Chapter 15.24
FIRE CODE
Sections:
15.24.010 Adoption.
15.24.020 Applicability.
15.24.030 Section 101.1, Title.
15.24.040 Section 101.6, Policy manual.
15.24.050 Section 102.3, Change of use or occupancy—Amended.
15.24.060 Section 102.6, Historic buildings—Amended.
15.24.070 Section 103.1, Creation of agency—Amended.
15.24.080 Section 103.2, Appointment—Deleted.
15.24.090 Section 104.6, Official records—Amended.
15.24.100 Sections 104.6.1 through 104.6.4, Appointment—Deleted.
15.24.110 Section 105.3.1, Expiration—Amended.
15.24.120 Section 105.6, Required construction permits—Amended.
15.24.130 Section 107.2, Schedule of permit fees—Amended.
15.24.140 Section 109.1, Board of appeals—Amended.
15.24.150 Section 112.4, Violation penalties—Amended.
15.24.160 Chapter 2, Definitions.
15.24.170 Chapter 3, General requirements.
15.24.180 Chapter 4, Emergency planning and preparedness.
15.24.190 Chapter 5, Fire service features.
15.24.200 Chapter 9, Fire protection and life safety systems.
15.24.210 Chapter 10, Means of egress.
15.24.220 Chapter 26, Fumigation and insecticidal fogging.
15.24.230 Chapter 49, Requirements for wildland-urban interface fire areas.
15.24.240 Chapter 56, Explosives and fireworks.
15.24.250 Chapter 57, Flammable and combustible liquids.
15.24.260 Chapter 58, Flammable gases and flammable cryogenic fluids.
15.24.270 Chapter 61, Liquefied petroleum gases.
15.24.280 Appendix B, Fire flow requirements for buildings.
15.24.290 Appendix C, Fire hydrant locations and distribution.
15.24.300 Appendix D, Fire apparatus access roads.
15.24.310 Appendix O, Temporary haunted houses, ghost walks, and similar amusement uses.
15.24.320 Violations.
15.24.330 Fire and life safety inspections.
15.24.340 Local findings and amendments.
15.24.010 Adoption.
A. The San Mateo consolidated fire department hereby adopts the 2022 California Fire Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9 (based on the 2021 International Fire Code published by the International Code Council)), with California amendments and the 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code as amended and as specified in part III of this ordinance. Those chapters and appendices not mentioned in section III are only enforceable if adopted by the State Fire Marshal. The 2022 California Fire Code, with the changes, additions, and deletions set forth in this chapter, is adopted by this reference as though fully set forth in this chapter. As of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, the provisions of the fire code are controlling and enforceable within the limits of each city within the jurisdiction of the department.
B. The 2022 California Fire Code (CFC), California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, adopting the 2021 International Fire Code of the International Code Council with necessary California amendments, together with the nonbuilding standards reproduced therein except otherwise provided by this chapter, are adopted by reference as the fire code of the San Mateo consolidated fire department. This code, including all amendments thereto, shall hereafter be called the “fire code,” and/or this “code” and are adopted as and for the rules, regulations, and standards within the jurisdiction as to all matters therein, except otherwise provided.
C. No section of the fire prevention code shall impose a mandatory duty of enforcement on the jurisdiction, or on any officer, official, agent, employee, board, council, or commission thereof. Instead, if any section purports to impose a mandatory duty of enforcement, said section shall be deemed to invest the jurisdiction, and the appropriate officer, official, agent, employee, board, council, or commission with discretion to enforce the section, or not to enforce it.
D. A copy of the fire code, as defined herein, shall be kept on file with the office of the San Mateo consolidated fire department fire marshal.
E. The San Mateo consolidated fire department has determined that modifications to the 2021 International Fire Code with the 2022 California amendments are needed and reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions, as set forth in Exhibit B of the ordinance codified in this chapter (Findings in Support of Amendments to the 2022 California Fire Code), which are incorporated fully herein. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.020 Applicability.
