Chapter 15.06
SAFETY ASSESSMENT PLACARDS
Sections:
15.06.020 Application of provisions.
15.06.010 Purpose and intent.
This chapter establishes standard placards to be used to indicate the condition of a structure for continued occupancy and conforms to the statewide program administered by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (hereafter Cal OES) for ease in the rapid assessment of damaged structures after any natural or manmade disaster. This chapter further authorizes the building official and his or her authorized representatives to post the appropriate placard at each entry point to a building or structure upon completion of a safety assessment. (Ord. 925 §1(part), 2020)
15.06.020 Application of provisions.
The provisions of this chapter are applicable, following each natural or manmade disaster, to all buildings and structures of all occupancies regulated by the city of Lakeport. The city council may extend the provisions as necessary. (Ord. 925 §1(part), 2020)
15.06.030 Definitions.
“Safety assessment” is a visual, nondestructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy. (Ord. 925 §1(part), 2020)
15.06.040 Placards.
A. The following are verbal descriptions of the official jurisdiction placards to be used to designate the condition for continued occupancy of building or structures:
1. “INSPECTED--Lawful Occupancy Permitted” (green in color) is to be posted on any building or structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been found. This placard is not intended to mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.
2. “RESTRICTED USE” (yellow in color) is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged wherein the damage has resulted in some form of restriction to the continued occupancy. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered and will clearly and concisely note the restrictions on continued occupancy.
3. “UNSAFE--Do Not Enter or Occupy” (red in color) is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life safety. Buildings or structures posted with this placard shall not be entered under any circumstance except as authorized in writing by the building official, or his or her authorized representative. Safety assessment teams shall be authorized to enter these buildings at any time. This placard is not to be used or considered as a demolition order. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered.
B. The ordinance number codified in this chapter, the name of the jurisdiction, its address, and phone number permanently affixed to each placard.
C. Once it has been attached to a building or structure, a placard is not to be removed, altered or covered until done so by an authorized representative of the building official. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to alter, remove, cover or deface a placard unless authorized pursuant to this section. (Ord. 925 §1(part), 2020)