Chapter 16.04 — CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, CALIFORNIA CODE OF

REGULATIONS,

TITLE 24, PART 2, VOLUMES 1 &2*

Sections

16.04.010 2025 California Building Code, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 & 2 adopted and amended.

Application and Part 2 - Administration and Enforcement.

16.04.510 section 1906 Footings for light-frame construction.

• Editor’s Note: Prior ordinance history: Prior code §§ 34.101, 34.102, and portions of Ordinance Nos. 2436, 2605, 2809, 2960, 3056, 3215, 3248, 3255, 3667, 3881, 3911, 4090, 4250, 4256, 4304, 4453, 4559, 4769, 4976, 5099, 5216, 5389, 5477, 5508, 5564 and 5664.

16.04.010 2025 California Building Code, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 & 2 adopted and amended.

The California Building Code, 2025 Edition, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 & 2 of the California Code of Regulations, together with those omissions, amendments, exceptions, and additions thereto, is adopted and hereby incorporated in this chapter by reference and made a part hereof the same as if fully set forth herein.

Unless superseded and expressly repealed, references in City of Palo Alto forms, documents and regulations to the chapters and sections of any former iteration of the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions contained within the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, 2025. Ordinance No. 5564 and No. 5664 of the City of Palo Alto and all other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby expressly repealed.

Wherever the phrases “California Building Code” or “Building Code” are used in this code or any ordinance of the City, such phrases shall be deemed and construed to refer and apply to the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, Title 24, Part 2 of the California Code of Regulations, as adopted by this chapter.

One copy of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, has been filed for use and examination of the public in the Office of the Chief Building Official of the City of Palo Alto.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

The provisions of this chapter contain cross-references to the provisions of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, in order to facilitate reference and comparison to those provisions.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

The provisions of this chapter shall constitute local amendments to the cross-referenced provisions of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, and shall be deemed to replace the cross-referenced sections of said Code with the respective provisions set forth in this chapter. Where used in this Chapter 16.04, ellipses shall indicate text of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, that has been adopted without amendment but is omitted for brevity.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

and Part 2 - Administration and Enforcement.

Chapter 1, Division II, Parts 1 - Scope and Application and Part 2 - Administration and Enforcement of the 2025 California Building Code are adopted in their entirety, as amended herein.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 101.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of City of Palo Alto, hereinafter referred to as "this code".

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 101.2.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

The following Appendix chapters and sections of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, are adopted and hereby incorporated in this Chapter by reference and made a part hereof the same as if fully set forth herein:

A. Appendix I - Patio Covers (Sections I101 through I105)

B. Appendix J - Grading (Section J109.4 Drainage across property lines)

C. Appendix Q - Emergency Housing (Sections Q101 through Q110)

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 101.4 of the California Building Code is amended to add subdivisions 101.4.9 through 101.4.13, as follows:

101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Section 101.4.1 through 101.4.13 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.

[. . .]

101.4.9 Historical Buildings. The provisions of the California Historical Code shall apply to the alteration, addition, and relocation to qualified

historical buildings or properties.

101.4.10 Electrical. The provisions of the California Electrical Code shall apply to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto.

101.4.11 Residential Buildings. The provisions of the California Residential Code shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of detached, one- and two-family dwellings, townhouses not more than three stories and separate means of egress, and structural

accessory thereto.

101.4.12 Green Building Standards. The provisions of the California Green Building Standards Code shall apply to all matters governing the "green building" related planning, design construction, operation, use and occupancy of newly constructed and altered buildings.

101.4.13 International Swimming and Spa Code. The provisions of the 2024 International Swimming and Spa Code shall apply to the installation of private swimming pools and spa facilities.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 103 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The Planning and Development Services Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the chief building official, also referred to as building official or code official. The function of the department shall be the implementation, administration, and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the building official shall have the authority to appoint assistant chief building officials, manager supervisors, and other technical officers, inspectors, and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 104.2.4.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

104.2.4.1 Flood hazard areas. The city engineer or designee shall not grant modifications to any provision required in flood hazard areas as established by Section 1612.3 unless a determination has been made that:

1. A showing of good and sufficient cause that the unique characteristics of the size, configuration or topography of the site render the

elevation standards of Section 1612 inappropriate.

2. A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship by rendering the lot undevelopable.

3. A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary

public expense, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with existing laws or ordinances.

