Ord. 859ORDINANCE NO. 859
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
POWAY, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING POWAY MUNICIPAL CODE
(PMC) TITLE 15, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2022
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODES, WITH LOCAL
AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, On December 3, 2019, the City Council adopted the 2019 Edition of the
California Building Standards Codes, including the introduction of a centralized California Fire
Code. These codes, which are adopted by reference, have recently been replaced by the 2022
Edition of the California Building Standards Code. This Ordinance amends Chapter 15.02
(Administrative Code), 15.04 (Building Code), 15.08 (Electrical Code), 15.10 (Residential Code),
15.12 (Plumbing Code), 15.16 (Mechanical Code), 15.18 (Energy Code), 15.19 (Historical
Building Code), 15.21 (Existing Building Code), 15.22 (Green Building Code), 15.23 (Referenced
Standards Code), and 15.24 (Fire Code) of the Poway Municipal Code (PMC). The 2022 Edition
codes will go into effect on January 1, 2023. The California Building Standards Commission
published the 2022 California Building Standards Code which is based on the 2021 International
Building Code, the 2021 International Residential Code, the 2021 International Existing Buildings
Code, the 2021 International Fire Code, the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code, the 2021 Uniform
Mechanical Code, and the 2020 National Electrical Code. The purpose of this Ordinance is to
update the PMC to the current State -mandated code edition and to incorporate local amendments
which address the City's specific needs based upon zoning regulations and unique climate,
topography, and geography;
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Poway finds that the City of Poway has certain
climatic, geographic, and topographic features that can have a deleterious effect on emergency
services such as fire protection and emergency medical services;
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Poway finds that the modifications and changes
to the 2022 California Fire Code are reasonably necessary because of the local climatic,
geographical, and topographical conditions incorporated by reference herein as Exhibit A;
WHEREAS, certain amendments to the 2022 California Fire Code are necessary to
mitigate said deleterious effects to the extent possible;
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Section 17958 requires that jurisdictions
adopt building regulations that are substantially the same as those adopted by the California
Building Standards Commission; and contained in the California Building Standards Code;
WHEREAS, Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10, inclusive, of the California Government
Code provide authority for cities to adopt state codes, or portions of state codes, by reference;
WHEREAS, code amendments adopted by the State of California shall take precedence
over the 2021 International Fire Code language. The 2021 International Fire Code language shall
be used for those code sections not adopted by the State;
Ordinance No. 859
Page 2
WHEREAS, local amendments adopted by the City of Poway shall take precedence over
both the 2021 International Fire Code and 2022 California Fire Code provisions;
WHEREAS, and on December 6, 2022, the City Council held a duly advertised public
hearing to solicit comments from the public, both for and against, relative to this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has read and considered the agenda report for the proposed
project and has considered other evidence presented at the public hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POWAY DOES ORDAIN
AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The above recitations are true and correct.
SECTION 2: The City Council finds that local climatic; geographical and topographical
conditions, including the terrain; high summer month temperatures; population growth rate;
housing and occupancy conditions and needs; and the environment existing in the City of Poway
constitute conditions which require that the California Building Standards Code be modified as
set forth herein.
SECTION 3: The City Council hereby approves this ordinance and amends certain
sections of the PMC as specified below. Removals are indicated with strketfw-eUgh-S and additions
are indicated with underline.
SECTION 4: This project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) in that it entails the
adoption of State -mandated Building Codes, with minor amendments, and there is no possibility
that this activity will have an effect on the environment.
SECTION 5: Chapters 15.02, 15.04, 15.08, 15.10, 15.12, 15.16, 15.18, 15.19, 15.21,
15.22, 15.23, and 15.24, of the PMC shall be amended as follows [entire Chapter is shown]. -
Chapter 15.02
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
Sections:
15.02.010 Adoption of the California Administrative Code, Part 1, Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations.
15.02.010 Adoption of the California Administrative Code, Part 1, Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations. There is hereby adopted and incorporated by reference herein that certain
document known as the California Administrative Code, Part 1, Title 24 of
the 20192022 California Code of Regulations, published by the California Building Standards
Commission. Said document is adopted without change for the purpose of establishing the
administration, organization, and enforcement of rules and regulations for the 244-92022 California
Code of Regulations adopted by the City. All provisions of the California Administrative Code,
Ordinance No. 859
Page 3
241-92022 Edition, are referred to, adopted and made a part of this code, as though fully set forth
herein.
Chapter 15.04
BUILDING CODE
Sections:
15.04,010 Adoption of the California Building Code, Part 2, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations.
15.04.020 Findings.
15.04.030 Deletions, revisions, and additions to the 2 1-92022 California Building Code.
15.04.040 Section 105.2 amended.
15.04.050 Table 1505.1 amended.
15.04.060 Appendices C, H and I adopted.
15.04.010 Adoption of the California Building Code, Part 2, Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City Building Code,
for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for the erection, construction,
enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment,
use, height, area, and maintenance of buildings and structures, the 20/92022 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.
which is based on the International Building Code, 20182021 Edition, including those appendix
chapters adopted by this chapter. Except as otherwise provided by this chapter and
Chapter 15.02 PMC, all erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal,
conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area and maintenance of buildings
and structures within the City of Poway shall be in conformance with the 2 4-92022 California
Building Code, published by the California Building Standards Commission, which is based on
the International Building Code, 204- 2021 Edition, and the adopted appendix chapters, published
by the International Code Council, 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478.
15.04.020 Findings. The City of Poway has many large brush -covered hillsides. The City
is subject to frequent Santa Ana conditions consisting of dry gusting winds, which create extreme
fire dangers. The City Council specifically finds that these geographic and topographic conditions
necessitate greater fire protection than that provided by the 20192022 California Building Code.
Therefore, this chapter alters the International Building Code, 20182021 Edition, to require more
fire -retardant roof coverings.
15.04.030 Deletions, revisions and additions to the 204-92022 California Building Code.
Deletions, revisions and additions to the 20192022 California Building Code shall be as set forth
in PMC 15.04.040 through 15.04.060.
15.04.040 Section 105.2 amended. Section 105.2, exemption 2, of the 2 1-92022
California Building Code is amended to read as follows:
105.2 Work Exempt from Permit.
Building:
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage
sheds playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does
Ordinance No. 859
Page 4
not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 mz) except that a permit is required
for any structure located in the Very High Fire Hazard Zone.
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1,829 mm) high.
15.04.050 Table 1505.1 Amended. Table 1505.1 of the 2-0-1-92022 California Building Code
is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 1505.1
MINIMUM ROOF COVERING CLASSIFICATION
FOR TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
IA
I IB
IIA
IIB
IIIA
IIIB
IV
VA
VB
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
15.04.060 Appendices C, H and I adopted. Appendices-x Chapters C, H and I of the
244-92022 California Building Code, are adopted.
Chapter 15.08
ELECTRICAL CODE
Sections:
15.08.010 Adoption of the California Electrical Code, Part 3, Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations.
