Merced Municipal Code Ch. 17.32 Fire Code

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Editor's note— Ord. No. 2544, § 1, adopted December 5, 2022, repealed the former Ch. 17.32, §§ 17.32.010—17.32.260, and enacted a new Ch. 17.32 as set out herein. The former Ch. 17.32 pertained to similar subject matter and derived from Ord. No. 2507, § 1, 11-18-2019.

Subject to the particular additions, deletions, and amendments herein set forth in this Chapter, three (3) certified copies of which are on file in the office of the city clerk, the rules, regulations, provisions, and conditions set forth in that certain code entitled International Fire Code, 2024 Edition, the 2025 California Fire Code, including appendices Chapter 4, and Appendices B, BB, C, CC, D, E, F, G, I, J, K, L, N, and P as published by the International Code Council, is adopted and shall be designated, known, and referred to as the International Fire Code, and the California Fire Code of and for the City of Merced.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Officers or employees of the City of Merced Fire Department, as designated by the fire chief or designee, who have the discretionary duty to enforce a statute or ordinance may, pursuant to Section 836.5 of the Penal Code of the State of California and subject to the provisions hereof, arrest a person without a warrant whenever any such officer or employee has reasonable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed a misdemeanor in the officer's or employee's presence which s/he has the discretionary duty to enforce, and to issue a notice to appear and release such person on his or her written promise to appear in court pursuant to Chapter 5C, Citations for Misdemeanors, of the Penal Code of the State of California (commencing with Section 853.6).

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Chapter 1 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

A. Section 102.7, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 102.7. Referenced codes and standards.

The codes and standards referenced in the Code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80 of the 2025 California Fire Code, and such codes and standards shall be considered part of the requirements of this Code to the prescribed extent of each such reference, and as further regulated in Section 102.7.1.

B. Section 102.7.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between the provisions of this Code and the referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this Code shall apply.

C. Section 102.8, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 102.8. Subjects not regulated by this code.

Where applicable standards or requirements are not set forth in this code, or are contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or bylaws adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other nationally recognized fire safety standards, as approved shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the power of the Fire Chief or designee to determine compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the Fire Chief's or designee's jurisdiction or responsibility.

In instances where a new product or process for use or where alternative materials or methods are being proposed, the Fire Chief or designee may require that the product or process be evaluated by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES). All tests required as evidence for compliance shall be at no cost to the City.

EXCEPTION: Recognized standards shall not include any standard which attempts to regulate local authority as to minimum daily staffing levels and incident response levels. These standards include but are not limited to NFPA 1710 & 1720.

D. Sections 104.10 and 104.10.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, are amended to read as follows:

Section 104.10. Fire Investigations.

The Fire Chief, Fire Chief Officers and members of the fire investigation team who have been designated by the Fire Chief shall have the powers of a police officer in performing their duties under this Code.

Section 104.10.1. Assistance from other Agencies.

Police and other enforcement agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance in the investigation of fires when requested to do so.

E. Section 105.2.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 105.2.2 Inspection authorized.

Before a new operational permit is approved, the Fire Code Chief or designee shall inspect the receptacles, vehicles, buildings, devices, premises, storage spaces, or areas to be used to determine compliance with this Code or any operational constraints required. In instances where laws, rules, regulations, provisions, or conditions are enforceable by departments or organizations other than the Fire Department, joint approval shall be obtained from the departments or organizations.

F. Section 105.5, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 105.5. Required Operational Permit.

The Fire Chief or designee is authorized to issue operational permits for the operations set forth in Sections 105.5.1 through 105.5.59.5 of the 2025 California Fire Code. Before a permit is issued, the Fire Chief or his authorized representative(s) shall inspect and approve the receptacles, vehicles, building devices, premises, storage spaces or areas to be used.

In instances where laws or regulations are enforceable by departments other than the Fire Department, joint approval shall be obtained from all necessary departments concerned. Permits shall be valid for a one (1) year period and may be amended at any time there is a known addition of a permitted operation.