4. A determination that the variance is the minimum necessary to afford relief, considering the flood hazard.

5. Submission to the applicant of written notice specifying the difference between the design flood elevation and the elevation to which the

building is to be built, stating that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced floor elevation, and stating that construction below the design flood elevation increases risks to life and property.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

hazard areas.

Section 104.3.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

104.3.1 Determination of substantially improved or substantially damaged existing buildings and structures in flood hazard areas.For applications for reconstruction, rehabilitation, repair, alteration, addition or other improvement of existing buildings or structures located in flood hazard areas, the city engineer or designee shall determine if the proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage. Where the city engineer or designee determines that the proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage, and where required by this code, the city engineer or designee shall require the building to meet the requirements of Section 1612 of the California Building Code, Section R306 of the California Residential Code as amended, or Palo Alto Municipal Code 16.52 Flood Hazard Regulations, whichever is more stringent.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 105.2 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

Building:

1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not

exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.

2. Wood fences, other than swimming pool barriers, not over 7 feet (2,134 mm) high or concrete or masonry wall not over 4 feet (1,219 mm)

high when not subject to specific city of Palo Alto Planning and Zoning regulations.

3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1,219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless

supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.

4. Oil derricks.

5. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons (18,925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or

width is not greater than 2:1.

6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below and are not

part of an accessible route, accessible parking spaces, or required exits.

7. Wood decks not over 30 inches above surrounding grade or finishes, not attached to a structure, or serving any part of the means of egress.

8. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.

9. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

10. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and

are installed entirely above ground.

11. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.

12. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings and not considered a public playground.

13. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches (1,372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require

additional support of Group R-3 and U occupancies.

14. Nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1,753 mm) in height.

Electrical:

1. Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical

equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

2. Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television

transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for a power supply and the installations of towers and antennas.

3. Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

   4. Temporary decorative lighting: Exterior listed plug-in decorative lighting plugged into a waterproof GFCI receptacle outlet.

   5. Replacement of overcurrent devices: Replacement of any overcurrent device less than 1,200 amps of the same capacity in the same location.

   6. Wiring for temporary theatre, motion picture or television stage sets.

   7. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment operating at less than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more 50 watts of energy.

Gas:

1. Portable heating appliance.

2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

Mechanical:

1. Portable heating appliance.

2. Portable ventilation equipment.

3. Portable cooling unit.

4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.

5. Replacement of any part that does not alter its listing/approval or make it unsafe.

6. Portable evaporative cooler.

7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (0.75 kW)

or less.

Plumbing:

1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided however, that if any concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or

vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.

2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided

that such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

[. . .]

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 105.3.2 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An accepted application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned

12 months after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the building official is authorized to grant one or more extensions and/or reactivations for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each. The extension shall be required in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 105.5 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is

commenced. For the purpose of this section, failure to progress a project to the next level of required inspection, as determined by the chief building official, shall be deemed to be suspension of the work.

The chief building official or designee is authorized to grant, in writing, no more than three extensions and reactivations of permits that would otherwise expire or reactivations of expired permits, for periods not more than 180 days each and may require:

1. That construction documents be revised to partially or fully to comply with current codes and ordinances; and

2. Payment of fees; and

3. Payment of a penalty pursuant to Chapter 16.62 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.

Extensions and reactivations shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. Additional extensions or reactivations beyond three may only be granted with the approval of the City Council.

105.5.1 Term limit for permits. All work associated with a building permit must be completed, and final inspection issued, within 48 months of permit issuance. Once a term limit has been exhausted without obtaining an approved final inspection the permit will automatically become void. The chief building official or designee is authorized to allow a new permit application to be applied for the original scope of work and may require:

1. That construction documents be revised to partially or fully to comply with current codes and ordinances; and

2. Payment of partial or all plan review and permit fees; and

3. Payment of a penalty pursuant to Chapter 16.62 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 106.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

106.1 Live Loads Posted. In commercial, institutional or industrial buildings, for each floor or portion thereof designed for live loads exceeding 50 psf (2.40 kN/m2), such design live loads shall be conspicuously posted by the owner or the owner's authorized agent in that part of each story in which they apply, using durable signs. It shall be unlawful to remove or deface such notices.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 109.6 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

