Ord 757ORDINANCE NO. 757
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF POWAY, CALIFORNIA,
REPEALING CHAPTER 15.05 OF THE POWAY MUNICIPAL CODE
AND ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 15.05 REGARDING
THE POWAY WILDLAND -URBAN INTERFACE CODE,
WHICH ADOPTS BY REFERENCE THE INTERNATIONAL
WILDLAND -URBAN INTERFACE CODE, 2012 EDITION,
WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS
WHEREAS, Chapter 15.05 of the Poway Municipal Code is the Poway Wildland-
Urban Interface Code, which adopts by reference the 2009 version of the International
Wildland -Urban Interface Code; and
WHEREAS, there is a need to amend Chapter 15.05 because the International
Code Council has adopted a 2012 version of the International Wildland -Urban Interface
Code; and
WHEREAS, Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10, inclusive, of the California
Government Code provide authority for cities to adopt codes, or portions of codes, by
reference; and
WHEREAS, Health & Safety Code Section 17958.5 permits the City of Poway to
make such changes or modifications to codes and regulations upon an express finding
that such changes or modifications are necessary due to local climatic, geologic or
topographic conditions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Poway finds that the City of Poway
has certain climatic, geologic, and topographic features that can have a deleterious
effect on emergency services such as fire protection and emergency medical services;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Poway finds that the modifications and
changes to the 2012 International Wildland -Urban Interface Code are reasonably
necessary because of the local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions
identified in Attachment A; and
WHEREAS, certain amendments to the 2012 International Wildland -Urban
Interface Code are necessary to mitigate said deleterious effects to the extent possible;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the amendments are exempt from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act ( "CEQA "), under California Code
of Regulations, Title 14, pursuant to Section 15061(b) of the 2013 CEQA Guidelines,
where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption of this
ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POWAY DOES
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Ordinance No. 757
Page 2
SECTION 1: Poway Municipal Code Chapter 15.05 is hereby repealed, and a
new Chapter 15.05 is added in its place as follows:
15.05.010 Adoption of Wildland -Urban Interface Code.
The City of Poway adopts by reference the 2012 Edition of the Internatio al Wildland-
Urban Interface Code, as published by the International Code Council, as the Wildland-
Urban Interface Code of the City of Poway, except those portions that, are added,
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 Marshal, City of
Poway, and the same is adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length herein,
with the deletions, modifications, and amendments set forth in this chapter. From the
effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, its provisions shall be controlling
within the limits of the City of Poway.
15.05.020 Administration.
Section 101.1 is modified to read:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Wildland -Urban Interface Code
of City of Poway, hereinafter referred to as "this Code."
Section 101.5 is modified to read:
101.5 Additions or Alterations. Additions or alterations may be made to any building
or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of
the requirements of this Code, provided the addition or alteration conforms to that
required for a new building or structure.
Exception: Provisions of this Code that specifically apply to existing conditions are
retroactive. See Sections 402.3 and 601.1. Additions or alterations shall not be
made to an existing building or structure that will cause the existing building or
structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this Code, nor, shall such
additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe.
Additions or alterations of an existing building or structure constitute unsafe
conditions in the following circumstances: (1) Where the addition oar alteration
causes the building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; (2)
Where the addition or alteration causes the building or structure to have inadequate
access, as required by this Code, or causes the obstruction of existing exits or
access; (3) Where the addition or alteration creates a fire hazard or reduces required
fire resistance; or (4) Where an addition or alteration otherwise creates conditions
dangerous to human life.
When additions are made to an existing structure and the addition is within the 100 -
foot defensible space, such addition shall be in accordance with setback distances
as set forth in this Code, including Sections 504.1.2, 504.1.4, 505.1.2, and 505.1.3.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 3
Section 101.7 is added to read:
101.7 Guidance Documents. The Planning Authority Having Jurisdiction (PAHJ) may
prepare, circulate for public comment, disseminate, and maintain guidance
documents addressing the methods of ignition- resistant construction described in
this Code. These guidance documents may set out additional compliance
alternatives that, in specified circumstances, can provide the same protection that is
afforded by the methods required by this Code. These guidance documents may
also identify practices that have been determined by the PAHJ and the Fire Authority
Having Jurisdiction (FAHJ) to be equivalent, and they may include additional new
fire - resistive technologies as they become available.
15.05.030 Appeals.
Section 106 is modified to read:
106 Appeals. Section 106 is deleted in its entirety. Appeals shall be governed by
Section 15.24.160 of the locally adopted Fire Code.
15.05.040 Permits.
Section 107 is modified to read:
Section 107 is deleted in its entirety. Permits shall be governed by Section
15.24.160 of the locally adopted Fire Code.
15.05.050 Plans and specifications — Maps.
Section 108.4 is hereby modified to read:
108.4 Vegetation Management Plans. When utilized by the permit applicant
pursuant to Section 502, vegetation management plans shall be prepared and shall
be submitted to the Code official for review and approval as part of the plans
required for a permit.
Section 108.7.1 is added to read:
108.7.1 Accuracy. While it is important for the information on the vicinity plan to be
accurate, it shall not require the precision of a formal land survey.
15.05.060 Definitions.
The definition of "Building Official" in Section 202 is modified to read:
Building Official. The officer or other designated authority charged with the
administration and enforcement of the locally adopted California Building Code or
the building official's duly authorized representative.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 4
A definition of "Combustible Vegetation" is added to Section 202 to read:
Combustible Vegetation. Material that in its natural state will readily ignite, burn, and
transmit fire from native or landscape plants to any structure or other vegetation.
