GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE

OPEN FLAMES

Delete Section: 308.3.5 Religious ceremonies.

VACANT PREMISES

Delete Section: 311.5 Placards.

Delete Section: 311.5.1 Placard Location.

Delete Section: 311.5.2 Placard Size And Color.

Delete Section: 311.5.3 Placard Date.

Delete Section: 311.5.4 Placard Symbols

Delete Section: 311.5.5 Informational Use

FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

Amend Section 503.2.1 as follows:

503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

Exception:

When there are not more than two Group R, Division 3, or Group U occupancies, the access road width may be modified by the fire code official.

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Amend Section 903.2 as follows:

903.2 Where Required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures and in existing modified buildings and structures, shall be provided in the locations described in this section. Automatic fire sprinklers shall be installed per the requirements set forth in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.13 and as follows, whichever is the more restrictive:

1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings, not located in the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas that have a gross floor area in excess of 3,600 square feet or that are three (3) or more stories in height.

2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing buildings when modifications are made that increases the gross floor area to more than 3,600 square feet or increases the number of stories to three (3) or more.

Exception: One-time additions to existing buildings made after 01/01/2008 that do not exceed 500 square feet in gross floor area.

3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings located in the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas.

Exception: Any non-habitable structures accessory to single family residences that have a gross floor area of 500 square feet or less.

4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing buildings located in the designated Wildland-Urban Interface areas when modifications are made that increases the gross floor area.

Exception: One-time additions to existing buildings made after 01/01/2008 that do not exceed 500 square feet in gross floor area.

Delete Exception #1 to 903.2

Amend section 903.3 as follows:

903.3 Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.7 and Fire Department Standards.

EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS

Amend Section 3301.1 to read:

3301.1 Scope. For explosives requirements see Title 19 California Code of Regulations Chapter 10 and Section 3301.1.1 of this Chapter. For fireworks requirements see Title 19 California Code of Regulations Chapter 6 and Section 3301.1.2 of this Chapter.

Exceptions:

1. The armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National Guard.

2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopoeia.

3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition when packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging requirements.

4. The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities.

5. Items preempted by federal regulations.

Add Section 3301.1.1 to read:

3301.1.1. Explosives. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of explosives are prohibited.

Exceptions:

1. Possession, storage, handling and use of explosives for test and research purposes is allowed with permit and approval of the fire code official.

2. Possession, storage, handling and use of squibs, explosive nuts or bolts and similar small quantity explosive devices is allowed with permit and approval of the fire code official.

Add Section 3301.1.2 to read:

3301.1.2 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks, including those fireworks classified as Safe and Sane by the California State Fire Marshal, are prohibited.

Exceptions:

1. Storage, handling and use of fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects outside of buildings when used for public or proximate audience displays, motion picture, television, theatrical and group entertainment productions when handled and used by a licensed pyrotechnic operator in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and permitted in accordance with this Chapter.

2. Storage, handling and use of pyrotechnic special effects fireworks inside of buildings, equipped throughout with an approved fire sprinkler system, when used for proximate audience displays or special effects in theatrical, television, motion picture and group entertainment productions and when handled and used by a licensed pyrotechnic operator in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and permitted in accordance with this Chapter.

Add Section 3301.1.3 to read:

3301.1.3 Model Rocketry. The storage, handling, and use of model rockets shall be in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and as approved by the fire code official.

REQUIREMENTS FOR WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREAS

DEFINITIONS

Amend definition of Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area as follows:

Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area is a geographical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, or other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires. See Article 86B for the applicable referenced sections of the Government Code and the Public Resources Code. The Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall be defined as all areas within the City of Monte Sereno as set forth and delineated on the map entitled “Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area” which map and all notations, references, data and other information shown thereon are hereby adopted and made a part of this chapter. The map properly attested, shall be on file in the Office of the City Clerk of the City of Monte Sereno.

FIRE PROTECTION PLAN

Add Section 4703.1 to read:

4703.1 General. When required by the code official, a fire protection plan shall be prepared.

Add Section 4703.2 to read:

4703.2 Content. The plan shall be based upon a site-specific wildfire risk assessment that includes considerations of location, topography, aspect, flammable vegetation, climatic conditions and fire history. The plan shall address water supply, access, building ignition and fire-resistance factors, fire protection systems and equipment, defensible space and vegetation management.

Add Section 4703.3 to read:

4703.3 Cost. The cost of fire protection plan preparation and review shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

Add Section 4703.4 to read:

4703.4 Plan Retention. The fire protection plan shall be retained by the fire code official.

DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Add Section 4707.1 to read:

4707.1 General. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining buildings or structures in, upon or adjoining the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area and persons owning, leasing or controlling land adjacent to such buildings or structures, shall at all times:

1. Maintain an effective defensible space by removing and clearing away flammable vegetation and combustible growth from areas within 30 feet (9144 mm) of such buildings or structures.

Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or similar plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from the native growth to any structure.

2. Maintain additional effective defensible space by removing brush, flammable vegetation and combustible growth located 30 feet to 100 feet (9144 mm to 30480 mm) from such buildings or structures, when required by the fire code official due to steepness of terrain or other conditions that would cause a defensible space of only 30 feet (9144 mm) to be insufficient.

Exception: Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from buildings or structures and less than 18 inches (457 mm) in height above the ground need not be removed where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.

3. Remove portions of trees, which extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the outlet of a chimney.

4. Maintain trees adjacent to or overhanging a building free of deadwood; and

5. Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles or other dead vegetative growth.

Add Section 4707.2 to read:

4707.2 Corrective Actions. The executive body is authorized to instruct the fire code official to give notice to the owner of the property upon which conditions regulated by Section 4707.1 exist to correct such conditions. If the owner fails to correct such conditions, the executive body is authorized to cause the same to be done and make the expense of such correction a lien upon the property where such condition exists.

Add Section 4714 to read:

ACCESS

Add Section 4714.1 to read:

4714.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with this chapter.

Add Section 4714.2 to read:

4714.2 Driveways. Driveways with an all-weather surface shall be provided when any portion of an exterior wall of the first story of a building is located more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a fire apparatus access road. Driveways shall provide a minimum unobstructed width of 12 feet (3658 mm) and a minimum unobstructed height of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm). Driveways in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with turnarounds. Driveways in excess of 200 feet (60 960 mm) in length and less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width shall be provided with turnouts in addition to turnarounds. An all-weather surface shall be any surface material acceptable to the code official.

A driveway shall not serve in excess of two dwelling units.

Exception:

When such driveways meet the requirements for an access road in accordance with this chapter.

Driveway turnarounds shall be in accordance with Fire Department Standards. Driveways that connect with a road or roads at more than one point may be considered as having a turnaround if all changes of direction meet the radii requirements for driveway turnarounds.

Driveway turnouts shall be an all-weather road surface at least 10 feet (3048 mm) wide and 30 feet (9144 mm) long. Driveway turnouts shall be located as required by the code official.

Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges on driveways and private roads. Design loads for bridges shall be established by the code official.

Add Section 4714.3 to read:

4714.3 Fire Apparatus Access Roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall be all weather roads with a minimum width of 20 feet (6096 mm) and a clear height of 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm); and shall be designed in accordance with Fire Department Standards. Dead-end roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with turnarounds designed in accordance with Fire Department Standards. An all-weather road surface shall be any surface material acceptable to the code official.

Add Section 4715 to read:

WATER SUPPLY

Add Section 4715.1 to read:

4715.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire protection water supplies in accordance with this chapter.

Exception:

Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings with a building area of not more than 500 square feet (56 m2).

Add Section 4715.2 to read:

4715.2 Water Sources. The point at which a water source is available for use shall be located not more than 600 feet from all portions of the exterior walls of the building and be approved by the code official. The distance shall be measured along an unobstructed line of travel.

Water sources shall have a minimum usable water volume as determined by the adequate water supply needs in accordance with Section 4715.4. This water source shall be equipped with an approved hydrant. The water source shall be provided and maintained by a recognized water purveyor, mutual water company or water pumped from a well. The design, construction, location, water level maintenance, access, and access maintenance of man-made water sources shall be approved by the code official.

Add Section 4715.3 to read:

4715.3 Hydrants. All hydrants shall be designed and constructed in accordance with nationally recognized standards. The location and access shall be approved by the code official.

Add Section 4715.4 to read:

4715.4 Adequate Water Supply. Adequate fire protection water supplies shall be as follows:

1. One- And Two-Family Dwellings. The required fire protection water supply for one- and two- family dwellings shall be in accordance with Appendix B.

The water supply duration need not exceed 30 minutes.

2. Buildings Other Than One- And Two-Family Dwellings. The water supply required for buildings other than one-and two-family dwellings shall be in accordance with Appendix B.

Exception:

The water supply duration need not exceed 2 hours.

Add Section 4715.5 to read:

4715.5 Obstructions. Access to all water sources required by this code shall be unobstructed at all times. The code official shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to water source equipment, fire protection equipment or hydrants.

Add Section 4715.6 to read:

4715.6 Identification. Water sources, hydrants and fire protection equipment shall be clearly identified in a manner approved by the code official to identify location and to prevent obstruction by parking and other obstructions.

Add Section 4715.7 to read:

4715.7 Testing And Maintenance. Water sources, hydrants and other fire protection equipment required by this code shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the code official. All such equipment installed under the provisions of this code shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired or replaced where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing of such fire protection equipment and resources shall be in accordance with approved standards.

Add Section 4715.8 to read:

4715.8 Clearance Of Fuel. Defensible space shall be provided around water tank structures, water supply pumps and pump houses in accordance with Section 4707.

Add Section 4715.9 to read:

4715.9 Standby Power. Stationary water supply facilities within the wildland-urban interface area dependent on electrical power to meet adequate water supply demands shall provide standby power systems in accordance with the Electrical Code to ensure that an uninterrupted water supply is maintained. The standby power source shall be capable of providing power for a minimum of two hours.

Exceptions:

1. When approved by the code official, a standby power supply is not required where the primary power service to the stationary water supply facility is underground.

2. A standby power supply is not required where the stationary water supply facility serves no more than one single-family dwelling.

Add Section 4716 to read:

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Add Section 4716.1 to read:

4716.1 General. Buildings and structures located in wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with automatic fire sprinkler protection in accordance with this chapter.

Add Section 4716.2 to read:

4716.2 New Buildings. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings located in the wildland-urban interface area.

Exception:

Accessory structures to single-family residences that are non-residential and that have a gross floor area of 500 square feet or less.

Add Section 4716.3 to read:

4716.3 Existing Buildings. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing buildings located in the wildland-urban interface area when modifications are made that increase the gross floor area.

Exception:

One-time additions to existing buildings made after 01/01/08 that do not exceed 500 square feet in gross floor area.

Add Section 4717 to read:

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPRESSION AND CONTROL

Add Section 4717.1 to read:

4717.1 General

Add Section 4717.1.1 to read:

4717.1.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter establish general requirements applicable to new and existing properties located within wildland-urban interface areas.

Add Section 4717.1.2 to read:

4717.1.2 Objective. The objective of this appendix is to provide necessary fire-protection measures to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability of controlling such fires.

Add Section 4717.2 to read:

4717.2 Vegetation Control

Add Section 4717.2.1 to read:

4717.2.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Sections 4717.2.2 through 4717.2.5.

Add Section 4717.2.2 to read:

4717.2.2 Maintenance Of Defensible Space

Add Section 4717.2.2.1 to read:

4717.2.2.1 General. Defensible spaces required by 4707 shall be maintained in accordance with Section 4717.2.2.

Add Section 4717.2.2.2 to read:

4717.2.2.2 Modified Area. Non-fire-resistive vegetation or growth shall be kept clear of buildings or structures, in accordance with Section 4707(?), in such a manner as to provide a clear area for fire suppression operations.

Add Section 4717.2.2.3 to read:

4717.2.2.3 Responsibility. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining buildings or structures are responsible for maintenance of defensible spaces. Maintenance of the defensible space shall include modifying or removing nonfire-resistive vegetation and keeping leaves, needles and other dead vegetative material regularly removed from roofs of buildings and structures.

Add Section 4717.2.2.4 to read:

4717.2.2.4 Trees. Tree crowns extending to within 10 feet (3048 mm) of any structure shall be pruned to maintain a minimum horizontal clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm). Tree crowns within the defensible space shall be pruned to remove limbs located less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the ground surface adjacent to the trees.

Portions of tree crowns that extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the outlet of a chimney shall be pruned to maintain a minimum horizontal clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm).

Deadwood and litter shall be regularly removed from trees.

Add Section 4717.2.3 to read:

4717.2.3 Clearance Of Brush Or Vegetative Growth From Roadways. The code official is authorized to require areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of portions of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to be cleared of non-fire-resistive vegetation growth.

Exception:

Single specimens of trees, ornamental vegetative fuels or cultivated ground cover, such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground cover, provided they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.

Add Section 4717.2.4 to read:

4717.2.4 Clearance Of Brush And Vegetative Growth From Electrical Transmission And Distribution Lines.

Add Section 4717.2.4.1 to read:

4717.2.4.1 General. Clearance of brush and vegetative growth from electrical transmission and distribution lines shall be in accordance with Section 4717.2.4.

Exception:

Section 4717.2.4 does not authorize persons not having legal right of entry to enter on or damage the property of others without consent of the owner.

Add Section 4717.2.4.2 to read:

4717.2.4.2 Support Clearance. Persons owning, controlling, operating or maintaining electrical transmission or distribution lines shall have an approved program in place that identifies poles or towers with equipment and hardware types that have a history of becoming an ignition source, and provides a combustible free space consisting of a clearing of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in each direction from the outer circumference of such pole or tower during such periods of time as designated by the code official.

Exception:

Lines used exclusively as telephone, telegraph, messenger call, alarm transmission or other lines classed as communication circuits by a public utility.

Add Section 4717.2.4.3 to read:

4717.2.4.3 Electrical Distribution And Transmission Line Clearances.

Add Section 4717.2.4.3.1 to read:

4717.2.4.3.1 General. Clearances between vegetation and electrical lines shall be in accordance with 4717.2.4.3.

Add Section 4717.2.4.3.1 to read:

4717.2.4.3.2 Trimming Clearance. At the time of trimming, clearances not less than those established by Table 4717.2.4.3.2 shall be provided. The radial clearances shown below are minimum clearances that shall be established, at time of trimming, between the vegetation and the energized conductors and associated live parts.

Add Table 4717.2.4.3.2 to read:

TABLE 4717.2.4.3.2
MINIMUM CLEARANCES BETWEEN
VEGETATION AND ELECTRICAL LINES
AT TIME OF TRIMMING

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

Exception:

The code official is authorized to establish minimum clearances different than those specified by Table 4717.2.4.3.2 when evidence substantiating such other clearances is submitted to and approved by the code official.

Add Section 4717.2.4.3.3 to read:

4717.2.4.3.3 Minimum Clearance To Be Maintained. Clearances not less than those established by Table 4717.2.4.3.3 shall be maintained during such periods of time as designated by the code official. The site-specific clearance achieved, at time of pruning, shall vary based on species growth rates, the utility company-specific trim cycle, the potential line sway due to wind, line sag due to electrical loading and ambient temperature and the tree’s location in proximity to the high voltage lines.

Exception:

The code official is authorized to establish minimum clearances different than those specified by 4717.2.4.3.3.3 when evidence substantiating such other clearances is submitted to and approved by the code official.

Add Table 4717.2.4.3.2 to read:

TABLE 4717.2.4.3.3
MINIMUM CLEARANCES BETWEEN
VEGETATION AND ELECTRICAL LINES
TO BE MAINTAINED

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

Add Section 4717.2.4.3.4 to read:

4717.2.4.3.4 Electrical Power Line Emergencies. During emergencies, the utility shall perform the required work to the extent necessary to clear the hazard. An emergency can include situations such as trees falling into power lines, or trees in violation of Table 4717.2.3.3.3.

Add Section 4717.2.5 to read:

4717.2.5 Correction Of Condition. The code official is authorized to give notice to the owner of the property on which conditions regulated by Section 4717.2 exist to correct such conditions. If the owner fails to correct such conditions, the legislative body of the jurisdiction is authorized to cause the same to be done and make the expense of such correction a lien on the property where such condition exists.

Add Section 4717.3 to read:

4717.3 Access Restrictions

Add Section 4717.3.1 to read:

4717.3.1 Restricted Entry To Public Lands. The code official is authorized to determine and publicly announce when wildland-urban interface areas shall be closed to entry and when such areas shall again be opened to entry. Entry on and occupation of wildland-urban interface areas, except public roadways, inhabited areas or established trails and campsites that have not been closed during such time when the wildland-urban interface area is closed to entry, is prohibited.

Exceptions:

1. Residents and owners of private property within wildland-urban interface areas and their invitees and guests going to or being on their lands.

2. Entry, in the course of duty, by peace or police officers, and other duly authorized public officers, members of a fire department and members of the Wildland Firefighting Service.

Add Section 4717.3.2 to read:

4717.3.2 Trespassing On Posted Private Property.

Add Section 4717.3.2.1 to read:

4717.3.2.1 General. When the code official determines that a specific area within an wildland-urban interface area presents an exceptional and continuing fire danger because of the density of natural growth, difficulty of terrain, proximity to structures or accessibility to the public, such areas shall be restricted or closed until changed conditions warrant termination of such restriction or closure. Such areas shall be posted in accordance with Section 4717.3.2.2.

Add Section 4717.3.2.2 to read:

4717.3.2.2 Signs. Approved signs prohibiting entry by unauthorized persons and referring to this code shall be placed on every closed area.

Add Section 4717.3.2.3 to read:

4717.3.2.3 Trespassing. Entering and remaining within areas closed and posted is prohibited. Exception: Owners and occupiers of private or public property within closed and posted areas; their guests or invitees; authorized persons engaged in the operation and maintenance of necessary utilities such as electrical power, gas, telephone, water and sewer; and local, state and federal public officers and their authorized agents acting in the course of duty.

Add Section 4717.3.3 to read:

4717.3.3 Use Of Fire Roads And Defensible Space. Motorcycles, motor scooters and motor vehicles shall not be driven or parked on, and trespassing is prohibited on, fire roads or defensible space beyond the point where travel is restricted by a cable, gate or sign, without the permission of the property owners. Vehicles shall not be parked in a manner that obstructs the entrance to a fire road or defensible space.

Exception:

Public officers acting within their scope of duty. Radio and television aerials, guy wires thereto, and other obstructions shall not be installed or maintained on fire roads or defensible spaces, unless located 16 feet (4877 mm) or more above such fire road or defensible space.

Add Section 4717.3.4 to read:

4717.3.4 Use Of Motorcycles, Motor Scooters, Ultra light Aircraft And Motor Vehicles. Motorcycles, motor scooters, ultra light aircraft and motor vehicles shall not be operated within wildland-urban interface areas, without a permit by the code official, except on clearly established public or private roads. Permission from the property owner shall be presented when requesting a permit.

Add Section 4717.3.5 to read:

4717.3.5 Tampering With Locks, Barricades, Signs And Address Markers. Locks, barricades, seals, cables, signs and address markers installed within wildland-urban interface areas, by or under the control of the code official, shall not be tampered with, mutilated, destroyed or removed.

Gates, doors, barriers and locks installed by or under the control of the code official shall not be unlocked.

Add Section 4717.4 to read:

4717.4 Ignition Source Control

Add Section 4717.4.1 to read:

4717.4.1 General. Ignition sources shall be in accordance with Section 4717.4.

Add Section 4717.4.2 to read:

4717.4.2 Objective. Regulations in this section are intended to provide the minimum requirements to prevent the occurrence of wildfires.

Add Section 4717.4.3 to read:

4717.4.3 Clearance From Ignition Sources. Clearance between ignition sources and grass, brush or other combustible materials shall be maintained a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm).

Add Section 4717.4.4 to read:

4717.4.4 Smoking. When required by the code official, signs shall be posted stating NO SMOKING. No person shall smoke within 15 feet (4572 mm) of combustible materials or non-fire-resistive vegetation.

Exception:

Places of habitation or in the boundaries of established smoking areas or campsites as designated by the code official.

Add Section 4717.4.5 to read:

4717.4.5 Equipment And Devices Generating Heat, Sparks Or Open Flames. Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames capable of igniting nearby combustibles shall not be used in wildland-urban interface areas without a permit from the code official.

Exception:

Use of approved equipment in habitated premises or designated campsites that are a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) from grass-, grain-, brush- or forest-covered areas.

Add Section 4717.4.6 to read:

4717.4.6 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in wildland-urban interface areas.

Add Section 4717.4.7 to read:

4717.4.7 Outdoor Fires.

Add Section 4717.4.7.1 to read:

4717.4.7.1 General. No person shall build, ignite or maintain any outdoor fire of any kind for any purpose in or on any wildland-urban interface area, except by the authority of a written permit from the code official.

Exception:

Outdoor fires within inhabited premises or designated campsites where such fires are in a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace or grill and are a minimum of 30 feet (9144 mm) from any combustible material or non-fire-resistive vegetation.

Add Section 4717.4.7.2 to read:

4717.4.7.2 Permits. Permits shall incorporate such terms and conditions that will reasonably safeguard public safety and property. Outdoor fires shall not be built, ignited or maintained in or on hazardous fire areas under the following conditions:

1. When high winds are blowing,

2. When a person 17 years old or over is not present at all times to watch and tend such fire, or

3. When a public announcement is made that open burning is prohibited.

Add Section 4717.4.7.3 to read:

4717.4.7.3 Restrictions. No person shall use a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace or grill for the disposal of rubbish, trash or combustible waste material.

Add Section 4717.4.8 to read:

4717.4.8 Outdoor Fireplaces, Permanent Barbecues And Grills. Outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall not be built, installed or maintained in wildland-urban interface areas without approval of the code official.

Outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall be maintained in good repair and in a safe condition at all times. Openings in such appliances shall be provided with an approved spark arrestor, screen or door.

Exception:

When approved by the code official, unprotected openings in barbecues and grills necessary for proper functioning.

Add Section 4717.4.9 to read:

4717.4.9 Reckless Behavior. The code official is authorized to stop any actions of a person or persons if the official determines that the action is reckless and could result in an ignition of fire or spread of fire.

Add Section 4717.4.10 to read:

4717.4.10 Planting Vegetation Under Or Adjacent To Energized Electrical Lines. No vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines that, at maturity, shall grow within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the energized conductors.

Add Section 4717.5 to read:

4717.5 Control of Storage

Add Section 4717.5.1 to read:

4717.5.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the International Fire Code, storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with Section 4717.5.

Add Section 4717.5.2 to read:

4717.5.2 Hazardous Materials. Hazardous materials in excess of 10 gallons (37.8 L) of liquid, 200 cubic feet (5.66 m³) of gas, or 10 pounds (4.54 kg) of solids require a permit and shall comply with nationally recognized standards for storage and use.