109.6 Refunds. The building official or designee may authorize the refund of any fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected. The building official or designee may authorize the refund of not more than 80% of the permit fee paid when no work has occurred under a permit issued pursuant to this chapter. The building official or designee may authorize the refund of not more than 80% of the plan review fee paid when a permit application is withdrawn or canceled before any plan review work has started.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 109.7 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is added to read:

109.7 Re-Inspection Fees.

A re-inspection fee may be assessed/authorized by the building official or designee for each occurrence as itemized below:

1. Inspection record card is not posted or otherwise available on the work site; or

2. Approved plans are not readily available for the inspector at the time of inspection; or

3. Inspector is unable to access the work at the time of inspection; or

4. When work has substantially deviated from the approved plans without the prior approval of required revision; or

5. When work for which an inspection is requested is not ready for inspection; or

6. When required corrections noted during prior inspections have not been completed.

When a re-inspection fee is assessed, additional inspection of the work will not be performed until the fee has been paid.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 110.2.1 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is added to read:

110.2.1 Preliminary accessibility compliance inspection. Before issuing a permit, the building official or designee is authorized to examine or

cause to be examined the pre-construction accessibility compliance conditions of the buildings, structures, and sites for which an application has been filed.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 110.3.3 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

110.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical

construction, the elevation certification shall be submitted to City Public Works Engineering for inspection approval prior to foundation inspection by City Building Inspection staff.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 111.1 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

111.1 Use and occupancy. A building or structure shall not be used or occupied, and a change in the existing occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the chief building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction.

Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required or issued for:

1. Work exempted from permits under Section 105.2.

2. Group R - Division 3 and Group U occupancies located on a single-family residential/agricultural lot.

3. Non-residential “core and shell” or similar construction (exterior envelope and structural framework) without finalized tenant

improvements(s).

4. Site development without a building or buildings as defined in Section 202.

111.1.1 Change of occupancy or tenancy.

Each change of occupancy, official name or tenancy of any building, structure, or portion thereof, shall require a new certificate of occupancy, whether or not any alterations to the building are required by this code.

Before any application for a new certificate of occupancy is accepted, a fee shall be paid by the applicant to cover the cost of the inspection of

the building required by the change of occupancy or tenancy.

When application is made for a new certificate of occupancy under this section, the building official and fire chief shall cause an inspection of

the building to be made. The inspector(s) shall inform the applicant of those alterations necessary, or if none are necessary, and shall submit a report of compliance to the building official.

If a portion of any building does not conform to the requirements of this code for a proposed occupancy, that portion shall be made to conform.

The building official may issue a new certificate of occupancy without requiring compliance with all such requirements if it is determined that the change in occupancy or tenancy will result in no increased hazard to life or limb, health, property, or public welfare.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 111.3 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

111.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official or designee is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, or as otherwise required, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official or designee shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 111.5 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is added to read:

111.5 Posting. The temporary certificate of occupancy or certificate of occupancy shall be posted in a conspicuous, readily accessible place in the building or portion of building to be occupied and shall not be removed except when authorized by the building official.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 113 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

SECTION 113

MEANS OF APPEALS

113.1 Appeals. A person requesting an order, decision, or determination made by the building official relative to the California Building Code (as amended) may appeal such order, decision or determination by completing a request for hearing form and returning it to the city within 30 calendar days from the date of the decision, together with all applicable fees authorized by the City’s Municipal Fee Schedule. A request for hearing shall be based on a claim that the true intent of the California Building Code (as amended) or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed.

(a) The person requesting the hearing shall be notified of the time and place set for the hearing at least ten days prior to the date of the

hearing.

(b) If the building official submits an additional written report concerning the decision to hearing officer for consideration at the hearing, then a

copy of this report shall also be served on the person requesting the hearing at least five days prior to the date of the hearing.

(c) The appeal procedure set out in this Section 113.1et seq. does not apply to: (1) decisions by the building official or any other city official

related to administrative enforcement actions taken under Chapter 1.12 or Chapter 1.16 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; (2) decisions by the city to enforce the California Building Code under any provision of criminal law; or (3) any other action taken by the city that specifies its own appeal procedure.

113.2 Hearing Officer. The building official shall designate a hearing officer for the appeal hearing. The hearing officer may consist of one person or a body of people. The hearing officer shall not be the building official or any directly subordinate employees.

(a) The hearing officer does not have authority to waive requirements of the California Building Code (as amended) or interpret the

administration of the Code.

(b) The hearing officer does not have authority to issue an order, decision, or determination on his or her own authority. This includes the

issuance or amendment of building permits.