15.08.010 Adoption of the California Electrical Code, Part 3, Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City Electrical Code
for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for the installation, alteration or repair
of electrical systems and permit requirements and inspection thereof, the 20192022 California
Electrical Code, Part 3, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the California
Building Standards Code, which is based on the National Electrical Code, 20172020 Edition. Except
as otherwise provided by this Chapter and Chapter 15.02 of the City of Poway Municipal Code, all
installation, alteration or repair of electrical systems within the City of Poway shall be in conformance
with the 29192022 California Electrical Code, published by the California Building Standards
Commission, which is based on the National Electrical Code, 201�2020 Edition, published by the
National Fire Protection Association, Battery March Park, Quincy, Massachusetts, 02269.
Chapter 15.10
RESIDENTIAL CODE
Sections:
15.10.010 Adoption of the California Residential Code, Part 2,5, Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations.
15.10.020 Findings.
15.10.030 Deletions, revisions and additions.
15.10.040 Section R105.2 amended.
15.10.050 Section R902.1.23 amended.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 5
15.10,060 Appendicesx AH, AX, and AZ H--adopted
15.10.010 Adoption of the California Residential Code, Part 2.5, Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as City Residential
Code for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway, for the construction,
alteration or repair of use and occupancy, location and maintenance of detached one- and two-
family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane and permit
requirements and inspection thereof, 21-92022 California Residential Code, Part 2.5, Title 24 of
the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the California Building Standards Code published
by the California Building Standards Commission which is based on the International Residential
Code published by the International Code Council, 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club
Hills, IL 60478.
15.10.020 Findings. The City of Poway has many large brush -covered hillsides. The City
is subject to frequent Santa Ana conditions consisting of dry gusting winds, which create extreme
fire dangers. The City Council specifically finds that these geographic and topographic conditions
necessitate greater fire protection than that provided by the 2D4-92022 California Residential
Code. Therefore, this chapter alters the California Residential Code to require more fire -retardant
roof coverings.
15.10.030 Deletions, revisions and additions. Deletions, revisions and additions to the
20192022 California Residential Code shall be as set forth in PMC 15.10.040 through 15.10.060.
15.10.040 Section R105.2 amended. Section R105.2, exemption 2, of the 241-92022
California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:
R105.2 Work Exempt from Permit
Building:
1. Other than storm shelters, one-story detached accessory structures,
provided that the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15m2),
except that a permit is required for any structure located in the Very
High Fire Hazard Zone.
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1,829 mm) high.
15.10.050 Section R902.1.23 amended. Section R902.1.23 of the California Residential
Code is amended to read as follows:
R902.1.23 Roof coverings in all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing
structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area 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.
15.10.060 Appendices* AH, AX and AZ #-adopted. Appendicesx AH, AX and AZ H-of the
20192022 California Residential Code is adopted.
Chapter 15.12
PLUMBING CODE
Sections:
Ordinance No. 859
Page 6
15.12.010 Adoption of the California Plumbing Code, Part 5, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations.
15.12.020 Appendices G and I adopted.
15.12.010 Adoption of the California Plumbing Code, Part 5, Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City Plumbing Code
for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for the construction, alteration, moving,
demolition, repair and use of all plumbing, gas or drainage piping and systems or water heating or
treating equipment in or on any building or structure or outdoors on any premises or property, the
2 4-92022 California Plumbing Code, Part 5, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion
of the California Building Standards Code, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code,
Section 18901 et seq, which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code, 20192021 Edition. Except as
otherwise provided by this Chapter and Chapter 15.02 of the City of Poway Municipal Code, all
construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair and use of all plumbing, gas or drainage piping
and systems or water heating or treating equipment within the City of Poway shall be in conformance
with the 294A2022 California Plumbing Code published by the California Building Standards
Commission which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code, 24 -82021 Edition, published by the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, 20001 Walnut Drive South, Walnut,
California, 91789-2825.
15.12.020 Appendices G and I Adopted. Appendices G and I of the California Plumbing Code are
adopted.
Chapter 15.16
MECHANICAL CODE
Sections:
15.16.010 Adoption of the California Mechanical Code, Part 4, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations.
15.16.010 Adoption of the California Mechanical Code, Part 4, Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City Mechanical Code
for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for the erection, installation, alteration,
repair, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of any heating, ventilating, cooling,
refrigeration systems, incinerators or other miscellaneous heat -producing appliances, the 204-92022
California Mechanical Code, Part 4, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the
California Building Standards Code, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code, Section
18901 et seq. which is based on the Uniform Mechanical Code, 29492021 Edition. Except as
otherwise provided by this Chapter and Chapter 15.02 of the City of Poway Municipal Code, all
erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of
any heating, ventilating, cooling, refrigeration systems, incinerators or other miscellaneous heat -
producing appliances shall be in conformance with 29492022 California Mechanical Code, published
by the California Building Standards Commission and any rules and regulations promulgated
pursuant thereto.
Chapter 15.18
ENERGY CODE
Sections:
Ordinance No. 859
Page 7
15.18.010 Adoption of the California Energy Code, Part 6, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations.
15.18.010 Adoption of the California Energy Code, Part 6, Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City Energy Code for
the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for the conservation of energy the
241-92022 California Energy Code, Part 6, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion
of the California Building Standards Code, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code,
Section 18901 et seq. and the California Energy Code, 2 4-92022 Edition. Except as otherwise
provided by this Chapter and Chapter 15.02 of the City of Poway Municipal Code, all construction of
buildings where energy will be utilized shall be in conformance with the 28 92022 California Energy
Code and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, including the California Energy
Code, 201 2022 Edition, published by the California Energy Commission.
Chapter 15.19
HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
Sections:
15.19.010 Adoption of the 28&92022 California Historical Building Code, Part 8, Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations.
15.19.010 Adoption of the 28�92022 California Historical Building Code, Part 8, Title 24 of
the California Code of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the
City's Historical Building Code for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway to
provide alternative building regulations for the rehabilitation, preservation, restoration, or
relocation of designated historic buildings, the 28-1 2022 California Historical Building Code, Part
8, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the 24--92022 California Building
Standards Code, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code, Section 18901 et seq.
(authorized by Health and Safety Code Sections 18950 through 18961).
Chapter 15.21
EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Sections:
15.21.010 Adoption of the 28 92022 California Existing Building Code, Part 10, Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations.
15,21.010 Adoption of the 241-92022 California Existing Building Code, Part 10, Title 24 of
the California Code of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the
City's Existing Building Code for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway to
provide alternative building regulations for the rehabilitation, preservation, restoration, or
relocation of existing buildings, the 20192022 California Existing Building Code, Part 10, Title 24
of the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the 29192022 California Building Standards
Ordinance No. 859
Page 8
Code, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code, Section 18901 et seq, which is based
on the 20182021 International Existing Buildings Code.
Chapter 15.22
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
Sections:
15.22.010 Adoption of the California Green Building Standards Code, Part 11, Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations.
