Chino Hills Municipal Code Ch. 8.16 California Fire Code and California Wildland Urban Interface Code

Footnotes:

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Editor's note— Ord. No. 426, §§ 1—7 , adopted Nov. 25, 2025, amended Ch. 8.16 in its entirety to read as herein set out. Former Ch. 8.16, §§ 8.16.010—8.16.060, pertained to California Fire Code adopted, and derived from Ord. No. 390, §§ 1—6, adopted Dec. 13, 2022.

The California Fire Code, 2025 Edition, with errata, together with those portions of the 2024 International Fire Code as published by the International Code Council, including Chapter 1, Sections 305, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311—311.5, Chapter 4, Chapter 11, Appendix F, I, K, N and P, not included in the 2025 California Fire Code, collectively referred to as the "Fire Code," and the additions, insertions, deletions, and changes prescribed in Section 3 of this ordinance, are hereby adopted and declared to be the Fire Code of the City of Chino Hills, in the County of San Bernardino, State of California, regulating and governing the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards, hazardous conditions arising from the storage, handling, and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises as herein provided; providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees; and each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions and terms of said Fire Code on file in the office of the City Clerk are hereby referred to, adopted, and made part hereof, as if fully set out in this Ordinance.

The California Wildland-Urban Interface Code 2025 Edition, with errata, together with those portions of the 2024 International Fire Code as published by the International Code Council, including Chapter 1, Appendix A Sections A103-106, and Appendix B, not included in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, collectively referred to as the "WUI Code," and the additions, insertions, deletions, and changes prescribed in Section 4 of this ordinance, are hereby adopted and declared to be the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code of the City of Chino Hills, in the County of San Bernardino, State of California, regulating and governing the safeguarding of life and property from wildfire by establishing the minimum requirements through the use of performance and prescriptive measures for the construction and development in fire hazard severity zones designated by the Chino Valley Independent Fire District; providing for the issuance of permits and collection of fees; and each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions and terms of said WUI Code on file in the office of the City Clerk are hereby referred to, adopted, and made part hereof, as if fully set out in this Ordinance.

(Ord. No. 426, § 1, 11-25-2025)

A. The term "jurisdiction," as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the territory within the City of Chino Hills.

B. The term "fire department" and "District" as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California-Wildland Urban Interface Code, shall mean the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

C. The term "Board of Directors" or "Board" as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the governing body of the Chino Valley Independent Fire District. The "governing body" shall mean the Board of Directors of the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

D. The term "Chief" as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the Fire Chief of the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

E. The term "fire code official" and or "Code Official" as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the Fire Marshal and/or Deputy or employee charged with the enforcement of this code with Chino Valley Independent Fire District, as well as the Building Official and/or Deputy or employee charged with the enforcement of this code with the City of Chino Hills.

F. The term "fire prevention" as used in the 2025 California Fire Code and or 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the Division, Department, or Office of Community Risk Reduction of Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

G. The term "fire authority" as used in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall mean the territory within the City of Chino Hills.

(Ord. No. 426, § 2, 11-25-2025)

A. Reasonable fees, not to exceed actual costs, may be collected by the fire code official for fire protection planning and services included in the Fire Code and in this Ordinance.

B. Fire Suppression, investigation, rescue, and emergency medical costs are recoverable in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009, 13009.1, and 13009.6. Any person who negligently or intentionally, or in violation of law, causes an emergency response, including but not limited to a traffic accident or spill of toxic or flammable liquids or chemicals, is liable for the costs of securing such emergency, including those costs set out in Government Code Section 53150 et seq. Any expense incurred by the District for securing such an emergency situation shall constitute a public debt of such person and shall be collectible by the District in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, expressed or implied.

(Ord. No. 426, § 3, 11-25-2025)

The following sections of the Fire Code are hereby locally amended as follows:

Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration Part I General Provisions, Section 101.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of City of Chino Hills, hereinafter referred to as "this code".