Add Section 4717.5.2.1 to read:

4717.5.2.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Installations

Add Section 4717.5.2.1.1 to read:

4717.5.2.1.1 General. The storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas) and the installation and maintenance of pertinent equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code and recognized standards.

Add Section 4717.5.2.1 to read:

4717.5.2.1.2 Location of Containers. LP-gas containers shall be located within the defensible space in accordance with the California Fire Code.

Add Section 4717.5.3 to read:

4717.5.3 Explosives. Explosives shall not be possessed, kept, stored, sold, offered for sale, given away, used, discharged, transported or disposed of within wildland-urban interface areas.

Add Section 4717.5.4 to read:

4717.5.4 Combustible Materials.

Add Section 4717.5.4.1 to read:

4717.5.4.1 General. Outside storage of combustible materials such as, but not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials or paper products shall comply with the other applicable sections of this code and this section.

Add Section 4717.5.4.2 to read:

4717.5.4.2 Individual Piles. Individual piles shall not exceed 5,000 square feet (465 m²) of contiguous area. Piles shall not exceed 50,000 cubic feet (1416 m³) in volume or 10 feet (3048 mm) in height.

Add Section 4717.5.4.3 to read:

4717.5.4.3 Separation. A clear space of at least 40 feet (12 192 mm) shall be provided between piles. The clear space shall not contain combustible material or non-fire-resistive vegetation.

Add Section 4717.5.4.4 to read:

4717.5.4.4 Storage Of Firewood And Combustible Materials

Add Section 4717.5.4.4.1 to read:

4717.5.4.4.1 General. Firewood and combustible material shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under eaves, canopies or other projections or overhangs. When required by the code official, storage of firewood and combustible material stored in the defensible space shall be located a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm) from structures and separated from the crown of trees by a minimum horizontal distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).

Add Section 4717.5.4.4.2 to read:

4717.5.4.4.2 Storage For Off-Site Use. Firewood and combustible materials not for consumption on the premises shall be stored so as to not pose a hazard.

Add Section 4717.6 to read:

4717.6 Dumping

Add Section 4717.6.1 to read:

4717.6.1 Waste Material. Waste material shall not be placed, deposited or dumped in wildland-urban interface areas, or in, on or along trails, roadways or highways or against structures in wildland-urban interface areas.

Exception:

Approved public and approved private dumping areas.

Add Section 4717.6.2 to read:

4717.6.2 Ashes And Coals. Ashes and coals shall not be placed, deposited or dumped in or on wildland-urban interface areas.

Exceptions:

1. In the hearth of an established fire pit, camp stove or fireplace.

2. In a noncombustible container with a tight fitting lid, which is kept or maintained in a safe location not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from non-fire-resistive vegetation or structures.

3. Where such ashes or coals are buried and covered with 1 foot (305 mm) of mineral earth not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from non-fire-resistive vegetation or structures.

Add Section 4717.7 to read:

4717.7 Protection Of Pumps And Water Storage Facilities

Add Section 4717.7.1 to read:

4717.7.1 General. The reliability of the water supply shall be in accordance with Section 4717.7.

Add Section 4717.7.2 to read:

4717.7.2 Objective. The intent of this section is to increase the reliability of water storage and pumping facilities and to protect such systems against loss from intrusion by fire.

Add Section 4717.7.3 to read:

4717.7.3 Fuel Modification Area. Water storage and pumping facilities shall be provided with a defensible space of not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) clear of non-fire-resistive vegetation or growth around and adjacent to such facilities.

Persons owning, controlling, operating or maintaining water storage and pumping systems requiring this defensible space are responsible for clearing and removing nonfire-resistive vegetation and maintaining the defensible space on the property owned, leased or controlled by said person.

Add Section 4717.7.4 to read:

4717.7.4 Trees. Portions of trees that extend to within 30 feet (9144 mm) of combustible portions of water storage and pumping facilities shall be removed.