15.22.010 Adoption of the California Green Building Standards Code, Part 11, Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations. There is adopted and incorporated by reference herein as the City
Green Building Standards Code for the purpose of prescribing regulations in the City of Poway for
the enhancement of the design and construction of buildings through the use of building concepts
having a reduced negative impact or positive environmental impact and encourage sustainable
construction practices the 20192022 California Green Building Standards Code, Part 11, Title 24 of
the California Code of Regulations, a portion of the California Building Standards Code, as defined
in the California Health and Safety code, Section 18901 et seq, and the California Green Building
Standards Code. Except as otherwise provided by this Chapter and Chapter 15.02 of the City of
Poway Municipal Code, all construction of buildings shall be in conformance with the 201-92022
California Green Building Standards Code and any rules and regulations promulgated pursuant
thereto, including the California Green Building Standards Code 244-92022 Edition, published by the
California Building Standards Commission.
Chapter 15.23
REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE
Sections:
15.23.010 Adoption of the 20192022 California Referenced Standards Code, Part 12, Title 24
of the California Code of Regulations.
15.23.010 Adoption of the 29-1-92022 California Referenced Standards Code, Part 12, Title
24 of the California Code of Regulations. The California Referenced Standards Code, 20-1-92022
edition, Chapter 15.23 is adopted by reference without change to Buildings and Construction Title
15.
Chapter 15.24
FIRE CODE
Sections:
15.24.010 Adoption of California Fire Code.
15.24.020 Administration.
15.24.025 Appeals.
15.24.030 Definitions.
15.24.040 General precautions against fire.
15.24.050 Fire service features.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 9
15.24.060 Building services and systems.
15.24.070 Fire sprinkler systems.
15.24.080 Construction requirements for existing buildingsFire safety during ner,o+n in+inn
15.24.090 Fire safety during construction Jildland urbaR i nterfaGe fiFe area._
15,24.100 Wildland-urban interface fire areaFirewerks display.
15.24.110 Fireworks displayFlammable and GOmbustible liquids,
15.24.120 Chapter 80 Referenced Standards +efied pe+releum gases.
15.24.130 Appendix B, fire -flow requirements for build i nqsc hapter 80 ReferenGed Standards._
15.24.140 Conflict°^peR6 R, fire flew requirements for b iildinrvc
I ) *,)4 1 5)Q (er flin+
15.24.010 Adoption of California Fire Code
The City of Poway adopts by reference the 20224-9 California Fire Code, ,
and including Appendix Chapters 4 and Appendices B, C, E F, H, I and 01, as published by the
International Code Council, except those portions that are deleted, modified, or amended by this
chapter. One copy of the above -mentioned code has been and is now filed in the office of the City
Clerk or the fire code official, City of Poway, and the same is adopted and incorporated as fully
as if set out at length herein. From the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, the
provisions thereof shall be controlling within the limits of the City of Poway.
15.24.020 Administration.
Section 102.13 is added to read:
102.13 Repeal of conflicting ordinances, resolutions or motions. All former ordinances,
resolutions, motions, or parts thereof that are conflicting or inconsistent with the provisions
of this Ordinance or of the Code or standards hereby adopted are repealed.
Section 104.98 is modified to read:
104.98 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the
provisions of this code, the fire code official shall have the authority to grant modifications
for individual cases, provided the fire code official shall first find that special individual
reason makes the strict letter of this code impracticable, and the modification is in
compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not
lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The applicant's request for a modification
shall state the specific sections(s) for which a modification is requested, material facts
supporting the contention of the applicant, the details of the modification or mitigating
measure proposed and, if applicable, a map showing the proposed location and citing of
the modification or mitigation measure. The details of action granting modifications shall
be recorded and entered in the files of the department of fire prevention.
Section 104.132 is added to read:
104.132 Cost recovery. The purpose of this section is to establish authority to obtain
reimbursement from responsible individuals for the expenses of any emergency response
and/or enforcement action by the City of Poway to protect the public from criminal or
negligent activities, and from fire or hazardous substances.
Section 104.132.1 is added to read:
Ordinance No. 859
Page 10
104.132-.1 Reimbursement. In accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 13000 et
seq., an individual who acts negligently or in violation of the law and thereby requires the
jurisdiction to provide an emergency response to a danger posed by a fire or hazardous
substance shall be liable for reimbursement to the agency for the costs incurred In
accordance with Government Code Sections 53150 through 53158, any individual who is
under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, or any drug, or the combined influence of an
alcoholic beverage or any drug, and whose negligent operation of a motor vehicle, boat
or vessel, or civil aircraft caused by that influence, proximately causes any incident and
thereby requires the agency to provide an emergency response, shall reimburse the
agency for the cost incurred.
Section 105.3.9 is added to read:
105.3.9 Expense recovery. The fire code official may impose a fee for recovery of
expenses incurred to enforce the fire prevention provisions of this code. Such expense
recovery fees shall be established by a resolution of the City Council.
Section 105.6.532- is added to read:
105.6.532- Christmas tree lots. An operational permit is required to operate a Christmas
tree lot with or without flameproofing services,
15.24.025 Appeals.
Section 1110-9.1 is modified to read:
1110-9.1 Appeals procedure established. Whenever the fire code official has denied a
permit or other entitlement, or when it is alleged that a mistake has been made in the
interpretation or application of the code, the applicant may appeal the decision of the fire
code official to the City Manager by filing a written appeal with the City Clerk within 30
days of the decision. If the appeal is denied by the City Manager, the City Manager's
decision may be appealed to the City Council by filing a written appeal with the City Clerk
within 30 days of the City Manager's decision and paying of the appeal fee set forth in the
City's Master Fee Schedule for administrative appeals.
Section 1120.4 is modified to read:
1120.4 Violation penalties. It is unlawful for any person to violate any of the provisions of
this Code or standards hereby adopted by reference as a part of this Code, or to fail to
comply with any lawful order issued pursuant to this Code, or to violate any permit or
condition of approval issued pursuant to this Code. It is further unlawful for any person to
fail to comply with any lawful order issued pursuant to this Code by the City Attorney or by
a court of competent jurisdiction. A violation of any provision of this Code, or failure to
comply with orders or conditions issued pursuant to this Code, shall constitute a
Ordinance No. 859
Page 11
misdemeanor or (in the discretion of the prosecuting attorney) an infraction, in any event
as set forth in PMC Chapter 1.08. In addition to any criminal penalties any violation may
also be enforced by civil action, and shall be subject to civil and administrative penalties,
as set forth in PMC Chapters 1.08 and 1.10.
Section 11324.4 is modified to read:
1132-4.4 Failure to comply. It is unlawful for any person to continue any work after having
been served with a stop -work order, except such work expressly identified in the stop -
work order as necessary to correct a violation or unsafe condition.
15.24.030 Definitions.
The following definitions are added or modified to Section 202:
Aerated StatiG Pile. A MPGSt'Rg PFGGeGG that UGeE; an air distribution system to effitheF
blow oF draw air through the pile. Little or ne pole agitatien er turning is performed.
