Mariposa County Municipal Code § 15.10 Adoption Of Uniform

15.10.290 Recovery Of Costs/Penalties 15.10.300 Liens 15.10.310 Safety Assessment Placards¶

15.10.010 Conflicting Provisions¶

The provisions of this title are to operate in conjunction with the provisions of the:

Housing and Community Development, Title 25, Division 1
2025 California Administrative Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 1.
2025 California Building Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 1 & 2, including the following appendices:
1. Appendix B Board of Appeals
2. Appendix C Group U-Agricultural Building
3. Appendix J Grading
4. Appendix P Sleeping Lofts
5. Appendix Q Emergency Housing
2025 California Residential Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2.5, including the following appendices:
1. Appendix BO Existing Buildings and Structures
2. Appendix BB Tiny Houses
3. Appendix BJ Strawbale Construction
4. Appendix BM 3D-Printed Building Construction
5. Appendix CI Swimming Pool Safety Act
6. Appendix CJ Emergency Housing
2025 California Electrical Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 3.
2025 California Mechanical Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 4.
2025 California Plumbing Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 5.
2025 California Energy Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 6.
2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7.
1. Appendix A General Requirements
2. Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan
3. Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework
4. Appendix F Characteristics of Fire-Smart Vegetation
5. Appendix G Voluntary Home Hardening Recommendations
6. Appendix H Referenced California Documents
2025 California Historical Building Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 8.
2025 California Fire Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9.
Appendix Chapter 4, Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Appendix B Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
Appendix BB Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings
Appendix C Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution
Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Appendix F Hazard Rankings
Appendix G Cryogenic Fluids - Weight and Volume Equivalents
Appendix H Hazardous Materials Management Plans and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statements
Appendix I Fire Protection Systems – Non-Compliant Conditions
Appendix P Temporary Haunted Houses, Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement Uses
2025 California Existing Building Code Part 10, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 10. 13. 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 11. 14. 2025 California Referenced Standards Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 12.

Whenever any provision of this Chapter 15, Building and Construction, is in conflict with the provisions of the above-referenced codes, the provisions of this title shall govern.

HISTORY

Whenever any of the following names or terms are used in this chapter or in any of the codes set forth above, unless the context directs otherwise, such names or terms so used shall have the meaning ascribed thereto by this section.

"Accessory Dwelling Unit” . An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2)
"Accessory Structure”. A building or structure is used to shelter or support any material, equipment, chattel or occupancy other than a habitable building.
" Agricultural Building”. A structure designed and constructed to house farm implements, hay, grain, poultry, livestock or other horticultural products. This structure shall not be a place of human habitation or a place of employment where agricultural products are processed, treated or packaged, nor shall it be a place used by the public.
"Approved Agency” . An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where the code official has approved such organization.
"Approved.” Meeting the approval of the enforcing agency, except as otherwise provided by law, when used in connection with any system, material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the result of investigations and tests conducted by the agency, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by national authorities or technical, health or scientific organizations or agencies.
1. See Health and Safety Code Section 17920 for “Approved” as applied to residential construction and buildings or structures accessory thereto, as referenced in 2025 CRC Section 1.8.2.1.1.
2. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for “Approved” as applied to the use of hotplates in residential construction referenced in 2025 CRC Section 1.8.2.1.1.
3. See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for “Approved” as applied to factory-built housing as referenced in 2025 CRC Section 1.8.3.2.5.
4. See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for “Approved” as applied to mobile home parks as referenced in 2025 CRC Section 1.8.3.2.2.
5. See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for “Approved” as applied to special occupancy parks as referenced in 2025 CRC Section 1.8.3.2.3.'
"Building Official”. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the California Building Code, or the building official’s duly authorized representative.
"Building” . Any Structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or Occupancy, except those classified as Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(c)]
"Building, Existing”. Existing building is a building erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
"Child or Children” . A person or persons under the age of 18 years.
"City”. Means the County of Mariposa when referring to a political entity, or an unincorporated area of said county when referring to area, "city clerk" means the county clerk and ex officio clerk of the board of supervisors, and "city council" or "mayor" means the board of supervisors of the County of Mariposa.
"Code Official”. Means the official having the authority to render interpretations of the Construction Codes and to adopt policies and procedures to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of the Construction Codes. Such policies and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in the Construction Codes.
"Combustible Material”. Any material not defined as noncombustible.
"Dwelling Unit”. A single unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
"Enforcement Agency”. See “Enforcing Agency.”
"Enforcement”. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the applicable section of the Health and Safety Code, Section 17920, is repeated here for clarity: “Enforcement” means diligent effort to secure compliance, including review of plans and permit applications, response to complaints, citation of violations and other legal process. Except as otherwise provided in this part, “enforcement” may, but need not, include inspections of existing buildings on which no complaint or permit application has been filed, and effort to secure compliance as to these existing buildings.
"Enforcing Agency”. The designated department or agency as specified by statute or regulation.
"Fire Code Official”. The fire chief or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the California Fire Code, or a duly authorized representative.
"Fire Protection Plan”. A document prepared for a specific project or development proposed for the wildland-urban interface area. It describes ways to minimize and mitigate potential for loss from wildfire exposure.
"Grading”. Any excavation or fill which exceeds any one of the following thresholds: disturbs more than five thousand square feet in surface area, moves more than fifty cubic yards of dirt, is more than two feet deep (cut and/or fill). The creation of fire roads fire breaks, or the maintenance of existing roads and driveways are not considered grading.
"Infant”. for the purpose of these regulations, shall mean any child who because of age only, is unable to walk and requires the aid of another person to evacuate the building. In no case shall the term “infant” mean a child 2 years of age or older.
"Kitchen”. An area used, or designated to be used, for the preparation of food.
"Lot Line” . The line that bounds a plot of ground described as a lot in the title to the property.
"Lot” . A measured portion or parcel of land considered as a unit having fixed boundaries.
"May” . is permissive.
"Permit”. An official document or certificate issued by the building official that authorizes performance of a specified activity.
"Person”. includes an association, business, club, company, corporation, joint stock company, joint venture, organization, natural person, partnership, trust, or the agent, employee, lessee, manager, officer, or servant of any of them.
"Photovoltaic (PV) Panel System, Ground-Mounted”. An independent photovoltaic (PV) panel system without useable space underneath, installed directly on the ground.
"Photovoltaic (PV) Support Structure, Elevated”. An independent photovoltaic (PV) panel support structure designed with useable space underneath with minimum clear height of 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm), intended for secondary use such as providing shade or parking of motor vehicles.
"Placement”. Placards shall be applied on the front of the structure and be visible from the street. Additional placards shall be applied to the side of each entrance to the structure and on penthouses.
"Responsible Party”. Means any individual, business, or entity responsible for creating, causing, maintaining, or permitting the nuisance or activity or, the violation of any applicable code(s), and includes, but is not limited to the property owner(s), lessee(s), possessors(s), or tenant(s) of real property, the president or other officer of a corporation, the owner(s) or managing members of a limited liability company, business owner(s) and/or manager(s), or the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of any person(s) under the age of eighteen(18) years who violates or maintains a violation of any application code(s).
"Roof Repair”. Reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing roof for the purposes of its maintenance.
"Safety Assessment”. A visual, non-destructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy.
"Shall”. The term, where used in the code, is construed as mandatory.
"Sleeping Unit”. A single unit that provides rooms or spaces for one or more persons, includes permanent provisions for sleeping and can include provisions for living, eating and either sanitation or kitchen facilities but not both. Such rooms and spaces that are also part of a dwelling unit are not sleeping units.
"Temporary Structure”. Any building or structure erected for a period of 180 days or less to support temporary events. Temporary structures include a range of structure types (public-occupancy temporary structures, temporary special event structures, tents, umbrellas and other membrane structures, relocatable buildings, temporary bleachers, etc.) for a range of purposes (storage, equipment protection, dining, workspace, assembly, etc.).
"Toddler”. Any child between 18 months and 36 months of age.
"Truss Design Drawing”. The graphic depiction of an individual truss, that describes the design and physical characteristics of the truss.
"Underlayment”. One or more layers of felt, sheathing paper, non-bituminous saturated felt, or other approved material over which a roof covering, with a slope of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17percent slope) or greater, is applied.
"Wildland-Urban Interface Area”. A geographical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, and other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.020 Enforcement

The code official is authorized and directed to enforce all the provisions of this title as adopted, and as revised and adopted by the state and Mariposa County Title 15.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.030 References To Adopted Codes And Appendices Defined¶

Where any adopted codes or appendices contain references to the California Fire Code, such reference shall mean the current adopted edition of the California Fire Code.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013

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15.10.035 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adopted¶

The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, Title 24, Part 7 Appendices “A” General Requirements, “B” Vegetation Management Plan, “C” Community Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework, “F” Characteristics of Fire-Smart Vegetation, “G” Voluntary Home Hardening Recommendations, “H” Referenced California Documents, are adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be known and referred to as the Wildland-Urban Interface code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.040 California Building Code And Appendices Adopted

Except as hereafter changed or modified, the 2025 California Building Code, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2, and Appendixes "B" Board of Appeals, “C” Group U—Agricultural Buildings, “J” Grading, and Q Emergency Housing are adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be known and referred to as the building code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1113 Sec. I on 12/8/2015 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Sec. I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1164 Sec.I on 7/6/2021 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.050 Amendment Of California Building Code, Chapter 1, Division II Scope And…¶

California Building Code, 2025 Edition, Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration, is hereby adopted and amended to read as follows:

Permit Expirations and Extensions: All building permits and plan checks shall expire under the following conditions:
1. All applications and plans submitted for plan review shall become void after a period of 180 days from the time of application. Any further application for the project will require a new plan check fee and a new application submitted.
All building division permits will become void thirty-six months (three years) after issuance, unless:
1. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6.) and has been approved by the building official;
2. The construction activity is posing no life-safety threat to the public or any person.
3. If the building or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within twelve months from the date of permit issuance, or if the building or work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of twelve months or more after the time the work has commenced, the permit shall expire.
Suspension and/or abandonment shall be determined by a lack of progress inspections for a period of 180 days since the last previously documented inspection.
To receive an extension of time on an expired building permit the applicant shall submit a written request detailing the extenuating circumstances that prevented the completion of the project in the allotted time limits of the issued permit.
After review and approval by the building official, an extension may be granted for a period of 180 days, with the possibility of one additional year maximum. Renewal fees will apply. If this additional one-year period expires, a new building permit must be obtained before continuing work on the project, unless the building official has granted another permit extension.
Permit Extension Fees – Calculation: Upon approval of a permit extension by the building official, extension fees shall be calculated using the formula established by this code.
1. Renewal fees shall be calculated based on the currently adopted fee schedule; and
2. Fees due shall be based on the overall amount of work remaining to complete the project, represented as percentage of the total project; and
3. Shall be based on remainder of work as of the date of the last approved inspection conducted by Mariposa County.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Sec. I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.060 (Reserved)

HISTORY

Repealed by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022

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15.10.070 Amendment Of California Building Code, Appendix J - Grading¶

The 2025 California Building Code, Part 2, Appendix J, Grading is hereby adopted and amended for enforcement clarification to read as follows:

J112 Enforcement.

J112.1 The Mariposa County building department is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the

provisions of this appendix. The final decision of the building director in enforcing the provisions of this appendix shall be subject to appeal as provided in section J114.3 of this appendix.

J112.2 The Mariposa County building department may order any work stopped where there is reason to believe it is being conducted in violation of any provision of the permit or approval, or any provision of the county code or regulations adopted pursuant thereto, or in violation of any provision of any exemption so that there is reason to doubt that such exemption is applicable.

J112.3 It shall be unlawful to undertake any work or to permit any work in progress beyond the date of posting or service of such order or notice of order, or until relief from such order is obtained from the Mariposa County building department, or upon appeal determination.

J112.4 The Mariposa County building department may require such certification, approval, guidance and/or recommendation as may needed to assist in the determination of the propriety of the activity to be carried on, before allowing the progress of such work to continue.

2. J113 Injunctive Relief/Civil Penalties.

J113.1 Any person, firm, or corporation, whether as principal, agent, employee or otherwise who shall commence, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, or maintain any grading, excavation, or fill or causes the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any provision of this appendix, shall be subject to injunction against such activity and shall be liable for a civil penalty not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each day that the violation continues to exist. J113.2. When the Mariposa County building department determines that any person has engaged in, is engaging in, or is about to engage in any act(s) or practice(s) which constitute or will constitute a violation of provisions of this appendix, or order issued, promulgated or executed hereunder, the county counsel may make application to the superior court for an order enjoining such acts or practices, or for an order directing compliance, and upon a showing that such person has engaged in or is about to engage in any such acts or practices, a permanent or temporary injunction, restraining order, or other order may be granted by a superior court having jurisdiction over the cause. In any civil action brought pursuant to this section in which a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction or permanent injunction is sought, it shall not be necessary to allege or prove at any stage of the proceeding that irreparable damage will occur should the temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, or permanent injunction not be issued, or that the legal remedies are inadequate. J113.3 Any person, firm, or corporation, whether as principal, agent, employee or otherwise who shall commence, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, or maintain any grading, excavation, or fill, or causes the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any provision of this appendix shall be liable and obliged to pay the county of Mariposa for all costs incurred by the county in obtaining abatement or compliance or which are attributed to or associated with any enforcement or abatement action, whether such action is administrative, injunctive or legal; and for all damages suffered by the county, its agents, officers, or employees as a result of such violation or efforts to enforce or abate the violation. J113.4. In determining the amount of civil penalty to impose, the court shall consider all relevant circumstances, including, but not limited to, the extent of the harm caused by the conduct constituting the violation, the nature and persistence of such conduct, the length of time over which the conduct occurred, the assets, liabilities and net worth of the persons responsible, whether corporate or individual, the corrective action taken by the persons responsible, and the cooperation or lack of cooperation in efforts toward abatement or correction. J113.5. The county counsel, upon receipt of a decision of the building director or board of supervisors which orders the payment of civil penalties

or payment of enforcement costs or other abatement costs, may (in addition to any other collection procedures allowed by law) prepare and file a civil action on behalf of the county in any court of competent jurisdiction to recover the civil penalties and costs of enforcement provided by this section and for injunctive or any other appropriate relief. All costs and penalties recovered by the county counsel under this section in excess of the total county costs of enforcement shall be deposited in the county's general fund. J113.6. In the event a civil action is initiated to obtain enforcement of the decision of the appeal officer, and judgment is entered to enforce the decision, the person against whom the order of enforcement has been entered shall be liable to pay the county's total costs of enforcement.

J114 Recovery of Costs/Penalties. J114.1 The Mariposa County building department shall maintain records of all costs including, but not limited to, administrative, professional fees, court costs, attorney's fees, laboratory costs, remedial construction costs, and other costs incurred in the processing of violations and enforcement of this appendix, and shall, to the extent feasible, recover such costs from the owner of the property upon which the violation occurs, or other person(s) responsible. If the county elects upon the filing of a superior court action to seek attorney fees and the person alleged to have violated the code is the prevailing party that person may recover their attorney fees in an amount not to exceed the amount of attorney fees incurred by the county in the action. J114.2. Upon investigation and determination that a violation of any of the provisions of this appendix exists, the Mariposa County building department shall notify the record owner or person(s) in possession or control of the property, or other person(s) responsible by certified mail, of the existence of the violation, the building director's intent to charge the person(s) for all administrative costs associated with the enforcement, and of the person's right to an appeal on objections thereto. J114.3 At the conclusion of the case the building director shall send a summary of costs associated with enforcement and the amount of the civil penalty to be imposed on the owner(s) and to the person(s) having possession or control of the subject property, or other responsible person(s), by certified mail. Such summary shall include a notice of the right to an appeal before the building director to object to the imposition of the charges and penalty. J114.4 Any request for an appeal to be made upon the imposition of the costs and penalties shall be filed with the building director within fifteen (15) days of the service of the summary of costs and penalties. J114.5 The building director shall, within thirty (30) days of receipt of such request for an appeal: J114.5.1 Schedule an appeal upon the imposition of such costs and penalties. J114.5.2 Schedule the appeal at a time convenient to all parties. J114.5.3 Schedule the appeal within sixty (60) days of the request unless a later date is mutually agreed to by all parties. J114.6 In determining the validity of the costs and penalties assessed, the building director shall: J114.6.1 Consider whether the total costs and penalties are reasonable in the circumstances of the case. J114.6.2 Consider whether the present owner(s) created the violation; whether there is a present ability to correct the violation; whether the person(s) responsible moved promptly to correct the violation; the degree of cooperation or lack of cooperation provided by the person(s) responsible; and whether the current owner knew or should have known that the violation(s) existed. J114.7 The building director shall issue his/her decision within thirty (30) days after the conclusion of the appeal and shall serve a copy of the Notice of Decision to include: J114.7.1 The amount of civil penalties and costs imposed by mailing of certified letter. Such Notice of Decision shall include a notice of a right to a hearing (an appeal) before the board of supervisors as set forth in section J115 of this Appendix. J114.8 Until all costs, fees and penalties assessed by the building director under this appendix are paid in full the issuing of any of the following by the Mariposa County building department or any other county agency to the party subject to the decision or involving the property where the violation occurred will not occur. 1. Final inspections 2. Certificates of completion 3. Certificates of compliance 4. Certificates of occupancy 5. Conditional use permits 6. Land use permits 7. Final map J114.9 Any costs and civil penalties not paid in a timely manner shall accrue interest at the same annual rate as any civil judgment. Interest shall accrue commencing on the thirteith day after the

final decision. J114.10 Failure to request an appeal as provided for in section J115 shall constitute a failure to exhaust available administrative remedies and a waiver of the right to an appeal hearing and review of the decision and imposition of costs and penalties or any portion thereof.

J115 Appeals. J115.1 All decisions of the building director regarding the enforcement of this appendix shall be subject to appeal to the Mariposa County board of supervisors. Any person(s) subject to such decision may, within ten (10) days after such decision is rendered, file an appeal in writing with the clerk of the Mariposa County board of supervisors. The decision of the board of supervisors shall be final. Any fee for filing an appeal with the board of supervisors shall be paid by the appellant to the clerk of the board as set forth by resolution of the board of supervisors.
J116 Liens. J116.1 Any unpaid costs and civil penalties, plus accrued interest, may be imposed as a lien on any real property owned by a responsible person(s) within this county against whom costs and civil penalties has been imposed, as follows. J116.1.1 Notice shall be given to the responsible person(s) before recordation of the lien and be served in the same manner. J116.1.2 Said lien shall attach when the county records it with the county recorder's office and shall include the following information: 1. Amount of the lien 2. Date of the lien 3. Code violation date(s) 4. Final decision date 5. Legal description to include Assessor's Parcel Number 6. Property street address, if assigned 7. Record owner(s) name and address J116.1.3 In the event that the lien is discharged, released, or satisfied, either through payment, foreclosure or other lawful means, the county shall record a Notice of Discharge or Satisfaction of lien containing the information specified in section J116.1.2 of this appendix. J116.1.4 The county may take such other actions as are allowed by law enforcement of a civil judgment.

HISTORY

The 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5, and Appendixes “BO” Existing Buildings and Structures, “BB” Tiny Houses, “BJ” Strawbale Construction, “BM” 3D-Printed Building Construction, "CI" Swimming Pool Safety Act, and “CJ” Emergency housing are adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be known and referred to as the residential code of the County. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Sec. I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1164 Sec.I on 7/6/2021 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.090 (Reserved) HISTORY Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.100 California Electrical Code Adopted¶

The 2025 California Electrical Code, Part 3, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein and shall be referred to as the electrical code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

The 2025 California Mechanical Code, Part 4, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be referred to as the mechanical code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Section I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1164 Sec.I on 7/6/2021 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.120 (Reserved)

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.130 California Plumbing Code Adopted

The 2025 California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be referred to as the plumbing code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.140 (Reserved)

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.150 California Energy Code Adopted

The 2025 California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein and shall be referred to as the energy code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

The 2025 California Historical Building Code, Title 24, Part 8, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, with the following revisions, and shall be referred to as the historical building code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.170 Revisions To California Historical Building Code¶

1. 8-101.2 Purpose.

The purpose shall also be to implement the provisions of the Mariposa County General Plan Historic Preservation Policies.
8-107 Designation of Special Historical or Architectural Significance.
1. The Mariposa County Historic Sites and Records Preservation Commission shall be responsible for the nomination of buildings and/or structures, in accordance with this chapter, to be considered by the board of supervisors.
The Mariposa County Historic Sites and Records Preservation Commission is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the official "Mariposa County List of Buildings or Structures with Special Historical or Architectural Significance".

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.180 California Existing Building Code Adopted

The 2025 California Existing Building Code, Title 24, Part 10, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein and shall be referred to as the existing building code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Sec. I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1164 Sec.I on 7/6/2021 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.190 California Green Building Standards Code Adopted

The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein and shall be referred to as the Green Building Standards Code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

The 2025 California Referenced Standards Code, Title 24, Part 12, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein and shall be referred to as the referenced standards code of the county. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1103 Sec. I on 11/19/2013 Amended by Ord. 1119 Sec. I on 11/15/2016 Amended by Ord. 1147 Sec. I on 11/5/2019 Amended by Ord. 1164 Sec.I on 7/6/2021 Amended by Ord. 1181 Sec. I on 12/20/2022 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.205 Housing And Community Development, Title 25, Division 1 Adopted

The Housing and Community Development Code, Title 25, Division 1, is adopted by reference and incorporated in this chapter as if fully set forth herein, and shall be known and referred to as the Housing and Community Development Code of the County. A copy of said code shall be kept and maintained by the building official for use and examination by the public.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025 15.10.210 Building Permit Exemptions

In addition to the exemptions allowed in CBC section 105.2, there shall not be a building permit required for a non-habitable pre-fabricated metal frame shelter designed for automobiles, farm equipment, recreational vehicles, boats, and other like vehicles if the shelter is attached directly to the ground, whether by stakes designed and approved for the application intended or poured concrete footings at each support, and the square footage of each side and end is at least fifty percent (50%) open, e.g., if a side is 8 feet high and 20 feet long, no more than 80 square feet of the opening can be covered, and the shelter is to be used solely for shelter of a boat, automobile, truck, trailer, farm equipment, recreational vehicle, or like vehicle or equipment. The shelter shall be separated by minimum of 6 feet from any structure and shall comply with applicable setbacks for the parcel. The maximum allowable structure size is to be 400 square feet. This exemption from a building permit shall not be applicable to any utilities which are included in the shelter. Any utilities shall require a permit and applicable fees to be charged by the building department.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.220 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Drain Pans

Liquefied petroleum gas drain pans shall be constructed of twenty-six (26) gauge, galvanized, water tight, sheet metal with a minimum of three (3) inch tall sides with a three-quarter (3/4") inch minimum drain line. Said pan with drain shall be installed under all liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) appliances such as furnaces and water heaters where there is a risk of LPG buildup within a structure as determined by the building official. The drain line shall have a minimum slope of three-quarter (3/4") inch per foot to an approved venting location at the exterior of the building.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.230 Utility Service Requirements

No utility company or provider shall provide any electrical, power, butane, propane or natural gas service to any system in the county of Mariposa until the system has received approval by the Mariposa County building department.
No utility company or provider shall provide any electrical, power, butane, propane or natural gas service to any newly constructed dwelling unless there is a county approved access, dedicated county road or state highway, and the address of the building permanently affixed to either the building itself or on an address sign adjacent to the access road or individual driveway leading to the building. The letters and numbers of the address shall be of a minimum height of three (3") inches with a contrasting background and be visible from the county dedicated roadway.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.240 Notice Of Non-Compliance

In circumstances where construction work has been commenced or completed without the required permit(s) or where there has been a failure to obtain final inspection approval prior to the expiration of the required permit(s), the code official shall record a "Notice of Non-Compliance" against the parcel with the Mariposa County recorder's office. The notice shall be addressed to the record owner of the property, shall be recorded, and shall contain the following:

Information that the property has been inspected;
The address of the property including the APN number;
Description of the violation(s) of County Code;
The section(s) of County Code which has been violated;
Date of notice.

Upon compliance with the County Code, the building department shall record a release of the Notice of Non-Compliance relative to the property.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1202 on 9/30/2025

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.250 Penalties¶

The penalties for violation of any of the provisions of this chapter or of any of the Mariposa County Codes adopted herein, shall be as prescribed in Chapter 1.20, section 1.20.010 of this code, or as otherwise provided in this title. The provisions of this chapter may also be enforced by injunction issued out of the superior court upon suit of the county to the owner(s) or person(s) in possession of any real property affected by such violation; this method of enforcement shall be cumulative and no way affect the penal provisions hereof.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.260 Civil Penalty For Violation Of Certain Building, Zoning, Public Health,…¶

Charge - Code violation. In addition to any other fee or penalty imposed by this code or by law, any person who violates Chapters 15.10, and 15.11, of this code shall pay one of the following sums, as determined by the enforcing officer, to the county of Mariposa.
1. If the violation arises from an unlawful commercial, rental or similar use or structure on the property:
  1. The fair market rental value of the land or structure in violation for the period of time elapsed from the date of mailing the Notice of Violation through to its abatement by whatever means; or
  2. No less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per day and no more than one hundred dollars ($100) per day for the first violation; no more than two hundred dollars ($200) per day for a second violation of the same ordinance within one year; and no more than five hundred dollars ($500) per day for each additional violation of the same ordinance within one year for each day that the violation exists after the date of mailing of the Notice of Violation through to its abatement by whatever means; or
  3. In the event that the use or structure in violation may be permitted with an appropriate permit, a minimum of three (3) times and up to maximum of ten (10) times the amount of the standard fee for every required approval, review, and permit will be imposed.
2. If the violation arises from an unlawful owner-occupied residential use or structure on the property:
  1. The fair market rental value of the land or structure in violation for the period of time elapsed from the date of mailing of the Notice of Violation through to its abatement by whatever means; or
  2. No less than fifteen dollars ($15.00) per day and no more than one hundred dollars ($100) per day for the first violation; or no more than two hundred dollars ($200) per day for a second violation of the same ordinance within one year; or no more than five hundred dollars ($500) per day for each additional violation of the same ordinance within one year for each day that the violation exists after the date of mailing of the Notice of Violation through to its abatement by whatever means; or
  3. In the event that the use or structure in violation may be permitted with an appropriate permit, a minimum of three (3) times and up to a maximum of five (5) times the amount of the standard fee for every required approval, review and permit will be imposed.
3. For any other violation, including but not limited to an unlawful noncommercial junkyard, an unlawful noncommercial truck terminal, an unlawful non-operative vehicle storage yard, and an unlawful accessory structure:
No less than five dollars ($5.00) per day and no more than one hundred dollars ($100) per day for the first violation; no more than two hundred dollars ($200) per day for a second violation of the same ordinance within one year; and no more than five hundred dollars ($500) per day for each additional violation of the same ordinance within one year for each day that the violation exists after the date of mailing of the Notice of Violation through to its abatement by whatever means; or
1. In the event that the use or structure in violation may be permitted with an appropriate permit, a minimum of three (3) times and up to a maximum of five (5) times the amount of the standard fee for every required approval, review, and permit will be imposed.
2. The enforcing officer shall have the sole and exclusive discretion to set the amount of the civil penalties within the ranges set forth in this section, except that the enforcing officer shall not impose any penalty greater than the minimum amount in any range of civil penalties set forth in this section, unless the enforcing officer's department has adopted a written policy setting forth how civil penalties within the various ranges are determined.
Enforcing officer. For the purposes of this section "Enforcing Officer" means the director of the Mariposa County building department, or his/her designee.
Determination of penalties. The determination of charges imposed under this section shall be as defined herein:
1. Such determination shall take into account the facts and circumstances of the violation including, but not limited to:
  1. Whether or not the violation poses a threat to human health, safety, or to the environment;
  2. The seriousness or gravity of the violation;
  3. The length of time the violation has existed;
  4. The culpability of the person in violation or the willfulness of the violation;
  5. The knowledge of and familiarity with building regulation of the individual that created or caused the violation to occur;
  6. The extent of the violation and its effect on adjoining properties;
  7. Any attempts to comply with the applicable ordinances;
  8. And any other information which might be relevant to the determination of charges to be imposed.
Appeal of determination. At the discretion of the enforcing officer, or his/her designee, or upon the proper appeal of the property owner, the determination may be referred to the Mariposa County building appeals board. A person dissatisfied with the decision of the appeals board may appeal to the board of supervisors pursuant to the county code appeals procedures.
Exclusions.
The charges imposed by this section shall not apply if the property owner establishes that, at the time he or she acquired the property, (i) a violation of this code existed on the property, (ii) the property owner did not have actual or constructive notice of the existence of said violation, and (iii) within thirty (30) days after the mailing of Notice of Existence of said violation the property owner initiates and pursues with due diligence, and good faith effort is made to meet the requirements of Mariposa County Codes as determined solely by the enforcing officer.

Note of Clarification: A property owner has constructive notice of the existence of a violation if the property owner has actual notice of circumstances sufficient to put a prudent person upon inquiry as to a particular fact and if by prosecuting such inquiry, the person might have learned that a violation existed on the property.

The charges imposed by this section shall not apply if the owner establishes that (i) within thirty (30) days after the date of mailing of Notice of Existence of the violation, the property owner removed from the property the use or structure which constituted the violation, and (ii) the property owner had not previously been mailed a notice of a violation of the same code section, regardless of the parcel on which such violation occurred.
The board of supervisors may amend or temporarily suspend the provisions of this section by the adoption of a resolution establishing an amnesty period for a period of time so stipulated in the resolution.
Except as otherwise provided herein, no application for building permit shall be accepted, no certificate of occupancy or form of clearance of any type shall be issued, and no inspection services shall be provided, for a parcel upon which an unabated county code violation exists. This prohibition shall not apply to any permit or action necessary for the correction or abatement of a county code violation. This prohibition shall not apply to an emergency permit which is necessary for the immediate health and safety of residents as determined by the building director.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 Amended by Ord. 1173 Sec. I on 5/10/2022

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.270 Regulations For Use Of Travel Trailers/Recreational Vehicles¶

Travel trailers/recreational vehicles are considered sub-standard housing and as such cannot be used as a residence.
Travel trailers/recreational vehicles may not be used as a residence unless a permit has been obtained from the building department to do so in conjunction with an approved and issued single family dwelling permit.
This section does not apply to a licensed or authorized campground or recreational park or facility.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010

Exceptions & meaning →

15.10.280 Enforcement Of 15.10.270¶

Any person violating section 15.10.270 will be subject to civil penalties and costs of enforcement provided by this chapter and for injunctive relief or any other appropriate relief.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.290 Recovery Of Costs/Penalties

The Mariposa County building department shall maintain records of all costs including, but not limited to:

Administrative
Professional fees
Court costs
Attorney's fees
Laboratory costs
Remedial construction costs
All other costs incurred in the processing of violations and enforcement of this chapter, and to the extent feasible, recover such costs from the owner(s) of the property upon which a violation may occur, to include other responsible party(s).

If the county elects upon filing suit in the superior court to seek attorney fees the prevailing party may receive attorney fees. Recovery of attorney fees may not exceed the amount of attorney fees incurred by the county in the action.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.300 Liens

The amount of any unpaid costs and civil penalties, plus accrued interest, may be imposed as a lien on any real property owned by a responsible person(s) against whom costs and civil penalties have been imposed as follows:

Notice shall be given to the responsible party(s) before recordation of the lien and be served in the same manner as a summons in a civil action pursuant to code of civil procedure section 415.10 et seq. as revised.
The lien shall attach when the county records it with the county recorder's office. The lien shall specify the amount of the lien, the date of the lien, the date of the code violation, the code section(s) violated, the date of the final decision, street address and/or legal description, the assessor's parcel number of the parcel upon which the lien is imposed, and the name and address of the record owner(s) of the parcel.
In the event that the lien is discharged, released or satisfied either through payment, foreclosure or other lawful means, the county shall record a Notice of Release of lien containing the information specified in subsection "B" of this section. The county may take such other actions for enforcement of a civil judgment as allowed by law.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010 15.10.310 Safety Assessment Placards

Intent. This section establishes standard placards to be used to indicate the condition of a structure for continued occupancy. The section further authorizes the building official and his/her authorized representatives to post the appropriate placard at each entry point to a building or structure upon completion of a safety assessment.
Application of Provisions.
1. The provisions of this section are applicable to all buildings and structures of all occupancies regulated by Mariposa county. The board of supervisors may extend the provisions as necessary.
Definitions.
Safety assessment is a visual, non-destructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy.
Placards.
1. The following are verbal descriptions of the official jurisdiction placards to be used to designate the condition for continued occupancy of buildings or structures. The actual placards are included with this ordinance as attachments A-1, A-2, A-3.
  1. A-1 - Lawful Occupancy Permitted (GREEN): Is to be posted on any building or structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been found. This placard is not intended to mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.
  2. A-2 - Restricted Use (YELLOW): Is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged wherein the damage has resulted in some form of restriction to the continued occupancy. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered and will clearly and concisely note the restrictions on continued occupancy.
  3. A-3 Unsafe-Do Not Enter or Occupy (RED): Is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life safety. Buildings or structures posted with this placard shall not be entered under any circumstance except as authorized in writing by the building official or his/her authorized representative. Safety assessment teams shall be authorized to enter these buildings at any time. This placard is not to be used as or considered as a demolition order. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered.
2. The name of the jurisdiction, its address, and phone number shall be permanently affixed to each placard.
3. Once a placard has been attached to a building or structure, the placard is not to be removed, altered or covered until authorized to do so by the building official. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to alter, remove, cover or deface a placard unless authorized pursuant to this section.

HISTORY

Adopted by Ord. 1073 Sec. II on 11/9/2010

Exceptions & meaning →