A. All sections of this code shall apply to all buildings, structures and portions thereof, and to replace premises or buildings.
B. Whenever any provision of this chapter, code or in any other law, ordinance, or resolution of any kind, imposes overlapping or contradictory regulations, or contains any restrictions covering the same subject matter, the provision that is more restrictive or imposes higher standards or requirements shall govern. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
Chapter 1 is adopted in its entirety as amended below.
15.24.030 Section 101.1, Title.
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the 2022 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, and with amendments adopted by the SAN MATEO CONSOLIDATED FIRE DEPARTMENT (SMCFD), will be referred to herein as this “CODE,” and/or “FIRE CODE.”
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.040 Section 101.6, Policy manual.
101.6 Policy Manual. Community Risk Reduction Interpretation Manual shall serve as a supplemental instruction and interpretation manual for the Fire Code and is hereby adopted by reference. The Fire Marshal is responsible to amend this manual as necessary to maintain current instructions and interpretations. The information contained within the Policy Manual shall not be construed to make new code requirements not authorized by this ordinance.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.050 Section 102.3, Change of use or occupancy—Amended.
Section 102.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
102.3 A change of occupancy shall not be made unless the use or occupancy is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code. Any change in use or occupancy creating a more hazardous fire/life safety condition, as determined by the Fire Code Official requires that an automatic fire sprinkler system be installed. For purposes of this section, the relative hazard categories table 1011.5 of the International Existing Building Code, herein incorporated by reference.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.060 Section 102.6, Historic buildings—Amended.
Section 102.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
102.6 The provisions of this code relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings where such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic buildings shall be provided in accordance with the California Historic Building Code.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.070 Section 103.1, Creation of agency—Amended.
Section 103.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
103.1 Creation of agency. The San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration, and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.080 Section 103.2, Appointment—Deleted.
Section 103.2 of the California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.090 Section 104.6, Official records—Amended.
Section 104.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
104.6 Official records. The fire code official shall keep official records as required by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department’s Record Retention Schedule, and Title 24, Part 1, The California Administrative Code. Requests for records shall be in accordance with the California Public Records Act.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.100 Sections 104.6.1 through 104.6.4, Appointment—Deleted.
Sections 104.6.1 through 104.6.4 of the California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.110 Section 105.3.1, Expiration—Amended.
Section 105.3.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed or revoked, or at the next annual inspection. Construction permits shall automatically become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. Before such work recommences, a new permit shall be first obtained and the fee to recommence work shall be as per the SMCFD Fee Schedule, Permit Reinstatement Fee, provided that changes have not been made and will not be made in the original construction documents for such work, and provided further that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one year. Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership shall require that a new permit be issued.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.120 Section 105.6, Required construction permits—Amended.
Section 105.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 105.6 Required Construction Permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue construction permits for work as set forth in Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.24, as well as all required construction permits in Title 24, Parts 2, 2.5, 3, 4, or 5 where enforced by the California State Fire Marshal.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.130 Section 107.2, Schedule of permit fees—Amended.
Section 107.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
107.2 Schedule of permit fees. Where a permit or other inspection fee is required, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department Master Fee Schedule.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.140 Section109.1, Board of appeals—Amended.
Section 109.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
109.1 Board of Appeals. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the fire code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be the Board of Directors for SMCFD, and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant through the fire code official.
109.3 Qualifications. Deleted.
Section 109.3 of the California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.150 Section 112.4, Violation penalties—Amended.
Section 112.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:
112.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be assessed a reinspection fee in accordance with the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department Master Fee Schedule. Violations that remain unabated after the 5th reinspection shall guilty of an Administrative Violation punishable by a fine of $130 for the first violation, $700 for the second violation, and $1300 dollars for the third and each successive violation in addition to the reinspection fee (Government Code 36900). Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. Administrative violations shall be appealable thorough the board of appeals in section 109.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.160 Chapter 2, Definitions.
Chapter 2, Section 202 of the California Fire Code is amended to read in its entirety as follows:
SECTION 202 General Definitions. Added.