Combustible vegetation includes dry grass, brush, weeds, litter or other flammable
vegetation that creates a fire hazard.
A definition of "Discretionary Project" is added to Section 202 to read:
Discretionary Project. A project which requires the public agency to exercise
judgment or deliberation when deciding to approve or disapprove a particular
activity, as distinguished from situations where the public agency or body merely has
to determine whether there has been conformity with applicable statutes,
ordinances, or regulations.
A definition of "Fire Authority Having Jurisdiction (FAHJ)" is added to Section 202 to
read:
Fire Authority Having Jurisdiction (FAHJ). The designated entity providing
enforcement of fire regulations as they relate to planning, construction, and
development. This entity may also provide fire suppression and other emergency
services.
A definition of "Fire Code" is added to Section 202 to read:
Fire Code. The California Fire Code, as locally adopted with amendments.
The definition of "Fire Code Official" is added to Section 202 to read:
Fire Code Official. Fire Code Official shall have the same definition as set forth in the
locally adopted Fire Code.
A definition for "Fuel Modification Zone" is added to Section 202 to read:
Fuel Modification Zone. A strip of land where combustible vegetation has been
modified and partially or totally replaced with approved drought - tolerant, fire -
resistant, and /or irrigated plants to provide an acceptable level of risk from
vegetation fires. Fuel modification reduces radiant and convective heat, thereby
reducing the amount of heat exposure on the roadway or structure and providing fire
suppression forces with a safer area in which to take action.
A definition for "Hazardous Fire Area" is added to Section 202 to read:
Hazardous Fire Area. Any geographic area mapped by the state or local jurisdiction
as a very high fire hazard area, or as set forth by the FAHJ that contains the type
and condition of vegetation, topography, weather, and structure density to potentially
increase the possibility of vegetation conflagration fires shall be considered a
hazardous fire area.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 5
The definition for "Hazardous Materials" in Section 202 is modified to read as follows:
Hazardous Materials. Hazardous Materials shall have the same meaning as set forth
in Section 202 of the locally adopted Fire Code.
The definition of "Ignition- Resistant Construction Class 3" in Section 202 is hereby
deleted.
A definition for "Ignition Source" is added to Section 202 to read:
Ignition Source. Any item or substance capable of energy release of a type and
magnitude sufficient to ignite any flammable materials that could occur inside or
outside of a structure. Examples of ignition source include storage or use of
flammable gases and flammable liquids, permanent or temporary electrical wiring,
and open -flame devices.
A definition of "Roof Covering" is added to Section 202 to read:
Roof Covering. Roofs shall comply with the California Building Code and have at a
minimum a Class A roof covering. For roof coverings where the profile allows a
space between the roof covering and roof decking, the space at the eave ends shall
be fire stopped to preclude entry of flames or embers. Exception: On qualified
historical buildings, wood roof covering may be repaired or reconstructed as allowed
by the State Historical Building Code.
A definition for "Off -Site Roadway" is added to Section 202 to read:
Off -Site Roadway. A road, street, public highway, or private road used for fire
apparatus access from a publicly maintained road to the boundary of the subject
property.
A definition for "On -Site Roadway" is added to Section 202 to read:
On -Site Roadway. A road, street, public highway, private road, or driveway used for
fire apparatus access within the boundaries of the subject property or land division.
A definition for "Planning Authority Having Jurisdiction (PAHJ)" is added to Section 202
to read:
Planning Authority Having Jurisdiction (PAHJ). The identified authority regulating
and enforcing planning and /or construction standards.
A definition for "Vegetation Conflagration" is added to Section 202 to read:
Vegetation Conflagration. An uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels,
and exposing and consuming structures in the advancing path of fire.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 6
A definition for "Wildland Fuel" is added to Section 202 to read:
Wildland Fuel. Any timber, brush, grass, or other flammable vegetation, living or
dead, standing or down, that is not classified as fire - resistive.
15.05.070 Wildland -urban interface areas.
Section 302.1 is modified to read:
302.1 Declaration. The legislative body shall declare the wildland -urban interface
areas within the jurisdiction. The wildland -urban interface areas shall be based on
findings of fact. The wildland -urban interface area boundary shall be any geographic
area mapped or otherwise identified by the state or local jurisdiction as a very high
fire hazard area, or as set forth by the FAHJ. When the type and condition of
vegetation, topography, weather, and structure density which potentially increases
the probability of vegetation conflagration exists, such area shall be considered a
hazardous fire area.
15.05.080 Applicability.
Section 402.1 is modified to read:
402.1. Subdivisions. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be
provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the locally adopted
Fire Code and access requirements in accordance with Section 403.
Section 402. 1.1 is modified to read:
402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be
provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the locally adopted
Fire Code and access requirements in accordance with Section 403.
Section 402.2.1 is modified to read:
402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within
Wildland -Urban Interface Areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access, in
accordance with the locally adopted Fire Code, and driveways in accordance with
Section 403.2. Marking of fire protection equipment shall be provided in accordance
with Section 403.5 and address markers shall be provided in accordance with
Section 403.6.
Section 402.2.2 is modified to read:
402.2.2 Water Supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or
within Wildland -Urban Interface Areas shall be provided with a conforming water
supply in accordance with the locally adopted Fire Code.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 7
Exception: Structures constructed to meet the requirements for the class of ignition -
resistant construction specified in Table 503.1 for a nonconforming water supply.
