HomeMy WebLinkAbout526 ORDINANCE NO. 526
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS REPEALING
CHAPTER 1 OF TITLE VIII OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL
CODE "BUILDING CODE," REPEALING CHAPTER 1.5 OF TITLE VIII OF
THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE "HOUSING CODE,"
REPEALING CHAPTER 1.6 OF TITLE VIII OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS
MUNICIPAL CODE "ENERGY EFFICIENT STANDARDS FOR SINGLE-
FAMILY DWELLINGS,"REPEALING CHAPTER 1.7 OF TITLE VIII OF THE
LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE "ENERGY CODE," REPEALING
CHAPTER 2 OF TITLE VIII OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL
CODE "ELECTRICAL CODE," REPEALING CHAPTER 3 OF TITLE VIII OF
THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE "PLUMBING CODE,"
REPEALING CHAPTER 4 OF TITLE VIII OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS
MUNICIPAL CODE "MECHANICAL CODE," REPEALING CHAPTER 8 OF
TITLE VIII OF THE LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE, "FIRE CODE,"
AND ADDING CHAPTER 1, "BUILDING CODE," ADDING CHAPTER 1.2
"RESIDENTIAL CODE," ADDING CHAPTER 1.4, "CALGREEN CODE,"
ADDING CHAPTER 1.5, "HOUSING CODE," ADDING CHAPTER 1.7,
"ENERGY CODE," ADDING CHAPTER 1.8, "SAFETY ASSESSMENT
PLACARDS," ADDING CHAPTER 2, "ELECTRICAL CODE," ADDING
CHAPTER 3, "PLUMBING CODE," ADDING CHAPTER 4, "MECHANICAL
CODE," AND ADDING CHAPTER 8, "FIRE CODE," OF TITLE VIII OF THE
LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH ADOPTS AND AMENDS
BY REFERENCE PROVISIONS OF THE 2010 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE
WHEREAS, the 2010 California Building Standards Code, has been amended and
adopted by the California Building Standards Commission; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Los Altos Hills ("Town") wishes to adopt building code
regulations in accordance with law and to use the most updated regulations in the processing of
development in the Town; and
WHEREAS, Government Code § 50022.2 authorizes cities to enact ordinances adopting
any code by reference; and
WHEREAS, because of the Town's unique climatic, geologic, and topographic
conditions, the Town desires to make amendments and additions to the building and fire code
regulations, as set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 18941.5 and 17958,
the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills hereby finds that the amendments adopted
herein are reasonably necessary because of the following local climatic, geologic and
topographic conditions:
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1. The Town of Los Altos Hills experiences low humidity, high winds and warm
temperatures during the summer months creating conditions which are particularly
conducive to the ignition and spread of grass, brush and structure fires.
2. The remoteness and steepness of hillside areas in the Town significantly impacts the
ability of emergency responders to extinguish or control wildland or structure fires.
These factors cumulatively mandate special provisions for Fire Department access,
fire protection water supplies, automatic fire sprinklers and fire retardant roof
coverings.
3. The Town of Los Altos Hills is geographically situated adjacent to active earthquake
faults capable of producing substantial seismic events. Since the Town is divided by a
freeway and other major traffic corridors, the occurrence of a major earthquake would
significantly impact the ability of fire crews to respond to emergencies should one or
more bridges collapse or be substantially damaged.
4. Fire suppression capabilities will be severely limited should the water system be
extensively damaged during the seismic event.
5. Roofs that are not fire-retardant contribute to the spread of fires, and therefore pose a
risk to the safety of the Town's citizens and their property.
WHEREAS, prior to the effective date of this ordinance, the City Clerk shall file a copy
of the ordinance, with the California Building Standards Commission.
WHEREAS, in accordance with Health and Safety Code section 17958.7, the City
Council hereby finds that each of the above findings is applicable to each of the modifications
described in this ordinance; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Building Code" is hereby
repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 1, `Building Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 1 BUILDING CODE
8-1.01 Adoption of the 2010 California Building Code
8-1.02 Amended Sections of Adopted Codes
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8-1.01 Adoption of 2010 California Building Code
(a) The 2010 California Building Code, Part 2, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations, a portion of the California Building Standards Code, as defined in the
California State Health and Safety Code Section 18901 et seq., (hereinafter referred to
as the `Building Code"), and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto
including the International Building Code, 2009 Edition, including Appendix
Chapters, as published by the International Code Council, and as referenced in and
adopted pursuant to California State Health and Safety Code Sections 17922 and
18935, (hereinafter referred to as the "IBC") are hereby adopted and incorporated by
reference herein.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Building Code shall be kept on file in the office
of the City Clerk.