Accessory Dwelling Unit. An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an attached or detached
residential dwelling unit which provides complete independent living facilities for one or
more persons on the same property as a single-family dwelling in a residential zone. The
unit shall meet the definition of an ADU in the Government Code Section 65852.2.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 12
Defensible Space. An area either natural or man-made, where material capable of
allowing a fire to spread unchecked has been treated, cleared or modified to slow the rate
and intensity of an advancing wildfire and to create an area for fire suppression operations
to occur. Distance measurements for defensible space shall be measured on a horizontal
plane and in accordance with Section Four of the City of Poway Landscape and lrrigation
Design Manual.
Fire Access Road or Fire Access Roadway. A road that provides fire apparatus access
from a fire station to a facility, building or portion thereof. This is a general term inclusive
of all other terms such as fire lane, public street, private street, parking lot lane access
roadway, and driveway.
Fire Authority Having Jurisdiction (FAHJ). The designated entity providing enforcement of
fire regulations as they relate to planning, construction, and development. This entity for
the City of Poway also provides fire suppression and other emergency services.
Fire Department. Any regularly organized fire department regularly charged with the
responsibility of providing fire protection to the jurisdiction.
Fire Hazard. Anything that increases or could cause an increase of the hazard or menace
of fire to a greater degree than customarily recognized as normal by persons in the public
service regularly engaged in preventing, suppressing, or extinguishing fire; or anything or
act, which could obstruct, delay, hinder, or interfere with the operations of the fire
department; or egress of occupants in the event of fire.
Fire Protection Plan (FPP). The FPP is a document prepared for a specific project or
development proposed in the wildland-urban interface fire area that describes ways to
minimize and mitigate potential loss from wildfire exposure, with the purpose of reducing
impact on the community's fire protection delivery system.
Fuel Break. An area, strategically located for fighting anticipated fires, where the native
vegetation has been permanently modified or replaced so that fires burning into it can be
more easily controlled. Fuel breaks divide fire -prone areas into smaller areas for easier
fire control and to provide access for fire -fighting.
Fuel Modification Zone. A strip of land where combustible vegetation has been thinned or
modified or both and partially or totally replaced with approved fire-resistant and/or
irrigated plants to provide an acceptable level of risk from vegetation fires. Fuel
modification reduces the radiant and convective heat on a structure and provides valuable
defensible space for firefighters to make an effective stand against an approaching fire
front.
Hazardous Fire Area. Any geographic area mapped by the State or designated by a local
jurisdiction as a moderate, high or very high fire hazard area or which the FAHJ has
determined is a hazardous fire area, because the type and condition of vegetation,
Ordinance No. 859
Page 13
topography, weather and structure density increase the probability that the area will be
susceptible to a wildfire.
Hegged Materials. ,I " Alaste GGRG66tiRg mainly of hogged bark but may iRGlude a mixtk
M-WehingAhe-pFC)Gess- .ihinh mixed green waste is rnenhnninally redUGed in size fnr-tl-te
puFpc)se of making ca—m-post.
Open Space Easement. Any right or interest in perpetuity or for a term for years in open -
space land as that term is defined in Government Code section 51051 acquired by the
County a city or a nonprofit organization where the instrument granting the right or interest
imposes restriction on use of the land to preserve the land for public use or enjoyment of
the natural or scenic character of the land.
Response Time. The elapsed time from the fire department's receipt of the first alarm to
when the first fire unit arrives at the scene.
Travel Time. The estimated time it would take for a responding agency to travel from the
fire station to the furthest structure in a proposed development project, determined by
measuring the safest, most direct, appropriate, and reliable route with consideration given
to safe operation speeds for heavy fire apparatus.
IT XMIUM-2 MOM.
15.24.040 General precautions against fire.
Section 304.1 A is added to read:
304.1.4 Outdoor carnivals and fairs. Outdoor carnivals and fairs shall only be conducted
on grounds free of combustible vegetation or trimmed to the satisfaction of the FAHJ.
Section 305.6 is added to read:
305.6 Rockets, model aircraft and similar devices. Rockets, model airplanes, gliders,
balloons, sky lanterns, floating luminaries or similar devices -powered with an engine,
propellant, open flame, or other feature liable to start or cause a fire shall not be projected
into or across hazardous fire areas without prior approval of the fire code official.
Section 307.5 is modified to read:
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and the use of portable
outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended by an adult until the fire is extinguished. A
minimum of one portable fire extinguisher complying with section 906 with a minimum 4-
A rating or other approved on -site fire -extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water
barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
Section 3244 is added to read:
SECTION 3244
STORAGE OF FIREWOOD
Ordinance No. 859
Page 14
3244-.1 General. Firewood shall not be stored in unenclosed space beneath a building or
structure, on a deck or under eaves, a canopy or other projection or overhang. When
,mired by the ede eff—o ,;s , (Firewood eF ether Gernb i tible material stored in the
defensible space surrounding a structure shall be located at least 30 feet from any
structure and separated from the crown of any trees by a minimum of 15 feet, measured
horizontally. Firewood and GOrnbustible „ater atcl-not for use on the prernises shall be
stored so as to not pose a fire hazard.
15.24.050 Fire service features.
Section 503.2.1 is modified to read:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire appa-rat-u-s-access roads shall have an unobstructed, improved
width of not less than 20 feet, except single-family residential driveways serving no more
than two improved parcels containing dwelling units shall have a minimum of 16 feet of
unobstructed improved width. In most cases, the City of Poway construction standards for
streets (Chapter 12.20 PMC) will be more restrictive. The more restrictive standard shall
apply. Vertical overhead clearance shall be a minimum of 13 feet 6 inches.
Exceptions:
1. Upon approval by the fire code official, vertical clearances or width may be reduced
provided such reduction does not impair access by fire apparatus and approved signs are
installed and maintained indicating the established vertical clearance.
2. Fire access roadways, gated entrances with card readers, guard stations, or center
medians, which have separated lanes of one-way traffic shall be not less than 12 feet wide
per lane.
Section 503.2.3 is modified to read:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to
support the imposed loads of fire apparatus not less than 75,000 pounds ep r a
geotechnical report unless authorized by the FAHJ and shall be provided with an approved
paved surface so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities. A paved surface shall mean
asphalt, concrete, or a permeable paver system, except that decomposed granite is
permissible for residential driveways.
Section 503.2.4 is modified to read:
503.2.4 Turning Radius. The turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be a
minimum of 28 feet as measured to the inside edge of the improvement width or as
approved by the fire code official.
Section 503.2.5 is modified to read:
Ordinance No. 859
Page 15
503.2.5 Dead Ends. All dead-end fire access roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall
be provided with approved provisions that allow emergency apparatus to turn around. A
cul-de-sac shall be provided in residential areas where the access roadway serves more
than two improved parcels. The minimum, unobstructed paved radius width for a cul-de-
sac shall be 38 feet in residential areas. The fire code official shall establish a policy
identifying acceptable turnarounds for various project types.
Section 503.2.7 is modified to read:
503.2.7 Grade. The gradient for a fire apparatus access roadway shall not exceed 20
percent. Grades exceeding 15 percent (incline or decline) shall be constructed of Portland
cement concrete (PCC), with a deep broom finish perpendicular to the direction of travel,
or equivalent, to enhance traction. Grades exceeding 10 percent shall be constructed of
asphalt or PCC. Permeable paver systems shall not be used for grades exceeding 10
percent.
