta Ord
Tri Park Committee MH Owners and Residents Comment Letter MH Park Owners Comment Letter
Agenda Item #9.1:

Mobilehome Park Conversion AB 2782 Compliance Options
Category Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 9.82
(Mobilehome Park Conversions) Adopted
2004
AB 2782 & Other State Law
Requirements
Proposed Ordinance Requested by Tri
Park Committee, Mobilehome Owners
and Residents
Options for Consideration
Relocation Impact Report (RIR) City selects consultant to prepare; Paid by applicant; Includes the replacement
information and relocation plan prepared
by the consultant.

RIR submitted by applicant; must
demonstrate adequate mitigation
Director selects consultant to prepare;
Paid by applicant; Includes the
replacement and relocation plan prepared
by the consultant.

Provide more specificity on what is
contained in the RIR and the relocation
plan?
Notice & Timeline • City to select a consultant to perform the RIR within 90 days of written request
from applicant;
• City manager shall schedule a public
hearing on the relocation impact report
before the city council within 30 days of
receiving the relocation impact report;
• City shall notify applicant at least 30
days prior to any hearing of the
notification requirements for
owners/residents;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobilehome owner and resident in the
affected park at least 30 days prior to
the hearing by the applicant;
• RIR to be provided to each mobilehome
owner and resident in the affected park
at least 15 days prior to the hearing by
the applicant;
• No expiration.
• RIR provided to the residents and
mobilehome owners at least 60 days
prior to the hearing;
• After all required permits are obtained
the management shall give the
homeowners six months’ or more written
notice of termination of tenancy; if
change of use requires no permits,
notice of change of use shall be 12
months.
• Notice provided to mobilehome owners
at least 30 days prior to the date of filing
an application;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobile home owner in the affected park
at least 45 days prior to the hearing;
• At least thirty 30 days before the
hearing on the application for a “special
use permit” for conversion or closure,
the park owner shall conduct an
informational meeting;
• Record a certificate within 90 days of
the final action;
• Notice of termination of tenancy given
within 120 days for the 6 or 12 month
notice of the termination of tenancy and
closure of the park per state law.
• Expiration 2 years.
• Require additional, or extend timing of
noticing requirements pre or post
application submittal?
• Change City Manager to Director of
Community Development?
• Add an approval expiration and
extension procedure.

Relocation and Payments Shall not exceed the reasonable cost of relocation; RIR to include comparable
parks and replacement housing in
Sonoma County; relocation costs up to
maximum distance of 50 miles; list of
housing specialists to be provided in RIR;
Relocation assistance to be paid as of or
after application is filed or date of closure.

In-place market-value compensation for
homes that can’t relocate.

Mitigation benefits shall not exceed the
reasonable cost of relocation; A relocation
counselor, selected by the City and paid
for by the park owner, to assist; RIR to
include comparable parks (defined in the
code) up to a distance of 20 miles, or in
Sonoma or Napa Counties and use of
Cal EPA’s CalEnviroScreen score; To
be paid not less than ninety (90) days
prior to the date that the homeowner is
required to vacate the mobile home park.
• Clarify components of the relocation
plan to determine and identify
appropriate relocation assistance?
• Require a housing specialist to be
identified to assist?
• Clarify timing when the payments shall
be made?
• Identify provision of additional relocation
assistance for low income households
and/or disabled households?
• Expand comparable parks to include
those within a certain radius of the City
and/or other counties?
Agenda Item #9.1:

Mobilehome Park Conversion AB 2782 Compliance Options
Category Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 9.82
(Mobilehome Park Conversions) Adopted
2004
AB 2782 & Other State Law
Requirements
Proposed Ordinance Requested by Tri
Park Committee, Mobilehome Owners
and Residents
Options for Consideration
Valuation / Appraisal Consultant preparing RIR to provide appraisal in RIR; Estimate of the fair
market value of each mobilehome and all
associated fixed property that cannot be
relocated to a comparable mobilehome
park
In-place market value shall be
determined by a state-certified appraiser
with experience establishing the value of
mobilehomes; submitted as part of the
RIR; paid for by the applicant
City selects appraiser; Paid by applicant;
Appraisal to include (aa) value if it is
continued in its use as a rental mobile
home park, (ab) value if it is used for the
highest and best special use permitted by
the current zoning for the site, and (ac)
value if the new zoning requested by the
park owner is approved.
• Appraiser selected and managed by the
City or approved list provided to select
from?
• Should the scope of the appraisal
include the park?
Review Procedures and Findings Standard findings; Final decision by City Council; All interested parties allowed to
present evidence; May include conditions
necessary to mitigate; RIR required to be
filed concurrently with a permit
application that modifies use of a MHP;
may include conditions necessary to
mitigate impacts.

Approval by the legislative body or
delegated advisory agency required.

The homeowners will be given equal time
with the park owner in presentations in
the hearing; each side and the City have
the right to cross-examine expert
witnesses; Special use permit for
conversion or closure is to be considered
concurrently with the required
development permit(s) or approval(s) for
the new intended use; 60 days after the
close of the public hearing to issue a
decision; Standard findings with Housing
Element consistency finding; Final
decision to be made by City Council;
require conditions of approval to mitigate.
• Planning Commission or City Council to
approve?
• Allow for appeals to Council?
• How to involve mobilehome owners and
residents in the process?
• Should development be reviewed
concurrently with a closure/conversion?
• Should decision be made at the public
hearing or time given for consideration
after close of the public hearing?
• Should conditions necessary to mitigate
impacts be required?
Consistency Findings (Housing
Element / RHNA/ lower income
housing availability)
Not Included Finding on whether a closure will result in or materially contribute to a shortage of
housing opportunities and choices for
low- and moderate-income households
within the local jurisdiction.

Adds requirement that closure approval
must be consistent with Housing Element
and not reduce affordable housing stock.

Should language be strengthened to not
approve if impacted or require conditions
to mitigate impact.

Resident Purchase / Right of First
Refusal (ROFR)
Finding as to whether units are made
available for purchase or rent on or
offsite.

Not required. Option for ROFR may be
provided when subdivision map is applied
for.

Not Addressed • Add ROFR to the RIR information if
being provided?
• Add ROFR as a potential relocation
assistance option?
Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees /
Preservation
Relocation assistance option - setting
aside a certain number of affordable units
for the residents of the park, if the park is
to be converted to another residential
use; or providing a certain number of
affordable units on-site or off-site, if the
park is to be converted to a use other
than residential.

Not required. Not Addressed
Agenda Item #9.1:

Mobilehome Park Conversion AB 2782 Compliance Options
Category Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 9.82
(Mobilehome Park Conversions) Adopted
2004
AB 2782 & Other State Law
Requirements
Proposed Ordinance Requested by Tri
Park Committee, Mobilehome Owners
and Residents
Options for Consideration
Public Outreach Nothing in addition to noticing and public hearing
One public hearing required. Requires occupant and homeowner questionnaire responses; Community
meeting prior to public hearing
• Require resident/mobilehome owner
questionnaire to be included in the RIR?
• Require an informational meeting held
by the applicant for the affected
mobilehome owners and residents prior
to the public hearing?
Enforcement Tools Written agreement with the City to ensure compliance
Not specified. Completion of mitigation measures prior
to issuance of building permits;
Require recordation of agreement and/or
require affidavit of compliance
completeness prior to issuance of building
permit?
Appeal / Reconsideration Not specified. Not specified. Revocation process. Include a revocation process? Other Bankruptcy Exemption; Identifies option
of setting aside affordable units on or
offsite.

Bankruptcy exemption; Specific
requirements apply when a subdivision
map is processed prior to closure.

Exemption from relocation assistance
requirements based on reasonable use or
economic value; Additional finding if
closure is not concurrently being
requested with the change of use.
• Add provision for exemption from
relocation assistance requirements
based on reasonable use or economic
value?
• Add additional finding for closure not
heard concurrently with a change of
use?
Administrative Cost Recovery City cost-recovery fees; administration fees.

Reasonable fees may be established. City cost-recovery fees; Administrative fees
No change to existing Code
Agenda Item #9.1:

Mobilehome Park Conversion Code Examples
Category Watsonville Municipal Code Chapter 4
(Mobile Home Park Conversions or
Closures) Adopted 2024
Yucaipa Municipal Code Article 3.5
(Conversion to Mobilehome Park to Other
Uses) Adopted 2016, amended 2023
Goleta Municipal Code Chapter 8.17
(Mobilehome Park Closure) Adopted
2016, amended 2020
Oxnard Municipal Code Article II
(Mobile Home Park Closures)
Relocation Impact Report (RIR) Director selects consultant to prepare; Paid by applicant; Includes the
replacement and relocation plan prepared
by the consultant.

Relocation specialist to prepare and
applicant to provide.

Applicant provides the report. Applicant provides the report; Includes the replacement and relocation plan
prepared for or by the applicant.

Notice & Timeline • Notice provided to mobilehome owners at least 30 days prior to the date of filing
an application;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobile home owner in the affected park
at least 45 days prior to the hearing;
• At least thirty 30 days before the
hearing on the application for a “special
use permit” for conversion or closure,
the park owner shall conduct an
informational meeting;
• Record a certificate within 90 days of
the final action;
• Notice of termination of tenancy given
within 120 days for the 6 or 12 month
notice of the closure of the park per
state law.
• Expiration 2 years.
• Notice provided to mobilehome owners
and residents at least 30 days prior to
the date of filing an application to
include pre-conversion questionnaire;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobilehome owner and resident in the
affected park at least 30 days prior to
the hearing paid for by the applicant;
• Record a certificate within 30 days of
the final action.
• Expiration 2 years.
• Director shall set a time, date and place
for a hearing before the Planning
Commission within 60 days of
determination of completeness;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobile home owner in the affected park
at least fifteen (15) days prior to the
hearing.
• Expiration 1 year.
• Notice provided to mobilehome owners
and residents at least 90 days prior to
the date of filing an application;
• Notice of the hearing to be sent to each
mobile home owner in the affected park
at least 30 days prior to the hearing;
• Written notices will be mailed to all
residents residing in
the mobile home park by city staff within
ten days after the approval of
a mobile home park paid for by the
applicant;
• Notice of termination of tenancy given
within 120 days for the 6 or 12 month
notice of the closure of the park per
state law.
• Expiration 2 years.

Relocation and Payments Mitigation benefits shall not exceed the reasonable cost of relocation; A relocation
counselor, selected by the City and paid
for by the park owner, to assist; RIR to
include comparable parks (defined in the
code) up to a distance of 20 miles, or in
Santa Clara or Santa Cruz Counties
and use of Cal EPA’s CalEnviroScreen
score; To be paid not less than ninety
(90) days prior to the date that the
homeowner is required to vacate the
mobile home park.

RIR to include comparable parks and
replacement housing up to a distance of
15 miles; relocation costs up to maximum
distance of 15 miles; additional
assistance for disabled households
Identification of a relocation specialist
from Director provided list and paid for by
the park owner; replacement housing up
to a distance of 100 miles; relocation
costs up to maximum distance of 50
miles; additional assistance for seniors
and low income households.

Relocation benefits must bear a
relationship to the cost of displaced
residents' finding alternative housing and
will be determined on a case-by-case
basis.

Valuation / Appraisal City selects appraiser; Paid by applicant; Appraisal to include (aa) value if it is
continued in its use as a rental mobile
home park, (ab) value if it is used for the
highest and best special use permitted by
the current zoning for the site, and (ac)
value if the new zoning requested by the
park owner is approved.

For any eligible mobilehome owner
whose home cannot be relocated to a
comparable park within 15 miles, the
applicant shall hire a mobilehome
appraiser from a list provided by the
Director to determine the in-place value of
the mobilehome.

For any eligible mobilehome owner
whose home cannot be relocated to a
comparable park within 50 miles, the
applicant shall hire a mobilehome
appraiser from a list provided by the
Director to determine the in-place value of
the mobilehome.

An appraisal of the park if continued in
use as a mobilehome park and an
appraisal of the park site if used for the
highest and best use permitted by the
zoning for the site or any new zoning
Appraised fair market value as
determined by a qualified, independent
appraiser, as approved by the city.

Agenda Item #9.1:

Mobilehome Park Conversion Code Examples
Category Watsonville Municipal Code Chapter 4
(Mobile Home Park Conversions or
Closures) Adopted 2024
Yucaipa Municipal Code Article 3.5
(Conversion to Mobilehome Park to Other
Uses) Adopted 2016, amended 2023
Goleta Municipal Code Chapter 8.17
(Mobilehome Park Closure) Adopted
2016, amended 2020
Oxnard Municipal Code Article II
(Mobile Home Park Closures)
being requested by the park owner. The
appraiser shall be selected by the park
owner from a list provided by the Director,
and shall be paid by the park owner.

Review Procedures and Findings The homeowners will be given equal time with the park owner in presentations in
the hearing; each side and the City have
the right to cross-examine expert
witnesses; 60 days after the close of the
public hearing to issue a decision;
Standard findings with Housing Element
consistency finding; Final decision to be
made by City Council; require conditions
of approval to mitigate.

Standard findings; Director shall either
approve the conversion permit
ministerially (if consisting of
residential uses) Final decision to be
made by Council for DOR/MOU
applications (mixed-use); 90 days after
the close of the public hearing to issue a
decision; To include conditions necessary
to mitigate.

Standard findings; Recommendation to
be made by Planning Commission;
Final decision to be made by City
Council; To include conditions necessary
to mitigate; Development applications
have to be held after Closure hearing.

Standard findings; Final decision to be
made by Commission; To include
conditions necessary to mitigate.

Consistency Findings (Housing
Element / RHNA)
Adds requirement that closure approval
must be consistent with Housing Element
and not reduce affordable housing stock.

Adds requirement that closure approval
must be consistent with General Plan.

Not Included Not Included
Resident Purchase / Right of First
Refusal (ROFR)
Not Addressed Not Addressed Relocation assistance shall include the right of first refusal to purchase or rent
new homes or apartments to be
constructed on the park site.

Not Addressed
Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees /
Preservation
Not Addressed Not Addressed Not Addressed Not Addressed Public Outreach Requires occupant and homeowner
questionnaire responses; Community
meeting prior to public hearing
Requires occupant and homeowner
questionnaire responses
Requires occupant and homeowner
questionnaire responses
Nothing in addition to notice and public
hearing
Enforcement Tools Completion of mitigation measures prior to issuance of building permits;
Written letter of compliance required
before issuance of building permits.

Not Addressed Affidavit of compliance required prior to the commencement of any construction.

Appeal / Reconsideration Not Specified Only specified for Director approval of an extension.

Not Specified Appeal to City Council within 21 days of
Commission action.

Other Exemption from relocation assistance
requirements based on reasonable use or
economic value.

Application procedures for a Development
Opportunity Reserve (DOR) and
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to
implement the DOR for the proposed
conversion of use of an eligible park may
be submitted concurrently with, or
subsequent to the approval of a
conversion.

Standards for closure due to reduced
occupancy; Exemption from relocation
assistance requirements.

Administrative Cost Recovery City cost-recovery fees; City cost-recovery fees; administration fees.

Administration fees Administration fees
Agenda Item #9.1:

CITYOF SONOMA
ORDINANCE NO. 05 - 2004

AN ORDINANCEOF THE CITYCOUNCILOF THE CITY OF SONOMA

ESTABLISHINGREGULATIONS ON THE CONVERSION OF

MOBILEHOMEPARKS TO OTHER USES
WHEREAS, there are three mobilehome parks withinthe City of Sonoma; and WHEREAS, these mobilehome parks represent a significant stock of affordable housing; and WHEREAS, State law authorizes local jurisdictions to regulate the conversion of mobilehome parks to ensure that the rights of mobilehome park residents are protected.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Sonoma does ordain as follows:

Section 1. A new Chapter of the Sonoma Municipal Code, Chapter 9.82, is hereby established as set forth below:

Chapter 9.82
Mobile Home Park Conversions

9.82.010 Purpose and Intent.

A. Where a person proposes to convert an existing mobilehome park to another use or to close a mobilehome park or to cease using land as a mobilehome park, current provisions of state law, as set forth in Government Code Section 65863.7 and Civil Code Section 798.56, authorize the city to require the person proposing the change of use to file and distribute a report on the impact of such change and further authorize the city to require measures to be undertaken to mitigate the adverse effects of the change of use upon the tenants of the mobilehome park who would be displaced by such change.

The city council finds and determines that unless mitigation measures are undertaken, the conversion, closure or cessation of use of mobilehome parks could have a substantial adverse effect upon park residents in terms of cost of relocation, scarcity of similar comparable housing within a reasonable proximity to the city, and the significantly higher costs of other types of housing in the immediate area if park residents cannot relocate to other mobilehome parks.

It is the intent and purpose of the city council in adopting this chapter to establish reasonable rules and regulations in accordance with the authority granted by state law to mitigate the adverse effects of relocation upon mobilehome park residents who are confronted with a proposed change of use for their mobilehome park or portions of the park and so that the owners and occupants of mobilehomes and the owners of mobilehome parks understand their rights and responsibilities in such situations.

Agenda Item #9.1:

S 9.82.015 Definitions.
“Applicant”means the person(s), firm(s), entity(ies) or corporation(s) applying for any application for the purpose of converting, changing to another use, closing, or ceasing to use land as a mobilehome park. If the owner of the controlling interest in a mobilehome park is not the applicant, then the applicant must provide evidence of the controlling owner's consent to the filing of the application.
“Cessation of use of land as a mobilehome park” means a decision by the owner(s) of a mobilehome park to discontinue the use of property as a mobilehome park which is not an adjudication of bankruptcy.
“Closure of a mobilehome park” means one of the following:

A. A closure of a mobilehome park occurs when less than seventy-five percent of the occupiable spaces are leased by qualified homeowners as defined in the Mobi|e—home Residency Law (Civil Code Section 798 et seq.). However, upon application of a mobilehome park owner, the city council may, in its absolute discretion and upon a finding of good cause, determine that a closure of a mobilehome park is not occurring, notwithstanding that less than seventy-five percent of the occupiable spaces are leased.

Any such application by the mobilehome park owner shall be accompanied by an estimate of a qualified appraiser as to the fair market value of the mobi|ehome(s) and all associated fixed property for which the foregoing exemption is requested. The appraiser's estimate shall conform to the requirements of Section 9.82.030(C)(12).

B. Notwithstanding the provisions set forth above in subsection (A), a closure of a mobilehome park occurs when the city council, in its absolutediscretion and upon a finding of good cause, determines that the mobilehome park owner has acted and/or has failed to act in a manner which would cause a reasonable person to conclude that the mobilehome park owner intends to eliminate or reduce mobilehome spaces available for rent to the general public. Such acts or omissions include, but are not limited to, the withholding of available mobilehome spaces under the control of the mobilehome park owner, and statements by authorized agents and representatives of the mobilehome park owner to prospective buyers of the mobilehome park that the mobilehome park is being closed by the mobilehome park owner.
“Comparable housing” means housing which is comparable in floor area and number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and other rooms to the mobilehome to which comparison is being made, which housing meets the minimumstandards of the Uniform Housing Code. “Comparable mobilehome park” means any other mobilehome park within Sonoma County, substantially equal in terms of park amenities, rent and proximity to services. “Conversion of a mobilehome park” means changing the use of a mobile home park for a purpose other than the rental, or the holding out for rent, of two or more mobile home sites to accommodate mobile homes used for human habitation. A conversion shall include, but not be limited to, a change of any existing mobile home park or any portion thereof to condominium, stock cooperative, planned unit development, or any form of ownership wherein spaces within the mobile home park are to be sold, or the cessation of use of all or a portion of the park as a mobile home park, whether immediately or on a gradual basis, or the closure of a park.

Agenda Item #9.1:

“Conversion of a mobilehome park” shall not include a conversion of a mobilehome park to resident ownership.
“Conversion of.a mobilehome park to resident ownership” means a sale, transfer or assignment of a mobilehome park either directly or indirectly in whole or in part to mobilehome park’s homeowners and prospective homeowners for the benefit of the mobilehome park’s homeowners and prospective homeowners. A conversion of a mobilehome park to resident ownership may include but not be limited to, conversion of the community to a subdivision, condominiums, planned development, community apartments, stock cooperative, other form of corporate ownership, or by a non-profit organization qualified pursuant to Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3 for the homeowners’ or prospective homeowners’ benefit. Notwithstanding any provision in this Ordinance to the contrary, in the event the conversion of a mobilehome park to resident ownership is by a non~profit corporation qualified under Internal Revenue Code 501 (c)3, homeowners may or may not have the right to participate through direct ownership of the mobilehome park and the nonprofit shall not be required to make an offer of participation to the homeowners.
“lmpact report” means a report required by California Government Code Sections 65863.7 and 66427.4, as applicable, and containing the information set forth in Section 9.82.030(C). “lmpact report” does not include the impact required by Government Code Section 66427.5(b) for conversion to resident ownership.
“Homeowner” means the owner(s) of a mobilehome.
“Long-term lot” means any mobilehome lot that has been occupied by the same mobilehome for at least nine of the twelve months priorto the adoption of this chapter. “Mobilehome” means a vehicle designed or used for human habitation and shall include camping trailers, motorhomes, slide-in campers and trailers, when used as the occupant's principal place of residence, and mobile-homes as defined in Health & Safety Code Section 18211.
“Mobilehome lot" means any area or tract of land, or portion thereof, occupied or held out for occupancy by one mobilehome that is not owned by the park owner. “Mobilehome park” means any area or tract of land where ten or more mobilehome lots are rented or leased or held out for rent or lease to accommodate mobile-homes used for human habitation.
“Resident” means a homeowner or tenant.
“Tenant” means a person who occupies a mobilehome within a mobilehome park pursuant to a bona fide lease or rental agreement and who, during his or her tenancy, is not the owner or member of theimmediate household of the owner of the mobilehome.

9.82.020 Applicability.

For applications involving the redevelopment, closure, or conversion of a mobile home park that include a subdivision map, the provisions of Chapter 9.84 shall apply. The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply to such applications, except as specifically referenced in Chapter 9.84.

Agenda Item #9.1:

9.82.025 Disclosure of Notification Requirements.

When an application has been made to the city for the redevelopment, closure or conversion of a mobile home park, the city shall inform the applicant, in writing, of local regulations regarding notifications to residents and mobilehome owners within the affected park, as well as the notification requirements set forth in Section 798.56 of the Civil Code. This disclosure shall be made at least thirty days prior to any hearing on the application or the relocation impact report.

No hearing on the application or shall be held or any other action on the application taken until the applicant has satisfactorily verified that required notices have been provided.

9.82.030 Relocation impact report required.

A. Any person who files an application with the city for a general plan amendment or for a rezoning of land use type or density, or for approval of a conditional use permit or any other application for the purpose of converting a mobilehome park to another use, close a mobilehome park or cease to use land as a mobilehome park, shall concurrently file with the city a mobilehome relocation impact report that complies with this section. No such applications shall be considered or deemed complete or processed for consideration or approved unless and until such relocation impact report is filed and approved in accordance with this chapter.

At any time at which the occupancy of a mobilehome park is such that it meets the definition of “closure” as set forth in this chapter, the owner shall immediately provide written notification to the city of the event and shall either file a request for the preparation of a relocation impact report or shall petition the city council to make a finding that a closure is not occurring as set forth in section 9.82.015(A).

The city shall select a consultant to perform the relocation impact report within ninety days of a written request from the applicant. The applicant shall be noticed in writing of the estimated cost of the relocation impact report and shall deposit that sum with the city prior to commencement of any work on the relocation impact report. The city willthen contract with a consultant for the preparation of the relocation impact report. Once an application is filed, the residents of the mobilehome park shall be notified by the city that an application has been filed and that the preparation of a relocation impact report will be required. The relocation impact report shall contain, but need not be limited to, the following information:

1. A legal description of the property.

2. A map and a detailed description of the condition of the mobilehome park, including the nature and location of structures, landscaping, easements, utilities and other onsite features and amenities. . 3. The names and addresses of all mobilehome owners within the park (including absentee mobilehome owners), as shown on the rental agreement for the mobilehome park spaces, and the names and addresses of all mobilehome tenants within the park as of the date of the application.

4. The characteristics of each mobile home within the park, listed by space numberand address, including the date of manufacture, type, width, living area, and number of bedrooms.

Agenda Item #9.1:

10. 11.

12. 13.

14. 15.

16. The number of spaces within the park, length of occupancy by the current occupant of each space and the current lease rate for each space.

The total number of mobilehome residents, listed by space identifying owner or renter occupancy, principal or second home occupancy, and the number of residents who are physically disabled, including the chronically ill.

A description of the proposed new use and all discretionary approvals necessary therefor, if any.

The proposed timetable for conversion, closure or cessation of use of the land as a mobilehome park and for obtaining other discretionary approvals for the proposed use, ifany.

The location of all comparable mobilehome parks within Sonoma County, including the park name, number of lots, number of vacancies, lease rates and terms, policies and restrictions on the type of mobilehomes and residents accepted, amenities offered and proximityto services (bus stops, grocery stores, hospitals, etc.).

A determination based on the information provided in subdivisions (4), (5) and (9) of this subsection of the total number of mobilehome units that are eligible to be relocated to a comparable mobilehome park.

The estimated cost of relocating the mobilehomes identified in subdivision (10) of this subsection to available lots in mobilehome parks within the study area. The cost of relocating shall include the costs of dismantling, packing, moving, reassembling, rebuilding and unpacking, as necessary, the mobilehome, all personal property, skirting, tie-downs and all other associated structures and property.

An estimate of the fair market value of each mobilehome and all associated fixed property that cannot be relocated to a comparable mobilehome park. in determining fair market value, the consultant shall consider the mobilehomes in their current locations assuming the continuation of the mobilehome park in a safe, sanitary and well maintained condition with competitive lease rates. The consultant shall specify the basis for a conclusion that any mobilehome cannot be relocated to a mobilehome park and the basis for determining the value of the mobilehome. * The availability and cost of rental housingof comparable size and quality in the city of Sonoma for each mobilehome park tenant.

A relocation plan that will include a timetable for physically relocating the mobilehomes, or payment of relocation assistance.

Proposed measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the conversion upon each park resident based on Section 9.82.055.

A list of persons, firms and organizations with proven expertise in the fields of housing and relocation of persons displaced from housing. This list shall include the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and fee schedules of persons who are qualified as mobilehome movers and appraisers of mobilehomes. The information shall include an explanation of the services that the housing specialists can provide.

Agenda Item #9.1:

17. Any information which the city manager determines is necessary to address the specific issues raised by the application or the impact study and any information that may be necessary to implement provisions of this chapter.

9.82.035 Notice and distribution of relocation impact report.

Not less than fifteen days prior to a scheduled hearing before the city council, the park owner shall transmit to the owner or occupant of each mobilehome occupying a site within the mobilehome park and to all other persons described in Section 9.82.030(C)(3), a copy of the relocation impact report, a copy of this chapter, and notices of the dates, times and places of the public hearings or any informational meetings. The copies provided shall be free of charge.

Proof of service of distribution of the impact report to each resident must be filed by the applicant with the city manager seven days prior to the hearing and shall be signed under penalty of perjury.

9.82.040Notice to new residents.

When an application for a change of use and/or closure of a mobilehome park has been filed with the city, the park owner shall advise each prospective new resident who proposes to occupy a mobilehome within such park after the filing of such application, in writing, prior to the execution of a rental agreement or commencement of such occupancy whichever occurs first, that such application has been filed.

9.82.045 Hearing on relocation impact report.

A. When an application has been filed for a general plan amendment, rezoning, or conditional use permit for the proposed change of use and/or closure of a mobilehome park, the city manager shall schedule a public hearing on the relocation impact report before the city council within thirty days of receiving the relocation impact report. The city council, in considering the relocation impact report, shall make written findings based on evidence regarding the factors outlined in Section 9.82.050. ‘
B. At the public hearing, all interested parties willbe allowed to present evidence to the city council on any aspect of the application. The evidence may include, but is not limited to, justification for the payment of relocation costs, including the fair market value of any mobilehome, evidence why a mobilehome cannot be relocated to a comparable mobilehome park, and similar information.

C. ifthe city council is unable to make findings consistent with Section 9.82.050 and is unable to impose reasonable measures as provided in Section 9.82.055 to mitigate the adverse impact(s) of relocation, the city council shall deny the application for the proposed conversion, closure or cessation of use. No other permit or approval shall be granted in furtherance of the proposed conversion, and no change of use, including cessation or closure, shall occur unless a relocation impact report has been approved.

9.82.050 Findings.

The city council, in considering the relocation impact report, shall accept and hear evidence, shall consider such evidence, and shall make written findings based on such evidence regarding each of the following factors and any other factors as it deems appropriate:

Agenda Item #9.1:

That the relocation impact report provides the information required by State law and this chapter and that it provides the city council with adequate information on the impacts of the park conversion in terms of disruption to affected residents and the methods available for addressing relocation needs.

That there will exist, at the time of conversion, closure or cessation of use available mobilehome lots within Sonoma County to accommodate the mobilehomes to be displaced.

That adequate options are available for residents who would be disrupted by the conversion.

That the relocation plan provides for reasonable costs of relocation based on the findings of the relocation impact report.

If the proposed conversion is to another residential use, whether the residents of the mobilehome park will have an opportunity to purchase, if for sale, or rent the new units, and whether the construction schedule will result in unreasonably long-term displacements.

That the proposed conversion will not be detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare.

That all reports and notices required by law have been properly prepared and properly served.

9.82.055 Relocation assistance.
in approving a relocation impact report the city council may attach reasonable conditions in order to mitigate the impacts associated with the conversion, closure or cessation of use. The specific conditions of approval of a particular application shall be determined on an applicationby-application basis with regard to the acts and circumstances of the application, but shall not exceed the reasonable cost of relocation, as documented in the relocation impact report. The city council shall require the applicant to enter into a written agreement with the city to ensure compliance with and fulfillment of the conditions of approval, which may include but are not limitedto the following matters:

A. Payment of relocation assistance to each resident who resided in the mobilehome park as of and after the date the application is filed or the date a closure, conversion or cessation of use is deemed by the city council to have commenced.

Payment of the cost of physically moving the mobilehome to a new site, including teardown and setup of movable improvements such as patios, Carports and porches; packing, moving and unpacking all personal property; and in-transit costs for meals, lodging and gas.

Payment of a lump sum to compensate for payment of the first and last month rent and any security deposit at the new mobilehome park.

Agenda Item #9.1:

D. Payment of a lump sum to compensate for any differential between rental rates at the closing mobile-home park and the new mobilehome park during the first year of the new tenancy.

E. For tenants the costs may include all reasonable expenses incurred in moving to a new location, up to a maximum distance of fiftymiles.

F. For homeowners who are unable to reasonably relocate their mobilehome, payment of fair market value for their mobilehome, based on information contained in the approved relocation impact report.

G. Setting aside a certain number of affordable units for the residents of the park, ifthe park is to be converted to another residential use; or providing a certain number of affordable units on-site or off-site, ifthe park is to be converted to a use other than residential.

H. In order to facilitate a proposed conversion, closure, or cessation of use of a mobilehome park the residents and applicant may agree to mutually satisfactory conditions. To be valid, such an agreement shall be in writing, shall include a provision stating that the resident is aware of the provisions of this chapter, shall include a copy of this chapter as an attachment, shall include a provision in at least ten-point type which clearly informs the resident of the right to seek advice of an attorney prior to signing the agreement with regard to the resident's rights under such agreement, and shall be drafted in the form and content otherwise required by applicable state law.

9.82.060 Bankruptcy exemption.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply ifit is determined that the closure of a mobilehome park or cessation of use of the land as a mobilehome park results from an adjudication of bankruptcy. The applicant shall have the burden to produce substantial evidence that a court of competent jurisdiction has determined in connection with a proceeding in bankruptcy that the closure or cessation of use of the affected park as a mobilehome park is necessary. The documentation shall include the title, case number and court in which the bankruptcy proceedings were held and certified copies of all pertinent judgments, orders and decrees of the court.

9.82.065 Administration fee.

The city council may establish by resolution reasonable fees to cover any costs incurred by the city in implementing this chapter. Such fees shall be paid by the park owner or applicant subject to the provisions of this chapter, in accordance with the limitations of Section 65863.7 (g) of the Government Code.

Agenda Item #9.1:

Section 2. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall becomeeffective thirty (30) days from and after the date of its passage.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Sonoma this 20"‘day of October, 2004.

K’; W,‘ry
V. / ,_
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1 5~,,y,JoCostello, Mayor:

ATTEST:
msbarger, City Cle
State of California )
County of Sonoma )
City of Sonoma )
I,Gay Rainsbarger, City Clerk of the City of Sonoma, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was adopted on October 20, 2004 by the following vote:

AYES: Ashford, Costello, Brown, Barnett, McKesson
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Agenda Item #9.1:

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Agenda Item #9.1:

ARTICLE 3.5

CONVERSION OF MOBILEHOME PARK TO OTHER USES
Sections:

85.0403501 Purpose

85.0403505 Applicability and Scope

85.0403510 Definitions

85.0403515 General Conversion Requirements

85.0403520 Relocation Impact Report Content

85.0403525 Pre-Conversion Questionnaire

85.0403530 Relocation Plan

85.0403535 Relocation Plan Development Opportunity Reserve and Memorandum of Understanding

85.0403540 Eminent Domain

85.0403545 Protections

85.0403550 City Council Hearing and Action

85.0403555 Certificate of Acceptance

85.0403560 Building Permits

85.0403565 Expiration of Approvals

85.0403570 Processing Fees

85.0403501 Purpose.

The City of Yucaipa General Plan preserves the City’s mobilehome park inventories through policies establishing mobilehome park overlays and classifications contained in the City of Yucaipa Official Land Use Plan and Land Use Map.

The City’s rent stabilization program for mobilehome parks also helps preserve long-term affordability of housing for seniors and families. This article establishes procedures and requirements for the proposed closure of a mobilehome park or other conversion of an existing mobilehome park to another use. The purpose of this article is to ensure that any proposed mobilehome park conversion is preceded by adequate notice, and that the social and fiscal impacts of the proposed conversion on park residents are adequately identified and mitigated through reasonable relocation and other assistance, consistent with the provisions of this article, the City’s General Plan, California Government Code Sections 65863.7, 65863.8 and 66427.4, and Civil Code Section 798.56. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016)

85.0403505 Applicability and Scope.
(a) Eligible Parks. This article applies only to those mobilehome parks located on real property bearing the land use designation of MHP3 on the City of Yucaipa Official Land Use Map as provided in Section 85.040301 of the Development Code. Parks bearing the land use designation of MHP1 or MHP2 shall not be eligible for conversion pursuant to this article unless the applicant first obtains a reclassification of the land use designation to MHP3 in accordance with all other requirements of the code and the City’s General Plan. (b) Except as provided in subsection (c), this article shall apply to all of the following actions affecting an eligible park:
(1) The closure of the mobilehome park or any part thereof; (2) The cessation of use of the subject land as a mobilehome park; and (3) The change of use or other conversion of the mobilehome park or any part thereof to another use. (c) In addition to subsection (a), this article shall not apply to any of the following:
(1) The conversion of a rental mobilehome park to resident ownership. For resident-initiated conversions of rental mobilehome parks to resident ownership the provisions of Article 13 of Chapter 4 of Division 3 and the Subdivision Map Act shall apply. For park owner-initiated applications for conversion of a rental park to resident ownership, the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act shall apply. (2) The closure or cessation of use of a mobilehome park resulting from the entry of an order for relief in bankruptcy, if a court of competent jurisdiction has determined that the conversion of the mobile home park is necessary and such court has taken further action which would preclude the payment of relocation assistance benefits. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016)