8-1.03 Amended Sections of Adopted Codes
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-1.01, the Building Code is amended as follows:
A. Section 710A.3.2 is deleted in its entirety.
B. Section 710A.4 is amended as follows:
Delete the phrase "When required by the enforcing agency"
C. Section 707A.8 is amended as follows:
Delete the phrase"When required by the enforcing agency"
D. Section 1505.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
1505.1.3 Roof coverings in all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing
structure where three hundred (300) square feet or 50 percent of the total roof area,
whichever is less, is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of
every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement
of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at
least Class A.
E. Section 1505.1.4.1 is added to read as follows:
1505.1.4.1 Roofing coverings within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area. The
entire roof covering of every existing structure where three hundred (300) square feet or
50 percent of the total roof area, whichever is less, is replaced within any one-year
period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in
the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-
retardant roof covering that is at least Class A.
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F. Section 3405.6 is added to read as follows:
3405.6 Seismic Evaluation and Design Procedures for Repairs. The seismic
evaluation and design shall be based on the procedures specified in the California
Building Code, ASCE 31 Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings (for evaluation only)
or ASCE 41 Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings. The procedures contained in
Appendix A of the International Existing Building Code shall be permitted to be used as
specified in Section 3403.5.1.1.3
3405.6.1 Compliance with CBC level seismic forces. Where compliance with the
seismic design provisions of the California Building Code is required, the procedures
shall be in accordance with one of the following:
(1) One-hundred percent of the values in the California Building Code. Where the
existing seismic force-resisting system is a type that can be designated as
"Ordinary," the values of R, flo, and Cd used for analysis in accordance with
Chapter 16 of the California Building Code shall be those specified for
structural systems classified as "Ordinary" in accordance with Table 12.2-1 of
ASCE 7, unless it is demonstrated that the structural system will provide
performance equivalent to that of a "Detailed," "Intermediate" or "Special"
system.
(2) Compliance with ASCE 41 using both BSE-1 and BSE-2 earthquake hazard
levels and the corresponding performance levels in Table 3405.6.1.
TABLE 3405.61
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR CBC LEVEL SEISMIC FORCES
OCCUPANCY CATEGORY` PERFORMANCE LEVEL PERFORMANCE LEVEL
(BASED ON CBC TABLE FOR USE WITH ASCE 41 FOR USE WITH ASCE 41
1604.5) BSE-1 EARTHQUAKE BSE-2 EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD LEVEL HAZARD LEVEL
I Life Safety(LS) Collapse Prevention(CP)
II Life Safety(LS) Collapse Prevention(CP)
III Note (a) Note(a)
IV Immediate Occupancy (IO) Immediate Occupancy (IO)
(a) Acceptance criteria for Occupancy Category III shall be taken as 80 percent of the
acceptance criteria specified for Occupancy Category II performance levels, but need not be
less than the acceptance criteria specified for Occupancy Category IV performance levels.
3405.6.2 Compliance with reduced CBC level seismic forces. Where seismic
evaluation and design is permitted to meet reduced California Building Code seismic
force levels,the procedures used shall be in accordance with one of the following:
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(1) The California Building Code using 75 percent of the prescribed forces.
Values of R, Qo, and Cd used for analysis shall be as specified in Section
3405.6.1 Item 1.
(2) Structures or portions of structures that comply with the requirements of the
applicable chapter in Appendix A of the International Existing Building Code
as specified in Items 2.1 through 2.5 below shall be deemed to comply with
this section.
2.1. The seismic evaluation and design of unreinforced masonry bearing wall
d'
bui 1 mgs in Occupancy Category I or II are permitted to be based on the
procedures specified in Appendix Chapter Al.
2.2. Seismic evaluation and design of the wall anchorage system in reinforced
concrete and reinforced masonrywall buildings with flexible diaphragms in
Occupancy Category I or I1 are permitted to be based on the procedures
specified in Appendix Chapter A2.
2.3. Seismic evaluation and design of cripple walls and sill plate anchorage in
residential buildings of light-frame wood construction in Occupancy
Category I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in
Appendix Chapter A3.
2.4. Seismic evaluation and design of soft, weak, or open-front wall conditions in
multiunit residential buildings of wood construction in Occupancy Category
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I or II are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in Appendix
Chapter A4.
2.5. Seismic evaluation and design of concrete buildings in all Occupancy
Categories are permitted to be based on the procedures specified in
Appendix Chapter A5.
(3) Compliance with ASCE 31 based on the applicable performance level as shown in
Table 3405.6.2. It shall be permitted to use the BSE-1 earthquake hazard level as
defined in ASCE 41 and subject to the limitations in item 4 below.
(4) Compliance with ASCE 41 using the BSE-1 Earthquake Hazard Level defined in
ASCE 41 and the performance level as shown in Table 3405.6.2. The design
spectral response acceleration parameters Sxs and Sxl specified in ASCE 41shall
not be taken less than 75 percent of the respective design spectral response
acceleration parameters SDS and SD1 defined by the California Building Code
and its reference standards.
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TABLE 3405.6.2
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR REDUCED CBC
LEVEL SEISMIC FORCES
OCCUPANCY CATEGORY PERFORMANCE LEVEL PERFORMANCE LEVEL
(BASED ON CBC FOR USE WITH ASCE 31 FOR USE WITH ASCE 41
TABLE 1604.5) BSE-1 EARTHQUAKE BSE-2 EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD LEVEL HAZARD LEVEL
I Life Safety(LS) Life Safety(LS)
II Life Safety (LS) Life Safety(LS)
III Note (a),Note(b) Note (a)
IV Immediate Occupancy (IO) Immediate Occupancy (IO)
(a) Acceptance criteria for Occupancy Category III shall be taken as 80 percent of the
acceptance criteria specified for Occupancy Category II performance levels, but need not
be less than the acceptance criteria specified for Occupancy Category IV performance
levels.
(b) For Occupancy Category III, the ASCE screening phase checklists shall be based on the
life safety performance level.
3405.6.3 Referenced Standards.
Standard Referenced in code
Reference Number Title Section Number
ASCE 31-03 Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings 3405.6.1,
TABLE 3405.6.1
3405.2.4.2,
TABLE 3405.6.2
ASCE 41-06 Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings 3405.6.1,
Including TABLE 3405.6.1
Supplement No. 1 3405.6.2,
TABLE 3405.6.2
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.2, "Residential Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
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Chapter 1.2 RESIDENTIAL CODE
8-1.2.01 Adoption of the 2010 California Residential Code
8-1.2.02 Amended Sections of Adopted Codes
8-1.2.01 Adoption of 2010 California Residential Code
(a) The 2010 California Residential Code, Part 2.5, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations, a portion of the California Building Standards Code, as defined in the
California State Health and Safety Code Section 18901 et seq., (hereinafter referred to
as the "Residential Code"), and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant
thereto including the International Building Code, 2009 Edition, including Appendix
Chapters, as published by the International Code Council, and as referenced in and
adopted pursuant to California State Health and Safety Code Sections 17922 and
18935, (hereinafter referred to as the "IBC") are hereby adopted and incorporated by
reference herein.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Building Code shall be kept on file in the office
of the City Clerk.
8-1.2.02 Amended Sections of Adopted Codes
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-1.2.01,the Residential Code is amended as follows:
A. Section R313.2 is amended to read:
8313.2 One and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic
residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings as
follows:
(1) In all new one- and two-family dwellings and in existing one- and two-family
dwellings when additions are made that increase the building area to more than 3,600
square feet.
Exception: A one-time addition to an existing building that does not total more than
1,000 square feet of building area.
(2) In all new basements and in existing basements that are expanded.
Exception: Existing basements that are expanded by not more than 50%.
B. Section R327.7.9 is amended as follows:
Delete the phrase "When required by the enforcing agency"
C. Section R327.10.3.2 is deleted in its entirety.
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D. Section 8327.10.4 is amended as follows:
Delete the phrase"When required by the enforcing agency"
E. Section 8902.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
R902.1.3 Roof coverings in all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing
structure where three hundred (300) square feet or 50 percent of the total roof area,
whichever is less, is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of
every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement
of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at
least Class A.
F. Section R902.1.4.1 is added to read as follows:
R902.1.4.1 Roofing coverings within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area. The
entire roof covering of every existing structure where three hundred (300) square feet or
50 percent of the total roof area, whichever is less, is replaced within any one-year
period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in
the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-
retardant roof covering that is at least Class A.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby further
ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.4, "California Green Building Standards Code," is hereby added to Title VIII
of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 1.4 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE (CALGREEN)
8-1.4.01 Adoption of CalGreen
(a) The California Green Building Standards Code for the Town of Los Altos Hills,
incorporated herein by reference except as otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code
of rules, regulations and standards published by the California Building Standards
Commission titled California Green Building Standards Code 2010 edition.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the California Green Building Standards Code shall be
kept on file in the office of the City Clerk.
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NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.5 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Housing Code," is
hereby repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 1.5, "Housing Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 1.5 HOUSING CODE
8-1.5.01 Adoption of Housing Code
(a) The Housing Code for the Town of Los Altos Hills, incorporated herein by reference
except as otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code of rules, regulations and
standards published by the International Conference of Building Officials, titled the
Uniform Housing Code, 2010 Edition.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Housing Code shall be kept on file in the office of
the City Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.6, Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Energy Efficiency
Standards for Single-Family Dwellings," is hereby repealed in its entirety.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.7 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Energy Code," is
hereby repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 1.7, "Energy Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 1.7 ENERGY CODE
8-1.7.01 Adoption of Energy Code
(a) The Energy Code of the Town of Los Altos Hills, incorporated by reference herein except as
otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code of rules, regulations and standards published
by the International Code Council, titled the "International Energy Conservation Code, 2009
Edition," as amended by the California Building Standards Commission.
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(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Energy Code shall be kept on file in the office of the
City Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 1.8, "SAFETY ASSESSMENT PLACARDS," is hereby added to Title VIII of
the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 1.8 SAFETY ASSESSMENT PLACARDS
8-1.8.01 Intent
8-1.8.02 Application of Provisions
8-1.8.03 Definitions
8-1.8.04 Placards
8-1.8.01 Intent
This chapter establishes standard placards to be used to indicate the condition of a structure for
continued occupancy. The chapter further authorizes the Building Official and his or her
authorized representatives to post the appropriate placard at each entry point to a building or
structure upon completion of a safety assessment.
8-1.8.02 Application of Provisions
The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all buildings and structures of all occupancies
regulated by the Town. The City Council may extend the provisions as necessary.
8-1.8.03 Definitions
Safety assessment is a visual, non-destructive examination of a building or structure for the
purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy.
8.1.8.04 Placards
(a) The following are verbal descriptions of the official jurisdiction placards to be used to
designate the condition for continued occupancy of buildings or structures.
(1) INSPECTED - Lawful Occupancy Permitted is to be posted on any building or
structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been found. This placard is not
intended to mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.
(2) RESTRICTED USE is to be posted on each building or structure that has been
damaged wherein the damage has resulted in some form of restriction to the
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continued occupancy. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms
the type of damage encountered and will clearly and concisely note the restrictions on
continued occupancy.
(3) UNSAFE - Do Not Enter or Occupy is to be posted on each building or structure
that has been damaged such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life safety.
Buildings or structures posted with this placard shall not be entered under any
circumstance except as authorized in writing by the Building Official, or his or her
authorized representative. Safety assessment teams shall be authorized to enter these
buildings at any time. This placard is not to be used or considered as a demolition
order. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of
damage encountered.
(b) This ordinance number, the name of the jurisdiction, its address, and phone number shall be
permanently affixed to each placard.
(c) Once it has been attached to a building or structure, a placard is not to be removed, altered or
covered until done so by an authorized representative of the Building Official. It shall be
unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to alter, remove, cover or deface a placard
unless authorized pursuant to this section.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 2 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Electrical Code," is
hereby repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 2, "Electrical Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 2 ELECTRICAL CODE
8-2.01 Adoption of Electrical Code
8-2.02 Underground Installations: Electrical and Telephone Service Lead-In
8-2.01 Adoption of Electrical Code
(a) The Electrical Code of the Town of Los Altos Hills, incorporated by reference herein except
as otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code of rules, regulations and standards
published by the National Fire Protection Association under the title "National Electrical
Code, 2008 Edition,"as amended by the California Building Standards Commission.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Electrical Code shall be kept on file in the office of the
City Clerk.
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8-2.02 Underground Installations: Electrical and Telephone Service Lead-In
Eve electrical and telephone and other utility service lead-in constructed or laced pursuant to
Every p h' P
this chapter shall be constructed and placed underground so that no portion thereof shall remain
aboveground at any place between the street or easement line supply and the structure which
such lead-in serves. No new utility pole or overhead line shall be installed, except for repair or
maintenance purposes. This provision applies only to utility work necessitated by applicants for
building permits.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 3 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Plumbing Code," is
hereby repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 3, "Plumbing Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 3 PLUMBING CODE
8-3.01 Adoption of Plumbing Code
(a) The Plumbing Code of the Town of Los Altos Hills, incorporated by reference herein except
as otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code of rules, regulations and standards
published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials under the
title "Uniform Plumbing Code, 2009 Edition," as amended by the California Building
Standards Commission.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Plumbing Code shall be kept on file in the office of the
City Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 4 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Mechanical Code," is
hereby repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 4, "Mechanical Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 4 MECHANICAL CODE
8-4.01 Adoption of Mechanical Code
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(a) The Mechanical Code of the Town of Los Altos Hills, incorporated by reference herein
except as otherwise provided in this chapter, is the code of rules, regulations and standards
published by the International Conference of Building Officials and the International
Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials under the title "Uniform Mechanical
Code, 2009 Edition," as amended by the California Building Standards Commission.
(b) No fewer than three (3) copies of the Mechanical Code shall be kept on file in the office of
the City Clerk.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Chapter 8 of Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, "Fire Code," is hereby
repealed in its entirety.
2. Chapter 8, "Fire Code," is hereby added to Title VIII of the Los Altos Hills Municipal
Code to read as follows:
Chapter 8 FIRE CODE
8-8.01 Adoption of Fire Code
8-8.02 Definitions
8-8.03 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of stationary
tanks.of flammable cryogenic fluids are to be prohibited
8-8.04 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of flammable or
combustible liquids in outside aboveground tanks is prohibited
8-8.05 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of flammable or
combustible liquids in aboveground tanks is prohibited
8-8.06 Establishment of limits in which storage of liquefied petroleum gases
is prohibited
8-8.07 Deleted sections of adopted codes
8-8.08 Amended sections of adopted codes
8-8.01 Adoption of Fire Code
It is hereby adopted by the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills for the purpose of
prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire or
explosion, those certain codes known as the 2010 California Building Standards Code, Title 24,
California Code of Regulations, Part 9 (hereafter, the California Fire Code or CFC), and also the
2009 International Fire Code, published by the International Code Council, including Appendix
Chapters B, C and J (hereafter, the International Fire Code or IFC), save and except such
portions as are deleted, modified or amended by this-chapter, one copy of which has been filed
for use and examination b the public in the office of the Ci Clerk. Said codes are adopted and
Y P City p
incorporated by reference as fully as if set out at length herein, and from the date on which the
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ordinance codified in this section shall take effect, said codes shall be in full force and effect
within the limits of the Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.02 Definitions
Administrator means the City Manager of the Town of Los Altos Hills or his or her designated
representative.
Chief or Fire Chief or fire code official means the Fire Chief retained by the Los Altos Hills
County Fire District or designated representative.
Chief of Police means the Sheriff of the County of Santa Clara with whom the Town contracts
for police services, or his or her designated representative.
Corporation Counsel means the City Attorney for the Town.
Fire Department means the Fire Department retained by the Los Altos Hills County Fire
District.
Jurisdiction means the Town of Los Altos Hills.
Police Department means the Sheriff s Department of the County of Santa Clara with whom the
Town contracts for police service.
Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area means 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 Town of Los Altos Hills 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 Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.03 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of stationary tanks of
flammable cryogenic fluids are to be prohibited
The limits referred to in Section 3506.2 of the California Fire Code in which the storage of
flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers is prohibited are hereby established as all
locations of the Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.04 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of Class I and Class II in outside
aboveground tanks is prohibited
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The limits referred to in Section 3404.2.9.6.1 of the California Fire Code, in which the storage of
flammable or combustible liquids in, aboveground tanks is prohibited are hereby established as
all locations of the Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.05 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of Class I and Class II liquids in
aboveground tanks is prohibited
The limits referred to in Section 3406.2.4.4 of the California Fire Code, in which the storage of
flammable or combustible liquids in aboveground tanks is prohibited are hereby established as
all locations of the Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.06 Establishment of limits in which storage of liquefied petroleum gases is prohibited
The limits referred to in Section 3804.2 of the California Fire Code, in which storage of liquefied
petroleum gas is restricted, are hereby established as all locations of the Town of Los Altos Hills.
8-8.07 Deleted sections of adopted codes
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-8.01, the following sections of the CFC and IFC are
deleted:
(a) 311.5 Placards.
(b) 311.5.1 Placard Location.
(c) 311.5.2 Placard Size and Color.
(d) 311.5.3 Placard Date.
(e) 311.5.4 Placard Symbols.
(f) 311.5.5 Informational Use.
8-8.08 Amended sections of adopted codes
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8-8.01, the following sections of the CFC and IFC are
amended as follows:
A. 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.
B. 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
15
of any capacity.
C. 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 granted anted until the Fire Department issues notice of final clearance of such fire
protection facilities and access ways to the Building Department.
D. Section 108.1 is amended to read as follows:
108.1 Board of Appeals. Wherever the term "Board of Appeals" is used or appears in
this code, such term shall be deemed and construed to mean the City Council of the Town
of Los Altos Hills.
E. Section 108.3, Qualifications, is deleted in its entirety.
F. Section 109.3 is amended to read as follows:
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 misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable as set forth in Chapter 2
of Title 1 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code.
G. Section 109.3.1 is amended to read as follows:
109.3.1 Abatement of Violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein
described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent
unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal
occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or
occupancy of a structure on or about any premises. If any person fails to comply with the
order of the fire code official, or in the event that the fire code official is unable to locate
the responsible person within a reasonable time, the fire code official 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 Town, of the owner of the premises or who, by his or her 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.
H. Section 503.1 is amended to read as follows:
............ ._ ....... ._ . ....... . _
16
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in
accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.2 and as per Fire Department access road
Standards.
I. Section 503.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.1.1 Building and Facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided
for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or
within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the
requirements of this section and shall extend within 150 feet (45,720 mm) of all portions
of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route
around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions:
(1) When the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic
sprinkler installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or
903.3.1.3,the dimension may be increased to 300 feet.
(2) When fire apparatus roads cannot be installed because of topography,
waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, an approved
alternative means of fire protection shall be provided.
J. Section 503.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not
less than 20 feet (6,096 mm), except for approved security gates in accordance with
Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 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.
K. Section 503.7 is added to read as follows:
503.7 Traffic Calming Devices. Traffic calming devices such as speed humps, traffic
circles or other physical measures intended to control vehicle speed on fire apparatus
access roads are prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.
L. Section 806.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
806.1.1 Display inside buildings. The display of Christmas trees and other decorative
vegetation in new and existing buildings shall be in accordance with the California Code
of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.08 and Sections 806.1 though 806.5.
M. Section 903.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where Required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new and existing
buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this section or in
Sections 903.2.1 though 903.2.18 whichever is more restrictive.
For the purposes of this section, firewalls used to separate building areas shall be
constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and shall be without
openings or penetrations.
(1) Automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings and
structures.
Exceptions:
(1) Group A, B, E,F, I, L, M, S and U occupancy buildings and structures that
do not exceed 1,000 square feet of building area and that are not located in
the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
(2) Group A, B, E, F, I, L, M, S and U occupancy buildings and structures that
are located in the Wildland-Urban Interface Area and do not exceed 500
square feet of building area.
(2) An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing buildings
and structures when alterations or additions are made that create conditions
described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18.
(3) An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing
buildings and structures, when additions are made that increase the building
area to more than 3,600 square feet.
Exception: A one-time addition to existing buildings that does not total more
than 1,000 square feet of building area.
(4) An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new basements
regardless of size and throughout existing basements that are expanded by more
than 50%.
N. Section 903.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a
building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with
NFPA 13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1 and local standards.
(1) For new buildings having no designated use or tenant, the minimum sprinkler
design density shall be Ordinary Hazard Group 2.
O. Section 903.3.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
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903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where allowed in buildings of Group R, up to
and including four stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R and local standards.
P. Section 903.3.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems
installed in one-and two-family dwellings and townhouses shall be installed throughout
in accordance with NFPA 13D and local standards.
Q. Section 912.2 is amended 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 building for other fire apparatus. The
location of fire department connections shall be approved by the fire code official.
R. Section 3301.1 is amended to read as follows:
3301.1 Scope. For explosives requirements see California Code of Regulations, Title 19,
Division 1, Chapter 10 and section 3301.2 of this chapter. For fireworks requirements see
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6 and section 3301.3 of this
chapter. For small arms ammunition, see Section 3301.5 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 use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law
enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities.
(4) Items preempted by federal regulations
S. Section 3301.2 is added to read as follows:
3301.2 Explosives. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of
explosives are prohibited.
T. Section 3301.3 is added to read as follows:
3301.3 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
......... ......
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and used by a licensed pyrotechnic operator in accordance with Title 19 of the
California Code of Regulations.
(2) Storage, handling and use of pyrotechnic special effects fireworks inside of
buildings when used for proximate audience displays or special effects in
theatrical, television, motion picture and group entertainment productions when
in accordance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations and when in
buildings equipped throughout with an approved fire sprinkler system.
U. Section 3301.4 is added to read as follows:
3301.4 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.
V. Section 3301.5 is added to read as follows:
3301.5 Small Arms Ammunition storage in Group R occupancies. Indoor storage of
black powder, smokeless propellants and small arms ammunition shall comply with
Sections 3301.5.1 through 3301.5.3.
W. Section 3301.5.1 is added to read as follows:
3301.5.1 Smokeless propellants. Smokeless propellants intended for personal use in
quantities not exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) are permitted to be stored in Group R-3
occupancies where kept in original containers. Smokeless powder in quantities
exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) are permitted to be
stored in Group R-3 occupancies where kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of
at least 1 inch(25 mm) nominal thickness.
X. Section 3301.5.2 is added to read as follows:
3301.5.2 Black powder. Black powder intended for personal use in quantities not
exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) are permitted to be stored in Group R-3 occupancies where
kept in original containers and stored in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of at least
1 inch(25 mm)nominal thickness
Y. Section 3301.5.3 is added to read as follows:
3301.5.3 Small arms primers. No more than 10,000 small arms primers shall be stored
in Group R-3 occupancies.
Z. Section 4906.2 is amended to read as follows:
4906.2 Application. Buildings and structures located in the following areas shall
maintain the required hazardous vegetation and fuel management:
20
(1) All unincorporated lands designated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire
Protection as State Responsibility Areas (SRA) including:
1.1. Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones
1.2. High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
1.3. Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
(2) Land designated as a Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zone or as a Wildland
Urban Interface Fire Area by the Town of Los Altos Hills.
AA. Section 4907 is amended to read as follows:
4907 Defensible space
4907.1 General. Defensible space will be maintained around all buildings and structures
in Sate Responsibility Area(SRA) as required in Public Resources Code 4290 and "SRA
Fire Safe Regulations" California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7,
Subchapter 2, Section 1270.
Buildings and structures within the Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones of a Local
Responsibility Area (LRA) shall maintain defensible space as outlined in Government
Code 51175—51189 and any local ordinance of the authority having jurisdiction.
Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining buildings or structures in
the locally adopted Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area but that are not within the Very-
High Fire Hazard Severity Zone 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 wring 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.
(3) Maintain additional effective defensible space by removing brush, flammable
vegetation and combustible growth located 30 feet to 100 feet (9144 mm to 30480
mm) 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 nun) 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.
21
(4) Remove portions of trees, which extend within 10 feet (3 048 mm) of the outlet of a
chimne .
Y
(5) 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.
4907.2 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 4907.1 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.
BB. Section 4908 is added to read as follows:
4908 Fire protection plan .
4908.1 General. When required by the code official, a fire protection plan shall be
prepared.
4908.2 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.
4908.3 Cost. The cost of fire protection plan preparation and review shall be the
responsibility of the applicant.
4908.4 Plan Retention. The fire protection district shall be retained by the fire code
official.
CC. Section 4909 is added to read as follows:
4909 Access
4909.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed or
relocated into or within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall be provided with
fire apparatus access in accordance with Chapter 5 and Section 4909.2.
4909.2 Driveways. 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.
22
• •
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.
DD. Section 4910 is added to read as follows:
4910 Water supply
4910.1 General. Buildings and structures, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed or
relocated into or within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall be provided with
fire protection water supplies in accordance with Chapter 5 and Sections 4910.2 and
4910.3.
Exception: Buildings containing only private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural
buildings with a building area of not more than 500 square feet(56 m2).
4910.2 Clearance of Fuel. Defensible space shall be provided around water tank
structures, water supply pumps and pump houses in accordance with Section 4907.
4910.3 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.
23
EE. Section 4911 is added to read as follows:
4911 General requirements for suppression and control
4911.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter establish general requirements applicable to
new and existing properties located within the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
4911.2 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.
4911.3 Access Restrictions
4911.3.1 Restricted Entry To Public Lands. The code official is authorized to
determine and publicly announce when the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall be
closed to entry and when such areas shall again be opened to entry. Entry on and
occupation of the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area, 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 the Wildland-Urban Interface
Fire Area 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.
4911.3.2 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.