Section 503.2.8 is modified to read:
503.2.8 Angles of Approach and Departure. The angle of departure and the angle of
approach of a fire access roadway shall not exceed seven degrees (12 percent) or as
approved by the fire code official.
Section 503.3.1 is added to read:
503.3.1 Marking of Fire Apparatus Access Roads. When required, approved signs or other
approved notices shall be provided and maintained for fire apparatus access roads to
identify such roads and prohibit the obstruction thereof or both. All new public roads, all
private roads within major subdivisions, and all private road easements serving four or
more parcels shall be named. Road name signs shall comply with City of Poway
Supplemental Engineering Standards, Street Sign Specifications. The fire code official
may require the posting of a fire access roadway where parking has obstructed or could
obstruct the required width.
Section 503.6.1 is added to read:
503.6.1 Security Gates. All automatic gates across fire access roadways and driveways
shall be equipped with approved, emergency, key -operated switches overriding all
command functions and opening the gate(s). Gates accessing more than four residences
or residential lots, or gates accessing hazardous institutional, educational or assembly
occupancy group structures shall also be equipped with approved emergency traffic
control -activating strobe light sensor(s), or other devices approved by the fire code official,
which will activate the gate on the approach of emergency apparatus with a battery backup
or manual -mechanical disconnect in case of power failure.
Section 505.1 is modified to read:
505.1 Address Numbers. Approved numbers and/or addresses shall be placed on all new
and existing buildings and at appropriate additional locations as to be plainly visible and
legible from the street or roadway fronting the property from either direction of approach.
Address numbers shall contrast with their background and meet the City of Poway
standards. Additional address numbers may be required where deemed necessary by the
Ordinance No. 859
Page 16
fire code official, Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units shall require
separate addresses. When required by the fire code official, roof numbers shall be
installed meeting current fire department standards.
Section 505.3 is added to read:
505.3 Easement Address Signs. All easements which are not named differently from the
roadway from which they originate, shall have an address sign installed and maintained,
listing all street numbers occurring on that easement located where the easement
intersects the named roadway. The minimum size of the numbers on that sign shall be
four inches in height with a minimum stroke of 3/8 inch and shall contrast with the
background.
Section 505.4 is added to read:
505.4 Map/Directory. A lighted directory map, meeting current fire department standards,
shall be installed at each driveway entrance to multiple unit residential projects and mobile
home parks, where the number of units in such project exceeds 15.
Section 506.1 is modified to read:
506.1 Key Boxes. When access to or within a structure or an area is unduly difficult
because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life saving or
firefighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed
in an accessible location. The key box shall be a type approved by the fire code official
and shall contain keys to gain necessary access.
Section 506.2.1 is added to read:
506.2.1 Emergency Key Access. All central station -monitored fire detection systems and
fire sprinkler systems shall have an approved emergency key access box on site in an
approved location. The owner or occupant shall provide and maintain current keys for the
structure(s) for fire department placement in the box and shall notify the fire department
in writing when the building is re -keyed.
Section 507.2.2 is modified to read:
507.2.2 Water Storage Tanks. Water storage tanks, when permitted by the fire code
official, shall comply with Table No. 507.2.2 and installed in accordance with NFPA 22.
TABLE NO. 507.2.2
Gallons Per
Building
Minute Water
Capacity
Duration
Square Feet
Flow
Gallons
Minutes
Up to 3,600
250
10,000
40
3,601 to 7,700
15,000
60
Ordinance No. 859
Page 17
7,701 and above 333 20,000 60
When the exposure distance is 100 feet or less from an adjacent property or the
severity of the potential fire risk has been determined to exist, an increase in
water storage may be required by the fire code official.
1. Tank elevation shall be equal to or higher than the fire department connection on the
premises. Regardless of domestic use, all tanks shall be equipped with a device that will
ensure that the tank contains the designated amount of water for fire flow duration as
determined by the Fire Department. Tank size may be increased to serve multiple
structures on a single parcel.
2. The supply outlet shall be at least four inches in diameter from the base of the tank to
the point of outlet at the fire department connection. The fire department connection shall
be at least one 4-inch National Standard Thread (male), reduced to one 2 1/2-inch
National Standard Thread (male). Additional outlets may be required.
3. Tanks that are supplied by municipal water, when permitted by the fire code official,
shall have a capacity of 10,000 gallons provided that the sole use of these tanks is for fire
protection purposes.
4. Location of fire department outlet shall be determined on the plot plan when submitted
to the fire department. Consideration will be given to factors such as topography,
elevations, and distance from structures, driveway access, and prevailing winds.
5. The outlet shall be located along an access roadway and shall not be closer than 50
feet or further than 150 feet from the structure.
6. All exposed tank supply pipes shall be of an alloy or other material listed for above-
ground use. Adequate support shall be provided.
7. Water storage tanks shall be constructed from materials approved by the fire code
official and installed per manufacturer recommendations.
8. The fire code official may require any necessary information be submitted on a plot plan
for approval.
9. Vessels previously used for products other than water shall not be permitted.
SeGtian 507.3 is modified to read:
AMe C. M-1 -
- e-
Ordinance No. 859
Page 18
15.24.060 Building services and systems.
Section 6053.8.1 is modified to read:
6053.8.1 Residential Incinerators. Residential incinerators shall be prohibited.
15.24.070 Fire sprinkler systems.
ee-
ANew
New
All
GvneerResirl�rdentia
4dditinns deRtial
veryh
fire hazaFd area*
/=vnGeppt
Resident44
Resirc�saden4a-41
rcc.�rcr� r-rrrurT
All buildiRg-&
greater than
yrc-atc.TnTcxrr
�gn�
Required ppe
Oddmtinns of mere then 25 of
eRnes�smaay be req 11Ygd
M `�I '-'�� `'
iFte r�,,� � ye�i,�
� � � �,, ,, „ the
V heR the-prgp ddi# li. i-
mere than 7-49 square feet
�at�fg%ia-iti
Residential
f ede
square fn e of n exi tin
tttli�uurczv8ta�c, o f i�i rti �c �� n n �
stn anti ire of 5,000 sq pare fee
mere, shall he required to heVVWGh
results in a stn n-flurn of
protested throughe it the entire
�dn square feet er meo e
when eta anti trolly feasibly
Residennes may he regi iirerl
eta anti ire with a sprinkler s�i�
nsuti nnistent With this sennn
wrr�rccr-rr
Ordinance No. 859
Page 19
to
{nstiklef-system
when the prc)pGsed d"en--is
more than 749 square foot
results in an inovrease In
whioh
fGetage of more than
square
feasible a sp
and when
hazard GUGh as a
substandard r"
,, dartlFr avnvess evicts
substandard
}�r� p�- �' IVpITYpITJCJ-
S a1 T��tri ��TAI_ I_ ly
and aGGess are d-ef+eed--by
e
Poway Mun'Gipal Code.
When cnriRkle}yre are reniiirer�
i indea�--reF this sseGtfen—t
i the
stn Teti ire shall he rent iirer-� to
be but- the
pr(DteGted
entire-strUstufe with a
enriRkler system nnnsiste�
�t
with this sentien
Section 903.3 is modified to read:
903.3 Installation Requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and
installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8. The system shall be
designed 10% below ("off the top'l available water source pressure during peak usage.
Section 903.3.1.1.43 is added to read:
903.3.1.1.43 System Design. Occupancies referred to as "spec buildings" wherein no
specific end use is identified at the time of plan check, the sprinkler system shall provide
a density of 0.45 gallons per minute per square -foot for a 3,000-square-foot design area.
Section 903.3.1.3.1 is added to read:
903.3.1.3.1 Water Supply Design. 1. Nevi tr�-a ^twee less thaR :758 square feet in size shall
be equipped with a M;R'M61M Of 3/4 inGh water seFV*Ge line and 3/4 'RGh wateF MeteF. New
structures mere than 749 square feet in size shall be equipped with a minimum one -inch
water service line and one -inch water meter.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 20
15.24.080 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Section 1103.5 Sprinkler systems is modified to read:
An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings in accordance with
Sections 1103.5.1 through 1103.5.5 and all existing buildings and structures with an
existing fire sprinkler systems) undergoing improvements and/or additions shall be
provided with approved fire sprinkler protection in accordance with the appropriate NFPA
design.
15.24.0990 Fire safety during construction.
Section 3318 is added to read:
Section 3318
Fuel Modification Zones
3318.1 General. Any person doing construction of any kind which requires a building
permit and includes installation of a fuel modification zone, shall remove all flammable
vegetation within the approved fuel modification zone prior to the arrival of combustible
material on the site and shall maintain during the duration of the project until all elements
of approved fuel modification zones are installed and approved.
15.24.1090 Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area
Section 4903 is added to read:
SECTION 4903
FIRE PROTECTION PLAN
4903.1 When required. The Development Services Department or the FAHJ may require an
applicant for a parcel map, subdivision map, minor development review application, development
review, specific plan or major use permit for any property located in a wildland-urban interface fire
area to submit a Fire Protection Plan (FPP) as part of the approval process.
4903.2 Contents. The FPP shall consider location, topography, geography, aspect, combustible
vegetation (fuel types), climatic conditions and fire history. The plan shall address the following
in terms of compliance with applicable codes and regulations, including, but not limited tot- water
supply, vehicular and emergency apparatus access, travel time to nearest serving fire station,
structural ignitability, structure set back, ignition -resistive building features, fire protection systems
and equipment, impacts to existing emergency services, defensible space, and vegetation
management. The plan shall recommend measures to reduce the ignitability of structures
throughout the area being addressed.
Section 4907.24 is added to read:
Ordinance No. 859
Page 21
4907.24 General Fire Setbacks. Within Rural Residential Zones, except for
noncombustible buildings and structures, buildings and structures located within a
wildland-urban interface fire area shall be setback a minimum of 30 feet from property
lines and biological open space easements unless the Poway Municipal Code requires a
greater minimum -or if existing legally permitted buildings and structures are located within
30 feet of the property line (legal nonconforming), then the existing distance from the
property lot line established by the nonconforming portion of the building shall be used as
the required setback distance for any detached accessory structures or additions to that
building. When the property line abuts a roadway, the setback shall be measured from
the farthest roadway edge.
Exception:
When the fire code official determines the hazard from a wildland fire is not significant or
when the terrain, parcel size or other constraints on the parcel make the required setback
infeasible, this setback may be reduced to less than 30 feet when additional measures are
employed to the satisfaction of the fire code official. No other exceptions to the General
Fire Setback is permissible except for the creation of Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units as defined in PMC Title 17.
Section 4907.35 is added to read:
4907.35 Structure Setback from Slope. Single -story structures shall be setback a
minimum 15-feet horizontally from top of slope to the farthest projection from a roof. A
single -story structure shall be less than 12-feet above grade. A two-story structure shall
be setback a minimum of 30-feet horizontally from top of slope to the farthest projection
from a roof. Structures greater than two stories may require a greater setback when the
slope is greater than 2 to 1.
Exceptions:
1. Structures constructed with a noncombustible exterior wall adjacent to the slope, no
openings adjacent to the slope, no combustible attachments to the exterior wall
adjacent to the slope, and no roof eaves adjacent to the slope.
2. There exists no open wildland fuel area directly adjacent orjuxtaposed to the structure,
and the slope is directly adjacent to developed parcels with fuel management
principals in place.
3. The fire code official determines the hazard to be minimal.
Section 4907.46 is added to read:
4907.46 Fuel Modification. A person owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining
a building or structure in or adjoining a hazardous fire area, and a person owning, leasing
or controlling land adjacent to a building or structure in or adjoining a hazardous fire area
shall maintain an effective fuel modification zone by removing, clearing or modifying
combustible vegetation and other flammable materials from areas within 100-feet from
each building or structure, or as determined by the fire code official as further described
below. With the approval of the fire code official, the width of the fuel modification zone
may be reduced where ignition -resistant construction or other mitigation measures are
Ordinance No. 859
Page 22
implemented. The fuel modification zone shall be maintained according to applicable
defensible space and vegetation management policies, the Wildfire Defensible Space
Program and the City of Poway Landscape and Irrigation Design Manual.
Exceptions:
1. Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or similar plants used as ground
cover, provided that they do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from the
native growth to any structure.
2. With the approval of the fire code official, the width of the fuel modification zone may
be reduced where ignition -resistant construction or other mitigation measures are
implemented.
Fuel Modification Zones.
Zone 0 "Immediate Zone" from 0 to 5 feet. This zone shall consist of the area
under and around buildings or structures and measures from the exterior wall
surface or edge, patio, deck, or attachments to and extending out to 5 feet. This
zone shall be constructed of continuous hardscape or non-combustible materials.
The use of natural mulch and other combustible materials shall be prohibited.
Zone 1 "Intermediate Zone" from 5 to 30 feet. This zone shall consist of 25 feet
of planting of low growth, drought tolerant and fire resistive plant species from 5
to 30 feet or to the property line, whichever is closer. Vegetation in this zone shall
be irrigated and planted in accordance with the City of Poway Landscape and
Irrigation Design Manual.
Zone 2 "Extended Zone" from 30 to 100 feet. This zone shall consist of 70 feet of
maintained vegetation from 30 to 100 feet, or to the property line whichever is
closer. Vegetation in this zone shall be maintained in accordance with the City of
Poway Landscape and Irrigation Design Manual.
Figure 4907.46 Measurements of Fuel Modification Distance
IN
dw
a Yam'
" n ,
i
Unmodified
Fuel
Ordinance No. 859
Page 23
r"
tea.+ l t era ay'y�{".�.�yy",^3'�i�+°"� sr''9' ;;a*�' '�.;.,,' a,
�f^
Unmodified
Fuel
Ordinance No. 859
Page 24
Section 4907.46.1 is added to read:
4907.46.1 Fuel Modification of Combustible Vegetation from Sides of Roadways. The
FAHJ may require a property owner to modify combustible vegetation in the area within
2010 feet from each side of the driveway or a public or private road adjacent to the property
to establish a fuel modification zone. The FAHJ has the right to enter private property to
ensure the fuel modification zone requirements are met.