(c) The hearing officer shall be qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction.

113.3 Hearing procedures.

(a) No appeal hearing before a hearing officer shall be noticed unless the applicable fee(s) have been paid in advance in accordance with

Section 113.1.

(b) A hearing before the hearing officer shall be set for a date that is not less than 15 days and not more than 60 days from the date that the request for hearing is filed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. The party requesting the hearing may request one continuance for any reason, provided that the hearing officer is given the request for continuance at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled hearing and that the deferred hearing shall not be deferred more than 90 days after the request for hearing was made. A request for continuance made less than 48 hours before the scheduled hearing may be granted by the hearing officer based upon exigency only. The parties may stipulate to an alternative hearing date schedule outside of these rules upon a finding of good cause and approval from the hearing officer.

(c) At the hearing, the appellant shall be given the opportunity to testify and to present evidence and cross-examine witnesses concerning the

appeal. The appellant may appear personally or through a representative. Prehearing discovery is not authorized, but subpoena of witnesses and documents shall be permitted as authorized by law. The hearing officer may conduct the hearing informally, both as to rules of procedure and admission of evidence, in any manner which will provide a fair hearing.

(d) The failure of the appellant to appear at the hearing or, in the alternative, to present written or demonstrative evidence shall constitute the

dismissal of the appeal with prejudice.

(e) The administrative record and any additional report submitted by the building official shall constitute presumptive evidence of the respective

facts contained in those documents. The building official shall have the same rights as the appellant to testify, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses concerning the appeal.

(f) The hearing officer may continue the hearing and request additional information from the building official or appellant prior to issuing a

written decision.

113.4 Hearing Officer's decision.

(a) After considering all the testimony and evidence submitted at the hearing, the hearing officer shall issue a written decision to uphold or

amend the building official’s order, decision or determination, and the reasons for that decision. The decision of the hearing officer shall be issued within 30 days following completion of the hearing. The decision of the hearing officer shall be final upon service on the appellant, subject only to judicial review as allowed by law.

(b) The hearing officer shall consider any written or oral evidence submitted at the hearing consistent with ascertainment of the facts regarding

the issues of the appeal.

(c) If the hearing officer determines that the building official’s order, decision, or determination should not be upheld as originally given, then

the hearing officer shall direct the building official to make any amendments or changes necessary to implement the hearing officer’s decision. The hearing officer shall also give the building official a reasonable deadline to complete such actions.

(d) The appellant shall be served with a copy of the hearing officer's written decision within ten calendar days following its issuance.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 114 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

SECTION 114

VIOLATIONS

114.1 Unlawful acts. It is unlawful for any person to violate any provision or to fail to comply with any of the requirements of this chapter or any permits, conditions, or variances granted under this chapter. Violators shall be subject to any penalty or penalties authorized by law, including but not limited to: administrative enforcement pursuant to Chapters 1.12, 1.16 and 16.62 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code; and criminal enforcement pursuant to Chapter 1.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code. Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any violation of this chapter occurs or continues shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.

When the chief building official determines that a violation of this chapter has occurred, the chief building official may, in his or her sole

discretion, record a notice of pendency of code violation with the Office of the County Recorder stating the address and owner of the property involved. When the violation has been corrected, the chief building official shall issue and record a release of the notice of pendency of code violation.

[...]

114.5 Criminal enforcement authority. The employee positions designated in this section are authorized to exercise the authority provided in California Penal Code section 836.5 for violations of this chapter. The designated employee positions are: (1) chief building official, (2) assistant chief building official, (3) building inspection manager, (4) Building Inspector or Building Inspector Specialist as designated by the chief building official and (5) code enforcement officer.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 115 of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

SECTION 115

STOP WORK ORDER

115.1 Authority. Whenever the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner that is contrary to the provisions of this code, without a permit, beyond the scope of the issued permit, in violation of the Palo Alto Municipal Code or Zoning Ordinance, or dangerous or unsafe, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

115.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be posted in a visible location near the location where the work is being conducted. If the owner or owner’s agent is not on site at the time of posting, a notice advising the reasons for the stop work order issuance shall be hand delivered or mailed first-class to the owner of the property involved, or to the owner’s agent, or to the person doing the work. Upon issuance

of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order, the conditions under which the cited work will be permitted to resume, and the name and contact information of the official or agency issuing the order.

115.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

115.4 Unlawful continuance. Any person who continues to engage in any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

115.5 Removal of posted stop work order. Any person who removes a posted stop work order without written consent of the Building Official shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

115.6 Response required. Violators receiving a stop work order are required to respond to Planning and Development Services within five business days of the issued notice to receive instructions on how to rescind the order.

115.7 Permit application required. A building permit application with construction or demolition plans and supporting (structural calculations, energy calculations, accessible access) documents must be submitted for approval within 20 working days following response to Planning and Development Services. Plans will be reviewed and correction letters issued or permit application approved by Planning and Development Services. A response to any correction letter must be submitted within 15 working days of the date of the correction letter. Ten working days will be required to review this second submission and a permit approved for issuance. Permits ready for issuance must be issued within five working days thereafter. All construction must be inspected as work progresses and signed off by all (affected) departments within the permit term limits outlined in Section 105.5.1 or as determined by the building official.

115.8 Stop work order penalty. The Building Official may impose Stop Work Order Penalties in accordance with Section 1.14.050 of this code and/or other applicable law.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 202 of Chapter 2 of the California Building Code is amended to read, in part:

[...]

FLOOR AREA, GROSS. The floor area within the inside perimeter of the exterior walls of the building under consideration, exclusive of vent shafts and courts, without deduction for corridors, stairways, ramps, closets, the thickness of interior walls, columns or other features. The floor area of a building, or portion thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above. The gross floor area shall not include shafts with no openings or interior courts. For the purposes of Title 18 (Zoning), the definition of “gross floor area”in Section 18.04.030 shall apply.

[...]

FLOOR AREA, NET. The actual occupied area not including unoccupied accessory areas such as corridors, stairways, ramps, toilet rooms, mechanical rooms and closets. For the purposes of Title 18 (Zoning), the definition of “net floor area” in Section 18.04.030 shall apply.

[...]

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 502.1 of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of one-half inch (12.7 mm) unless required to be larger by Section 502.1.2. When required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address numbers shall be maintained.

502.1.1 Address illumination. Address identification required by Section 501.2 shall be illuminated.

502.1.2 Address identification size. Address numbers and letters shall be sized as follows:

1. When the structure is between thirty-six (36) and fifty (50) feet from the road or other emergency means of access, a minimum of one-half

inch (0.5") stroke by six inches high (6") is required.

2. When the structure is fifty (50) or more feet from the road or other emergency means of access, a minimum of one inch (1") stroke by nine

inches (9") high is required.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.2 of Chapter 9 the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.2 Automatic sprinkler systems, where required.

Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures and in existing modified buildings and structures, shall be provided in the locations described in this section. Automatic fire sprinklers shall be installed per the requirements set forth in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18 and as follows, whichever is the more restrictive:

1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings and structures.

Exception: New non-residential occupancies, buildings or structures that do not exceed 350 square feet of building area and contain no plumbing fixtures.

2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all existing buildings when modifications are made that create conditions described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18, or that create an increase in fire area to more than 3,600 square feet or when the addition is equal or greater than 50% of the existing building square footage whichever is more restrictive.

3. An automatic sprinkler system is required in basements when any of the following occur:

a. New basements used for storage, utility, occupancy or habitable space regardless of size.

b. Existing basements that are altered for the use of storage, utility, occupancy, or habitable space regardless of size.

c. Existing basements that are expanded by more than 50%. If the addition or alteration is only the basement, then only the basement is

required to be fire sprinkler protected.

4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when either the roof structure and/or exterior wall structure have been removed, altered, and/or replaced by at least 50% of the existing structure.

5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when any change in use or occupancy creates a more hazardous fire/life-safety condition, as determined by the fire code official.

6. All new trash enclosures regardless of size require installation of fire sprinklers (nonresidential only).

Exception: A fire extinguishing system will not apply when all of the following conditions are met:

a. The trash enclosure including the door(s) and roof are constructed of noncombustible materials.

b. The trash enclosure is a stand-alone structure, be a minimum of 20 feet away from adjacent buildings and 10-feet away from property line(s);

and

c. The enclosure is used exclusively for waste garbage, recyclables, and organize waste/composting contained within the approved trash

bins/containers. No outdoor storage is permitted within the trash enclosure.

7. Phone booths and pods when installed in a building equipped with a fire sprinkler system (nonresidential only).

8. Fume hoods when installed in a building equipped with a fire sprinkler system (nonresidential only).

Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries and standby engines, provided that those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.3.1.1 of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and state and local requirements except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.

1. For new buildings having no designated use or tenant, the minimum sprinkler design density shall be Ordinary Hazard Group II/1,500 square feet.

2. Where future use or tenant is determined to require a higher density, the sprinkler system shall be augmented to meet the higher density.

3. Light hazard occupancy shall be hydraulically designed to a 1,500 square feet most remote area or as required by the fire code official.

4. Laboratory areas within buildings shall be hydraulically designed to Ordinary Hazard II density.

5. Parking areas where mechanical vehicle storage equipment is used shall be hydraulically designed to Extra Hazard II density.

6. In multi-residential apartments, townhomes, and condominiums.

7. In new commercial buildings that will have power micro mobility devices, the fire sprinkler system shall be designed to Ordinary Hazard II.

8. Energy Storage Systems in nonresidential buildings shall comply with one of the following:

a. ESS units with a maximum stored energy capacity of 50 kWh, as described in Section 1207.5.1 shall be designed with a minimum density of

0.40 gpm/ft2 (1.14 L/min) based over the area of the room or 2,500 square-foot design area, whichever is smaller.

b. ESS units (groups) exceeding 50 kWh shall use a density based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.3.1.2 of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where allowed in buildings of Group R Occupancies, automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed

throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 and state and local standards.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.3.1.3 of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family detached dwellings shall

be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and state and local standards. Fire sprinkler protection is required under rear covered patios extending 4 feet perpendicular from the exterior of the structure.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.3.1.3.1 of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.3.1.3.2 Increase in fire sprinkler design criteria. Structures determined by the fire code official to have higher firefighting hazardous

conditions or located in the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area shall have an increase in fire sprinkler design criteria as determined by the fire code official.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 903.4.4 of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.4.4 Floor control valves. Automatic sprinkler systems serving buildings two (2) or more stories in height shall have valves installed so as to

control the system independently on each floor including basements.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 905.3.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

905.3.1 Height. A Class I standpipe system shall be installed in buildings where the roof edge/parapet is greater than 27 feet above the lowest

level of fire apparatus access roadway and in below grade levels.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 907.2.11.2.4 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

907.2.11.2.4 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Smoke alarms that no longer function or are 10 years or older from the date of installation shall be replaced.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 909.20.7 is added to the California Building Code to read as follows:

909.20.7 Smoke control systems schedule. A routine maintenance and operational testing program shall be initiated immediately after the smoke control system has passed the acceptance tests. A written schedule for routine maintenance and operational testing shall be established and both shall occur at least annually.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 915.6 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

915.6 Maintenance. Carbon monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 72. Carbon monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors that become inoperable or begin producing end-of-life signals or are 10 years or older shall be replaced.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1008.3.3 of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

1008.3.3 Illumination required by an emergency electrical system. In the event of power supply failure, an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate all of the following areas:

1. In rooms or spaces that require two or more exits or access to exits:

Section 1031.2 of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1205.3.4 of Chapter 12 of the California Building Code is added to read:

1205.3.4 Roof guards at courts. Roof openings into courts where not bounded on all sides by walls shall be protected with guardrails. The top of the guards shall not be less than 42 inches in height. Required guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere twelve inches (12) in diameter from the walking surface to the required guard height.

Exception: Where the roof opening is greater than 600 square feet in area.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1208.6 of Chapter 12 of the California Building Code is added to read:

Section 1503.2.1 of Chapter 15 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

1503.2.1 Locations. Flashing shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, gutters, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction, and around roof openings. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inches (0.483 mm) (e.g. no. 26 galvanized sheet) and shall be primed and painted.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1612.1.1 of Chapter 16 of the California Building Code is added to read:

1612.1.1 Palo Alto Flood Hazard Regulations. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 1612.1, all construction or development within a flood hazard area (areas depicted as a Special Flood Hazard Area on Flood Insurance Rate Maps published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency) shall comply with the City of Palo Alto Flood Hazard Regulations (Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.52). Where discrepancies exist between the requirements of this code and said regulations, the more stringent requirements shall apply.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1613.8 of Chapter 16 of the California Building Code is added to read:

Section 1705.3 of Chapter 17 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1803.2 of Chapter 18 of the California Building Code is amended as to read:

Section 1803.5.11 of Chapter 18 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1803.5.11 Seismic design categories C through F. For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F, a geotechnical investigation shall be conducted, and shall include an evaluation of all of the following potential geologic and seismic hazards:

1. Slope instability.

2. Liquefaction.

3. Total and differential settlement.

4. Surface displacement due to faulting or seismically induced lateral spreading or lateral flow.

Exception: Refer to section 1803.2 exception.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1809.7 of Chapter 18 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1809.8 of Chapter 18 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1901.2 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1905.6.2 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

1905.6.2 Seismic Design Categories C, D, E and F. Structures assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F shall not have elements of structural plain concrete, except as follows:

1. Left intentionally blank.

2. Isolated footings of plain concrete supporting pedestals or columns are permitted, provided the projection of the footing beyond the face of

the supported member does not exceed the footing thickness.

3. Plain concrete footings supporting walls are permitted, provided the footings have at least three continuous longitudinal reinforcing bars not

smaller than No. 4, with a total area of not less than 0.002 times the gross cross-sectional area of the footing except for one story, detached accessory buildings of Group U occupancy where two bars are required. A minimum of one bar shall be provided at the top and bottom of the footing. Continuity of reinforcement shall be provided at corners and intersections.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1906 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1906.1 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 1907.1 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 1907.2 of Chapter 19 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 2308.10.4 of Chapter 23 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

2308.10.4 Braced wall panel construction. For Methods DWB, WSP, SFB, PBS, PCP and HPS, each panel must be not less than 48 inches (1,219 mm) in length, covering three stud spaces where studs are spaced 16 inches (406 mm) on center and covering two stud spaces where studs are spaced 24 inches (610 mm) on center. Braced wall panels less than 48 inches (1,219 mm) in length shall not contribute toward the amount of required bracing. Braced wall panels that are longer than the required length shall be credited for their actual length.

Vertical joints of panel sheathing shall occur over studs and adjacent panel joints shall be nailed to common framing members. Horizontal joints shall occur over blocking or other framing equal in size to the studs except where waived by the installation requirements for the specific sheathing materials. Sole plates shall be nailed to the floor framing in accordance with Section 2308.10.7 and top plates shall be connected to the framing above in accordance with Section 2308.10.7.2. Where joists are perpendicular to braced wall lines above, blocking shall be provided under and in line with the braced wall panels.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 2308.10.5 of Chapter 23 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

2308.10.5 Alternative bracing. An alternate braced wall (ABW) or a portal frame with hold-downs (PFH) described in this section is permitted to substitute for a 48-inch (1,219 mm) braced wall panel of Method DWB, WSP, SFB, PCP or HPS.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Footnote "b" of TABLE 2308.10.1 of Chapter 23 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

b. See section 2308.10.3 for full description of bracing methods. Method GB is prohibited in Seismic Design Categories D & E.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

TABLE 2308.10.3(1) Bracing Methods of Chapter 23 of the California Building Code is amended by adding footnote "b" and footnote "b" superscript to METHODS, MATERIAL column title as follows:

TABLE 2308.10.3(1) BRACING METHODS

CONNECTION CRITERIAa
METHODS, MATERIALb MINIMUM THICKNESS FIGURE
Fasteners Spacing

b. Method GB is prohibited in Seismic Design Categories D & E.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 2308.10.9 of Chapter 23 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

2308.10.9 Attachment of sheathing. Fastening of braced wall panel sheathing shall not be less than that prescribed in Table 2308.10.1 or 2304.10.2. Wall sheathing shall not be attached to framing members by adhesives. Staple fasteners in Table 2304.10.2 shall not be used to resist or transfer seismic forces in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E, or F unless the allowable shear values are substantiated by cyclic testing and approved by the Building Official or designee.

All braced wall panels shall extend to the roof sheathing and shall be attached to parallel roof rafters or blocking above with framing clips (18 gauge minimum) spaced at maximum 24 inches on center with four 8d nails per leg (total eight-8d nails per clip). Braced wall panels shall be laterally braced at each top corner and at maximum 24-inch intervals along the top plate of discontinuous vertical framing.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 2505 Chapter 25 of the California Building Code is deleted in its entirety including its subsections.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Chapter 31B of the California Building Code has been adopted in its entirety.

(Ord. 5674 § 1 (part), 2025)

Section 3304.1 of Chapter 33 of the California Building Code is amended to read: