Chapter 150 — BUILDING REGULATIONS; CONSTRUCTION

(A) The Building Official shall be appointed by the City Manager and shall hold office at the pleasure of said City Manager. The Building Official or his/her authorized representative shall work under the direction of the Community Development Director.

(B) The Building Official is authorized and directed to administer and enforce all provisions and codes adopted by this chapter and for such purpose shall have the powers of a police officer.

(Prior Code, § 8100) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Administrative Code, is hereby adopted as the Building Standards Administrative Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8101) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

Permits issued to correct code violations pursuant to an active code enforcement case shall be valid for a period of 90 days. Extensions to the permit may be granted at the discretion of the Building Official. Performance or approval of a required inspection will not automatically extend the permit.

(Prior Code, § 8116) (Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

BUILDING CODES

The 2025 edition of the California Building Code, including Appendix B, G, I, J, and Q is hereby adopted as the Building Code of the city except for the following revisions. Section 903.2 through 903.2.11.3 of the 2025 California Building Code shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced

with the following:

Section 903.2. Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in the following locations:

1. In all new buildings and structures that exceed 1,000 square feet.

2. In additions or alterations for all buildings or structures as follows:

a. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage, and results in a total square footage equal or greater than 1,000 square feet. Modifications that require addition of an automatic sprinkler system shall include removal, combining or rearrangement of demising or tenant space walls to create a single occupancy or tenant space of 1000 square feet or greater or changes in occupancy or use when the change of occupancy or use results in a requirement for an automatic sprinkler system as specified in Section 903, including, but not limited to, increased occupant load, multiple fire areas, use of hazardous materials and other increased hazards.

b. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

• c. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

d. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

Table 903.2.1

Hazard Categories

e. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years.

903.2.8.1 Group R-3.

An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3, including Section 903.3.1.3 for Group

R-3, shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area including all Manufactured, Modular or Mobile single family or Multifamily Homes or sleeping units.

• 903.2.10 Group S 2 parking garages

2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

(Prior Code, § 8102) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Residential Code, including Appendix BB, BF, CI, and CJ is hereby adopted as the Residential Code of the city except for the following revisions.

• (A) Sections R309.1 Exception and R309.2, Exception 1 shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Section R309.1 Exception and R309.2, Exception 1. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in additions or alterations for all one- and two-family dwelling buildings or structures as follows:

1. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage and results in a total square footage in excess of 1,000 square feet.

2. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

3. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

4. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

Table 903.2.1

Hazard Categories

5. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years. Buildings or structures separated by less than ten feet shall be considered as a single building or structure.

• (B) Section R309.2.2. shall be added as follows:

1. Where an Accessory Dwelling Unit cannot comply with minimum access requirements, a horizontal dry pipe may be installed in lieu of fire sprinklers as approved by the Fire Chief.

(Prior Code, § 8103) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Electrical Code, including Annex A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I is hereby adopted as the Electrical Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8104) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016 Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Mechanical Code, including Appendix B, C and D, is hereby adopted as the Mechanical Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8105) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019 Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Plumbing Code, including Appendix A, B, D, H, I and J, is hereby adopted as the Plumbing Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8106) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Energy Code, including Appendix 1-A, is hereby adopted as the Energy Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8107) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Historical Building Code, including Appendix A, is hereby adopted as the Historical Building Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8108) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Existing Building Code, including Appendix A1, is hereby adopted as the Existing Building Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8110) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Green Building Standards Code without appendices is hereby adopted as the Green Building Standards Code of the city. (Prior Code, § 8111) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Reference Standards Code is hereby adopted as the Reference Standards Code of the city.

(Prior Code, § 8112) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

(A) The 2024 edition of the International Property Maintenance Code is hereby adopted as the Property Maintenance Code of the city, except for the following revisions.

(B) The following Sections of the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code shall be revised to delete and insert the following:

Section 101.1 Title. Delete “Name of Jurisdiction” and insert “The City of Grover Beach”.

Section 103.1 Creation of agency. Delete “[Insert Name of Department]” and insert “The City of Grover Beach Community Development Department”.

Section 108.4 Failure to Comply shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

Section 108.4 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 fines of not less than triple the amount charged for the original permit fee(s), or more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).