Exception:
The FAHJ may reduce the width of the fuel modification zone if it will not impair access.
Section 4907.46.2 is added to read:
4907.46.2 Community Fuel Modification. The FAHJ may require a developer, as a
condition of issuing a certificate of occupancy, to establish one or more fuel modification
zones to protect a new community by reducing the fuel loads adjacent to a community and
structures within it.
Section 4907.57 is added to read:
4907.57 Land Ownership. Once a fuel modification zone has been established under
section 4907.46, the land on which the zone is located shall be under the control of an
association or other common ownership established in perpetuity, for the benefit of the
community to be protected.
Section 4907.68 is added to read:
4907.68 Maintenance of Defensible Space. Any person owning, leasing, controlling,
operating or maintaining a building or structure required to establish a fuel modification
zone shall maintain the defensible space. The FAHJ may enter the property to determine
if the person responsible is complying with this section. The FAHJ may issue an order to
the person responsible for maintaining the defensible space directing the person to
modify or remove non -fire resistant vegetation from defensible space areas, remove
leaves, needles and other dead vegetative material from the roof of a building or
structure, maintain trees as required or to take other action the FAHJ determines is
necessary to comply.
Section 4907.97 is added to read:
4907.97 Landscape Plans. Landscape plans are required for new residential custom
homes, production tract homes, multi -family residential, and commercial buildings.
Landscape plans shall be submitted and approved by the Development Services
Department and the fire code official prior to the issuance of a building permit. Landscape
plan submittals shall follow the submittal requirements found in the Landscape and
Irrigation Design Manual and shall, at a minimum, include a readable scale, the
delineation of 100-foot fuel modification zones, the existing vegetation, all irrigated areas,
a plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all plant
material symbols. The fire code official may expand or reduce the distance of the fuel
modification zones based on project location, surrounding vegetation, and topography.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 25
Section 4907.107-.1 is added to read:
4907.107-.1 Landscape Installation. All landscaping shall be installed prior to final
inspection for issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
15.24.1100 Fireworks display.
Section 5608.1 is modified to read:
5608.1 General. Outdoor fireworks displays, use of pyrotechnics before a proximate
audience and pyrotechnic special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical and
group entertainment productions shall comply with California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Chapter 6 and Poway Municipal Code. The Fire Chief is the Issuing Officer for
any fireworks permit required by this Chapter. The Fire Chief may delegate the duties of
Issuing Officer at his or her discretion.
Section 5608.1.1 is modified to read:
5608.1.1 Scope. The possession, manufacture, sale, storage, use and display of
fireworks are prohibited in the City of Poway except as provided in the Poway Municipal
Code.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 26
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.M
�. �-
- -
.................. mee• - -
OR - =elffi I
Elm mi-
mmi-i-im
GGntaiRers when, in the fire Gede GfflGial's epinion, their use pFesents a Fisk to life .
e ` he - Department - .eL e
arm
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WROWN
Ordinance No. 859
Page 27
�_ - - No
2 2 -
. . ............ M M,
NA MO.
15.24.1230
Chapter 80 Referenced Standards.
The following referenced standard of the California Fire Code is modified to read:
NFPA 13D is modified to read:
Section 7.1.5 is added to read:
7.1.5 Pressure -regulating valve. When available system water pressure exceeds
150 pounds per square inch (psil, a listed/approved pressure -regulating valve
shall be installed at the system riser. Such valves shall be adjusted to restrict the
outlet pressure to a maximum of 150 psi gauqe psigJ at any flow or no flow. When
such valves are installed submittal documents must include manufacturer
information sheets along with charts showing the dimensions (size) and flow
characteristics inlet and outlet pressures at various flows for the type of valve
being installed, and the valve shall be included in the design calculations.
Exception: At the discretion of the FAHJ the contractor may install a
listed/approved pressure relief valve, piped to the s yster , rain drain set to relieve
Ordinance No. 859
Page 28
Section 7.2.5 is modified to read:
7.2.5 Inspector Test. Each sprinkler system shall have a 1/2" or larger test
connection with a threaded keyless valve. The valve shall be remote to the riser,
located on the building exterior about five 5 feet above final grade and shall be
remote from the riser. It shall be labeled with a permanent plate with minimum
1/4" lettering, contrasting with background, and stating: "INSPECTOR TEST'.
(Pre -assembled riser assemblies with a built-in Drain/Test valve shall not be
accepted for inspector test valve unless approved by the FAHJ.)
Exception: Automatic fire sprinkler systems for manufactured homes installed at
the factory may have the inspectors test valve located at the location as designed
at the factory.
Section 7.3.43 is added to read:
7.3.43 Pressure gauge. A listed 300 psi pressure gauge shall be permanently
installed at the riser.
Section 7.6 is modified to read:
7.6 Alarms. A water flow switch shall be provided and located on the sprinkler
riser @bGve the GheGk vale on and shall actuate an audible fire alarm
signal -bell within 90 seconds.-The-wa«r--fla�-.h-&f-aloe-a-retafding-type-with
a delay-betweenr— 5-00 seGe; he-&igna4-beal- The fire alarm
bell shall have a minimum diameter of 8 inches and be mounted on the exterior
in the vicinity of the master bedroom. Thebe GIea y-aad+ble-fa atl
Section 8.3.4 is modified to read:
8.3.4. Sprinklers shall not be required in garages open attached porches and
balconies, carports, and similar structurespabeei ted fro+ a perts ar�d epea
attnrhed nnrnhes when loss than 4 foot in depth However, attached and/or
uzra-vrrc. 1,T-n--r—crc.rpa,�.
detached habitable garages shall be protected with quick response intermediate
temperature rated sprinklersvi'th nnt mnFe-tha4n,----59-sq.-4-4ead-&paGing. 9p444er
n:sir-MRnryffissaF,
Section 8.3.5.1.1 is modified to read:
8.3.5.1.1. Where the -fuel -fired FAU equipment is located above all of the occupied
areas of the dwelling unit, at least one quick -response intermediate temperature
sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 29
Section 11.2.1.1 is modified to read:
11.2.1.1 Hydrostatic Tests. WheFe a fire depar}meRt nn RRe Gt'nn is not provide
t-4e &System shall be hydrostatically tested at 200 psi for 2 hours.
15.24.1340 Appendix B, fire -flow requirements for buildings.
Section B103.3 is modified to read:
13103.3 Areas Without Water Supply Systems. For information regarding water supplies
for firefighting purposes in rural areas and suburban areas in which adequate and reliable
water supplies do not exist, the fire code official is authorized to utilize provisions in NFPA
1142, or the standard published by the Insurance Services Office document entitled
Guide for Determination of Required Fire Flow.
15.24.1450 Conflict.
All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Wherever a
conflict exists in this chapter, the more restrictive requirement shall apply.
SECTION 6: This Ordinance shall be codified.