G. Section 105.5.30, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add the following:

Section 105.5.30. LP-gas.

1. Storage and Use of LP-gas. Distributors shall not fill an LP-gas container for which a permit is required unless the fire code official has issued a permit for installation for that location.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Containers not exceeding five (5) gallon water capacity, used for 'barbecue' cooking, when used and stored outside of buildings.

2. Approved containers not exceeding sixteen and four-tenths (16.4) ounces when displayed for sale in mercantile occupancies.

3. Factory installed containers for recreational vehicles not exceeding ten (10) gallon water capacity.

4. Factory installed tanks that are permanently attached to recreational vehicles.

H. Section 105.5.59, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Sections 105.5.59.1 and 105.5.59.2:

105.5.59.4 Fire extinguishers. Placement of fire extinguishers inside apartment complexes

105.5.59.5 Wrecking Yard. A permit is required to operate a wrecking yard.

I. Section 106.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 106.1.1, 106.1.2., and 106.1.3:

Section 106,1.1 Elevation Drawings. Elevation drawings are required on sprinkler submittals.

Section 106.1.2 Hydraulic Calculations. Hydraulic calculations are required on submittals whenever additions or modifications are made to an existing system.

Section 106.1.3 Registered Design Professional. The construction documents shall be prepared by a Registered Designed Professional.

J. Section 106.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 106.2.5:

Section 106.2.5. Information on construction detail page.

A construction 'detail' page for all Group A, B, E, F-1, I, L, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-3.1, R-4, S-1, S-2, and all other buildings 5,000 square feet or greater in area shall be submitted and approved by the Chief Building Official or designee prior to permit issuance. The 'detail' page shall be an 8 ½" x 11" document and an electronically submitted "detail" page for emergency responder data files. The 'detail' page shall include a site plan showing:

a. Property, site layout

b. Roads, fire access lanes, and building access points

c. Premises Identification (address, building identification, suites, room numbers, etc.)

d. Hydrants and FDC locations

e. Knox product locations

f. Fire alarm control locations

g. Fire riser locations

h. Hose valve locations

i. 'Main Electrical' and 'Main Gas Disconnect' locations

j. Hazardous materials storage

Exception: Occupancy Group R-3 One and Two Family Dwellings.

K. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Sections 108.7:

108.7. Inspection Fee. Where an inspection is required by the provisions of this Code or any other purpose as required by the Fire Chief or designee, the department shall charge an inspection fee. This fee shall be in addition to any fire permit charges and any other fees required by this Code. Inspection fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.

L. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 108.8:

108.8. Fire Watch/Stand-by Fee. Where a fire watch or standby is required by the provisions of this Code or any other purpose as required by the Fire Chief, the department shall charge a service fee. Service fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.

M. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to added Section 108.9:

108.9. False Alarms. The owner and occupants of any premises, which generates more than two (2) false alarms in any calendar year will be required to pay response costs for any and all false alarms for the third (3rd) and any subsequent false alarm in that time frame. Fees for false alarms shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.

N. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 108.10:

108.10. Permit Fees. An inspection fee for permits required by Sections 105.5.2 through 105.5.59.5 shall be paid prior to the issuance of the permit and prior to all subsequent renewals. Inspection and permit fees shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council.

O. Section 108, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 108.11:

108.11. Charge for Fire Suppression. Any person who, after written notification by the Fire Chief or designee causes, permits or allows the existence of a fire hazard or hazards as defined by this Code or any person who negligently, or in violation of the law, sets a fire, allows a fire to be set, or allows a fire kindled or attended by him or her to escape onto any public or private property is liable for the expense of fighting the fire. These expenses shall include, but not be limited to, all costs for suppression, rescue or emergency medical services, or investigation. The Fire Chief or designee shall determine whether said fire hazard caused, or contributed to the spread of the fire. Each applicable expense rate shall be adopted by Resolution of the City Council or, if no rate is established, the expense rate shall be the actual cost of the product or service.