Add Section 4717.7.5 to read:

4717.7.5 Protection Of Electrical Power Supplies. When electrical pumps are used to provide the required water supply, such pumps shall be connected to a standby power source to automatically maintain electrical power in the event of power loss. The standby power source shall be capable of providing power for a minimum of two hours in accordance with the Electrical Code.

Exception:

A standby power source is not required where the primary power service to pumps are underground as approved by the code official.

Add Section 4717.7.8 to read:

4717.8 Land Use Limitations

Add Section 4717.8.1 to read:

4717.8.1 General. Temporary fairs, carnivals, public exhibitions and similar uses must comply with all other provisions of this code in addition to enhanced ingress and egress requirements.

Add Section 4717.8.2 to read:

4717.8.2 Objective. The increased public use of land or structures in wildland-urban interface areas also increases the potential threat to life safety. The provisions of this section are intended to reduce that threat.

Add Section 4717.8.3 to read:

4717.8.3 Permits. Temporary fairs, carnivals, public exhibitions or similar uses shall not be allowed in a designated wildland-urban interface area, except by permit from the code official.

Permits shall incorporate such terms and conditions that will reasonably safeguard public safety and property.

APPENDIX CHAPTER 1

PERMITS

Section 105.1.4 is added to read as follows

105.1.4 Construction permit fees. Construction permit fees and plan review fees for fire hydrant systems, fire extinguishing systems and fire alarm systems shall be paid to the Santa Clara County Fire Department in accordance with the following table based on valuation. The valuation shall be limited to the value of the system installation for which the permit is being issued. Plan review fees are 65% of the Permit Fee amount. For the purposes of determining the total fee amount for each permit, the plan review fee shall be added to the Permit Fee.

Section 105.1.5 is added to read as follows

105.1.5 Operational permit fees. Operational permit fees shall be paid to the Santa Clara County Fire Department as follows:

Section 105.6.48 is added to read as follows:

105.6.48 Day care facility. An operational permit is required to operate a business as a day care facility for more than 6 people.

Section 105.6.49 is added to read as follows:

105.6.49 Institutional. A permit is required to operate, maintain, or use any institutional type occupancy. For the purpose of this Section, an institution shall be, but is not limited to: hospitals, children’s home, home or institution for insane or mentally retarded persons, home or institution for the care of aged or senile persons, sanitarium, nursing or convalescent home, certified family care homes, residential care homes for the elderly, out of home placement facilities, halfway house, and day care nurseries or similar facility of any capacity.)

INSPECTIONS

Section 106.5 is added to read as follows:

106.5 Final Inspection. No final inspection as to all or any portion of a development shall be deemed completed until the installation of the required fire protection facilities and access ways have been completed and approved. No final certificate of occupancy may be granted until the Fire Department issues notice of final clearance of such fire protection facilities and access ways to the Building Department.

VIOLATIONS

Section 109.3 is amended to read:

109.3 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a (SPECIFY OFFENSE), punishable by a fine of not more than (AMOUNT) dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding (NUMBER OF DAYS), or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

Section 109.4 is added to read as follows:

109.4 Abatement of hazard. If any person fails to comply with the order of the Fire Department, or in the event the Fire Department is unable to locate the responsible person within a reasonable time, the Fire Department may take such steps to abate a fire hazard or health hazard as are necessary for the protection of the public health and safety. In no event is notice necessary before abatement when the fire hazard constitutes a clear and present danger to the public welfare. The cost of any such abatement is a debt to the City, of the owner of the premises or who, by his act or inaction, caused the fire hazard. The cost of the abatement shall become a lien on the premises when the need for the abatement and the amount of the cost have been established. It is the intent of this Section to provide a method of hazard abatement on private property where no owner or responsible person can be found and the hazard is of a nature requiring immediate action in order to protect the public.
(Ord. 156 § 1 (part), 2007: Ord. 136 § 2 (part), 2002)