85.0403510 Definitions.

Agenda Item #9.1:

For the purposes of this article, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) Absentee mobilehome owner or absentee owner: A person who owns a mobilehome in a mobilehome park and does not reside in such mobilehome.
(b) Affected mobilehome owners and residents: Resident mobilehome owners, mobilehome tenants and absentee mobilehome owners whose mobilehomes will be displaced by the conversion of a mobilehome park. (c) Comparable housing: A house, apartment complex or condominium that is substantially equivalent or better in terms of size (floor area and number of bedrooms), age, condition, location, price or rent level and amenities to the mobilehome that would be displaced by the mobilehome park conversion of use. (d) Comparable mobilehome: A mobilehome that is substantially equivalent or better in terms of size (floor area and number of bedrooms), age, condition, location, rental price, and amenities to the mobilehome that would be displaced by conversion of the mobilehome park.
(e) Comparable mobilehome park: Any other mobilehome park substantially equivalent or better in terms of park age, condition, size (acreage and number of spaces), amenities, rental prices, rent control or rent stabilization, and other relevant factors to the mobilehome park that would be displaced by the mobilehome park conversion. (f) Conversion applicant or applicant: A mobilehome park owner who proposes to carry out a mobilehome park conversion of use.
(g) Conversion or conversion of use: A mobilehome park closure, cessation of use or other change of use of a mobilehome park to another land use as defined in Section 85.0403505(b) of this article. (h) Conversion permit: A ministerial permit (including a Land Use Compliance Review and any other pertinent forms required by this article) to implement a conversion of use of a mobilehome park. (i) Residential base density: 24 du/acre shall be permitted as a by-right component of a conversion of use of a mobilehome park.
(j) Development Opportunity Reserve or DOR: An increase in commercial square footage for an eligible park site in return for a conceptual development plan, including a memorandum of understanding ("MOU"), that provides enhanced architecture and design, which would require City Council review and approval concurrent with a conversion permit application.
(k) Director or Director of Development Services: The Director of Development Services of the City of Yucaipa. (l) Disabled household: A household in which a resident is a person with a medical condition or physical or mental impairment that substantially limits at least one of the person's major life activities, as defined in the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, as now in effect or subsequently amended.
(m) Legal owner: Any person or entity having a legal interest in a mobilehome, such as a lender or mortgagor. (n) Memorandum of Understanding or MOU: An agreement between the City and a conversion applicant to implement a Development Opportunity Reserve as part of a conversion of use project. (o) Mobilehome: Mobilehome shall have the meaning set forth in the Mobilehome Residency Law, Civil Code Section 798, et seq., as now in effect or subsequently amended. Mobilehome includes, but is not limited to, a manufactured home, as defined in Section 798.3 of the Civil Code, Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code, and a mobilehome as defined in Section 18008 of the Health and Safety Code, but does not include a recreational vehicle as defined in Civil Code Section 799.29, a commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8 or factory-built housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19971, or as said statutes may be amended from time to time.
(p) Mobilehome Improvements: Any lawfully constructed improvements or renovations to the mobilehome or improvements to the mobilehome space made by the current resident, including, but not limited to, carports, roof, porches, patios, awnings, pop-out rooms, recreational equipment, barbecue equipment, landscaping, and similar amenities and repairs.
(q) Mobilehome Park: As defined in Yucaipa Development Code Section 812.13080. (r) Mobilehome Park Conversion of Use or Conversion: Any closure or cessation of use of land as a mobilehome park or other conversion of use, as provided in Section 85.0403505(b) of this article. (s) Mobilehome park conversion to ownership: The conversion of an existing rental mobilehome park to resident ownership, including, but not limited to, a condominium mobilehome park or a community mobilehome park. (t) Mobilehome Park Overlay District 1 or MHP1: The Mobilehome Park Overlay District established pursuant to Division 5 of the Development Code, and as designated on a particular parcel or parcels of land by the symbol "MHP1" on the City of Yucaipa Official Land Use Plan as provided in Section 85.040301 of the Development Code. (u) Mobilehome Park Overlay District 2 or MHP2: The Senior Mobilehome Park Overlay District established pursuant to Division 5 of the Development Code, and as designated on a particular parcel or parcels of land by the symbol Agenda Item #9.1:

"MHP2" on the City of Yucaipa Official Land Use Plan as provided in Section 85.040301 of the Development Code. (v) Mobilehome Park Overlay District 3 or MHP3: The Mobilehome Park Overlay District established pursuant to Division 5 of the Development Code, applicable to all mobilehome parks designated by the City Council of the City of Yucaipa for reuse to another use, and as designated on a particular parcel or parcels of land by the symbol "MHP3" on the City of Yucaipa Official Land Use Plan as provided in Section 85.040301 of the Development Code. (w) Mobilehome Space: A mobilehome unit, lot or other portion of a mobilehome park designated or used for the occupancy of one mobilehome.
(x) Park Owner: A person or entity that owns a mobilehome park or a person or entity authorized to act on behalf of the owner of a mobilehome park.
(y) Relocation Impact Report or RIR: A report meeting the requirements of this article, describing the impacts of a mobilehome park conversion on affected resident mobilehome owners and residents; and including a Relocation Plan describing the relocation assistance measures that will be taken to mitigate adverse impacts of such conversion. (z) Relocation Specialist: A person with verified professional qualifications demonstrating: familiarity with the region's housing market; competency in assisting residents to evaluate, select and secure placement in replacement housing; ability to facilitate the moving of residents' personal property, residential unit, and/or accessories, as appropriate; knowledge of qualifications for and availability of various housing types and programs; experience in mobile home sales and relocation including assistance in adequacy and location of replacement housing, relocation costs and mitigation of the impact of relocation on affected mobilehome park owners and residents; and ability to assist residents in applying for available housing programs or assistance, including, but not limited to, developers, real estate agents, appraisers and other persons with experience in mobile home sales and relocation. (aa) Resident Mobilehome Owner: The registered (title) owner of the mobilehome in a mobilehome park who resides at such mobilehome.
(bb) Resident Mobilehome Tenant: A person who rents or leases a mobilehome in a mobilehome park and resides at such mobilehome.
(Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403515 General Conversion Requirements.
(a) Any person who files a conversion permit application with the City for approval of a mobilehome park conversion of use, and any other related discretionary permit to implement a conversion of use, shall concurrently file with the City a Relocation Impact Report that complies with this article. No conversion permit application shall be considered or deemed complete or processed for consideration or approved unless and until such Relocation Impact Report is filed and approved in accordance with this article. An applicant may also apply for City Council approval of a Development Opportunity Reserve (DOR) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) prepared in accordance with this article, but a DOR/MOU shall not be approved or made effective unless a Relocation Impact Report, has first been approved by the City Council in accordance with the requirements of this article. No Relocation Impact Report or DOR/MOU shall be approved if the subject property bears the land use designation of MHP1 or MHP2. All applications shall be on City-approved forms.
(b) The conversion application shall include a Relocation Impact Report (RIR) that complies with the requirements of this article and state law. The RIR shall be prepared by a relocation specialist on behalf of the applicant as part of the conversion permit application. The RIR shall address the impact of the conversion of the mobilehome park on its mobilehome owners and residents and shall contain a relocation plan addressing the availability of replacement housing for existing mobilehome owners and residents of the mobilehome park and relocation costs, consistent with Sections 65863.7 and/or 66427.4 of the California Government Code and this article. The application shall also contain pre-conversion questionnaires completed by the affected mobilehome owners and residents. The relocation specialist shall be a person with verified professional qualifications demonstrating: familiarity with the region’s housing market; competency in assisting residents to evaluate, select and secure placement in replacement housing; ability to facilitate the moving of residents’ personal property, residential unit, and/or accessories, as appropriate; knowledge of qualifications for and availability of various housing types and programs; and ability to assist residents in applying for available housing programs or assistance.
(c) An application for approval of a Development Opportunity Reserve (DOR) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) may be included with the conversion of use application. The DOR/MOU shall include a description of the proposed future uses, residential densities, commercial square footage, and design in accordance with Section

85.0403535, and consistent with the requirements of the underlying land use district, any applicable Specific Plan and this article.
(d) Upon filing an application for approval of an RIR and related conversion permit application, the Director of Development Services shall inform the conversion applicant in writing of the requirements of Civil Code Section 798.56 and Government Code Section 65863.7 and of all applicable City requirements which impose on the applicant the duty to notify the existing mobilehome park owners and residents and prospective residents concerning the proposed conversion. The Director of Development Services shall specify in writing to the conversion applicant the information that must be submitted in order to adequately notify all existing homeowners and residents and other notices as required by the California Government Code, the California Civil Code, and this article.

Agenda Item #9.1:

(e) No conversion permit application shall be deemed complete, until the Relocation Impact Report, relocation plan and verification that affected mobilehome owners and residents have been properly notified pursuant to Civil Code Section 798.56 and have been reviewed by the Director of Development Services for substantial conformance with the requirements of this article.
(f) No DOR/MOU application shall be deemed complete, and processing for consideration of DOR/MOU concurent with a conversion permit application, will not commence until the DOR/MOU application have been reviewed and verified by the Director for substantial conformance with the requirements of this article. (g) All notices required by this article shall be delivered by personal delivery or certified mail to the occupant of the mobilehome, absentee owners and legal owners of the mobilehome located on each mobilehome space within the mobilehome park.
(Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403520 Relocation Impact Report Content.
(a) Relocation Impact Report (RIR). The conversion applicant shall file a RIR on the impact of the proposed mobilehome park conversion of use upon the affected mobilehome owners and residents of the Mobilehome Park as part of the application for approval of the RIR and conversion permit to the City. (b) At a minimum the RIR shall include the following information and documentation, and any other information and documentation deemed necessary and appropriate by the Director of Development Services:
(1) A detailed description of the proposed use to which the mobilehome park is to be converted; (2) The proposed timetable for implementation of the conversion and development of the site; (3) Legal description of the mobilehome park;
(4) Age of the mobilehome park;
(5) The total number of mobilehome spaces in the park, number of spaces occupied by mobilehomes, and number of spaces occupied by recreational vehicles;
(6) An illustrative map of all spaces, roads, improvements, common areas and amenities in the park; (7) For each mobilehome space in the mobilehome park:
(A) The age, size, number of bedrooms, manufacturer and date of manufacture of the mobilehome on the space,
(B) The number of occupant(s) of the mobilehome, if the occupant(s) are absentee owner(s), resident mobilehome owner(s) or mobilehome tenant(s) as defined in Section 85.0403510, their ages, and their length of residency in the mobilehome, and whether the mobilehome constitutes each person’s primary place of residence,
(C) The name, mailing address and telephone number of each absentee mobilehome owner, resident mobilehome owner, mobilehome tenant, and legal owner of the mobilehome, (D) The total monthly space rent and other charges currently charged for each space with detail showing the space rent, utility charges, and any other costs paid by the resident(s), and whether the space is a month-to-month space subject to rent control under Chapter 15.20 of the Municipal Code or a long-term lease in excess of twelve (12) months duration, (E) The purchase date, purchase price paid by the current resident mobilehome owner(s) or absentee mobilehome owner(s) for the mobilehome, and the amount and terms of any outstanding mortgage loans or other financing obligation for the mobilehome, (F) Any lawfully constructed or installed mobilehome improvements that have been paid for by the affected mobilehome owner(s) or resident(s), whether each improvement is movable, and the costs of each improvement,
(G) The In-Place Fair Market Value of each mobilehome in the mobilehome park. In-Place Fair Market Value shall include, but is not limited to, any accessory structures whose installation has been approved by mobilehome park management, such as a porch or a carport, and shall be determined by assuming the continuation of the mobilehome park in a safe, sanitary and well-maintained condition. These values shall be determined by appraisals by a qualified appraiser to be chosen by the park owner from a list provided by the Director of Development Services, and considering values of comparable homes in comparable parks. The appraisal shall be made no more than sixty (60) days prior to its submittal to the City. The conversion applicant shall pay all costs and expenses associated with the appraisal, including, but expressly not limited to, any appraisal fees. The conversion applicant shall not be required to provide appraisal information for park-owned units,
(H) Any other special or unique circumstances that may restrict potential relocation areas for affected mobilehome park owners and/or residents on a case-by-case basis, which may include, but are not Agenda Item #9.1:

limited to, disability or other special needs, which restrict potential relocation areas for the affected mobilehome owners and/or residents,
(I) Any available, alternate housing opportunities known to the affected mobilehome owners and/or residents that would be acceptable as a relocation option to each individual and approximate cost to accomplish a relocation to the alternate housing;
(8) An estimate of the relocation cost considering all of the costs related to moving and installing the displaced mobilehomes on an available receiving site, including, but not limited to, tear down, transportation, and set up of mobilehomes (including all costs of utility hook-ups), providing rental subsidies, or purchasing the mobilehome unit as described in Section 85.0403530. Estimates from at least two moving companies shall be submitted with the application. Relocation cost shall not include the cost and expenses associated with the appraisal, including, but not limited to, any appraisal fees, which shall be paid by the conversion applicant; (9) A list of comparable parks within a fifteen (15) mile radius and for each such park, the space rents and the qualifications for residency in each park (e.g., age restrictions, no pets), rental rates (e.g., first and last months’ rent, security deposits, availability of rent control), whether the park has any vacant space and will accept homes being relocated and if so, any restrictions, such as size and age, on the relocated homes that would be accepted;
(10) Itemization of the cost of comparable mobilehomes within a fifteen (15) mile radius, including, but not limited to, the purchase price of each substantially equivalent or better mobilehome in a comparable mobilehome park as well as the rental rate for each substantially equivalent (or better) mobilehome in a comparable mobilehome park, first and last months’ rent, security deposits and substantially equivalent or higher rent or mortgage payments at the comparable mobilehomes. For comparable mobilehomes, the itemization shall state the rental rate for each space and whether the owner of that mobilehome park has agreed in writing to accept affected mobilehome owners and residents that are displaced by the proposed mobilehome park conversion;
(11) Itemization of the cost of comparable housing within a fifteen (15) mile radius, including, but not limited to, the purchase price of each substantially equivalent (or better) condominium, or the monthly rent for and other costs of moving into a comparable apartment or condominium, including such items as first and last months’ rent, security deposits and the rental rate for each substantially equivalent or better, or mortgage payments at the comparable housing;
(12) Proposed measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the park conversion on the affected mobilehome owners and residents in the park pursuant to Section 85.0403530; (13) A copy of any agreement reached with any affected mobilehome owner or resident relating to the park owner’s purchase of the mobilehome, relocation of the affected mobilehome owners or residents, and/or the provision of relocation assistance. The Director may waive the requirement to include any or all of the information required by this section where an affected mobilehome owner or resident and the conversion applicant have reached a final, mutually acceptable agreement as to the relocation assistance to be provided; (14) Copies of the pre-conversion questionnaires completed by the affected mobilehome park owners and residents in accordance with the requirements of Section 85.0403525 of this article; (15) Any other information the Director may deem necessary to facilitate the City’s consideration of appropriate conditions to mitigate the adverse impacts of a park closure or conversion on affected mobilehome owners and residents.
(Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403525 Pre-Conversion Questionnaire.
(a) Prior to the applicant filing a conversion use permit application with the City, the relocation specialist shall distribute a pre-conversion questionnaire to the affected mobilehome owners and residents. The affected mobilehome owners and residents shall have no less than thirty (30) days from the date of certified mailing or personal delivery to complete and return the pre-conversion questionnaire to the relocation specialist. (b) The Director shall provide a standard pre-conversion questionnaire for use by the relocation specialist. At a minimum, the pre-conversion questionnaire shall include questions requesting the affected mobilehome owners and residents to provide the information required in order for the applicant to prepare a RIR in accordance with Section

85.0403520(b) of this article.
(c) Prior to or concurrent with the distribution of the pre-conversion questionnaire, the applicant shall provide notice to affected mobilehome owners and residents of the applicant’s intention to seek City approval for a mobilehome park conversion of use in accordance with this article. The notice shall, at a minimum, include an explanation, in general terms, of the nature and timeframes of the proposed conversion, shall advise affected mobilehome owners and residents that information will be sought from them to assist in determining appropriate relocation assistance, shall include a copy of the tenants’ rights under the Government Code and Mobilehome Residency Law (California Civil Code Section 789 et seq.), as amended from time to time, and shall advise the residents that they will be provided with notices of the application for approval of the RIR and conversion permit in accordance with the requirements of Agenda Item #9.1:

this article and state law.
(d) The notice shall also include the name, qualifications and contact information for the relocation specialist used by the applicant.
(e) Completed pre-conversion questionnaires submitted to the relocation specialist shall be treated as confidential, and disclosure of information provided therein shall be limited to those individuals and uses necessary to accomplish the purpose of this article, including the applicant, as deemed appropriate by the relocation specialist, and the City. (f) Neither the completed pre-conversion questionnaire form nor any personal information provided in response thereto shall be considered public information and the City shall not publicly disclose any such information, except as necessary to facilitate the evaluation of the adequacy of the report herein or as may be required by law. (g) Any affected mobilehome owner or resident may decline to provide any information requested, but the City’s determination of the reasonableness of the level of relocation assistance proposed by the applicant will be based on information provided in response to the pre-conversion questionnaire, and the level of assistance deemed reasonable in an individual case may be limited, or the relocation assistance requirement may be eliminated, based on the owner's or resident's verified refusal to provide information necessary to make such a determination. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403530 Relocation Plan.