All Weather Driving Surface. A roadway designed to carry the imposed weight loads of fire apparatus (Minimum load of 68,000 pounds) and a minimum surface finish of one layer of asphalt or concrete or road pavers.
Alteration. Any work done to a structure that increases the fire area of a room or area.
Driveway. Access road from the public way to a structure that is used for public vehicular access, including fire and emergency vehicles.
Local Agency High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. An area designated by the local agency based on a fire assessment conducted by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.170 Chapter 3, General requirements.
Chapter 3 of the California Fire Code is partially adopted with adopted sections listed below (sections adopted by the State Fire Marshal remain unchanged except as modified below):
Section 303, Asphalt Kettles, is adopted in its entirety.
Section 305, Ignition Sources, is adopted in its entirety.
Section 306, Motion Picture Projection Rooms and Film, is adopted in its entirety.
Section 307, Open Burning, Recreational Fires, and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces, is adopted as amended below:
Section 307.1.1, Prohibited Open Burning, amended.
307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning, other than cooking, shall be prohibited.
Exception: [No change]
Section 307.4.1, Bonfires, amended.
307.4.1 Bonfires. Bonfires, other than for cooking purposes, shall be prohibited.
Section 307.4.2, Recreational Fires, amended.
307.4.2 Recreational Fires. When approved by the fire code official, recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. If allowed, all such fires shall require a fire code permit.
Section 308, Open Flames, is adopted as amended below:
Section 308.1.4, Open Flame Cooking Devices, amended.
308.1.4 Open Flame Cooking Devices. [No change]
Exceptions:
1. Group R-2, R-3, and R-3.1 occupancies
2. [No change]
3. [No change]
Section 308.3.2, Theatrical Performances, amended.
308.3.2 Theatrical performances.
Where approved, open-flame devices used in conjunction with theatrical performances are allowed to be used where adequate safety precautions have been taken in accordance with NFPA 160 and Title 19 CCR.
Section 309, Powered Industrial Trucks and Equipment, is adopted.
Section 310, Smoking, is adopted.
Section 311, Vacant Premises, is adopted.
Section 318, Laundry Carts, is adopted.
Section 319, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles, adopted as amended below:
Section 319.1.1, Health Department Approval, added.
319.1.1 Health department approval. Mobile food preparation vehicles shall display a San Mateo County health apartment sticker as prescribed by County health.
Section 321, Artificial Combustible Vegetation, is adopted. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.180 Chapter 4, Emergency planning and preparedness.
Chapter 4 of the California Fire Code is partially adopted with adopted sections listed below (sections adopted by the State Fire Marshal remain unchanged unless modified below):
Section 405, Emergency Evacuation Drills, is adopted.
Section 406, Employee Training and Response Procedures, is adopted. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.190 Chapter 5, Fire service features.
Chapter 5 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 501.1, Scope. Amended.
501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter, and appendix D.
Section 503.1.1, Buildings and Facilities. Amended.
503.1.1 Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements of this section and Appendix D, and shall extend to within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions: No Changes
Section 503.3.1, Fire Lane Designation. Added.
503.3.1 Fire Lane Designation. Designation of fire lanes shall be by one of the following means:
1. By a white sign measuring at least twelve inches by eighteen inches (12" x 18") posted immediately adjacent thereto and clearly visible. It should clearly state in red letters not less than one inch (1") in height, that the space is a fire lane and parking is prohibited. Fire lane signs shall be spaced at a minimum of 50 feet apart.
2. By outlining and hash marking the area in contrasting colors clearly marking it with the words “Fire Lane – No Parking.”
3. By identifying the space with a red curb upon which the words “Fire Lane - No Parking” are stenciled every 15 feet.
(a) Both sides of fire lanes shall be red curbed when the fire lane is twenty (20) feet to twenty-eight (28) feet in width.
(b) At least one side of a fire lane shall be red curbed and stenciled when the fire lane is over twenty-eight (28) and up to thirty-six (36) feet in width.