P. Section 109.2, Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 109.2. Inspections.

The Fire Chief or designee is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspections by approved agencies or individuals. All reports of such inspections shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval by the Fire Chief or designee. The Fire Chief or designee is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual, detailed or complex technical issues subject to the approval of the City Council of the City of Merced

The Fire Chief or designee is authorized to inspect, as often as may be necessary, buildings and premises, including such other hazards or appliances as the Fire Chief or designee may designate for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any condition which would reasonably tend to cause fire or contribute to its spread, or any violation of the purpose or provisions of this code and of any other law or standard affecting fire safety.

Q. Section 112.1, Chapter 1 of the 2025 Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Section 112.1. General.

In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the Fire Chief or designee relative to the application and interpretation of this Code, a Board of Appeals is hereby created. The City of Merced Building and Housing Board of Appeals, whose members are qualified by experience and training, is appointed to determine the suitability of alternate materials and types of construction and to provide for reasonable interpretation of the provisions of this Code. The Fire Chief or designee shall be an ex officio member of the board. The board shall adopt reasonable rules and regulations for conducting its investigations and shall render decisions and findings in writing to the Fire Chief or designee, with a duplicate copy to the appellant.

R. Sections 113.4 and 113.4.1 Chapter 1 of the 2025 California Fire Code, are amended to read as follows:

113.4. Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this Code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the Fire Code Official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this Code, in addition to any and all other administrative or civil action, proceeding, or remedy, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, subject to punishment in accordance with Chapter 1.12 of the Merced Municipal Code.

Section 113.4.1. Abatement of violation.

(a) In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the Fire Chief or designee is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.

(b) Fire hazard. Any person(s) operating or maintaining any occupancy, premises or vehicle subject to this code who shall cause any fire hazard to exist on premises under his/her control or who shall fail to take immediate action to abate a fire hazard when ordered or notified to do so by the Fire Chief or his duly authorized representative shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

A. Chapter 2 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

B. Section 202, Chapter 2 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add general definitions:

'False alarm' - is the deliberate reporting of an alarm for which no such fire or emergency actually exists and shall also mean the deliberate or accidental transmission of alarm signal, either silent or audible, prompting a response to be made by the Fire Department when an emergency situation for which the alarm system was intended does not exist.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

A. Chapter 3 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

B. Section 308, Chapter 3 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 308.1.6.3:

308.1.7 Sky lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an untethered sky lantern.

C. Section 315, Chapter 3 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 315.7:

Section 315.7 Requirements for Outdoor Storage of Pallets.

1. Open yards required by the California Building Code shall be maintained around structures. CFC 2803.1 (Yard — An open space, other than a court, unobstructed from the ground to the sky, except where specifically provided by the California Building Code, on the lot on which a building is situated.) CFC Definitions Section 202.

2. Piles shall be a minimum of 25 feet from a structure.

3. Piles shall not be located within 10 feet of a property line.

4. The maximum dimensions of a pile shall not exceed 20 feet x 70 feet.

5. Pile height shall not exceed 20 feet.

6. There shall be 10 feet of aisle ways between piles.

7. Piles shall be placed in grids not to exceed 140 feet by 150 feet.

8. Each grid shall be separated by an approved fire apparatus access road.

9. Permanent pallet storage areas shall be surrounded with an approved fence. Fences shall be a minimum of six (6) feet in height.

10. Adequate water supply, as required by the fire department, shall be provided for fire suppression needs.

11. Note: Pallets shall not obstruct fire apparatus access roads or fire apparatus access to water supplies (fire hydrants, etc.)

[Figure]

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

A. Chapter 4 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

B. Section 403, Chapter 4 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 403.10.5.1:

Section 403.10.5.1. Group S Occupancies greater than 100,000 square feet.

An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for buildings greater than 100,000 square feet in aggregate floor area.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Chapter 5 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

A. Section 503.2, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.

(a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be all-weather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 22 feet in width as measured from the face of the curb. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.

B. Section 503.2.1, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 22 feet as measured from the face of the curb, exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.