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part I General Provisions, Section 102.7.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the fire code official shall determine which provision meets the general intent of this code.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 104.6 shall be changed to read as follows:

104.7 Official Records. The jurisdiction shall keep official records as outlined by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.6. Such official records shall be retained for 3 years or as otherwise stipulated in the City's records retention policy.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 104.11 shall be changed to read as follows:

104.10 Fire Investigations. The District shall have the authority to investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, including but not limited to the unauthorized release of hazardous materials. If it appears to the investigation unit that such fire, explosion or other hazardous condition is of suspicious origin, they are authorized to take immediate charge of all physical evidence relating to the cause of the incident and are authorized to pursue the investigation to its conclusion. Information that could be related to trade secrets or processes shall not be made part of the public record, except as directed by a court of law.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.6.26.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.1.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.1.1 Permits required. A property owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to conduct an operation of business, or install or modify systems and equipment that are regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed that would enlarge, alter, change the use or occupancy of a building or structure, shall first make application to the fire code official and obtain the required permits.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.2.3 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.2.3 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work or operation shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless a permit has been issued for said application; except that the fire code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each and the Fire District may charge an extension fee as outlined in the adopted fee schedule. The extension shall be requested by a means acceptable to the jurisdiction and shall be justifiable.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.3.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.3.1 Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed or revoked, or for such a period of time as specified in the permit. Construction permits shall remain valid if the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance, unless the work authorized by such permit has been abandoned. If the permittee demonstrates justifiable cause, permittee may be granted one or more written extensions, each for a period not exceeding 180 days, in accordance with Health and Safety Code §18938.6. Work authorized by a permit shall be deemed abandoned if suspended or inactive for more than 12 months after commencement, or more than 12 months after the expiration of any granted extension. Before such work recommences, approval shall be granted and the fee to recommence work, if any, shall be that as adopted in the fee schedule, provided that changes have not been made and will not be made in the original construction documents for such work. Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership shall require a new permit be issued.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.4 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.4. Revocation. The fire code official is authorized to revoke a permit issued under the provision of this code where it is found by inspection or otherwise that there has been a false statement or misrepresentation as to the material facts in the application or construction documents on which the permit or approval was based including, but not limited to, any of the following:

1. The permit is used for a location or establishment other than that for which it was issued.

2. The permits is used for a condition or activity other than that listed in the permit.

3. Conditions and limitations set forth in the permit have been violated.

4. There have been any false statements or misrepresentations as to the material fact in the application for permit or plans submitted or a condition of the permit.

5. The permit is used by a different person or firm than the name for which it was issued.

6. The permittee failed, refused or neglected to comply with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the provisions of this code within the time provided therein.

7. The permit was issued in error or in violation of an ordinance, regulation or this code.

8. The permit was issued without full compliance of the terms of the application related to fees or a check or credit/debit card submitted for payment of the permit fee(s) is returned or declined.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.5.31 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.5.33 Miscellaneous combustible storage. An operational permit is required to store in any building or upon any premises in excess of 2,500 cubic feet (71 m 3 ) gross volume of combustible empty packing cases, boxes, barrels or similar containers, combustible pallets, rubber tires, rubber, cork, green waste, composting, yard waste, or similar combustible material.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.5.59 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.5.59 Additional permits. In addition to the permits required by Section 105.5 and Section 105.6, the following permits shall be obtained from the fire code official prior to engaging in the following activities, operations, practices or functions:

1. Production facilities. To change use or occupancy, or allow the attendance of live audience, or for wrap parties.

2. Filming and special effects. To use pyrotechnic special effects, open flame, use of flammable or combustible liquids and gases, welding and the parking of motor vehicles in any building or location used for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production or for any film permit application as required from the cities served by the District.

3. Live audiences. To install seating arrangements for live audiences for the purpose of film, other events or entertainment, where approved seating will increase the occupant load at the premise, building or production location. See Chapter 48.

4. Fixed Extinguishing Systems. An operational permit is required for a fixed extinguishing system for a Type I Hood, excluding mobile food trucks.

5. General use permit. A general use permit for any activity or operation not specifically addressed in this Chapter, which in the judgement of the fire code official, is possible or likely to produce conditions hazardous to life or property. A general use permit may include the temporary use of a facility for business or operations or for helicopter operations.