Section 302.4 Weeds. Delete “jurisdiction to insert height in inches” and insert “four inches (4 inches)”. Section 304.14 Insect screens. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “Year-round”. Section 602.3 Heat supply. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “year-round”. Section 602.4 Occupiable workspaces. Delete “during the period from [Date] to [Date]” and insert “year-round”. (Prior Code, § 8113) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The 2025 edition of the California Wildland Urban Interface Code is hereby adopted as the Wildland Urban Interface Code of the city.

( Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

FIRE CODE

The 2025 edition of the California Fire Code, including Appendix Chapters A, B, BB, C, CC, F, H, and I and is hereby adopted as the Fire Code of the city except for the following revisions. Chapter 1 Administration.

Section 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Grover Beach Code, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”

Section 103 – Code Compliance Agency

103.1 Creation of agency. The Five Cities Fire Authority is hereby created and the official in charge therefore 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. Section 104 – Duties and powers of the Fire Code Official.

104.10.2 Fire Department personnel and police. The chief of the fire department and other members of the Five Cities Fire Authority designated by the Chief of the fire department have the authority of peace officers or public officers pursuant to California Penal Code sections 830.2(g), 830.7(d) and 836.5(a) in performing their duties under the California Fire Code.

104.10.3 Fire investigation unit. A fire investigation unit is established within the Five Cities Fire Authority under the direction of the Fire Chief. All members of the fire investigation unit shall, upon completion of requirements as set forth in California Penal Code section 832, or any successor legislation, have the full power, authority, and immunity of a California peace officer to issue citations for violations of this Code.

104.10.4 Arrests. In addition to Five Cities Fire Authority personnel, who are assigned as arson investigators pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.37, any other member of the Five Cities Fire Authority shall have the power to arrest, without a warrant, whenever that member has reasonable cause to believe the person to be arrested has committed the crime of misdemeanor or felony arson, as defined in California Penal Code sections 450 et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Titles 19, 24, and 25, in his/her presence, pursuant to the authority granted by California Penal Code section 836.5.

104.10.5 Citations. The Fire Code Official, or duly authorized agent, is granted the authority as provided in Section 836.5(a) of the California Penal Code to issue citations for violations of this code. Section 105 – Permits

105.3.3 Occupancy and use prohibited before approval. The building or structure shall not be occupied prior to the fire code official issuing a permit and conducting associated inspections indicating that applicable provisions of this

code have been met. No appliance, device, equipment, or system shall be operated or used until the installation has been approved and permitted by the Fire Code Official and all applicable provisions of this code have been met. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant or contractor or both to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes.

Section 113 – Violations

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 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 the provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars $1,000.00, or by imprisonment not exceeding three hundred sixty five (365) calendar days, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each day a violation continues, after due notice has been served, shall be deemed a separate offense.

113.3.5. Citations. The Fire Chief, Fire Marshal and Battalion Chiefs are each authorized to issue a citation to any person operating or maintaining an occupancy or a premises or vehicle subject to this code, and who allow a hazard to exist or fail to take immediate action to abate a hazard on such occupancy, premises or vehicle when ordered or notified to do so by any of those officials.

Chapter 4 Emergency Planning

Section 405 – Emergency Evacuation Drills

405.8 Initiation. Where a fire alarm system is provided, emergency evacuation drills shall be initiated by activating the fire alarm system. Prior to initiating an alarm, the person initiating the alarm shall contact the fire alarm monitoring company and advise the company’s dispatcher of the fire drill. In cases where the fire alarm system is not monitored by a central station, notification shall be provided to the fire department dispatch center. Chapter 5 Fire Service Features

Section 503 – Fire Apparatus Access Roads

503.3 Marking. Fire lanes and fire apparatus access roads shall be identified by curbs painted red on both the top and face along the entire length of the fire lane or fire apparatus access road, as applicable. Where no curb exists or a rolled curb is installed, an eight-inch wide red (OSHA safety red) strip or approved posted signs applied the full length of the fire lane or fire apparatus access road, as applicable, shall be installed. “FIRE LANE – NO PARKING” shall be painted on top of curb in 3” white lettering at a spacing of 25 feet on center or portion thereof.

Exception: On school grounds, the markings to be implemented shall be as approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

503.4.2 Removal of Obstructions. The Fire Code Official shall have the power and authority to remove or cause to be removed, without notice, any vehicle, vessel, or thing parked or placed in violation of any or all sections of this code. The owner of any item so removed shall be responsible for all charges connected therewith.