4911.3.3 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 the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area, without a permit by the code
24
official, except on clearly established public or private roads. Permission from the
property owner shall be presented when requesting a permit.
4911.3.4 Tampering With Locks, Barricades, Signs and Address Markers. Locks,
barricades, seals, cables, signs and address markers installed within the Wildland-Urban
Interface Fire Area, 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.
FF. Section 4912 is added to read as follows:
4912 Ignition source control
4912.1 General. Ignition sources shall be in accordance with Section 4912.
4912.2 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).
4912.3 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.
4912.4 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 the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area 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.
4912.5 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in the Wildland-Urban
Interface Fire Area.
GG. Section 4913 is added to read as follows:
4913 Outdoor fires
25
4913.1 General. No person shall build, ignite or maintain any outdoor fire of any kind
for any purpose in or on any Wildland-Urban Interface Fire 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.
4913.2 Permits. Permits outdoor fires shall incorporate such terms and conditions that
will reasonably safeguard public safety and property. Outdoor fires shall not be built,
ignited or maintained in Wildland Urban Interface 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.
4913.3 Restrictions. No person shall use a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue,
outdoor fireplace or grill for the disposal of rubbish,trash or combustible waste material.
4913.4 Outdoor Fireplaces, Permanent Barbecues and Grills. Outdoor fireplaces,
permanent barbecues and grills shall not be built, installed or maintained in the Wildland-
Urban Interface Fire Area without approval of the Building or Fire Code Official.
Outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall be located a minimum of 30 feet
(9144 mm) from any combustible material or non-fire-resistive vegetation and 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. For the
purposes of this section, ignition-resistant material shall not be considered to be
combustible material.
Exception: When approved by the Building or Fire Code Official, unprotected openings
in barbecues and grills necessary for proper functioning.
HH. Section 4914 is added to read as follows:
4914 Liquefied petroleum gas installations
4914.1 Vegetation Clearance around Tanks/Containers. Flammable vegetation shall
be cleared a minimum of 30 feet around liquefied petroleum gas tanks/containers.
Il. Section 4915 is added to read as follows:
4915 Storage of firewood and combustible materials
26
4915.1 General. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed
spaces beneath buildings or structures, or on decks or under eaves, canopies or other
p g P
projections or overhangs. The storage of firewood and combustible material within the
defensible space shall be located a minimum of 30 feet (6096 mm) from structures and
separated from the crown of trees by a minimum horizontal distance of 15 feet (4572
mm).
4915.2 Storage for Off-Site Use. Firewood and combustible materials not for
consumption on the premises shall be stored as approved by the fire code official.
JJ. Section 4916 is added to read as follows:
4916 Dumping
4916.1 Waste Material. Waste material shall not be placed, deposited or dumped in the
Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area, or in, on or along trails, roadways or highways or
against structures in the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
Exception: Approved public and approved private dumping areas.
4916.2 Ashes and Coals. Ashes and coals shall not be placed, deposited or dumped in or
on the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
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.
KK. Section 4917 is added to read as follows:
4917 Protection of pumps and water storage facilities
4917.1 Clearance of Flammable Vegetation. Flammable vegetation shall be cleared a
minimum of 30 feet from water storage equipment and pumping facilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does hereby
further ORDAIN as follows:
1. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person
or circumstance is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of this ordinance, including the
application of such part or provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected
thereby and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end, provisions of this ordinance are
27
severable. The City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills hereby declares that it would have
passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase hereof
irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses, or phrases be held unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable.
2. Publication and Posting. Pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section
36933, a summary of this ordinance shall be prepared by the City Council's designee. At least
five (5) days prior to the Council meeting at which this ordinance is scheduled to be adopted, the
City Clerk shall (1) publish the summary in a newspaper of general circulation, and (2) post in
the City Clerk's Office a certified copy of this ordinance. Within fifteen (15) days after the
adoption of this ordinance, the City Clerk shall (1) publish the summary in a newspaper of
general circulation, and (2) post in the City Clerk's Office a certified copy of the full text of this
ordinance along with the names of those City Council members voting for and against this
ordinance or otherwise voting.
3. Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after its
adoption, or on April 17, 2011 whichever date is later.
INTRODUCED: February 17 , 2011
PASSED: March 17 , 2011
AYES: SUMMIT, LARSEN, MORDO, RADFORD, WALDECK
NOES: None
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: None
BY:
(Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROV AS TO FORM:
City Attorne
28