SECTION 7: Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence,
clause or phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or circumstance, is for any
reason held to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or
unenforceability shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining sections,
subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases of this ordinance, or its
application to any other person or circumstance. The City Council declares that it would have
adopted each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase hereof,
irrespective of the fact of any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses, or phrases hereof be declared invalid or unenforceable.
EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after its
adoption.
CERTIFICATION/PUBLICATION: The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this
Ordinance and cause it or a summary of it, to be published with the names of the City Council
members voting for and against the same in the Poway News Chieftain, a newspaper of general
circulation in the City of Poway within fifteen (15) days after its adoption and shall post a certified
copy of this Ordinance in the Office of the City Clerk in accordance with Government Code §
36933.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 30
INTRODUCED AND FIRST READ at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Poway, California, held the 6th day of December, 2022, and thereafter
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of said City Council held the 17th day of
January, 2023, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAINED:
ABSENT:
DISQUALIFIED:
ATTEST
PEPIN, FRANK, DE HOFF, LEONARD, VAUS
NONE
NONE
NONE
NONE
Carrie Gallagher, CIVIC, City Clerk
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Steve Vaus, Mayor
Ordinance No. 859
Page 31
EXHIBIT A
Findings Supporting the
City of Poway Amendments to the
California Fire Code, 2022 Edition:
As required by Health and Safety Code Section 17958, the Poway City Council does
herewith make express findings that amendments to the California Fire Code, 2022 Edition, are
necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare due to certain climatic,
topographic, or geographical features existing in the County of San Diego.
Findings for the City of Poway amendments to the California Fire Code, 2022 Edition.
FINDING 1
The City of Poway is situated on the slopes and at the base of the coastal mountains with
drainage from the eastern portion of the City of Poway, including the San Dieguito River and
Rancho Penasquitos Creek, which, when flooded, could result in conditions rendering vehicular
access unduly burdensome or impossible for the Fire Department.
Further, the flood conditions described above carry the potential for overcoming the ability
of the Fire Department to aid or assist in fire control, evacuations, rescues, and the emergency
tasks and demands inherent in such situations. The potential for the aforementioned flooding
conditions to result in limiting Fire Department emergency vehicular traffic, with resulting
overtaxing Fire Department personnel, may further cause a substantial or total lack of protection
against fire for the buildings and structures located within the jurisdiction.
FINDING 2
The City of Poway is situated near several known major faults, each capable of generating
earthquakes of significant magnitude. These include the Rose Canyon fault the Newport -
Inglewood fault, the Coronado Banks fault, and the Silver Strand fault, (located generally west of
the City of Poway), and the Elsinore fault and Agua Caliente fault (located east of the City of
Poway). These faults are subject to activity at any time, and the City of Poway is particularly
vulnerable to devastation should such an earthquake occur.
The potential effects of earthquake activity include, isolating the City of Poway from the
surrounding area, restricting or eliminating internal circulation due to the potential for the collapse
of highway overpasses and underpasses along with other bridges in the City, or an earth slide
and the potential for vertical movement rendering surface travel unduly burdensome or
impossible.
FINDING 3
The City of Poway and Southern California are semi -arid regions and experience water
shortages from time to time. Those shortages can have a severely adverse effect on water
availability for firefighting, Fires starting in sprinkled buildings are typically controlled by one or
two sprinkler heads flowing as little as 13 gallons per minute per sprinkler head activation.
Hose streams used by engine companies on well -established structure fires operate at a
minimum of about 250 gallons per minute each, and the estimated water need for a typical
residential fire is 1,000 to 1,500 gallons per minute, according to the Insurance Service Office and
the California Fire Code.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 32
Under circumstances such as lack of water, infrastructure, earthquakes, and multiple and
wildland fires within a community, the limited water demands of residential fire sprinklers would
control and extinguish many fires before they spread from building to wildland. In such a disaster,
water demands needed for conflagration firefighting probably would not be available.
FINDING 4
The topography of the City of Poway presents problems in delivery of emergency services,
including fire protection. The hilly terrain has narrow, winding roads with little circulation,
preventing rapid access and orderly evacuation. Much of these hills are covered with highly non -
fire resistive natural vegetation. In addition to access and evacuation problems, the terrain makes
delivery of water extremely difficult. Some hilly areas served by water tank and pump systems are
subject to failure in fire, high winds, earthquake, and other power failure situations.
FINDING 5
The seasonal climatic conditions during the late summer and fall create numerous serious
difficulties regarding the control of, and protection against, fires in the City of Poway. The hot, dry
weather that is typical of this area in summer and fall, coupled with Santa Ana winds and low
humidity, frequently result in wildfires that threaten, or could threaten, the City of Poway.
Although some Code requirements, such as fire -resistive roof classification, have a direct
bearing on building survival in a wildland fire situation, others, such as residential fire sprinklers,
may also have a positive effect. In a dry climate on low humidity days, many materials are much
more easily ignited. More fires are likely to occur and any fire, once started, can expand extremely
rapidly. Residential fire sprinklers can arrest a fire starting within a structure before the fire is able
to spread to adjacent brush and structures.
A seasonal wind also has the potential for interfering with emergency vehicle access and
delaying or making impossible fire responses because of toppling of extensive plantings of dense
chaparral, eucalyptus, and conifer trees. The trees are subject to uprooting in strong winds due
to their relatively small root bases compared to the tree itself. The aforementioned problems
support the imposition of fire -protection requirements greater than those set forth in the California
Building Code or Fire Code.
FINDING 6
Due to the topography in much of the City of Poway, roadway condition, gates, angle of
approach or departure, steeply sloping roadways, and grades are common. In addition, a
combination of potentially severe rainstorms and ground -water retention could occur in many
areas of the City where there is expansive soil. This produces a condition wherein the moisture
content of the soil is sufficient, that roadways become damaged due to soil expansion and
shrinkage. All-weather, paved surfaces, capable of supporting the imposed loads of fire
apparatus are necessary to ensure access of emergency response personnel. These roadways,
gates, approach angles, steep slopes, and grades can also make it difficult for fire apparatus and
other emergency vehicles to access a site. It is, therefore, essential that these roadway accesses
be provided with proper all-weather, paved surfaces, angle of approach, grades, and gate access.
FINDING 7
The City of Poway has State Route 67, Poway Road, Scripps Poway Parkway, Pomerado
Road and Espola Road as major roadways within its boundaries. Transportation vehicles carrying
known toxic, flammable, explosive, and hazardous materials travel these roadways.
Ordinance No. 859
Page 33
The potential for the release or threatened release of hazardous materials along these
routes is likely given the volume that is transported within Poway city limits. Incidents of this nature
will normally require all available emergency response personnel to prevent injury and loss of life
and to limit or prevent environmental and property loss. Emergency personnel responding to such
aforementioned incidents may be unduly impeded and delayed in accomplishing an emergency
response as a result of this situation, with the potential result of undue and unnecessary risk to
the protection of life and public safety and, in particular, endangering residents and occupants in
buildings or structures without the protection of automatic fire sprinklers.
The aforementioned problems support the imposition of fire protection requirements greater than
those set forth in the California Building Code or Fire Code.