6. Special event. A special event permit is required when in the judgement of the fire code official the event is possible or likely to produce conditions hazardous to life or property.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration,Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.6 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.6 Required construction permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue construction permits for work including, but not limited to, the requirements as set forth in Chapter 1, Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.26. Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy or use of a building or structure or premise or to cause any such work to be done shall make application to the District and obtain the required permit.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.6.18 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.6.19 Private Fire Hydrants and Related Equipment. A construction permit is required for the installation or modification of private fire hydrants and related on-site water appliances. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a permit.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105, Section 105.6.25 shall be added to read as follows:

105.6.26 Additional construction permits. In addition to the permits required by Section 105.6, the following construction permits shall be obtained from the fire code official:

1. Construction. A new construction or tenant improvement permit is required to be obtained in order to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or change the occupancy or use of a building or structure or premise or to cause any new such work to be done.

2. Special equipment. A construction permit shall be obtained for the installation or modification of special equipment needed or required for the operations outlined in this code, such special equipment includes but is not limited to pick-modules and dust collection systems.

3. Generator. A construction permit is required for the installation of a generator as regulated by this code.

Exception: A permit is not required for the installation or use of a portable generator.

4. Fuel modification. To install or alter landscaping related to designated or required fuel modification areas in designated fire hazard severity zones.

5. Plan checks and field inspections when required by the fire code official and not otherwise addressed in this chapter.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 106, Section 106.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

106.1 Submittals. Construction documents and supporting data shall be submitted for a permit and in such form and detail as required by the fire code official. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statues of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed.

Exception: The fire code official is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and supporting data not required to be prepared by a registered design professional if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that review of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 106, Section 106.4 shall be changed to read as follows:

106.4 Retention of construction documents. The jurisdiction shall keep approved construction documents as stipulated in the District's records retention policy. One set of approved construction documents shall be returned to the applicant or contractor performing said work, and said set along with issued permit shall be kept on the site of the building or work area at all times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 108, Section 108.5 shall be changed to read as follows:

108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition of work done in connection to or concurrently with the work or activity authorized by a permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees or penalties that are prescribed by law or adopted in the jurisdiction's fee schedule.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 108, Section 108.7 shall be added to read as follows:

108.7 False alarms or nuisance alarms. The fire code official is authorized to assess a service charge, as set forth by resolution, against the person owning or responsible for an alarm system when a fire department response occurs as a result of the third false alarm or nuisance alarm at the same address or location within any twelve month period, and for each subsequent false alarm or nuisance alarm thereafter, or against any person who intentionally, or in violation of the law reports, or causes to be reported, a false alarm or nuisance alarm to any department of the District.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 109, Section 109.1.2 shall be amended to read as follows:

109.1.2 Authority to inspect. The code official(s) designated below shall inspect, as often as necessary, buildings and premises, including such other hazards or appliances designated by the code official for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions that could reasonably be expected to cause fire or contribute to its spread, or any violation of the purpose of this code and of any other law or standard affecting fire safety.

The Fire Marshal and/or Deputy or employee charged with the enforcement of this code with Chino Valley Independent Fire District is designated as the lead responsible for ensuring overall compliance with this code, including building standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal (SFM) relating to R-3 occupancies. The Building Official and/or Deputy or employee charged with the enforcement of this code withthe City of Chino Hills also has the authority to inspect and enforce provisions of this code in conjunction with construction permits issued by the City, or the enforcement of Chino Hills Municipal Code Title 8, Title 15, and/or Title 16.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration,Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

112.1 General. 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 selected by the Fire Chief and shall hold office as its pleasure. The fire code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not have a vote on any matter before the board. The board shall adhere to the rules of procedure for conducting business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the fire code official.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.5 shall be added to read as follows:

112.5 Appeals procedure. The applicant may file an appeal with the Fire District's Clerk of the Board within thirty (30) days of a final order, decision or determination made by the fire code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code. Upon receipt of an appeal, the Clerk of the Board shall fix the time and place of the hearing, which shall be at a District meeting facility not more than sixty (60) days after the date of the appeal. The Clerk of the Board shall give written notice of the time and place of the hearing to the initiating party, the Fire Chief, the fire code official and the Appeals Board. The Appeals Board shall keep a record of the proceedings of each hearing. The Appeals Board shall issue written findings and a decision within fifteen (15) days of the conclusion of the hearing which shall be mailed to the parties' first-class mail, postage prepaid, at such address as they have provided.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.6 shall be added to read as follows:

112.6 Fees. The fire code official and staff shall act as staff to the Appeals Board and for that purpose may determine and set fees to charge the appellant to cover the cost of preparation of the record for appeal.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 113.4 shall be changed to read as follows:

113.4 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 fail to obtain approval by the fire code official for the commencement of construction, alteration, or repair or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than 1,000 dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. In addition to, or in place of, the foregoing penalties, administrative penalties pursuant to the District's Administrative Citation Ordinance may be imposed in connection with any violation of this code or any District Ordinance. Any person violating or who has violated any section of this code or District Ordinance may be issued an administrative citation in accordance with the Administrative Citation Ordinance.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 114.4 shall be changed to read as follows:

114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to violation penalties as specified in Section 113.4. Each day that the work continues in violation of a stop work order shall be deemed a separate offense.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 115.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

115.1 General. If during the inspection or investigation of a premises, structure, or any building system, in whole or in part, constitutes a clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or health, the fire code official shall issue such notice or orders to remove or remedy the conditions as shall be deemed necessary in accordance with this section, and shall refer the building to the building official for any repairs, alterations, remodeling, removing or demolition required.

Chapter 3, General Requirements, Section 307.1 and 307.1.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

307.1 General. A person shall not kindle or maintain or authorize to be kindled or maintained any open burning or recreational fires unless conducted and approved in accordance with Sections 307.1.1 through 307.5.

307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Opening burning and recreational fires shall be prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fire hazardous. This shall include when a red-flag warning or a fire weather watch condition has been issued by the National Weather Service.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 3 General Requirements, Section 307.3 shall be changed to read as follows:

307.3 Extinguishment authority. Where open burning, recreational fires, or the use of a portable outdoor fireplace creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of said operation or use.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 3 General Requirements, Section 311.5 shall be changed to read as follows:

311.5 Placards. Any vacant or abandoned buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 111 relating to structural or interior hazards shall be marked with a placard bearing the word "UNSAFE" and a statement of the penalties for noncompliance regarding the matters pertaining to the conditions of the sign and or removal of said sign.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 3 General Requirements, Section 313.1.2 and 313.1.2.1 shall be added to read as follows:

313.1.2 Use of equipment. Except as otherwise provided in this section, no person shall use, operate, or cause to be operated, in, upon or adjoining any hazardous fire area any internal combustion engine which uses hydrocarbon fuels, unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor as defined in Section 313.1.2.1 maintained in effective working order, or the engine is constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire.

Exception:

1).

Engines used to provide motor power trucks, truck tractors, buses, and passenger vehicles, except motorcycles, are not subject to this section of the exhaust system is equipped with a muffler as defined in the California Vehicle Code.

2).

Turbocharged engines are not subject to this section of all exhausted gases pass through the rotating turbine wheel, there is not exhaust bypass to the atmosphere, and the turbocharger is in good mechanical condition.

313.1.2.1 Spark arrestors.

1).

A spark arrester is a device constructed of nonflammable material specifically for the purpose of removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles over 0.0232 of an inch (0.58 mm) in size from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine that uses hydrocarbon fuels or which is qualified and rated by the United States Forest Service.

2).

Spark arrestors affixed to the exhaust system of engines or vehicles subject to Section 313 shall not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 503.1.2.1 shall be added to read as follows:

503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 503.1.2.2 shall be added to read as follows:

503.1.4 Aerial Access. Buildings exceeding three stories in height or 30 feet in height shall be provided with aerial fire apparatus access. One or more of the required access routes shall be located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building. The access width shall be a minimum of 26 feet (7925 mm) and shall be clear of any obstructions, including overhead utility and powerlines. The side of the building on which the aerial access fire apparatus road is positioned shall be approved by the fire code official.