(a) Where new or remodeled building(s) or premises are provided with automatic security gates, the following methods of entry shall be required: Key switch. The key switch shall be keyed the same as the City of Merced approved master key (Knox); and, Radio Operated controller (Click2Enter or other approved equipment).

(b) When Fire Department access is blocked due to a non-automatic gate, any locking devices used on such gate shall be operable with an approved key box access key.

C. Section 507.5.4, Chapter 5 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The Fire Department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.

Where fire hydrants and/or Fire Department connections are installed in inconspicuous locations, the Fire Code Official may require hydrant locations to be identified by the installation of blue reflective markers and the location of the Fire Department connections to be identified by green reflective markers.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Chapter 8 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Chapter 9, as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

A. Section 901.6.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein:

901.6.3 System Records. All contractors who service, test, install, and/or maintain fire protection systems within the City are required to enroll and utilize the approved single-point repository to file the records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the referenced standards. The approved repository service shall be maintained and provided to the Fire Code Official through a third party inspection reporting system. Fees, as applicable, will be paid directly from the contractor to the single-point repository vendor.

B. Section 903.1, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.1.2:

903.1.2. Determination of Building Area. For purposes of determining building area for automatic fire sprinkler system requirements, the following criteria shall be used:

1. Area or occupancy separation walls will not be allowed to reduce the overall square footage in an area of a building in order to circumvent the requirements for an automatic sprinkler system.

Exceptions:

a. Party walls located on a lot-line between two buildings in accordance with California Building Code, Section 706.

b. Firewalls without openings installed in accordance with California Building Code, Section 706 and with specific fire wall requirements in Section 903.2 of this Code based on occupancy.

2. Determination of building area for combustible construction shall be measured to the building perimeter roof drip line, including architectural features, such as, but not limited to, mansards, towers, porte cocheres, etc., with the exception of 44" maximum depth roof eaves. For non-combustible construction, building area shall include all perimeter roof areas exceeding 44" that are required by NFPA 13 to have fire sprinkler protection under the projection. The area of open shafts or courts need not be included in calculating floor area. When multiple buildings are considered as one building per California Building Code, the combined floor areas shall be used to determine the automatic fire sprinkler requirements.

C. Section 903.1, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.1.3:

903.1.3. Applicability to Existing Buildings. For existing buildings, an automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed in those circumstances described in this subsection. Installation requirements shall be as set forth for new buildings by Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.19.1.2.

1. Building Additions. When additions exceed 25% of the existing building square footage and the total proposed building area is 5,000 square feet or greater, an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building. The 25% threshold shall be cumulative over the life of the building.

Exception: Building additions of non-combustible construction and non-combustible uses such as covered pedestrian walkways.

2. Change of Occupancy. In existing buildings 5,000 square feet or greater, when a Change of Occupancy, in accordance with the California Building Code is made and the proposed new occupancy is more hazardous to life and safety than the existing occupancy an automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed throughout the building.

Exceptions:

a. If the area in which the Change of Occupancy occurs is less than 25% of the actual floor area of the existing building, the area of the new occupancy is 5,000 square feet or less, and fire sprinklers are not required based on occupancy by Section 903, and automatic fire sprinkler system is not required for any portion of the building. The 25% limit is cumulative over the life of the building.

b. If the area in which the Change of Occupancy occurs exceeds 25%, but is less than 50% of the actual floor area of the existing building, only that portion of the building changing occupancy is required to have an automatic fire sprinkler system installed. An approved fire separation shall be required between portions of the building with fire sprinklers and those portions without.

c. If individual or cumulative Change of Occupancies exceeds 50% of the overall floor area of the existing building, then the entire building shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system installed throughout.

3. Fire Damage Repairs. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed as a condition of fire damage repair building permit as follows:

a. When a fire occurs in any existing occupancy, and the building permit repair costs exceed 50% of the current building valuation, an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building as required for a new building in Section 903.

b. Fire damage repair costs and building valuation shall be based on the ICC Building Valuation Tables in use by the City's Development Services Department at the time of the time of submittal of the fire damage repair permit.

c. Project valuation calculation will be cumulative across permits within one year of a fire damaged permit submittal date.

D. Section 903.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:

903.2 Where required. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system is required in all new buildings and structures constructed on or after the effective date of this ordinance, notwithstanding the use and occupancy thereof, when the total floor area under one roof is five thousand (5,000) square feet or greater.

EXCEPTION:

In the case of motor vehicle fuel dispensing canopies not connected to an additional structure, and not dispensing or generating hydrogen, an approved automatic fire sprinkler system is required when the total floor area under one roof is 10,000 square feet or greater.

If the provisions of the 2025 California Fire Code Section 903.2.1 through 903.2.19.1.2 are more restrictive, then the more restrictive requirement shall apply.

E. Section 903.2.8, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add the following:

903.2.8.4 Fire Loop. Fire loop and interconnected private service main forming a closed circuit so that water can reach any point in the system from at least two directions is required for new group R developments and additions that result in ten or more dwelling or sleeping units on a parcel or contiguous parcels under common development.

F. Section 903.2.10, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code as follows:

1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage is 5,000 square feet or greater; or

2. Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.

G. Section 903.3 Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows:

903.3.5.3 Fire Flow Test. A 10% reduction shall be made to the static and residual calculations used for design criteria of automatic sprinkler systems.

903.3.5.4 Fire Flow Test Expiration. Fire flow test shall expire after twelve (12) months.

H. Section 903.4.2, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved and listed supervising station or, when approved by the Fire Code Official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location, including, but not limited to, alarm systems flow switches, supervised OS & Y valves and post indicator valves. Fire suppression monitoring shall include audible and visual notification to all occupants.

I. Section 903, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.5.1:

903.5.1 Automatic Sprinkler System. Approval from the authority having jurisdiction is required before any equipment of the automatic sprinkler system is installed, remodeled, or replaced. Plan submittal is required for adjustment, repair, reconditioning or replacement, of more than twenty (20) sprinklers.

J. Section 903, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 903.7:

903.7 Fire Control Room. An approved fire control room shall be provided for all buildings protected by an automatic fire sprinkler or other approved system. The fire control room shall contain all system control valves, fire alarm control panels, other fire equipment, and pre-incident, hazardous material or other plans required by the Fire Code Official. Fire control rooms shall be located within the building at a location approved by the Fire Code Official and be provided with a means of access to the room directly from the exterior. The room shall be constructed of not less than 1-hour fire resistive construction. Durable signage shall be provided on the exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room.

Exception: The Fire Code Official may waive this requirement for existing and specific buildings based on size, configuration, use, and potential life and fire safety hazards.

K. Section 907.6.6, Chapter 9 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

907.6.6 Monitoring. All required fire alarm and fire extinguishing systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72, and this section.

Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:

1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.

2. Group I-3 occupancies shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.4.

3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Chapter 11 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in part as follows:

A. Section 1101, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

B. Section 1102, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

C. Section 1103.1, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

D. Section 1103.2, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

E. Section 1103.3, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

F. Section 1103.4, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

G. Section 1103.5, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

H. Section 1103.6, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

I. Section 1103.7, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

J. Section 1103.8, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

K. Section 1103.9, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

L. Section 1104.3, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

M. Section 1104.4, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

N. Section 1104.5, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

O. Section 1104.6, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

P. Section 1104.7, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

Q. Section 1104.8, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

R. Section 1104.10, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

S. Section 1104.13, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

T. Section 1104.14, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

U. Section 1104.15, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

V. Section 1104.16, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

W. Section 1104.18, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

X. Section 1104.19, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

Y. Section 1104.20, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

Z. Section 1104.23, Chapter 11 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted without amendment.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

The city hereby designates the fire hazard severity zones as recommended by the California Department of Forestry protection pursuant to Government code section 51178.