15.05.090 Access.
Section 403.2 is modified to read:
Section 403.2. Driveways. Driveways shall be provided when any portion of an
exterior wall of the first story of a building, measured in an approved manner, is
located more than 150 feet from a fire apparatus access road. Driveways shall
provide a minimum unobstructed width of 16 feet and a minimum unobstructed
height of 13 feet 6 inches. Driveways in excess of 150 feet in length shall be
provided with turnarounds. Driveways in excess of 200 feet in length and less than
24 feet in width, shall be provided with turnouts in addition to turnarounds. A
driveway shall not serve more than two improved parcels containing dwelling units.
Driveway turnarounds shall have an inside turning radius of not less than 28 feet and
an outside turning radius of not less than 45 feet. 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 required to make the turnaround meet the radii requirements for
driveway turnarounds. Driveway turnouts shall be an all- weather road surface at
least 10 -feet wide and 30 -feet long.
The turnout requirement can be .waived or modified for existing driveways that
comply with the minimum width requirement listed in this section if in the opinion of
the Fire Chief such turnouts will require substantial, roadway modification, additional
access easements, and /or alteration to such driveway.
Driveway turnouts shall be located as required by the Fire Code Official. Vehicle
load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges and on driveways and private
roads containing bridges. Design loads for bridges shall be established by the code
official.
Section 403.3 is modified to read:
403.3. Fire Apparatus Access Road. Fire apparatus access road shall comply with
the locally adopted Fire Code.
15.05.100 Water supply.
Section 404.5 is modified to read:
404.5 Adequate Water Supply. In Hazardous Fire Areas as defined in the locally
adopted Fire Code, the water main capacity for new subdivisions shall not be less
than eight inches in diameter unless otherwise approved by the Chief and the City
Engineer. Fire hydrant flow shall exceed a minimum of 1,500 gallons per minute with
a minimum residual flow pressure of 20psi. The water flow velocity is not to exceed
15 feet per second and be capable of providing uninterruptible flow capability. For
occupied structures outside of the City of Poway water service area, adequate water
Ordinance No. 757
Page 8
supply shall be determined for purposes of initial attack and flame front shall be
provided as defined in Table 508.2.2 of the California Fire Code as amended by the
City of Poway.
Section 404.6 is hereby deleted.
15.05.110 Fire protection plan.
Section 405.1 is modified to read:
405.1 General. When required by the Fire Code Official, a fire protection plan, or its
equivalent, shall be prepared.
Section 405.2 is modified to read:
405.2 Content of Wildland Fire Protection Plan. The Wildland Fire Protection Plan
may be based upon a community, site specific wildfire risk assessment that is
developed in consultation with local and state government representatives, federal
agencies, and other interested parties. The plan shall consider location, topography,
geology, aspect, combustible vegetation (fuel types), climatic conditions, and fire
history. The plan shall address water supply, access, structural ignitability, structure
setback and ignition resistive building features, fire protection systems and
equipment, impacts to existing emergency services, defensible space, and
vegetation management. The plan shall identify and prioritize areas for hazardous
fuel reduction treatments and recommend the types and methods of treatment that
will protect one or more at -risk communities and essential infrastructures. The plan
shall recommend measures that homeowners and communities shall take to reduce
the ignitability of structures throughout the area addressed by the plan.
15.05.120 Fire hazard severity.
Section 502.2 is modified to read:
502.2 Fire Hazard Severity Reduction. The fire hazard severity identified in Table
502.1 may be reduced by implementing an approved vegetation management plan.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 9
TABLE 502.1
FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY
CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER
FREQUENCY
>_ 8 days'
FUEL MODELb
Slope ( %)
<_ 40
41 —
>_ 61
60
Light fuel
M
M
H
Medium fuel
E
E
E
Heavy fuel
IE
IE
I E
a. Days per annum.
b. When required by the code official, fuel classification
shall be based on the historical fuel type for the area.
E = Extreme hazard
H = High hazard
M = Moderate hazard
15.05.130 Ignition - resistant construction.
Section 503.1 is modified to read:
503.1 General. Buildings and structures hereafter constructed, modified, or relocated
into or within Wildland -Urban Interface Areas shall meet the construction
requirements in accordance with Table 503.1. Class 1 and Class 2 ignition- resistant
construction shall be in accordance with Sections 504 and 505, respectively.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 10
TABLE 503.1
IGNITION - RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY
DEFENSIBLE
Moderate Hazard
High Hazard
Extreme Hazard
SPACEc
Water Supplyb
Water Supplyb
Water Supplyb
Conformingd
Nonconforming'
Conformingd
Nonconforminge
Conformingd
Nonconforminge
Nonconforming
IR 2
IR 1
IR 1
IR 1
IR 1
Not Permitted
N.C.
N.C.
Conforming
IR 2
IR 2
IR 2
IR 1
IR 1
IR 1
N.C.
1.5 x
Not
IR 2
IR 2
IR 2
IR 2
IR 1
Conforming
lRequired
a. Access shall be in accordance with Section 402.
b. Subdivisions shall have a conforming water supply in accordance with Section 402.1.
IR 1 = Ignition- resistant construction in accordance with Section 504.
IR 2 = Ignition- resistant construction in accordance with Section 505.
N.C. = Exterior walls shall have a fire - resistance rating of not less than 1 hour, and the exterior
surfaces of such walls shall be noncombustible. Usage of log wall construction is allowed.
c. Conformance based on Section 603.
d. Conformance based on Section 404.
e. A nonconformance water supply is any water system or source that does not comply with Section
404, including situations where there is no water supply for structure protection or fire suppression.