In accordance with Government Code Sections 65863.7 and 66426.4, now in effect or as subsequently amended, the conversion applicant shall provide relocation assistance to mitigate any adverse impacts of a mobilehome park conversion on affected mobilehome owners and residents in a manner that does not exceed the reasonable cost of relocation. This section establishes minimum relocation assistance for affected mobilehome owners and residents, which shall be set forth in the Relocation Plan. The conversion applicant and any person eligible for relocation assistance may agree to other mutually satisfactory relocation assistance that meet or exceed these requirements. (a) Eligibility for Relocation Assistance. Affected mobilehome owners and residents are entitled to relocation assistance if they have not given notice to terminate their lease or other rental agreement as of the date of submittal of the conversion of use application, including the filing of the RIR with the City. (b) Reasonable Cost of Relocation. Reasonable cost of relocation includes a moving allowance and other applicable types of relocation assistance as defined in this section and based on the RIR and evidence presented at the public hearings on the proposed conversion of use.
(c) Moving Allowance for Eligible Residents. For all eligible residents, relocation assistance shall include a moving allowance to move to another park or other replacement housing up to a distance of fifteen (15) miles. Moving allowance includes:
(1) The cost to move furniture and personal belongings. (2) Rent for first and last month at the new location.
(3) Required security deposit at the new location.
(4) Temporary lodging, if necessary, up to two months.
(5) Assistance for Disabled Households. For eligible disabled households, relocation assistance may include an additional sum toward the cost of obtaining any assistance needed to enable the resident to move. (6) Accessibility Improvements for Affected Mobilehome Owners and Residents. For eligible affected mobilehome owners and residents, relocation assistance may include payment of the cost to reinstall or replace any accessibility improvements made to the mobilehome such as wheelchair ramps, lifts, and grab bars.
(d) Mobilehome Relocation Costs for Mobilehome Owners. For any mobilehome owner whose mobilehome can be relocated, and in addition to the moving allowance provided in subsection (c), relocation assistance may include the lowest of three estimates obtained by the conversion applicant with the Director of Development Services approval, from licensed mobilehome movers to physically relocate the mobilehome up to a maximum distance of fifteen (15) miles. The mobilehome owner is responsible for additional costs to move the mobilehome to a location farther than fifteen (15) miles. The estimates shall include the cost of disassembly of the mobilehome, transportation to the new site, reinstallation including, but not limited to, connection to utility hook-ups, permits, replacement or reconstruction of blocks, skirting, shiplap siding, process, decks and awning, earthquake bracing if necessary, insurance coverage during transport, including the cost of any upgrades to comply with applicable building, plumbing, electrical and health and safety codes.
(e) Sale at In-Place Market Value for Mobilehome Owners. In addition to the moving allowance provided in subsection (c), for any eligible mobilehome owner whose home cannot be relocated to a comparable park within fifteen (15) miles or another park chosen by the mobilehome owner, the City shall require the conversion applicant to purchase the mobilehome at In-Place Market Value. The conversion applicant shall hire a qualified appraiser from a list provided by the City to determine the In-Place Market Value of the mobilehome. If the affected mobilehome owner disputes the appraised value of his or her mobilehome, the affected mobilehome owner may hire an appraiser from Agenda Item #9.1:

the City’s list to obtain an appraisal, at their own expense. To be considered, the mobilehome owner shall obtain and submit the appraisal to the Director of Development Services ten (10) days prior to the City Council Hearing. The City Council will review and consider the two appraisals.
(f) Limitations on Imposed Conditions. The conditions imposed in connection with approval of a RIR shall not exceed the reasonable costs of relocation. Conditions shall only be imposed in order to ensure that the conversion applicant adequately mitigates adverse impacts of the mobilehome park conversion on affected mobilehome owners and residents. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016)

85.0403535 Relocation Plan Development Opportunity Reserve and Memorandum of Understanding.

An application for a Development Opportunity Reserve (DOR) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement the DOR for the proposed conversion of use of an eligible park may be submitted concurrently with, or subsequent to the approval of, a Relocation Impact Report and conversion permit. The proposed DOR/MOU shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements of this section and the applicable land use district and/or Specific Plan, and shall be submitted for review and approval by the City Council.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of the DOR/MOU is to provide a potential developer with the opportunity to obtain early input from the City Council on the concept of a future development project for the reuse of an eligible park which, in addition to a by-right residential base density of 24 du/acre, and in return for providing enhanced architecture and project design, the applicant may seek commercial square footage or a mixed use design, than otherwise allowed under the regulations of the applicable land use district when formal land use permits or other entitlements are submitted for discretionary review and action. A DOR/MOU does not constitute a commitment to specific density, or to a future specific project or land uses, and all future discretionary entitlement permits and approvals shall be required, including, but expressly not limited to, compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act. (b) Development Opportunity Reserve General Requirements (1) Commercial Projects. There is hereby established a Development Opportunity Reserve of a combined maximum of two hundred forty-five thousand (245,000) square feet of commercial uses for all eligible parks ("Commercial Square Footage Reserve"). At no time shall the total square footage of commercial uses for all eligible parks exceed the Commercial Square Footage Reserve. The commercial square footage for proposed commercial uses for an eligible park shall be determined by the City Council on a project by project basis, and as each commercial development or use is approved through discretionary project approvals, the Commercial Square Footage Reserve for all eligible parks shall be correspondingly reduced. An eligible park shall also be subject to all other requirements of the applicable commercial land use district and/or Specific Plan for the subject property. The Commercial Square Footage Reserve incorporated into a DOR/MOU shall not allow an increase above the maximum square footage allowed under the applicable land use district and/or Specific Plan until an actual development proposal is approved by the City which adopts the square footage and other characteristics set forth in the DOR/MOU.
(2) Mixed Use Projects. For any mixed use project, the density of proposed residential uses shall not exceed 24 du/acre; and the square footage of any proposed commercial uses shall not exceed the maximum square footage allowed under subsection (b)(2) based on the available Commercial Square Footage Reserve in combination with the proposed mixed use project and all other approved commercial projects. (3) The DOR application shall also include a proposed Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") that complies with subsection (c) of this section.
(4) The Commercial Square Footage Reserve, shall be adjusted by the City Council as part of its Development Opportunity Reserve approval action pursuant to Section 85.0403550. (c) Memorandum of Understanding Requirements. The Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") shall include a conceptual development plan which addresses, at a minimum, all of the following:
(1) Potential future uses of the subject property;
(2) The specific number of residential dwelling units proposed and the maximum density for any potential future residential uses for the conversion site, based on the requirements of this Code which permit up to 24 du/acre;
(3) The commercial square footage proposed for any potential future commercial uses for the conversion site, based on Commercial Square Footage Reserve, and the maximum floor area ratio for each lot or parcel based on the underlying land use district;
(4) Conceptual architectural design of potential future residential and/or commercial uses. (d) Procedures
(1) The application for a DOR/MOU shall be reviewed by Staff for completeness, and submitted for City Council review and approval. A DOR/MOU application may be submitted with an application for approval of a Relocation Impact Report and conversion permit. No DOR/MOU application shall be effective until the City Council has approved a Relocation Impact Report and conversion permit for the eligible park. (2) The City Council will evaluate the DOR/MOU application and may approve, conditionally approve or Agenda Item #9.1:

disapprove the DOR/MOU in accordance with Section 85.0403550 of this article. (3) Following either Director approval of a conversion permit which allows no more than 24 du/acre and includes a Relocation Impact Report, or City Council approval if the conversion permit includes a DOR/MOU, the applicant may complete any other appropriate land use entitlement application process for formal project review by the Planning Commission and City Council in accordance with the requirements of this Code. (e) Entitlement Procedures for Reuse-Conversion Permit
(1) In addition to the requirement for approval of a Relocation Impact Report, with Relocation Plan, the conversion of use of an eligible park requires that the applicant also obtain approval of a conversion permit for the proposed new uses or development. The conversion permit shall be subject to the same procedures of a Land Use Compliance Review set forth in Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Division 3 of the Development Code. (2) Residential development proposed as part of a conversion permit and evaluated in accordance with the procedures of a Land Use Compliance Review and consistency with the Property Development Standards required by Section 84.0335(b) of Chapter 3 of Division 4 (High Density Multiple Residential (RM-24) District), and shall also be designed consistent with the provisions of Chapter 13 of Division 8 of the Development Code (High Density Multiple Residential Design Standards).
(3) Commercial development proposed as part of a proposed conversion of use permit and evaluated subject to the procedures and findings for approval of a Conditional Use Permit shall be designed consistent with the Property Development Standards required by Section 84.0350(d) of Chapter 3 of Division 4 (General Commercial (CG) District).
(4) A mixed-use (Residential and Commercial) project proposed as part of a conversion of use permit and evaluated subject to a Conditional Use Permit shall be designed using a combination of the standards required in subsections (e)(1) and (2). The dominant use of each mixed-use building shall determine the applicable development standards for that building. In the case of ambiguity, the most restrictive development standards shall apply.
(Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403540 Eminent Domain.