(c) Curbs need not be painted red nor stenciled when the fire lane is more than thirty-six (36) feet in width.
Section 505.1.1, Multi-Tenant Buildings. Added.
505.1.1 Multi-Tenant Buildings. Numbers or letters shall be designated on all occupancies within a building. Size shall be one-half inch (1/2") stroke by four inches (4") high and on a contrasting background. Directional address numbers or letters shall be provided. Said addresses or numbers shall visible from the street posted at a minimum height of 5 feet, 6 inches (5' 6") above the finished floor, shall be visible from the street and shall be either internally or externally illuminated in all new construction.
Section 505.1.2, Multiple Buildings On One Site. Added.
505.1.2 Multiple buildings on one site. Where multiple buildings on one property the buildings cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument sign, or other signs or other approved means shall be used to identify the entry to the given structure. Address identification shall be maintained on each of the buildings within the site.
Section 505.1.3, Rear Addressing. Added.
505.1.3 Rear Addressing. When required by the chief, approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the fire apparatus road at the back of a property or where rear parking lots or alleys provide an acceptable vehicular access. Number stroke and size shall comply with 505.1.
Section 506.1.1.1, Key Box Contents Requirements. Added.
506.1.1.1 Key box contents requirements. Master keys shall be provided to all spaces including multi-tenant spaces. Additional keys shall be included as determined by the fire code official or his designee and may include card access, elevator controls, fire alarm control panels and devices, and for fire sprinkler control valve access. If the business/operation is required to have a Hazardous Material Inventory Statement (HMIS), the HMIS shall be included in the key box or other approved location. The number of keys to be provided shall be determined by the inspector.
Exceptions:
1. Multi-tenant spaces which provide a key box for each tenant and installed per Section 506.1. Electronic card keys and codes to individual spaces may not be utilized as a substitute for manual keys.
2. When electronic locks release upon loss of electrical power or fire alarm activation a manual key need not be provided.
Section 506.1.1.2, Gates. Added.
506.1.1.2 Gates. Where a new gate or barrier is installed on a fire access roadway, the fire department shall have emergency access by means of a padlock, key switch or other approved means.
Exception:
1. Driveways serving a single R-3 occupancy.
Section 508.2, Fire Control Room. Added.
508.2 Fire control room. An approved fire control room shall be provided for all new buildings or occupancies with a change of use, requiring protection by an automatic fire sprinkler system. The room shall contain the sprinkler riser, fire alarm control panels, ERCES control equipment, and other fire equipment required by the Fire Chief. Fire control rooms shall be located within the building at a location approved by the Fire Chief, and shall be provided at grade with a means to access the room directly from the exterior. Durable signage shall be provided on the exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room. Fire Control Rooms shall not be less than 35 square feet.
Exceptions:
1. Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.
2. Occupancies with a fire pump shall have a fire control room that is a minimum of 200 square feet.
3. In high-rise buildings, the fire control room shall not be less than 200 square feet.
Section 510.1, Emergency Responder Communication Coverage In New Buildings. Modified.
510.1 Emergency responder communication coverage in new buildings.
Approved in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage for emergency responders shall be provided in all new buildings. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage within the building shall be based on the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems utilized by the jurisdiction, measured at the exterior of the building. This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems.
Exceptions:
1. Where approved by the fire code official, a wired communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 shall be permitted to be installed or maintained instead of an approved radio coverage system.
2. Where it is determined by the fire code official that the radio coverage system is not needed.
3. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of that facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency responder radio coverage system.
510.4.2, System design. Amended.
5.10.4.2 System Design. The in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 510.4.2.1 through 510.4.2.10 and NFPA 1225.
Section 510.4.2.9, UL Certification. Added.
510.4.2.9 UL Certification. New ERCES systems shall be UL-Certified. A Certificate of Completion and other documentation as listed in NFPA 72 shall be provided for all new fire alarm system installations. It is the responsibility of the building owner or owner’s representative to obtain and maintain a current and valid Certificate.
Section 510.4.2.10, Power Switch. Added.
510.4.2.10 Power Switch. A keyed power switch shall be installed in the system allowing for power to the system to be easily turned on or off. The default condition will be for the system to be off unless otherwise specified by the inspector during the final inspection.
Section 510.5.2-510.5.2.3, Minimum Qualifications of Personnel. Added.
510.5.2 Minimum qualifications of personnel.
510.5.2.1 Designers. The minimum qualifications of the system designer for both new and existing buildings shall be all of the following:
1. A valid FCC issued general radio operator’s license.
2. Certification of in building system training issued by an approved organization or approved school, or a certificate issued by the manufacturer of the equipment being installed.
3. Certification by a nationally recognized testing or certification agency (For example, NICET).
510.5.2.2 Installing personnel. Installation of approved ERRC systems shall be conducted by a State Licensed C-7, C-10, or C-16 contractor.
510.5.2.3 Testing personnel. For system acceptance and annual testing, personnel shall be certified by a professional certification agency approved by the authority having jurisdiction (IEEE, NICET, etc.).
Section 510.5.3.1, Test Specification. Added.
510.5.3.1 Test bands and frequencies. Acceptance and annual testing of ERRC systems shall incorporate all bands and frequencies accounted for in the design of the system.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.200 Chapter 9, Fire protection and life safety systems.
Chapter 9 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 901.6.3.2, Records Reporting. Added.
901.6.3.2 Records Reporting. Fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems, shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Non-required fire protection systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested, and maintained or removed in accordance with the appropriate standard. All inspection, testing and maintenance reports shall be forwarded to the Fire Department using electronic media to the designated third party as assigned in the Policy Manual. Paper (hard copy) reports are not permitted.
Section 903.2, Automatic Sprinkler Systems – Where Required. Amended.
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed throughout all new buildings unless the structure does not require a building permit. Exception: Detached Group U occupancies separated from structures in accordance with Table 705.5 of the California Building Code.
Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.10 are deleted in their entirety.
Section 903.3.1.2, NFPA 13R Sprinkler Systems. Amended.
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies shall be installed throughout in accordance with 903.3.1.1.
Exception: R-3 occupancies shall have an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA 13D.
Section 903.2.20, Automatic Sprinkler Systems – Existing Buildings and Structures. Added.
903.2.20 Existing Buildings and Structures. Proposed addition, alterations or fire repairs in existing non-sprinklered buildings over a three-year period exceeding 50% of the original gross floor area square footage shall require the entire building to be installed with an automatic fire sprinkler system as follows:
1. Any additions that increase the existing gross floor area by more than 50% require the entire building to be installed with an automatic fire sprinkler system.
2. Any combination of additions, alterations and/or fire repairs to more than 50% of the existing gross building area requires the entire existing building to be installed with an automatic fire sprinkler system. For purposes of this section, alterations shall only apply to the building area if they increase the size of the fire area of the room or space. See the Policy Manual for further guidance.
3. Any addition, alteration and/or repair within a building that contains an automatic fire sprinkler system shall have the automatic fire sprinkler system extended/modified to the area of proposed work.
4. Any change in use or occupancy creating a more hazardous fire/life safety condition, as determined by the Fire Code Official requires that an automatic fire sprinkler system be installed. For purposes of this section, the relative hazard category shall be in accordance with table 903.2.20 based on table 1011.5 of the International Existing Building Code.
|
Relative Hazard |
Occupancy Class |
|---|---|
|
1 (Highest Hazard) |
H, L |
|
2 |
I-2, I-2.1, I-3, I-4 |
|
3 |
A, C, E, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-4 |
|
4 |
B, F-1, M, S-1, R-3, R-3.1 |
|
5 (Lowest Hazard) |
F-2, S-2, U |
Exceptions:
1. Seismic or accessibility improvements
2. Any exemption otherwise allowable under the Fire Code, as adopted by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department at the discretion of the Fire Marshal.
3. Exterior improvements and work not requiring permits as provided in the Building Code.
4. Detached Group U occupancies or detached carports less than 400 square feet.
5. Work requiring only a mechanical, electrical, plumbing and/or demolition permit.
6. Group R-3.1 occupancies unless already containing a fire sprinkler system.
Section 903.3.1.3, NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. Amended.
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic Sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family dwellings; Group R-3; and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D as amended in Chapter 80. NFPA 13D sprinkler systems shall also comply with section 903.4.2 Alarms.
Section 903.4.2 Alarms. Amended.
903.4.2 Alarms. One approved audible and visual devices shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system at an approved location. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by waterflow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Section 905.3.1, Height. Amended.
905.3 [No Change]
1. [No Change]
2. Buildings that are more than 2 stories in height.
3. [No Change]
4. [No Change]
Section 907.1.6, Fire Alarm Certification. Added.
907.1.6 Certification. New fire alarm systems shall be UL-Certified. A Certificate of Completion and other documentation as listed in NFPA 72 shall be provided for all new fire alarm system installations. It is the responsibility of the building owner or owner’s representative to obtain and maintain a current and valid Certificate. The protected premise shall be issued a UUFX type certification from Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Section 907.1.6.1, Posting of Certificate. Added.
907.1.6.1 Posting of Certificate. The UL certificate required in section 907.1.6 shall be posted in a durable transparent cover within 3 feet of the fire alarm control panel within 45 days of the final acceptance test/inspection.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.210 Chapter 10, Means of egress.
Chapter 10 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 1009.3.1, Convenience Stair. Added.
1009.3.1 Convenience Stair. Convenience stairs (in buildings 4 or more stories in height) that are not required as exits shall be limited to connect only two (2) floors.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.220 Chapter 26, Fumigation and insecticidal fogging.
Chapter 26 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety without amendment. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.230 Chapter 49, Requirements for wildland-urban interface fire areas.
Chapter 49 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 4901.1 is amended as follows:
4901.1 Scope. The mitigation of conditions where a wildfire burning in vegetative fuels may readily transmit fire to buildings and threaten to destroy life, overwhelm fire suppression capabilities, or result in large property losses shall comply with this chapter and the 2021 International Wildland Urban Interface Code as adopted by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.
Section 4902, Definitions. Added.
Local Agency High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. An area designated by the local agency based on a fire assessment conducted by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.
Section 4904.3, Local Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Added.
4904.3 Local Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Local Fire Hazard Severity Zones shall be as determined by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department Wildland Fire Assessment conducted in July 2019.
Section 4905.2, Construction Methods and Requirements Within Established Limits. Amended.
4905.2.1 Construction Methods and Requirements Within Established Limits. Within the limits established by law, construction methods intended to mitigate wildfire exposure shall comply with the wildfire protection building construction requirements contained in the California Building Standards Code, including the following:
California Building Code, Chapter 7A, California Residential Code, Section R337, California Referenced Standards Code, Chapter 12-7A.
4905.2.2 Additions to structures. If an addition to a structure exceeds 50% of the original square footage and the structure is in a designated fire hazard zone of high or very high, the structure shall meet the requirements of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Low Cost Retrofit List. (Attached)
Section 4905.3.1, Local Fire Hazard Severity Zone Requirements. Added.
4905.3.1 Local fire hazard severity zone requirements. Buildings constructed in local Agency Fire Hazard Severity Zones considered to be “High” or “Very High” shall comply with section 4905.2.
Section 4906.2, Application. Amended.
4906.2 Application. [No change]
1. [No change]
1.1. [No change]
1.2. [No Change]
1.3. [No Change]
2. All land designated by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department Wildland Fire Assessment in one of the following zones:
2.1. Moderate
2.2. High
2.3. Very High
Section 4907.1, General. Amended.
4907.1 General. Defensible space will be maintained around all buildings and structures in State Responsibility Areas (SRA) as required in Public Resources Code 4290 and “SRA Fire Safe Regulations” California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Section 1270.
Buildings and structures within the Local Responsibility Area (LRA) shall maintain defensible space as outlined in Government code sections 51175 through 51189 in moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones as designated by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department Wildland Fire Assessment.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.240 Chapter 56, Explosives and fireworks.
Chapter 56 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 5601.1.3, Fireworks. Amended.
Section 5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited within the jurisdiction of the department.
Exceptions:
1. Storage and handling of fireworks has allowed in section 5604.
2. The use of fireworks for fireworks displays, pyrotechnics before proximate audience, pyrotechnic special effects in motion pictures, television, theatrical, or group entertainment productions as allowed by title 19, Division I, chapter 6 fireworks reprinted in section 5608 and the Health & Safety Code division 11.
3. Snap caps and party poppers classified by the state fire marshal as pyrotechnic devices.
Section 5601.1.3.1, Fireworks-Seizure. Added.
5601.1.3.1 Fireworks-seizure. The Chief shall seize, remove or cause to be removed at the expense of the owner all stocks of fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored or held in violation of this code.
Section 5601.2.4, Financial Responsibility. Amended.
5601.2.4 Financial responsibility. Before a permit is issued pursuant to section 5601.2, the applicant shall file with the jurisdiction a corporate surety bond in the principal sum of $2 million or a public liability insurance policy for the same amount, for the purpose of the payment of all damages to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct of any act authorized by permit upon which any judicial judgment results.
The fire code official is authorized to specify a greater or lesser amount when, in his or her opinion, conditions at the location of use indicate a greater or lesser amount is required. Government entities shall be exempt from this bond requirement.
Exception: fireworks in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division I, Chapter 6, see section 5608.
Section 5601.9, Prohibited and Limited Acts. Added.
5601.9 Prohibited and limited acts. The storage of explosive materials is prohibited in all zoning districts except district zone for industrial or agricultural uses. In districts where the storage of explosive materials is permitted, the quantities of explosives and distances shall be in accordance with California Fire Code section 5601.8.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.250 Chapter 57, Flammable and combustible liquids.
Chapter 57 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 5704.2.9.6.1, Locations Where Above-Ground Tanks Are Prohibited, amended to read as follows:
5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of class I and 2 liquids in above-ground tanks is prohibited in all zoning districts except districts zoned for commercial, industrial, or agricultural use.
Section 5706.2.4.4, Locations Where Above-Ground Tanks Are Prohibited, amended to read as follows:
5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of class I and 2 liquids in above-ground tanks is prohibited in all zoning districts except districts zoned for commercial, industrial, or agricultural use.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.260 Chapter 58, Flammable gases and flammable cryogenic fluids.
Chapter 58 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 5806.2 Limitations. Amended to read as follows:
5806.2 Limitations. The storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is prohibited in any area which is zoned for other than industrial use.
Exception: Hydrogen fuel systems in compliance with section 5806.3 or 5806.4.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.270 Chapter 61, Liquefied petroleum gases.
Chapter 61 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Section 6104.2, Maximum Capacity Within Established Limits. Amended to read as follows:
6104.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. The storage of liquefied petroleum gases prohibited in any central business district and in all zoning districts except districts zoned for commercial, industrial, rural, or agricultural uses. The aggregate capacity of any one installation used for the storage of liquefied petroleum gas shall not exceed a water capacity of 2000 gallons (7570 L).
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.280 Appendix B, Fire flow requirements for buildings.
Appendix B of the California Fire Code, fire flow requirements for buildings, is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
TABLE B105.2 REQUIRED FIRE FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN ONE AND 2 FAMILY DWELLINGS, GROUP R-3 AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOMES. AMENDED.
|
Automatic Sprinkler System (Design Standard) |
Minimum Fire Flow (Gallons Per Minute) |
Flow Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|
|
No automatic sprinkler system |
Value in Table B105.1 (2) |
Duration in Table B105.1 (2) |
|
Section 903.3.1.1 of the California Fire Code |
50% of the value in table B105.1(2)a |
Duration in table B105.1 (2) at the reduced flow rate |
|
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Codec |
50% of the value in table B105.1(2)b |
Duration in table B105.1 (2) at the reduced flow rate |
For SI: 1 gallon per minute equals 3.785 L per minute
a. The reduced fire flow shall not be less than 1000 gallons per minute.
b. The reduced fire flow shall not be less than 1500 gallons per minute.
c. Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code has been amended by the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.290 Appendix C, Fire hydrant locations and distribution.
Appendix C of the California Fire Code, Number and Distribution of Fire Hydrants, is adopted in its entirety as amended below:
Table C 102.1 of Appendix C. Amended to read as follows:
|
FIRE FLOW REQUIREMENT (GPM) |
MINIMUM NUMBER OF HYDRANTS |
AVERAGE SPACING BETWEEN HYDRANTS a, b, c, d, e (Ft.) |
MAXIMUM DISTANCE FROM HYDRANT TO ANY POINT ON STREET OR ROADWAY FRONTAGE (Ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1750 or less |
1 |
250 |
150 |
|
2000-2250 |
2 |
250 |
150 |
|
2500-3250 |
3 |
250 |
150 |
|
3500-4250 |
4 |
250 |
150 |
|
4500-5250 |
5 |
250 |
150 |
|
5500-5750 |
6 |
250 |
150 |
|
6000-6250 |
6 |
250 |
150 |
|
6500-7250 |
7 |
250 |
150 |
|
7500 or more |
8 or morec |
200 |
120 |
For SI: 1 foot equals 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute equals 3.785 L per minute.
a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roadways.
b. Hydrants shall be required on both sides of the street whenever one or more of the following conditions exist:
i. Street has a median center divider that makes access to hydrants difficult, causes a time delay or creates an undue hazard;
ii. There are four or more lanes of traffic;
iii. Width of the street is in excess of 88 feet; or
iv. The existing street will be widened or will have a raised median center divider installed in the future pursuant to the General Plan Roadway Improvement Plans.
c. One hydrant for each 1,000 GPM or fraction thereof.
d. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants should be provided every 1,000 feet of street to provide for transportation hazards. In addition, there shall be at least one hydrant at each intersection.
e. Average spacing between hydrants may be extended to 500 feet on streets serving one- and two-family dwellings.
f. The fire code official is authorized to modify the location, number and distribution of fire hydrants based on site-specific constraints and hazards.
(Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.300 Appendix D, Fire apparatus access roads.
Appendix D of the California Fire Code, Fire Apparatus Access Roads, is adopted in its entirety. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.310 Appendix O, Temporary haunted houses, ghost walks, and similar amusement uses.
Appendix O of the California Fire Code, Temporary Haunted Houses, Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement Uses, is adopted in its entirety. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.320 Violations.
It is unlawful to violate or fail to comply with any provisions of this code or violate or fail to comply with any order made under this code or to build in violation of any detailed statement of specification or plans submitted and approved under this code, or any certificate or permit issued under this code. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.330 Fire and life safety inspections.
Inspections by the fire department shall periodically be made of buildings and structures that are used for residential or nonresidential purposes as follows:
A. The time and frequency of inspections shall be determined by the fire chief. No buildings shall be inspected for a fee more than annually except for reinspections to assure that code corrections have been made or hazards have been corrected.
B. A fee for inspections shall be established in the adopted master fee schedule to offset costs of the regulatory inspection program and shall be collected upon inspection from each property subject to this chapter. Revenues shall be used for the inspection and enforcement program.
C. All properties shall be subject to inspection fees.
D. Nothing in this section is intended to prevent inspections of property under nuisance abatement or other laws. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)
15.24.340 Local findings and amendments.
The modifications to the 2021 International Fire Code with the 2022 California Fire Code amendments are needed and reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions, as set forth in Exhibit B of the ordinance codified in this chapter (Findings in Support of Amendments to the 2022 California Fire Code), which are incorporated herein as substantive provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 655 § 8, 2022)