15.05.140 Class 1 ignition- resistant construction.
Section 504. 1.1 is added to read:
504.1.1 Zoning Requirements. The minimum setbacks for locating structures on a lot
are set by the PAHJ. To minimize fire spread potential the FAHJ may require
additional setbacks as described. In no case may the setbacks required by the FAHJ
be less than those established by the PAHJ.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 11
Section 504.1.2 is added to read:
504.1.2 Fire Requirements. In those jurisdictions where a FAHJ approves a fuel
modification zone of less than 100 feet, all structures, including any part of a
structure located within the Wildland -Urban Interface Area, shall not be less than 30
feet measured perpendicular from the subject property line adjacent to wildland fuel.
When the property line abuts a public way, the setback is measured to the farthest
roadway edge of the public way or street.
Exception: When allowed by both the FAHJ and by the PAHJ zoning requirements
and the wildland fire hazard is determined to be minimal, the 30 -foot setback may be
reduced to a minimum of five feet from a property line provided the entire exterior
wall, eave, overhang, or any other building construction elements shall comply with
the enhanced Class 1 ignition- resistant construction standards.
Note: The FAHJ may allow openings in the exterior wall facing the Wildland -Urban
Interface Area if it is determined the hazard is minimal.
Section 504.1.3 is added to read:
504.1.3 Future setback modification. All fuel modification zones shall not extend
beyond the property line.
Exception: The FAHJ may approve fuel modification zones that extend beyond the
property lines when a legal agreement, such as an easement running with the land,
is in place.
Section 504.1.4 is added to read:
504.1.4 Structure Setback from Top of Slope. A structure shall be set back a
minimum of 1.25 -feet horizontally from the top of slope for every 1 -foot in building
height as measured from the farthest projection of a roof. No portion of the structure
may be higher than the plane created by the 80- percent setback from top of slope.
Exceptions:
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 or juxtaposed to the
structure, and, the slope is directly adjacent to developed parcels with fuel
management principles in place.
3. The Fire Code Official determines the hazard to be minimal.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 12
Section 504.1.5 is added to read:
504.1.5 Mitigation. In jurisdictions where a PAHJ or FAHJ approves a fuel
modification zone of less than 100 feet, Class 1 ignition- resistant construction shall
be provided and /or additional mitigation as determined by the FAHJ.
Section 504.2 is modified to read:
Roof Covering. Roofs shall have a Class A roof assembly. For roof coverings where
the profile allows a space between the roof covering and roof decking, the space at
the eave ends shall be firestopped to preclude entry of flames or embers, or have
one layer of 72 -pound (32.4kg) mineral - surfaced, nonperforated cap sheet
complying with ASTM D 3909 installed over the combustible decking.
Exception: On qualified historical buildings, wood roof covering may be repaired or
reconstructed as allowed by the State Historical Building Code.
Section 504.2.2 is added to read:
504.2.2 Insulation. In the Wildland -Urban Interface Area, paper -faced insulation shall
be prohibited in attics or ventilated spaces.
Section 504.3.1 is added to read:
Exception: Eave construction on additions may match the existing structure provided
that the addition does not exceed 50 percent of the existing structure or 2,500
square feet, whichever is less.
Section 504.5 is modified to read:
504.5 Exterior Walls. Exterior walls of buildings or structures located in the Wildland-
Urban Interface Area shall comply with the provisions of Section 707A.3 of the
California Building Code. Wood shingle and shake wall covering shall be prohibited.
Exception: Livestock stables less than 2,000 square feet total floor area and without
restrooms are exempt from the noncombustible wall requirement if constructed a
minimum of 100 feet from the property line, from any open space easement, and
from any dwelling on the parcel. If a dwelling, or addition to a dwelling is
subsequently proposed to be constructed closer than 100 feet from a stable
constructed under this exemption, the stable must be retrofitted with noncombustible
exterior wall coverings or be removed.
Section 504.5.1 is added to read:
504.5.1 Repair /Replacement. If 50 percent or more of an exterior wall located less
than 30 feet from a property line requires repair or replacement, the entire wall shall
conform to this section. If less than 50 percent of the wall requires repair or
replacement, the existing wall may be repaired or replaced in kind; however, if the
Ordinance No. 757
Page 13
wall covering is wood shingle or shake, it must be repaired or replaced with fire -
retardant, pressure- treated wood shingles or shake labeled for exterior use and shall
meet the requirements of Section 703A.5.2 of the California Building Code.
Sections 504.7.2 through 504.7.6 are added to read:
504.7.2 Fences and Other Attachments to Structures. The first ten feet of fence and
other items attached to a structure shall be constructed of noncombustible material,
or pressure- treated exterior fire - retardant wood or meet the same fire - resistive
standards as the exterior walls of the structure.
Exception: Wooden gates are permitted provided that a five -foot minimum length
section of noncombustible fencing material is installed as a firebreak immediately
adjacent to the gate.
504.7.3 Structural Supports and Framing Members. Structural supports and framing
members shall be of noncombustible construction; exterior fire - retardant - treated
wood; modified, heavy- timber construction; or one -hour, fire - resistive construction.
Exception: Structural supports and framing may be constructed of non - fire -rated
lumber when decks, balconies, and similar projections are skirted from floor level to
ground level with noncombustible material or an approved alternate. The skirted
under -deck area must be vented in conformance with Section 504.10.
504.7.4 Decking Surfaces. Decking surfaces, stair treads, risers, and landings of
decks, porches, and balconies shall be constructed in compliance with California
Building Code 709A.
504.7.5 Deck Remodels or Repair. When remodels or repairs are made to decks in
areas of the Wildland -Urban Interface Area requiring Enhanced Class 1 ignition -
resistant construction and the deck remodel or repair exceeds 50 percent of the
projected area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less, the entire deck shall comply
with Section 709A of the California Building Code. For the purpose of this exception,
deck remodel or repair projects must be separated by at least 12 months to be
considered separate projects.
504.7.6 Coatings. The use of paints, coatings, stains, or other surface treatments is
not an approved method of protection, as required in this Chapter.
Section 504.8 is modified to read:
504.8 Exterior Windows and Glazing. Glass or other transparent, translucent, or
opaque glazing shall be of tempered glass, multi - layered glass panels (dual glazed),
or glass block, and have a fire - protection rating of not less than 20 minutes, or other
assemblies approved by the FAHJ. Glazing frames made of vinyl materials shall
have welded corners, metal reinforcement in the interlock area, and be certified to
ANSI /AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2 -97 structural requirements.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 14
Section 504.8.1 is added to read:
504.8.1 Skylights. Skylights shall be made of tempered glass.
Exception: Skylights in commercial buildings are not required to be tempered if the
entire building is protected by an approved fire sprinkler system.
Section 504.10.2 is added to read:
Exception: Attic vents in soffits may be permitted by the FAHJ on those areas of the
building that do not face the wildland fuels, when the FAHJ determines it is not a
hazard.
15.05.150 Class 2 ignition - resistant construction.
Section 505. 1.1 is added to read:
505.1.1 Zoning Requirements. The minimum setbacks for locating structures on a lot
are set by the PAHJ. To minimize fire spread potential, the FAHJ may require
additional setbacks as described in Section 505.1.4. In no case may the setbacks
required by the FAHJ be less than those established by the PAHJ.
Sections 505.1.2 through 505.1.5 are added to read:
505.1.2 Fire Requirements. In those jurisdictions where a FAHJ approves a fuel
modification zone of less than 100 feet, all structures, including any part of a
structure located within the Wildland -Urban Interface Area, shall not be less than 30
feet measured perpendicular from the subject property line adjacent to wildland fuel.
When the property line abuts a public way, the setback is measured to the farthest
roadway edge of the public way or street.
Exception: When allowed by both the FAHJ and by the PAHJ zoning requirements
and the wildland fire hazard is determined to be minimal, the 30 foot setback may be
reduced to a minimum of five feet from a property line provided that the entire
exterior wall, eave, overhang, or any other building construction elements shall
comply with enhanced Class 1 ignition resistant construction standards.
Note: The FAHJ may allow openings in the exterior wall facing the Wildland -Urban
Interface Area if it is determined the hazard is minimal.
505.1.3 Future Setback Modification. All fuel modification zones shall not extend
beyond the property line.
Exception: The FAHJ may approve a fuel modification zone that extends beyond the
property lines when a legal agreement, such as an easement running with the land,
is in place and appropriately recorded.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 15
Section 505.1.4 is added to read:
505.1.4 Structure Setback from Top of Slope. A structure shall be set back a
minimum of 1.25 -feet horizontally from the top of slope for every 1 -foot in building
height as measured from the farthest projection of a roof. No portion of the structure
may be higher than the plane created by the 80- percent setback from top of slope.
Exceptions:
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 or juxtaposed to the
structure, and, the slope is directly adjacent to developed parcels with fuel
management principles in place.
3. The Fire Code Official determines the hazard to be minimal.
505.1.5 Mitigation. In jurisdictions where a PAHJ or FAHJ approves a fuel
modification zone of less than 100 feet, Class 1 ignition- resistant construction shall
be provided and /or additional mitigation as determined by the FAHJ.
Section 505.2 is modified to read:
505.2 Roof Covering. Roofs shall have a minimum of a Class A roof covering. For
roof coverings where the profile allows a space between the roof covering and roof
decking, the space at the eave ends shall be fire - stopped to preclude entry of flames
or embers, or have one layer of 72 -pound (32.4kg) mineral- surfaced, nonperforated
cap sheet complying with ASTM D 3909 installed over the combustible decking.
Exception: On qualified historical buildings, a wood roof covering may be repaired or
reconstructed as allowed by the State Historical Building Code.
Section 505.2.2 is added to read:
505.2.2 Insulation. In the Wildland -Urban Interface Area, paper -faced insulation shall
be prohibited in attics or ventilated spaces.
Section 505.3.1 is added to read:
Exception: Eave construction on additions may match the existing structure,
provided that the addition does not exceed 50 percent of the existing structure or
2,500 square feet, whichever is less.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 16
Section 505.5 is modified to read:
505.5 Exterior Walls. Exterior walls of buildings or structures located in the Wildland-
Urban Interface Area shall comply with the provisions of Section 707A.3 of the
California Building Code. Wood shingle and shake wall covering shall be prohibited.
Exception: Livestock stables with less than 2,000 square feet of total floor area and
without restrooms are exempt from the noncombustible wall requirement if
constructed a minimum of 100 feet from the property line from any open space
easement, and from any dwelling on the parcel. If a dwelling or addition to a dwelling
is subsequently proposed to be constructed closer than 100 feet from a stable
constructed under this exemption, the stable must be retrofitted with noncombustible
exterior wall coverings or be removed.
Section 505.5.1 is added to read:
505.5.1 Repair /Replacement. If 50 percent or more of an exterior wall located less
than 30 feet from a property line requires repair or replacement, the entire wall shall
conform to this section. If less than 50 percent of the wall requires repair or
replacement, the existing wall may be repaired or replaced in kind; however, if the
wall covering is wood shingle or shake, it must be repaired or replaced with fire -
retardant, pressure- treated wood shingles or shake labeled for exterior use and shall
meet the requirements of Section 703A.5 of the California Building Code.
Sections 505.7.2 through 505.7.3 are added to read:
505.7.2 Fences and Other Attachments to Structures. The first five feet of fence and
other items attached to a structure shall be constructed of noncombustible material,
or pressure- treated exterior fire - retardant wood, or meet the same fire - resistive
standards as the exterior walls of the structure.
Exception: Wooden gates are permitted, provided that a five -foot minimum length
section of noncombustible fencing material is installed as a firebreak immediately
adjacent to the gate.
505.7.3 Coatings. The use of paints, coatings, stains, or other surface treatments is
not an approved method of protection as required in this chapter.
Section 505.8 is modified to read:
505.8 Exterior Windows and Glazing. Glass or other transparent, translucent, or
opaque glazing shall be of tempered glass, multi - layered glass panels (dual glazed),
or glass block, and have a fire - protection rating of not less than 20 minutes, or other
assemblies approved by the FAHJ. Glazing frames made of vinyl materials shall
have welded corners, metal reinforcement in the interlock area, and be certified to
ANSI /AAMA/NWWDA 101/I.S.2 -97 structural requirements.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 17
Section 505.9 is modified to read:
505.9 Exterior Doors. All exterior doors facing the Wildland -Urban Interface Area
shall be of approved noncombustible construction or ignition- resistant, solid core
wood not less than 1 3/4- inches thick or have a fire protection rating of not less than
20 minutes. Windows within doors and glazed doors shall comply with Section
505.8.
Section 505.10.1 is added to read:
Exception: Attic vents in soffits may be permitted by the FAHJ on those areas of the
building that do not face the wildland fuels, when the FAHJ determines it.is not a
hazard.
Section 505.10.2 is added to read:
505.10.2 Venting on Roofs and Vertical Walls. Roof vents, .dormer vents, gable
vents, soffit vents, foundation ventilation openings, ventilation openings in vertical
walls, or other similar ventilation openings are accepted for use when they comply
with the Office of the State Fire Marshal's CBC Ch7A Compliance Policy(s).
15.05.160 Class 3 ignition - resistant construction.
Section 506 is hereby deleted in its entirety.
15.05.170 Replacement or repair of roof coverings.
Section 507.1 is modified to read:
507.1 General. When re- roofing or repairs are made, the entire roof shall consist of
fire -rated roof coverings in conformance with Section 503 and Poway Municipal
Code Section 15.04.050.
Section 507. 1.1 is added to read:
507.1.1 Roof Coverings — Historical Buildings. On qualified, historical buildings,
wood roof coverings may be repaired or reconstructed as allowed by the State
Historical Building Code.
15.05.180 Defensible space.
Section 603.2 is modified to read:
603.2 Fuel Modification. For individual building or structures on a property, in order
to qualify as a conforming defensible space for the purpose of Table 503.1, the fuel
modification zone shall be achieved by removing or modifying combustible
vegetation and other flammable materials from areas within 100 feet from such
buildings or structures. The distances specified in Table 603.2 shall be measured on
Ordinance No. 757
Page 18
a horizontal plane, in plain view, from the perimeter or projection of the building or
structure as shown in Figure 603.2. The Code official, because of a site - specific
analysis based on local conditions and the fire protection plan, may increase
distances specified in Table 603.2.
The fuel management plan shall conform to the standards and guidelines in Section
6 of the Poway Landscape and Irrigation Design Manual, as adopted by City Council
Resolution No. P- 10 -04, titled Fuel Management in Very High Fire Hazard Areas.
Section 603.2.4 is added to read:
603.2.4 Fuel Modification of Brush or Vegetative Growth from Roadways.
(a) Fuel Modification at Existing Off -Site Roadways. The Fire Chief and /or his or her
designee are authorized to cause the area within 20 feet on each side of the
improved width portions of highways and private streets or roads which are
improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic to be thinned and reduced
of flammable vegetation and other combustible growth shall comply with the
requirements of a fuel modification zone. The Fire Chief or his or her designee is
authorized to enter upon private property to insure the fuel modification zone
requirements are met.
Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery, or cultivated ground
cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents, or similar plants used as ground covers
provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.
(b) Fuel Modification for New Off -Site Roadways when Constructed and New On-
Site Roadways. The area 30 feet on each side of the improved width of highways,
private roads, streets, and driveways shall comply with requirements of a fuel
modification zone.
Exceptions:
1. Upon approval by the Fire Department, the roadway fuel modification zones
may be reduced provided that the reduction of the zones does not impair access.
2. Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery, or cultivated ground cover
such as green grass, ivy, succulents, or similar plants used as ground covers
provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.
(c) All roadways shall have a minimum of 13 feet 6 inches of vertical clearance free
of vegetation.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 19
TABLE 603.2 REQUIRED DEFENSIBLE SPACE
URBAN- WILDLAND
INTERFACE AREA*
FUEL MODIFICATION
DISTANCE (FEET) (1)
Moderate Hazard
30
High Hazard
100
Extreme Hazard
100
* From Table 502.1 Fire Hazard Severity
(1) Or as defined in a Fire Protection Plan
(See Section 405)
Sections 603.3 through 603.3.2 are added to read:
603.3 Community Fuel Modification. Fuel modification zones to protect new
communities shall be provided when required by the Fire Code official in accordance
with Section 603 to reduce the fuel loads adjacent to communities and structures
within them.
603.3.1 Land Ownership. Fuel modification zone land used to protect a community
shall be under the control of an association or other common ownership established
in perpetuity for the benefit of the community to be protected.
603.3.2 Plans. Plans shall be approved prior to fuel modification work. Plans shall be
placed on a site plan shown in plan view. An elevation plan shall also be provided to
indicate the length of the fuel modification zone on the slope. Plans shall include, at
a minimum, one plan showing existing vegetation, and three plans showing the
location of proposed structures and setback from the top of slope to all structures.
Section 603.4 is added to read:
603.4 Fuel Modification Installations. All fuel modifications shall be installed prior to
the final inspection for issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 20
FIGURE 603.2 MEASUREMENTS OF FUEL MODIFICATION DISTANCE
15.05.190 Maintenance of defensible space.
Section 604.3 is modified to read:
604.3 Responsibility. Persons owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining
buildings or structures are responsible for maintenance of defensible spaces.
Maintenance of the defensible space shall be conducted annually or as determined
by the FAHJ and may include, but is not limited to, the modification or removal of
non -fire resistive or undesirable vegetation as described with the Poway Landscape
and Irrigation Design Manual, Tables 6.1 and 6.2, and keeping leaves, needles, and
other dead vegetative material regularly removed from roofs of buildings and
structures.
Section 604.4 is modified to read:
604.4 Trees. Horizontal clearance from tree crowns to structures shall be pruned to
maintain a minimum of ten feet for fire resistive trees and 30 feet for non -fire
resistive trees. Tree crowns within the defensible space shall be pruned to remove
limbs located less than six feet above the ground surface adjacent to the trees.
Portions of tree crowns that extend within ten feet of the outlet of a chimney shall be
pruned to maintain a minimum horizontal clearance of ten feet. Dead wood and litter
shall be regularly removed from trees. Ornamental trees shall be limited to groupings
of two to three trees with canopies for each grouping separated horizontally as
described in Table 604.
TABLE 604 - DISTANCE BETWEEN TREE CANOPIES
Distances Between Edge of Mature Tree Canopies
Zone A
No more than three trees per cluster; minimum distance between
clusters or individual non - clustered trees is 20 feet
Zone B
No less than 2x the diameter of the species' mature canopy.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 21
Sections 604.5 through 604.5.5 are added to read:
604.5 Landscape Requirements — Objective. Provisions of this section are intended
to modify fuel load in areas adjacent to structures to create defensible space.
604.5.1 Landscape Submittals. Landscape plans are required for all residential
custom homes, production tract homes, multifamily residential, and commercial
buildings. Landscape plans shall be submitted and approved by the Development
Services Department and the Department of Safety Services prior to the issuance of
a building permit. Landscape plan submittals shall follow the submittal requirements
found in the Poway 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
Marshal may expand or reduce the distance of the fuel modification zone based on
project location, surrounding vegetation, and topography.
604.5.2 Landscaping Requirements. All plant materials used shall be from the list of
suggested fire - resistive plant species identified in Table 6 -2 of the Poway Landscape
and Irrigation Design Manual. The addition of plant material to the approved list will
be at the discretion of the Fire Department. Landscape plans shall be in accordance
with the following criteria:
1. All non -fire resistive trees, including conifers, pepper trees, eucalyptus, and
acacia species shall be planted and
maintained so that the drip line of the tree at maturity is a minimum of 30 feet from
any combustible structure. All fire resistive tree species shall be planted and
maintained at a minimum of ten feet from the drip line of the tree to any combustible
structure.
2. For streetscape plantings, all non -fire resistive trees shall be planted so that the
center of the tree trunk is 20 feet from edge of curb. Fire resistive trees can be
planted ten feet from the edge of the curb to the center of the tree trunk. Trees
selected shall be of a type that will not encroach into the roadway nor produce a
closed canopy effect.
3. Limit planting of large unbroken masses, especially trees and large shrubs.
Groups should be a maximum of two to three trees with mature foliage of any group
separated horizontally by at least 20 feet in Zone A, and no less than two times (2x)
the diameter of the species' mature canopy in Zone B.
4. If shrubs are located underneath the drip line of a tree, the lowest branch should
be at least three times as high as the understory shrubs or ten feet, whichever is
greater.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 22
5. Existing trees can be pruned ten feet away from roof, eave, or exterior siding,
depending on the physical or flammable characteristics of the tree and the building
construction features.
6. All tree branches and palm fronds shall be removed within ten feet of a fireplace
chimney or outdoor barbecue.
604.5.3 Orchards, Groves, or Vineyards. All orchards, groves, and vineyards shall
be kept in a healthy state and maintained as described below. A ten -foot firebreak
shall be cleared between the perimeter of the orchard trees or row of grape vines
and native vegetation or ornamental landscaping. Orchards shall be kept clean of
dead and /or downed trees. Orchards and vineyards shall be free of combustible
debris including, but not limited to, dead branches and dead foliage. All dead
grasses between rows of trees or vines shall be removed.
604.5.4 Eucalyptus Forests and Oak Woodlands. All forests and woodlands shall be
kept in a healthy state and maintained as described below. The forest or woodlands
shall be free of all dead, dying, or diseased trees (excluding tree stumps no higher
than six inches above the ground). Dead, dying, or diseased trees shall include
insect - infested trees and trees that are no longer living, in the last stages of growth,
or infected by a pathogen of any type. If combustible vegetation is located
underneath the drip line of a tree, the lowest branch shall be at least three times as
high as the understory brush or grasses, or 10 feet, whichever is greater. Firewood
shall be neatly stacked and shall have a minimum of 30 feet of clearance (no
vegetation) around the entire firewood storage area. Debris and trimmings produced
by the removal process shall be removed from the site, or if left, shall be converted
into mulch by a chipping machine and evenly dispersed to a maximum depth of six
inches.
604.5.5 Landscape Installation. All landscaping shall be installed prior to the final
inspection for issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
15.05.200 Liquefied petroleum gas installations.
Section 606.2 is modified to read:
606.2 Location of Containers. Liquefied petroleum -gas containers shall be located
within the defensible space, in accordance with the locally adopted Fire Code.
15.05.210 Storage of firewood and combustible materials.
Section 607.1 is modified to read:
607.1 General. Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials. Firewood and
combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath buildings or
structures, on decks, or under eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs.
When required by the Code official, storage of firewood and combustible material
Ordinance No. 757
Page 23
stored in the defensible space shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from structures
and separated from the crown of trees by a minimum of 15 feet, measured
horizontally. Firewood and combustible materials not for use on the premises shall
be stored so as to not pose a hazard.
15.05.220 General requirements.
Section A103 is added to Appendix Chapter 1 to read:
ACCESS RESTRICTIONS
A103.1 Restricted entry to public lands. The Fire Code Official is authorized
to determine and publicly announce when Wildland -Urban Interface Areas
shall be closed to entry and when such areas shall again be opened to entry.
Entry on and occupation of Wildland -Urban Interface Areas that have been
closed to entry is prohibited, with the exception of 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.
Exceptions:
1. Residents and owners of private property within wildland -urban interface
areas and their invitees and guests going to or being on their lands.
2. Entry, in the course of duty, by peace or police officers, and other duly
authorized public officers, and members of a fire department.
A103.2.1 Signs. Approved signs prohibiting entry by unauthorized persons
and referring to this code shall be placed on every closed area.
A103.2.2 Trespassing. Entering and remaining within areas closed and
posted is prohibited.
Exception:
Owners and occupiers of private or public property within closed and posted
areas; their guests or invitees; authorized persons engaged in the operation
and maintenance of necessary utilities such as electrical, power, gas,
telephone, water and sewer; and local state and federal public officers and
their authorized agents acting in the course of duty.
A103.5 Tampering with Locks, Barricades, Signs and Address Markers.
Locks, barricades, seals, cables, signs, and address markers installed within
Wildland -Urban Interface Areas by or under the control of the Fire Code
Official shall not be tampered with, mutilated, destroyed. or removed.
A103.5.1 Gates, Doors, Barriers and Locks. Gates, doors, barriers, and locks
installed by or under the control of the Fire Code Official shall not be
unlocked.
Ordinance No. 757
Page 24
Section A109 is modified to read:
SECTION A109 REFERENCED STANDARDS
CBC -2013
California Building Code
A107.5
CFC -2013
California Fire Code
A104.6, A105.1, A107.5
INFPA 70 -11
National Electrical Code
A107.5
15.05.230 Appendices.
Appendices "B," "C," "E," "F," and "H" are hereby deleted.
15.05.240 Conflict.
All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this chapter are hereby
repealed. Wherever a conflict exists in this chapter, the more restrictive requirement
shall apply.
SECTION 2: Upon passage, the City Clerk shall transmit a copy of this
Ordinance to the California Building Standards Commission pursuant to Health & Safety
Code Section 17958.7 and the California Department of Housing and Community
Development.
SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall be codified.
EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30)
days after the date of its passage; and before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its
passage, it shall be published once with the names of members voting for and against
the same in the Poway News Chieftain, a newspaper of general circulation published in
the City of Poway.
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. 757
Page 25
Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Poway held the 3rd day of December, 2013, and thereafter PASSED AND ADOPTED at
a regular meeting of said City Council held the 7th day of January, 2014.
Don Higginson, Mayor 6111-1�
ATTEST:
SSh'e"ila R. Cobian, CIVIC, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) SS
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO)
I, Sheila R. Cobian, City Clerk, of the City of Poway, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 757, was duly adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting
of said City Council held on the 7th day of January, 2014, and that it was so adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: CUNNINGHAM, VAUS, MULLIN, GROSCH, HIGGINSON
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
DISQUALIFIED: NONE
A" � &A&=
Sheila R. Cobian, CIVIC, City Clerk
City of Poway
Ordinance 757
Page 26
Findings Supporting the
City of Poway Amendments to the
International Code Council (ICC)
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Code, 2012 Edition:
As required by Health and Safety Code Section 17958, the Poway City Council
does herewith make express findings that amendments to the ICC WUI Code are
necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare due to certain
climatic, topographic, or geological features existing in the County of San Diego.
Findings for the City of Poway amendments to the ICC WUI CODE, 2012 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
ATTACHMENT A
Ordinance 757
Page 27
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 1,250 to 1,500 gallons per minute, according to the
Insurance Service Office and the California Fire Code.
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.
Ordinance 757
Page 28
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.
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.