503.6.1 Electrically operated gates. Any electrically operated gate which is installed across any required fire access road or fire lane shall have a Knox brand access switch installed which will open the gate. The switch (with dust cover) shall be installed so it will open the gate, and the gate will remain in the open position until re-set by fire department personnel. The key switch shall be placed between 42” and 48” above the roadway surface at the left side of the access gate unless otherwise allowed by the fire code official. The key switch shall be clearly labeled “FIRE DEPT”. The gate shall have a manual means of opening in the event of a power failure and shall be accessible from the exterior of the property.

503.6.2 Click to Enter Remotely Operated Gates. For electrically operated gates, a radio- controlled system “Click to Enter” may be required in addition to the Knox key switch. A gate serving an individual single-family residence or duplex is exempt from this requirement.

503.6.3 Exiting. If there is no sensing device that will automatically open the gates for exiting, then a Knox brand electrical override switch (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) shall be placed on each side of the gate in approved locations.

503.6.4 Manually operated gates. Each manually operated gate which is installed across any required fire access road or fire lane and which is locked shall have a Knox brand (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) padlock installed. The Knox padlock (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) shall be integrated with any other lock in such a manner as to allow the gate to be opened only by unlocking the Knox padlock (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief).

Section 505 – Premises Identification

505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with 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. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high for single family residential buildings and 8 inches (203.2 mm) for R-1, R-2 and non-residential buildings, with a minimum stroke of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm), unless otherwise required to be greater in height or of reflective material as determined by the fire code official during the jurisdiction’s development review process for a specific project. 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 cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

specific project. 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 cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

505.1.1 Directories. When required by the Fire Code Official, complexes with multiple buildings may be required to provide directories, premises maps and directional signs. The scale, design and location of directory signs shall be approved by the Fire Code Official and may be required to be illuminated.

Section 506 – Key Boxes

506.1 Knox Box. All new commercial occupancies shall have a Knox brand key box (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) installed as directed by the fire code official. Existing commercial occupancies shall install a Knox brand key box (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief), as directed by the fire code official when a building permit is obtained for any work. The key box shall contain keys which will allow the fire department access to all portions of the building. The keys shall have a tag affixed identifying their purpose. The nominal height of key box installations shall be five (5) feet above grade.

506.4 Electronic Controlled Gates. A final field inspection, by the Fire Code Official or an authorized representative, is required before electronic Knox (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief) controlled gates may become operative. Prior to final inspection, electronic gates shall remain in a locked open position. Section 507 – Fire Protection Water Supplies

507.5.7 Fire Department Connection. All newly installed fire department connections will be required to install Knox brand FDC caps (or substantially similar as determined by the Fire Chief). This also includes existing businesses that perform work to the structure that requires a building permit or any tenant improvement.

– Chapter 6 Building Services and Systems

Section 605 – Fuel Fired Appliances

605.8 Gas meters. Above-ground gas meters, regulators and piping subject to damage shall be protected by a barrier complying with Section 312 or otherwise protected in an approved manner. Gas meters shall be permanently marked identifying the building or system served.

– Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

Section 903.2 through 903.2.11.3 of the 2025 California Fire Code shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Section 903.2. Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in the following locations:

1. In all new buildings and structures that exceed 1,000 square feet.

2. In additions or alterations for all buildings or structures as follows:

a. Throughout structures where additions add more than 50% to the existing square footage, and results in a total square footage equal or greater than 1,000 square feet. Modifications that require addition of an automatic sprinkler system shall include removal, combining or rearrangement of demising or tenant space walls to create a single occupancy or tenant space of 1000 square feet or greater or changes in occupancy or use when the change of occupancy or use results in a requirement for an automatic sprinkler system as specified in Section 903, including, but not limited to, increased occupant load, multiple fire areas, use of hazardous materials and other increased hazards.

b. Throughout structures where alterations remove more than 50% of the exterior walls and/or remove more than 50% of the roof framing, and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

c. Throughout structures where additions and alterations combined encompass more than 50% of the existing square footage of the structure and are in excess of 1,000 square feet.

d. Where there is a change of occupancy to a more hazardous use as determined by the Building Official or Fire Chief based on Table 903.2.1.

Table 903.2.1 Hazard Categories

e. These requirements will be applicable to the combined square footage of all building permits issued for the address or site within the last five years.

903.2.8.1 Group R-3.

An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3, including Section 903.3.1.3 for Group

R-3, shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area including all Manufactured, Modular or Mobile single family or Multifamily Homes or sleeping units.

• 903.2.10 Group S 2 parking garages

2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

Section 907 – Fire Alarm and Detection Systems.

907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is installed. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible

supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code. Duct smoke detectors shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection. The reset switch for the duct detectors shall be in an accessible location acceptable to the fire

code official. A copy of the alarm system plan shall be accessible at the alarm panel indicating the location of the duct smoke detectors that correspond with the alarm fault activation name or number.

Exception:

1. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.

Section 912 – Fire Department Connections.

912.2.1 Visible locations. Fire department connections shall be located on the front access side of buildings, fully visible and recognizable from the street, or nearest point of fire department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee fire code official. The location of fire department connections shall be approved and installed as follows:

1. Within 40 feet from an approved roadway or driveway and arranged so that hose lines can be readily attached to the inlets without interference from any nearby objects including buildings, fences, posts, plantings, or other fire department connections or otherwise approved by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

2. Within 50 feet from an approved hydrant.

3. Inlet height shall not be less than 18 inches or more than 48 inches above grade.

4. Guard posts or other approved means shall be required to protect fire department inlet connections from vehicular damage.

– Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads.

Appendix D Section D107.1 – Exception 1 shall be deleted in its entirety.

D109 - Fire access residential driveways.

D109.1 Driveways less than 150 feet in length. A driveway that serves one- or two-family residential (occupancy type R-3) up to 5 dwellings shall comply with all of the following:

1. Minimum 12 feet wide driveway.

2. Driveways with a grade of 12% or less shall be paved or approved all weather road base.

3. Driveways with a grade greater than 12% shall be approved paved non-skid surface.

4. Driveways cannot exceed 20% grade.

D109.2 Driveways that exceed 150 feet in length. A driveway that serves one or two family residential (occupancy type R-3) up to 5 dwellings shall comply with all of the following:

1. Minimum 16 feet wide driveway.

Exception: The driveway can be reduced to 12 feet wide with the installation of a Dry Standpipe as per Five Cities Fire Authority standards.

2. Driveways with a grade of 12% or less shall be an approved paved surface.

3. Driveways with a grade greater than 12% shall be approved paved non-skid surface.

4. Driveways cannot exceed 20% grade.

5. Driveway requires a Fire Department turnaround as per Five Cities Fire Authority standards.

6. Driveways in excess of 200 feet shall be provided with turnouts in addition to turnarounds. Turnouts shall be an all-weather road surface not less than 30 feet long and 10 feet wide.

(Prior Code, § 8109) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

The State Fire Code with amendments set forth in § 150.041 shall be enforced by the Five Cities Fire Authority, which shall be operated under the Fire Chief of the Five Cities Fire Authority. The Fire Chief of the Five Cities Fire

Authority may designate qualified individuals as inspectors as shall be necessary from time to time. (Prior Code, § 8109.1) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-182019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022)

Where an emergency situation is caused or exacerbated by a willful act, a negligent act, or a violation of the Fire Code, Building Code, or any other applicable law, ordinance, or regulation, the cost of emergency service to mitigate and secure any emergency that is within the responsibility of the Fire Chief is a charge against the person who caused the emergency or who caused the circumstances leading to the creation of the emergency, and such person shall be liable for the costs of such services. Damages and expenses incurred by any public agency providing emergency services or mutual aid shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the Fire Chief or City Manager, or his or her designee, for proper distribution in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract expressed or implied. Costs and expenses as stated above shall include, but not be limited to, equipment and personnel committed and any payments required by the public agency to outside business firms requested by the public agency to mitigate or secure the emergency, monitor remediation, and clean up.

(Prior Code, § 8109.2) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-182019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022)

Officers and employees within the city authorized to issue citations are designated within §§ 37.055 through 37.060. (Prior Code, § 8109.3) (Ord. 13-03, passed 12-2-2013; Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-182019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

REVIEW PROCESSES

(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates, or requires, a different meaning.

REASONABLE RESTRICTIONS. On a solar energy system are those restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or significantly decrease its efficiency or specified performance, or that allow for an alternative system of comparable cost, efficiency, and energy conservation benefits.

SMALL RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. All of the following:

(a) A solar energy system that is no larger than ten kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal.

(b) A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the city and all state and city health and safety standards.

(c) A solar energy system that is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling.

(d) A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the city.

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. Either of the following:

(a) Any solar collector or other solar energy device whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, space cooling, electric generation, or water heating.

(b) Any structural design feature of a building, whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for electricity generation, space heating or cooling, or for water heating.

(B) Purpose. The purpose of the section is to adopt an expedited, streamlined solar permitting process that complies with the Solar Rights Act and AB 2188 to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. The section encourages the use of solar systems by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install solar energy systems. The section allows the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health and safety.

(C) Applicability.

(1) This section applies to the permitting of all small residential rooftop solar energy systems in the city.

(2) Small residential rooftop solar energy systems legally established or permitted prior to the effective date of this section are not subject to the requirements of this section unless physical modifications or alterations are undertaken that materially change the size, type, or components of a small rooftop energy system in such a way as to require new permitting. Routine operation and maintenance shall not require a permit.

(D) Solar energy system requirements.

(1) All solar energy systems shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and city.

(2) Solar energy systems for heating water in single-family residences and for heating water in commercial or swimming pool applications shall be certified by an accredited listing agency as defined by the California Plumbing and Mechanical Code.

(3) Solar energy systems for producing electricity shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

(E) Duties of Building Division.

(1) All documents required for the submission of an expedited solar energy system application shall be made available on the publicly accessible city website.

(2) Electronic submittal of the required permit application and documents by email, the internet, or facsimile shall be made available to all small residential rooftop solar energy system permit applicants.

(3) An applicant's electronic signature shall be accepted on all forms, applications, and other documents in lieu of a wet signature. However, the final permit must be signed at the counter until the city develops an electronic permit issuance registration.

(4) The Building Division shall adopt standard plan(s) and checklist(s) of all requirements with which small residential rooftop solar energy systems shall comply to be eligible for expedited review.

(5) The small residential rooftop solar system permit process, standard plan(s), and checklist(s) shall substantially conform to recommendations for expedited permitting, including the checklist and standard plans contained in the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research.

(6) All fees prescribed for the permitting of small residential rooftop solar energy systems must comply with Cal. Government Code §§ 65850.55, 66015, 66016, and Cal. Health and Safety Code § 17951.

(F) Permit review and inspection requirements.

(1) The city shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary review process to expedite approval of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. The Building Division should issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit within the recommended timeframes contained in the most current version of the California

Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan.

(2) Review of the application shall be limited to the Building Official's review of whether the application meets local, state, and federal health and safety requirements.

(3) The city shall not condition approval of an application on the approval of an association, as defined in Cal. Civil Code § 4080.

(4) If an application is deemed incomplete, a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be sent to the applicant for resubmission.

(5) The inspection shall be done in a timely manner and should include consolidated inspections.

(6) If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized. (Prior Code, § 8114) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates, or requires, a different meaning.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION. Any level of electric vehicle supply equipment station that is designed and built-in compliance with Article 625 of the California Electric Code, as it reads on the effective date of this section and delivers electricity from outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in electric vehicle.

FEASIBLE METHOD TO SATISFACTORILY MITIGATE OR AVOID THE SPECIFIC, ADVERSE IMPACT. Includes but is not limited to, any cost-effective method, condition or mitigation imposed on another similarly situated application in a prior successful application for a permit.

SPECIFIC ADVERSE IMPACT. A significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified, and written public health or safety standards, policies or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete.

(B) Purpose. The purpose of the section is to adopt an expedited, streamlined electrical vehicle charging station permitting process that complies with the Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations Open Access Law and AB 1236 to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of electric vehicle charging stations. The section encourages the use of electrical vehicle charging stations by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install electrical vehicle charging stations. The section allows the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health and safety.

(C) Applicability.

(1) This section applies to the issuance of building permits for electric vehicle charging stations in the city. All requirements of building permit applications in Title 24 of the Cal. Code of Regulations for electric vehicle charging stations that are not addressed in this section shall remain in effect.

(2) Electric vehicle charging stations legally established or permitted prior to the effective date of the section are not subject to the requirements of this section unless physical modifications or alterations are undertaken that materially change the size, type, or components of an electronic vehicle charging station in such a way as to require new permitting. Routine operation and maintenance shall not require a permit.

(D) Electric vehicle charging station requirements.

(1) All electric vehicle charging stations shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and the city.

(2) Electric vehicle charging stations shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

• (E) Duties of Building Division.

(1) All documents required for the submission of an expedited electric vehicle charging station building permit application shall be made available on the city website.

(2) Electronic submittal of the required building permit application and documents by email, the internet, or facsimile shall be made available to all electric vehicle charging station permit applicants.

(3) An applicant's electronic signature shall be accepted on all forms, applications, and other documents in lieu of a wet signature. However, the final permit must be signed at the counter until the city develops an electronic permit issuance registration.

(4) The Building Division shall adopt a checklist of all requirements with which electric vehicle charging stations shall comply to be eligible for expedited review.

(5) The electric vehicle charging stations permit process and checklist shall substantially conform to recommendations for expedited permitting, including the checklist contained in the most current version of the Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist of the "Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook" adopted by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research.

• (F) Permit review and inspection requirements.

(1) The city shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary review process to expedite approval of electrical vehicle charging stations. The Building Division should issue a building permit or other nondiscretionary permit as expeditiously as possibly upon receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the approved checklist and standard plan.

(2) Review of the application shall be limited to the Building Official's review of whether the application meets local, state, and federal health and safety requirements.

(3) If an application is deemed incomplete, a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be sent to the applicant for resubmission.

(4) The Building Official may require an applicant to apply for a use permit if the Official finds, based on substantial evidence, that the electric vehicle charging station could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety. Such decisions may be appealed to the Planning Commission pursuant to the Planning and Zoning Regulations.

(5) If a use permit is required, the Planning Commission may deny such application if it makes written findings based upon substantive evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon public health or safety and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the adverse impact. Such findings shall include the basis for the rejection of the potential feasible alternative for preventing the adverse impact.

(6) Any condition imposed on an application shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon health and safety at the lowest possible cost.

(Prior Code, § 8115) (Ord. 16-04, passed 11-21-2016; Ord. 19-11, passed 11-18-2019; Ord. 22-09, passed 11-14-2022; Ord. 25-08, passed 10-27-2025)

ENCROACHMENT PERMITS

No person, firm, association, partnership, or corporation, or any combination thereof, shall make any encroachment, opening, or excavation in any public street or highway in the city without having first obtained a permit so to do as hereafter provided.

(Prior Code, § 8301) (Ord. 6, passed 6-1-1960)

(A) Any person, firm, association, partnership, or corporation, or any combination thereof, desiring to make an encroachment, opening, or excavation in any public street or highway in the city shall, prior thereto, make application upon a form therefor to be provided by the City Clerk.

(B) In addition thereto, the applicant shall post a bond in accordance with the provisions of § 150.073 hereof, and shall also pay a fee therefor. The amount of said fee shall be set by resolution of the City Council from time to time. (Prior Code, § 8302) (Ord. 6, passed 6-1-1960)

Any encroachment, opening, or excavation made in any street or public highway in the city shall be made in accordance with the requirements of the Superintendent of Public Works and shall be subject to a periodic inspection of the said Superintendent of Public Works. No encroachment, opening, or excavation shall be finally concluded without the express written consent and approval of the said Superintendent of Public Works. (Prior Code, § 8303) (Ord. 6, passed 6-1-1960)

The bond referred to in § 150.071 shall be conditioned upon the applicant completing the encroachment, opening, or excavation of the street or highway in accordance with the requirements of the Superintendent of Public Works and shall be in such amount as, in the opinion of the Superintendent of Public Works, will guarantee that the street or highway will be restored to the condition in which it was prior to the commencement of the work thereon or therein, and shall, in addition thereto, be in such form as may be prescribed by the City Attorney. (Prior Code, § 8304) (Ord. 6, passed 6-1-1960)

An encroachment permit shall be required for construction of curbs and gutters adjacent to public streets. No person shall construct any curb or gutter adjacent to any public street unless that person holds a C-8 license as a cement and concrete contractor; provided, however, that this section shall not be deemed to prohibit a holder of a general building contractor’s license from performing curb and gutter construction which is incidental to a project for which he or she is the contractor.

(Prior Code, § 8305) (Ord. 129, passed - -)