(Ord. No. 2578, § 1, 7-7-2025; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

A. Section 5608 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to add Section 5608.2 as follows:

Section 5608.2 Fireworks Prohibited Except as authorized by Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal Code.

The use and sale of 'safe and sane' fireworks for public display shall be permitted within the city, in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth in Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal Code. It is unlawful for any person to possess, store, to offer for sale, sell at retail or use or explode any fireworks except as provided in Chapter 8.22 of the Merced Municipal Code.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

A. Section 5704.2.9.6.1, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:

5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of Class I and II Liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited, with the exception of protected tanks designed, installed and maintained in accordance with the 2025 California Fire Code. The provisions of this section shall not apply to facilities for the production, generation, or transmission of electric energy that provide power to entities furnishing retail electrical services to facilities within the City of Merced.

Exception: Listed generators for emergency/standby power.

B. Section 5704.2.9, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add Section 5704.2.9.8:

5704.2.9.8 Maintenance of protected above ground tanks. Protected aboveground tanks and connected piping shall be maintained in a safe operating condition. Protected aboveground tanks shall be maintained in accordance with their listings.

Damage to protected aboveground tanks shall be repaired using material having equal or greater strength and fire resistance or the protected aboveground tank shall be replaced or taken out of service.

C. Section 5704.3.4.2, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to add subsection 7.1:

7.1 Manufacture of biodiesel in residential occupancies. The manufacture and storage of biodiesel is prohibited in Residential Occupancies and in U Occupancies associated with Residential Occupancies.

D. Section 5704.3.4.2, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended by adding subsection 7.2:

7.2 Manufacture of ethanol in residential occupancies. The manufacture and storage of ethanol is prohibited in Residential Occupancies and in U Occupancies associated with Residential Occupancies.

E. Section 5705.3.3, Chapter 57 of the 2025 California Fire Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:

5705.3.3 Heating, lighting, and cooking appliances. Heating, lighting, and cooking appliances that utilize Class I, II and III liquids shall not be operated within a building or structure.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix 4 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix B as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix BB as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix C as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix CC as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix D as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety except as amended herein.

A. Table D103.4, Appendix D of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Table D103.4 — REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

B. Section D103.5, Appendix D of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:

1. The minimum gate width shall be 22 feet (6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not less then 14 feet (4267 mm).

2. Gates shall be of the swinging or sliding type.

3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.

4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.

5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the Fire Code Official.

6. Manual opening gates shall not be locked with a padlock or chain and padlock unless they are capable of being opened by means of forcible entry tools or when a KNOX padlock is installed at the gate location.

7. Locking device specifications shall be submitted for approval by the Fire Code Official.

8. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.

9. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200.

C. Figure D103.1, Appendix D of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

Figure D103.1 — DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND

1. 96-Foot diameter cul-de-sac measured at flow line to flow line; Typical radius 33' inside and 47' outside.

2. 60-Foot "Y"- Minimum road width 22'; Typical radius 33' inside and 47' outside.

3. Minimum clearance around a fire hydrant—Minimum road width 22'.

4. 120-Foot Hammerhead—Minimum road width 22'; Typical radius 33' inside and 47' outside.

5. Acceptable Alternative to 120-Foot Hammerhead—Minimum road width 22'; Typical radius 33' inside and 47' outside.

D. Section D103.6.1, Appendix D of the 2025 California Fire Code, is amended to read as follows:

D103.6.1 Roads 22 to 26 feet in width. Fire apparatus access roads 22 to 26 feet wide shall be posted on both sides as a fire lane.

E. Section D104 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

F. Section D105 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

G. Section D106 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

H. Section D107 as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

NOTE: Refer to Fire Prevention Policy FPG-01 for examples of fire apparatus access roads.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix E as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix F as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix G as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix H as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix I as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix J as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix K as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix L as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2544, § 1, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix N as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)

Appendix P as set forth in the 2025 California Fire Code, is adopted in its entirety without amendments.

(Ord. No. 2583, § 1, 12-15-2025)