(See Section 6. Findings. 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 503.2.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 503.2.3 shall be changed to read as follows:

503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads (78,000 lbs.) of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced by either asphalt or concrete, except when alternate surfaces are approved by the jurisdiction.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 11)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 504.5 shall be added to read as follows:

504.5 Door signage. When required by the fire code official, interior and exterior doors shall be provided with permanent signs to facilitate fire department emergency access. Signage shall be approved by the fire code official.

(See Section 6. Findings. 3, 4, 6, 7, 9)

Chapter 5 Fire Service Features, Section 505.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

505.1 Address Identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) for one- and two-family residential dwellings, and shall be illuminated during hours of darkness. Each character shall be a minimum of 8 inches (204 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1.0 inch (25.5 mm) for buildings other than one- and two-family residential dwellings. Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building and or address identification cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

(See Section 6. Findings. 3, 4, 6, 7, 9)

Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems, Section 901.6 shall be changed to read as follows:

901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire protection and life safety systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Nonrequired fire protection and life safety systems and equipment shall be inspected, test and maintained or removed in accordance with Section 901.8. The fire code official is authorized to require periodic inspection, testing and certification of all such systems, equipment and appurtenances. Personnel shall be qualified to perform the inspection, testing, and certification in accordance with Table 901.6.1. In addition to provisions of the applicable test standards, the required certification shall be provided to the Fire District as required by Section 110.3 of the fire code.

Table 901.6.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

[Figure]

Footnotes:

(a) Other concerns or individuals may be qualified to test and certify subject to approval of the fire code official.

(b) The testing frequencies listed herein are intended as a convenient summary based on the applicable standards. The applicable standards shall always govern if there is any conflict. It is important to note that many standards mandate inspections on more frequent bases than shown herein. It is not the intent to supersede, modify, or reduce the requirements found in the applicable standards.

(c) Reports of tests and certifications need not be submitted to the Fire District more frequently than annually, unless specifically requested by the fire code official.

1. State Licensed Fire Protection Contractor (C-16)

2. State Licensed Electrical Contractor (C-10)

3. State Licensed HVAC Contractor (C-20)

4. May be performed by Owner

5. Licensed by the State Fire Marshal

6. 25 or less units, qualified owner may perform test

7. State Licensed General Contractor (A or B); see also footnote (a)

8. State Licensed Electrical Contractor (C-10) and, for systems installed after 1989, holding the U.L. Certificate (or approved equal) for the building fire alarm system

9. State Licensed Plumbing Contractor (C-36)

10. FCC-issued General Radio Operators License (GROL) and certification by an approved school, organization, or the equipment manufacturer

Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems, Section 903.2 shall be changed to read as follows:

903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12 and Sections 903.2.14 through 903.2.21.

In addition to the requirements of the aforementioned sections, automatic fire sprinklers are required for the construction of any new building(s) and structure(s) 5,000 square feet (464 m 2 ) or more, regardless of the use of fire walls and occupancy type, except for Group U occupancies not required by Section 903.2.18.

In all existing buildings or structures, except one and two-family dwellings, not equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system, when additions cause the structure to exceed 5,000 square feet, the following provisions shall apply:

A. When such addition exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2), but is less than 50% of the original building square footage, the addition shall be equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system.

B. When such addition is 50% or greater than the original building square footage, the entire structure shall be equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system.

(See Section 6. Findings. 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11)

Chapter 56 Explosives and Fireworks, Section 5601.1.3 shall be changed to read as follows:

5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks is prohibited. If found to be in violation of this requirement, penalties as outlined in Chapter 1, Section 113.4 shall be assessed.

Exceptions:

1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section 5604.

2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as allowed in Section 5605 and Health and Safety Code Division 11.

3. The use of fireworks for fireworks displays pyrotechnics before a proximate audience and pyrotechnic special effects in motion pictures, television, theatrical or group entertainment productions as allowed in Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6 Fireworks reprinted in Section 5608 and Health and Safety Code Division 11.

4. The possession, storage, sale, handling and use of specific types of Division 1.4G fireworks where allowed by applicable laws, ordinances and regulations, provided that such fireworks and facilities comply with the 2006 NFPA 1124, CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1500 and 1507, and DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100-185, as applicable for consumer fireworks and Health and Safety Code Division 11.

Chapter 56 Explosives and Firework, Section 5601.2.1 shall be amended to read as follows:

5601.2.1 Residential uses. Persons shall not keep or store, nor shall any permit be issues to keep or store, any explosives at any place or habitation, or within 100 feet (30 480 mm) thereof. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in wildland-urban interface areas or areas designated as a fire hazard severity zone. If found to be in violation of this requirement, penalties as outlined in Chapter 1, Section 11.4 shall be assessed.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 56 Explosives and Fireworks, Section 5601.7 shall be changed to read as follows:

5601.7 Seizure. The fire code official is authorized to remove or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used in violation of this chapter or of any local ordinances or regulations.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11)

(Ord. No. 426, § 4, 11-25-2025)

The following sections of the Wildland-Urban Interface Code are hereby locally amended as follows:

Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration Part I General Provisions, Section 101.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code of the City of Chino Hills hereinafter referred to as "this code".

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part I General Provisions, Section 102.4.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the fire code official shall determine which provision meets the general intent of this code.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 103.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

103.1 Designation of Agency. The Chino Valley Independent Fire District is hereby designated as the lead agency responsible for the implementation, interpretation, administration, and enforcement of this code, including building standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal (SFM) relating to R-3 occupancies. The Chino Valley Independent Fire District Fire Marshal is the official in charge of the implementation, interpretation, administration, and enforcement of this code within the City of Chino Hills and shall be known as the code official. The City of Chino Hills Building Division is also responsible for the implementation, interpretation, administration, and enforcement of this code as it is applicable to construction and as it is enforced through Chino Hills Municipal Code Titles 8, 15, and/or 16. The City of Chino Hills Building Official is the official in charge of the implementation, interpretation, administration, and enforcement of this code at the City of Chino Hills Building Division and shall also be known as the code official.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 104.7 shall be changed to read as follows:

104.7 Official Records. The acting agency shall keep official records as outlined by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.5. Such official records shall be retained for 3 years or as otherwise stipulated in the District's records retention policy.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 105.4.2 shall be changed to read as follows:

105.4.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work or operation shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless a permit has been issued for said application; except that the fire code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each and the Fire District may charge an extension fee as outlined in the adopted fee schedule. The extension shall be requested by a means acceptable to the jurisdiction and shall be justifiable.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 106.4 shall be changed to read as follows:

106.4 Vegetation management compliance. Prior to the building permit final approval, the property shall be compliance with the vegetation management requirements prescribed in Section 603, including California Public Resources Code 4291 or California Government Code Section 51182 and or the requirements prescribed in the District's Vegetation Management Ordinance as adopted by the jurisdiction. Acceptance methods of compliance inspection and documentation shall be determined by the enforcing agency and shall be permitted to include any of the following:

1. Local, state or federal fire authority or designee authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements.

2. Enforcing agency.

3. Third-party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements.

4. Property owner certification authorized by the enforcing agency.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 108, Section 108.5 shall be changed to read as follows:

108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition of work done in connection to or concurrently with the work or activity authorized by a permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees or penalties that are prescribed by law or adopted in the jurisdiction's fee schedule.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 109.3.7 shall be changed to read as follows:

109.3.7 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 fail to obtain approval by the fire code official for the commencement of construction, alteration, or repair or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than 1,000 dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. In addition to, or in place of, the foregoing penalties, administrative penalties pursuant to the District's Administrative Citation Ordinance may be imposed in connection with any violation of this code or any District Ordinance. Any person violating or who has violated any section of this code or District Ordinance may be issued an administrative citation in accordance with the Administrative Citation Ordinance.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration,Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

112.1 General. 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 selected by the Fire Chief and shall hold office as its pleasure. The fire code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not have a vote on any matter before the board. The board shall adhere to the rules of procedure for conducting business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the fire code official.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.5 shall be added to read as follows:

112.5 Appeals procedure. The applicant may file an appeal with the Fire District's Clerk of the Board within thirty (30) days of a final order, decision or determination made by the Fire Marshal relative to the application and interpretation of this code. Upon receipt of an appeal, the Clerk of the Board shall fix the time and place of the hearing, which shall be at a District meeting facility not more than sixty (60) days after the date of the appeal. The Clerk of the Board shall give written notice of the time and place of the hearing to the initiating party, the Fire Chief, the Fire Marshal, and the Appeals Board. The Appeals Board shall keep a record of the proceedings of each hearing. The Appeals Board shall issue written findings and a decision within fifteen (15) days of the conclusion of the hearing which shall be mailed to the parties' first-class mail, postage prepaid, at such address as they have provided.

Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration, Part 2 Administration and Enforcement, Section 112.6 shall be added to read as follows:

112.6 Fees. The fire code official and staff shall act as staff to the Appeals Board and for that purpose may determine and set fees to charge the appellant to cover the cost of preparation of the record for appeal.

Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements, Section 602.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

602.1 General. The code official is authorized to require the owner or owner's authorized agent for all new buildings or developments to be built or installed in a wildland-urban interface area or designated fire hazard severity zone to prepare and submit a fire protection plan. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.

The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the fire code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.

A preliminary fire protection shall be submitted to the Fire District for review prior to the submission of the final fire protection plan.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements, Section 602.2.1.1 shall be added to read as follows:

602.2.1 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.1 of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code and Section 105.6 of the 2025 California Fire Code. Permits require that plans and specifications be submitted to the fire code official for review and approval prior to the issuance of a building permit or the installation or alteration of landscaping or fuel modification of hazardous vegetation. All work shall be inspected and approved by the fire code official.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements, Section 602.2. shall be changed to read as follows:

4903.2 Contents. The fire protection plan shall be based on a project-specific wildfire hazard assessment that includes considerations of location, topography, aspect, climatic and fire history.

The plan shall identify conformance with all applicable state wildfire protection regulations, statues and applicable local ordinances, whichever are more restrictive.

The plan shall address fire department access, egress, road and address signage, water supply in addition to fuel reduction in accordance with Public Resources Code (PRC) 4290; the defensible space requirements in accordance with PRC 4291 or Government Code 51182; and applicable codes and standard for wildfire safety. The plan shall identify mitigation measures to address the project's specific wildfire risk and shall include the information required in Section 602.3 through 602.3.2. In addition to the requirements of Section 602.3 through 602.3.2, The fire protection plan shall be provided with recommendations for a fuel modification area. Fuel modification areas shall be included into all entitlement documents and shall include the requirements set forth Section 603. A minimum fuel modification of 100 feet is required from each structure within the development. The overall width of the fuel modification shall consider the findings in the project-specific wildfire hazard assessment.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 6-Fire Protection Requirements, Section 604.1 shall be changed to read as follows:

604.1General. Hazardous vegetation and fuels shall be managed to reduce the severity of potential exterior wildfire exposure to buildings and to reduce the risk of fire spreading to buildings as required by applicable laws and regulations.

All elements of the final fire protection plan and fuel modification plans shall be maintained in accordance with said plans and are subject to the enforcement process outlined in the Section 109 and or the notice served to the property owner and or owners' agent.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements, Section 604.2 shall be changed to read as follows:

604.2 Application. Buildings and structures located in the following areas shall maintain the required hazardous vegetation and fuel management:

1. All unincorporated lands designated as a State Responsibility Area (SRA).

2. Land designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Zone by the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

3. Land designated in a city or local agency ordinance as a wildland-urban interface (WUI) area.

In addition to the aforementioned, properties as required by the District's Vegetation Management Ordinance shall comply with the provisions set forth herein as well as the requirements set forth in the adopted Ordinance.

(See Section 6. Findings. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11)

(Ord. No. 426, § 5, 11-25-2025)

That the geographical limits referred to in certain sections of the 2025 California Fire Code are hereby established as follows:

A. Establishment of geographical limits of districts in which storage of Class I and Class II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is to be prohibited.

The limits referred to in Section 5704.2.9.6.1 of the 2025 California Fire Code in which storage is prohibited are established as commercial and residential areas, except where the fire code official has issued written approval of such storage.

B. Establishment of geographical limits of districts in which storage of Class I and Class II liquids in above-ground tanks is to be prohibited.

The limits referred to in Section 5706.2.4.4 of the 2025 California Fire Code in which storage is prohibited are established as commercial and residential area, except where the fire code official has issued written approval of such storage.

C. Establishment of geographical limits of districts in which the storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers is to be prohibited.

The limits referred to in Section 5806.2 of the 2025 California Fire Code in which storage is prohibited are established as commercial and residential areas, except where the fire code official has issued written approval of such storage.

D. Establishment of geographical limits of districts in which storage of liquefied petroleum gas is to be restricted.

The limits referred to in Section 6104.2 of the 2025 California Fire Code in which storage is restricted are established as:

1. Heavily populated or congested areas, the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons (7570 L).

2. All areas, when in the opinion of the fire code official the location of storage would create a hazard to occupants or property owners, the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons.

(Ord. No. 426, § 6, 11-25-2025)

The City Council of the City of Chino Hills hereby finds that the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code and 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are reasonable and necessary because of local climactic, geologic and topographical conditions within the City's jurisdiction. This finding is supported and based upon the following express findings which address each of these conditions and present the local situation which make the proposed amendments necessary:

1. The climate weather patterns within the City of Chino Hills include frequent periods of drought and low humidity adding to the fire danger. Fire season can be year-round in this region.

2. During the summer months the dry winds and existing vegetation mix to create a hazardous fuel condition which has resulted in large loss vegetation and structure fires. Summer temperatures exceeding one hundred degrees (100°), and severe "Santa Ana" winds frequently occur and can move a fire quickly throughout areas of the City. Multiple shifting wind patterns throughout the canyon areas add to the difficulty in suppressing fires.

3. Because of weather patterns, the City has experienced a need for water conservation. Due to the storage capacities and consumption, and a limited amount of rainfall (drought conditions), future water allocation is not fully dependable. While sound management of the water resources is possible, demands and possible critical depletions on an already stressed water supply can most assuredly be predicted.

4. Features located throughout the City are major roadways, highways, freeways and flood control channels which create barriers and slow response times. Other unique factors which create barriers and slow response times are the multiple canyons located within the City and the large California Institute for Men property.

5. The topography is also very steep in large areas of the City affecting the rate of fire spread and response times.

6. Due to the sloping in the regional valley where the City is located, as well as the present street and storm drain design, heavy rainfall causes roadway flooding and landslides which at times may make an access route impassable.

7. The City has within its boundaries active seismic hazards. Seismic activity within the City occurs yearly and a fire potential exists with these active faults. Existing structures and planned new development are at serious risk from an earthquake. This risk includes fire, collapse and the disruption of water supply for firefighting purposes. Areas can also become isolated as a result of bridge, overpass and road damage and debris.

8. Structures in close proximity to each other pose an exposure problem which may cause a fire to spread from one structure to another as well as to the wildland area.

9. For practical and cost reasons, many new structures are built of wood construction. The potential for a conflagration exists due to the design and density of current structures.

10. Electrical supply and telephone communication failures occur due to high winds as well as other reasons. Water supply pumps and early notification cannot always be counted on.

11. Narrow and winding streets with little circulation and streets designed as storm drains impede emergency vehicle access and evacuation routes.

Each of the numbered findings above is located below the section to which it relates. For purposes of ratification by a city or county under Health and Safety Code section 13869.7, all modifications to the 2025 California Fire Code and California Wildland Urban Interface Code set forth in this Ordinance are subject to ratification and adoption by any city or county within the City's jurisdiction as these changes are for the purpose of home hardening and fire risk prevention, in accordance with Health and Safety Code section 17958(b)(4), or are provisions that relate to the City's administrative practices pertaining to fee schedules, reduction in costs of operation, and programs related to investigation and enforcement of building code violations, in accordance with Health and Safety Code section 17958(b)(6).

(Ord. No. 426, § 7, 11-25-2025)