In the event there is an exercise of eminent domain by the City which has the effect of a mobilehome park conversion, relocation assistance benefits shall be provided by the City to affected mobilehome owners and residents pursuant to the provisions of this article or the law of eminent domain, whichever provides the maximum benefit. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016)

85.0403545 Protections.
(a) Before entering a rental agreement, the park owner shall advise each prospective mobilehome owner and mobilehome tenant, in writing, that a proposed Relocation Impact Report and conversion permit application has been filed and that the prospective mobilehome owner or tenant will not be entitled to any relocation assistance under this article.
(b) Any mobilehome owner or tenant already leasing or renting a space in the park, or residing in a mobilehome in the park, on the date the application for approval of a Relocation Impact Report is filed shall be eligible for relocation assistance.
(c) No park owner shall require any mobilehome owner or tenant to waive his or her rights to relocation assistance as a condition of leasing or renting a space in the park, except: (1) when the mobilehome owner or tenant moves into the park after the date the conversion application is filed; and (2) prior to the new mobilehome owner’s or tenant’s execution of the lease or other rental agreement, the park owner gave written notice to that new mobilehome owner or tenant that the conversion application has been filed. Any such waiver will only be valid if the park owner completes the conversion hearing process within one year. (d) No mobilehome owner shall be required to remove his or her mobilehome and no tenant shall be required to vacate a mobilehome until all of the following conditions have been satisfied:
(1) The park owner has given the six months’ notice of closure required by Civil Code Section 798.56 and that six-month period has elapsed;
(2) The City’s decision approving the conversion is final; and (3) The park owner has provided the relocation assistance required by the City as a condition of conversion. (e) An application for conversion of a park does not relieve a mobilehome owner or tenant from his or her obligation to pay rent.
(f) Unless a Relocation Impact Report with Relocation Plan and conversion permit have been approved by the City and a certificate of acceptance has been recorded, as required by this article, no mobilehome park owner, agent or representative shall do any of the following:
(1) Perform or carry out a mobilehome park conversion of use.

Agenda Item #9.1:

(2) Display a sign in the mobilehome park or distribute any notice to any resident mobilehome owners, mobilehome tenants or absentee mobilehome owners of the park announcing that the mobilehome park or any part thereof is closing, may be closing or has been closed, or that the land will no longer be used for a mobilehome park.

Agenda Item #9.1:

(3) Display a sign announcing a new use for the mobilehome park property. (g) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to preclude any notification to resident mobilehome owners, resident mobilehome tenants, or absentee owners, as may be required by state law, nor shall this section preclude notification to mobilehome owners, resident mobilehome tenants or absentee owners, that information is being requested in anticipation of the filing of a development application or request for approval of a park closure or other mobilehome park conversion of use. Notification to prospective mobilehome owners and tenants regarding the existence or status of any application or approval process affecting the mobilehome park shall not be considered a violation of this section. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016)

85.0403550 City Council Hearing and Action.
(a) Upon the filing of a complete application for approval of a Relocation Impact Report and conversion permit, and verification to the City for review, the Director shall either approve the conversion permit ministerially (if consisting of residential uses) with appropriate notice and findings outlined in the below sections adhered to, or schedule a public hearing before the City Council if there are any related DOR/MOU applications beyond those that are considered byright being requested as a part of the conversion permit. Notice of a public hearing shall be provided in accordance with Section 83.010330 of this Code and shall also be provided as set forth in subsection (b) below. (b) At least thirty (30) days prior to the potential hearing date, the Director shall also perform the following actions:
(1) Mail a notice of the public hearing and a copy of the Relocation Impact Report to affected mobilehome owners and residents, and to all legal owners of mobilehomes in the mobilehome park. The notice shall contain a general explanation of the matters to be considered by the City Council. The copy of the Relocation Impact Report shall include the Relocation Plan, the appraisal of the mobilehome owned or resided in by that particular notice recipient and the pre-conversion questionnaire completed by that notice recipient. (2) Inform the conversion applicant in writing of the provisions of Civil Code Section 798.56 regarding the conversion applicant’s duty to notify affected mobilehome owners and residents of the proposed conversion.

Such writing shall specify the manner in which the conversion applicant shall verify that affected mobilehome owners and residents have been notified of the proposed conversion. (3) The conversion applicant shall pay all costs associated with providing notice, including any publishing and postage expenses.

Agenda Item #9.1:

(c) The City Council shall conduct a public hearing to review the proposed conversion permit, RIR with Relocation Plan, and any proposed DOR/MOU. The City Council shall may consider all relevant evidence presented at the public hearing and shall render its findings and decision within ninety (90) days therefrom, unless a shorter period of time is required by state law, such as the processing time imposed by the Subdivision Map Act. Such hearing shall not be held before the conversion applicant has satisfactorily verified that affected mobilehome owners and residents have been notified of the proposed conversion pursuant to Civil Code Section 798.56. (d) The City Council's decision shall be in the form of a written resolution approving, conditionally approving or disapproving the DOR/MOU, including the Relocation Impact Report, Relocation Plan, and conversion permit. The City Council resolution shall also approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the DOR/MOU. The City Council resolution shall include conditions to provide reasonable measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the mobilehome park conversion on the affected mobilehome owners and residents; and conditions for approval of any proposed DOR/MOU.
(e) The City Council, or Director shall not approve the proposed RIR and Relocation Plan, unless the City can make all of the following findings:
(1) The RIR contains the information and documentation required by this article and state law. (2) The RIR and its relocation plan contain reasonable measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the mobilehome park conversion on affected mobilehome owners and residents, and the City Council. (3) The proposed mobilehome park conversion is consistent with the General Plan, and any applicable Specific Plan, or any similar state law or City Ordinance. (4) The conversion applicant has complied with all notice requirements as provided for in Government Code Section 65863.7(b) and (c), and Civil Code Section 798.56, and this article, and each affected mobilehome owner and resident has had adequate notification of the proposed conversion. (5) The RIR accurately represents the total reasonable costs associated with the relocation of affected mobilehome park owners and residents pursuant to Government Code Section 65863.7(e). (6) The City has imposed conditions to ensure that the conversion applicant shall be subject to, and shall take reasonable measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the mobilehome park conversion on the affected mobilehome owners and residents.
(f) The City Council shall not approve a proposed Development Opportunity Reserve and Memorandum of Understanding unless the City Council makes all of the following findings:
(1) For residential projects (including any mixed use projects containing a residential portion), the proposed residential density is up to 24 du/acre.
(2) For commercial projects (including any mixed use projects containing a commercial portion), the proposed maximum square footage of commercial uses does not exceed the Commercial Square Footage Reserve available for the commercial uses in combination with all other existing and proposed commercial uses as provided in Section 85.0403535(b)(2), and further does not exceed the maximum floor area ratio(s) applicable pursuant to the underlying land use district and any applicable Specific Plan. (3) The conceptual architecture and project design contains enhanced elements that would justify approval of increased residential density and/or commercial square footage. (4) The applicant has submitted a signed covenant, as part of the DOR/MOU, that acknowledges the City’s approval of the DOR/MOU does not constitute a binding commitment by the City to allow any specific development of the subject property, or vest any rights in the applicant to develop the subject property in accordance with the MOU/DOR, and that the applicant shall be required to submit and obtain approval of formal land use permits and other entitlement applications in order to develop the subject property. (g) If an application includes applications for land use permits or other entitlements to implement a proposed conversion, such as a conditional use permit, those other entitlement applications shall be processed, reviewed, noticed and decided in accordance with the usual procedures set forth in this Code, including, but not limited to, any necessary review, noticing and/or action by the Planning Commission. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a tentative map or tentative parcel map application is filed concurrently with the conversion application and DOR/MOU application, the tentative map or tentative parcel map application shall be concurrently processed for hearing by the Planning Commission in accordance with the requirements of this Code, but the Planning Commission shall make a recommendation on the proposed tentative map or tentative parcel map that shall subsequently be heard and decided by the City Council concurrently by either the Director if the conversion permit allows no more than 24 du/acre and includes a Relocation Impact Report, or City Council if the conversion permit includes a DOR. (Added by Ord. 344 § 4, 2016; amended by Ord. 429 § 1, 2023)

85.0403555 Certificate of Acceptance.

Upon City approval of a conversion application and Relocation Impact Report, the applicant shall record a certificate of acceptance on the title of the mobilehome park property. City approval of a conversion application including Relocation Impact Report shall not be effective until proof of recordation of a certificate of acceptance has been delivered to the Agenda Item #9.1: