Seal Beach Municipal Code Ch. 9.60 Building Code

SECTION 101. GENERAL

SECTION 102. APPLICABILITY

SECTION 103. BUILDING AND SAFETY

SECTION 104. DUTIES AND POWERS OF BUILDING OFFICIAL

SECTION 105. PERMITS

Building: A building permit shall not be required for the following: Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the below-exempted items.

105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacements and repairs shall be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the building official. 105.2.2 Repairs. Application or notice to the building official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures, replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load-bearing support, or the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety. 105.2.3 Public service agencies. A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution or metering or other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service agencies by established right. 105.3 Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the department of building safety for that purpose. Such application shall:

SECTION 106. CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

SECTION 107. TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND USES

SECTION 108. FEES

108.1 General. A fee as established by resolution of the city council shall be paid for each plan review when submitted and each permit at time of issuance. 108.2 Permit fees. A fee for each required permit shall be assessed in accordance with the fee schedule adopted by city council. Failure to pay fees and obtain a permit before commencing work shall be deemed a violation of the codes, except when a program is established by the building official and permit conditions are defined, or it can be proven to the satisfaction of the building official that an emergency existed which made it impractical to first obtain the permit. A violation shall result in an assessment of an investigation fee in an amount equal to the permit fee for the work undertaken without permit. Payment of a double fee shall not relieve any person from fully complying with the requirements of the codes nor from any other penalties prescribed herein. 108.3 Plan review fees. When a plan or other data is ready to be submitted by subsection 105.3 a plan-checking fee, in the amount as established by city council shall be paid to the building official at the time of submitting plans and specifications for checking. When submittal documents are incomplete or changes so as to require additional plan review or when the project involves differed submittal items an additional fee shall be assessed in accordance with the fee schedule established by city council. 108.4 Investigation fee. An investigation fee as established by the Section 108.2 may be charged by the building official whenever work for which a permit is required by the codes has been commenced without first obtaining said permit. This fee shall be paid and the investigation shall be made prior to the issuance of any permit for said work. An investigation fee may be charged for any investigation of a building, structure, work reports, certification or any other related work requested by an owner or authorized agent of such owner. 108.5 Plan check and permit fee refunds.

SECTION 109. INSPECTIONS

SECTION 110. CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

110.1 Use and occupancy. No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification of a building or structure or portion thereof shall be made until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Exception: The building official may not issue certificate of occupancies for remodels and additions to owner-occupied dwellings, such as single-family homes, townhomes, co-op or condominiums and U occupancies. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of the codes or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of the codes or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. The jurisdiction may not issue a certificate of occupancy to the builder upon the completion of a commercial structure where there is tenant spacing. Instead, a certificate of occupancy is issued to a business entity that is going to occupy the building, or a portion thereof. 110.2 Certificate issued. Upon passing final inspection and demonstrating compliance with this Code, applicable laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations, and upon full payment of all required fees, the Building Official may issue a Certificate of Occupancy upon written request by the permit holder. The Certificate of Occupancy shall include the following information:

SECTION 111. SERVICE UTILITIES

SECTION 112. BOARD OF APPEALS

SECTION 113. VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES

SECTION 114. STOP WORK ORDER

SECTION 115. UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND BUILDINGS

SECTION 116. DEFINITIONS

In additions to the definitions specified in Chapter 2 of Residential, Building and Fire Code, the following certain terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as specified in this section. Terms, phrases and words used in the masculine gender include the feminine and the feminine the masculine. In the event of conflicts between these definitions and definitions that appear elsewhere in this Code, these definitions shall govern and be applicable. BUILDING CODE shall mean the City of Seal Building Code as adopted and amended. ELECTRICAL CODE shall mean the City of Seal Beach Electrical Code as adopted and amended. FIRE CODE shall mean the City of Seal Beach Fire Code as adopted and amended. HIGH-RISE STRUCTURE. Every building of any type of construction or occupancy having floors used for human occupancy located more than 55 feet above the lowest floor level having building access (see Section 403), except buildings used as hospitals as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 1250 . MECHANICAL CODE shall mean the City of Seal Beach Mechanical Code as adopted and amended. OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority, fire authority having jurisdiction. PLUMBING CODE shall mean the City of Seal Beach Plumbing Code as adopted and amended. RESIDENTIAL CODE shall mean the City of Seal Beach Residential Code as adopted and amended. SKY LANTERN. An airborne lantern typically made of paper, Mylar, or other lightweight material with a wood, plastic, or metal frame containing a candle, fuel cell, or other heat source that provides buoyancy. SPARK ARRESTER. A listed device constructed of noncombustible material specifically for the purpose of meeting one of the following conditions:

(Ord. 1661; Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapters 1 through 35 and Appendices F, I, J and P of the 2025 California Building Code, Title 24 Part 2 of the California Code of Regulations, as published by the California Building Standards Commission are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein except that those certain sections thereof which are necessary to meet local conditions as hereinafter set forth in Section 9.60.020.010B of this Code are hereby repealed, added or amended to read as set forth therein.

The administration of the Building Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

Not less than one copy of the 2025 California Building Code, Title 24 Part 2 of the California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Building Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.010 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapters 1 and 9 of the 2025 California Building Code, Title 24 Part 2 of the California Code of Regulations adopted by reference as the Building Code of the City of Seal Beach, are hereby amended, deleted or added as follows:

Chapter 9 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS. Chapter 9 of the California Building Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with Chapter 9 of the California Fire Code as adopted and amended by City of Seal Beach in Municipal Code Sections 9.60.020.060A and 9.60.020.060B.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapters 2 through 10, Chapter 44, and Appendix J of the 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24 Part 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations, as published by the California Building Standards Commission, are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein except that those certain sections thereof which are necessary to meet local conditions as hereinafter set forth in Section 9.60.020.020B of this Code are hereby repealed, added or amended to read as set forth therein.

The administration of the Residential Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

Not less than one copy of the 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24 Part 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Residential Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.020 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapter 3 of the 2025 California Residential Code, Title 24 Part 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations adopted by reference as the Residential Code of the City of Seal Beach, is hereby amended, deleted or added as follows:

1. Section R301.1.3.2 is amended in its entirety to read:

R301.1.3.2 Wood Frame Structures. The Building Official shall require construction documents to be approved and stamped by a California licensed architect or engineer for all dwellings of wood frame construction more than two stories and basement in height located in Seismic Design Category A, B, or C. Notwithstanding other sections of law, the law establishing these provisions is found in Business and Professions Code Sections 5537 and 6737.1.

The Building Official shall require construction documents to be approved and stamped by a California licensed architect or engineer for all dwellings of wood frame construction more than one story in height or with a basement located in Seismic Design Category D0, D1, or D2 or E.

2. Section R309 Automatic Fire Sprinkler System is amended in its entirety to read:

R309 Automatic Fire Sprinkler System. Section 903 of Chapter 9 of the Seal Beach Fire Code (Title 9, Chapter 9.60 Section 9.60.020.060 Fire Code) is adopted by reference to be the Section R309 of the Residential Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Sections 89.102 through 89.114 of Article 89, Article 90, Chapters 1 through 9, and Annexes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I and J of the 2025 California Electrical Code, Title 24 Part 3 of the California Code of Regulations, are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein.

The administration of the Electrical Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

Not less than one copy of the 2025 California Electrical Code, Title 24 Part 3 of the California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Electrical Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.030 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Division I Sections 1.2.0 through 1.14.0 of Chapter 1, Chapters 2 through 17 and Appendices B, C and D of the 2025 California Mechanical Code, Title 24 Part 4 of the California Code of Regulations, as published by the California Building Standards Commission are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein.

The administration of the Mechanical Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

Not less than one copy of the 2025 California Mechanical Code, Title 24 Part 4 of the California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Mechanical Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.040 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Division I Sections 1.2.0 through 1.14.0 of Chapter 1, Chapters 2 through 17 and Appendices A, B, D, H, I and J of the 2025 California Plumbing Code, Title 24 Part 5 of the California Code of Regulations, as published by the California Building Standards Commission are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein.

The administration of the Plumbing Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

Not less than one copy of the 2025 California Plumbing Code, Title 24 Part 5 of the California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Plumbing Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.050 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapters 1 Division I and Division II, Chapters 2 through 80 and Appendices B, BB, C, CC, and H of the 2025 California Fire Code, Title 24 Part 9 of the California Code of Regulations, as published by the California Building Standards Commission are hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein except that those certain sections thereof which are necessary to meet local conditions as hereinafter set forth in Section 9.60.020.060B of this Code are hereby repealed, added or amended to read as set forth therein.

Not less than one copy of said 2025 California Fire Code, Title 24 Part 9 of California Code of Regulations together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the Community Development Department and shall be remain on file with Building Official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Fire Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.020.060 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 28, 50, 56, and 80 of the 2025 California Fire Code, Title 24 Part 9 of the California Code of Regulations adopted by reference as the Fire Code of the City of Seal Beach, are hereby amended, deleted or added as follows:

A. Chapter 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 113.4 Violation penalties is hereby revised 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 shall fail to comply with any issued orders or notices or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties assessed as prescribed in the OCFA Prevention Field Services adopted fee schedule. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

2. Section 113.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor is hereby added as follows:

113.4.2 Infraction and misdemeanor. Persons operating or maintaining any occupancy, premises or vehicle subject to this code that shall permit any fire or life safety hazard to exist on premises under their control shall be guilty of an infraction. Persons who fail to take immediate action to abate a fire or life safety hazard when ordered or notified to do so by the chief or a duly authorized representative are guilty of a misdemeanor.

B. Chapter 2 DEFINITIONS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Sections 202 General Definitions is hereby revised by adding "OCFA" and "Spark Arrester" as follows:

OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority, authority having jurisdiction.

SPARK ARRESTER. A listed device constructed of noncombustible material specifically for the purpose of meeting one of the following conditions:

1. Removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles/debris from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 38366.

2. Fireplaces that burn solid fuel in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 28.

C. Chapter 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 304.1.3 Vegetation is hereby revised as follows:

304.1.3 Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines or other growth that is capable of being ignited and endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the premises. Vegetation clearance requirement in urban-wildland interface areas shall be in accordance with Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Type, amount, arrangement, and maintenance of vegetation in a fuel modification area, interior slope, or similarly hazardous area shall be in accordance with OCFA Guideline C-05 "Vegetation Management Guideline: Technical Design for New Construction, Fuel Modification Plans, and Maintenance Program."

2. Section 305.6 Hazardous conditions is hereby added as follows:

305.6 Hazardous conditions. Outdoor fires burning wood or other solid fuel are not allowed when any of the following conditions applies:

1. When predicted sustained winds exceed 8 MPH and relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared.

2. When an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or a public announcement is made.

No outdoor fires using any fuel type are permitted when predicted sustained winds exceed 20 MPH or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

3. Section 305.7 Disposal of rubbish is hereby added as follows:

305.7 Disposal of rubbish. Rubbish, trash or combustible waste material shall be burned only within an approved incinerator and in accordance with Section 307.2.1.

4. Section 307 Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces is hereby revised as follows:

Section 307 Open Burning, Recreational Fires, Fire Pits, Fire Rings, and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces

5. Sections 307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R occupancies is hereby added as follows:

307.6 Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar devices used at Group R occupancies. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings, or similar exterior devices used at Group R occupancies shall comply with this section.

Exception: Barbeques, grills, and other portable devices intended solely for cooking.

6. Section 307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices is hereby added as follows:

307.6.1 Gas-fueled devices. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and similar devices fueled by natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas are allowed when approved by the Building Department and the device is designed to only burn a gas flame and not wood or other solid fuel. At R-3 occupancies, combustible construction and vegetation shall not be located within three feet of an atmospheric column that extends vertically from the perimeter of the device. At other R occupancies, the minimum distance shall be ten feet. Where a permanent Building Department approved hood and vent is installed, combustible construction may encroach upon this column between the bottom of the hood and the vent opening. Where chimneys or vents are installed, they shall have a spark arrester as defined in Section 202.

7. Section 307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas is hereby added as follows:

307.6.2 Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or liquefied-petroleum gas. Permanent outdoor fireplaces burning wood or other solid fuel shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code with clearance from combustible construction and building openings as required therein. Fires in a fireplace shall be contained within a firebox with an attached chimney. The opening in the face of the firebox shall have an installed and maintained method of arresting sparks.

The burning of wood or other solid fuel in a device is not allowed within 25 feet of combustible structures unless within an approved permanent fireplace. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet of a structure or to vegetation shall be eliminated prior to ignition. Fires in devices burning wood or solid fuel shall be in accordance with Sections 305, 307, and 308.

Exceptions:

1. Portable fireplaces and fire rings/pits equipped with a device to arrest sparks shall be located at least 3 feet from combustible construction at R-3 occupancies,

2. Portable fireplaces, and fire pits/rings equipped with a device to arrest sparks, shall be located at least 15 feet from combustible structures at other R occupancies.

3. Section 307.6.2.1 Where prohibited is hereby added as follows:

307.6.2.1 Where prohibited. The burning of wood and other solid fuels shall not be conducted within a fuel modification zone, Wildfire Risk Area (WRA), Wildland-Urban Interface Area (WUI), or in locations where conditions could cause the spread of fire to the WRA or WUI.

Exceptions:

1. Permanent fireplaces that are not located in a fuel modification zone.

2. Where determined by the Fire Code Official that the location or design of the device should reasonably prevent the start of a wildfire.

3. Section 324 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction is hereby added as follows:

Section 324 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction

324.1 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction. All new structures and facilities adjoining land containing hazardous combustible vegetation shall be approved and in accordance with the requirements of OCFA Guideline C-05 "Vegetation Management Guideline: Technical Design for New Construction Fuel Modification Plans and Maintenance Program."

10. Section 325 Clearance of Brush or Vegetation Growth from Roadways is hereby added as follows:

Section 325 Clearance of Brush or Vegetation Growth from Roadways

325.1 Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways. The fire code official is authorized to cause areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of portions of highways and private streets which are improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic, to be cleared of flammable vegetation and other combustible growth. Measurement shall be from the flow-line or the end of the improved edge of the roadway surfaces.

Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery or cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground covers, provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.

11. Section 326 Unusual Circumstances is hereby added as follows:

Section 326 Unusual Circumstances

326.1 Unusual circumstances. The fire code official may suspend enforcement of the vegetation management requirements and require reasonable alternative measures designed to advance the purpose of this code if determined that in any specific case that any of the following conditions exist:

1. Difficult terrain.

2. Danger of erosion.

3. Presence of plants included in any state and federal resources agencies, California Native Plant Society and county-approved list of wildlife, plants, rare, endangered and/or threatened species.

4. Stands or groves of trees or heritage trees.

5. Other unusual circumstances that make strict compliance with the clearance of vegetation provisions undesirable or impractical.

6. Section 327 Use of Equipment is hereby added as follows:

Section 327 Use of Equipment

327.1 Use of equipment. Except as otherwise provided in this section, no person shall use, operate, or cause to be operated in, upon or adjoining any hazardous fire area any internal combustion engine which uses hydrocarbon fuels, unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrester as defined in Section 202 maintained in effective working order, or the engine is constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire.

Exceptions:

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

2. Turbocharged engines are not subject to this section if all exhausted gases pass through the rotating turbine wheel, there is no exhaust bypass to the atmosphere, and the turbocharger is in good mechanical condition.

3. Section 327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames is hereby added as follows:

327.2 Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames. During any time of the year within Wildfire Risk Areas, within or immediately adjacent to any forest- or brush-covered land or non-irrigated grass-covered land, no person shall use or operate any welding equipment, cutting torches, tar pots, grinding devices, or other tools or equipment that may produce a spark, fire, or flame that could result in a wildfire without doing the following:

1. First clearing away all flammable material, including snags, from the area around such operation for a distance of 30 feet or other approved method to reduce fire spread into the wildlands. If a 30-foot clearing cannot be achieved, then an alternate method shall be approved by the AHJ prior to work starting.

2. Maintain one serviceable round point shovel with an overall length of not less than forty-six (46) inches and one backpack pump water-type fire extinguisher fully equipped and ready for use at the immediate area during the operation.

3. Stop work when winds are 8 MPH or greater during periods when relative humidity is less than 25%, or a red flag condition has been declared or public announcement is made, when an official sign was caused to be posted by the fire code official, or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code official.

4. Keep a cell phone nearby and call 911 immediately in case of fire.

5. Section 327.3 Spark arresters is hereby added as follows:

327.3 Spark arresters. Spark arresters shall comply with Section 202, and when affixed to the exhaust system of engines or vehicles subject to Section 327 shall not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.

D. Chapter 4 EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS is adopted in only those sections and subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendment:

1. Section 407.5 is hereby revised as follows:

407.5 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement. Where required by the fire code official, each application for a permit shall follow OCFA Guideline G-04 "Completion of the Chemical Classification" in accordance with Section 5001.5.2.

E. Chapter 5 FIRE SERVICE FEATURES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 501.1 Scope is hereby revised as follows:

501.1 Scope. Fire service features for buildings, structures and premises shall comply with this chapter and, where required by the fire code official, with OCFA Guideline B-01 "Fire Master Plans for Commercial & Residential Development."

2. Section 510.1 Emergency responder communications enhancement systems in new buildings is hereby deleted and replaced as follows:

510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage in new buildings. All new buildings shall have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building. This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems. The Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System shall comply with the requirements of the Orange County Sheriff's Department, Communications and Technology Division, and where the functionality of performance requirements in the California Fire Code are more stringent, this code.

Exceptions:

1. In buildings or structures where it is determined by the fire code official that the radio coverage system is not needed, including but not limited to the following:

i. Three stories or less, and

ii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and

iii. Do not exceed 50,000 square feet on any single story.

i. Residential structures four stories or less, and

ii. Constructed of wood, and

iii. Do not have subterranean storage or parking, and

iv. Are not built integral to an above ground multi-story parking structure.

Should a structure that is three stories or less and 50,000 square feet or smaller on any single story include subterranean storage or parking, then this ordinance shall apply only to the subterranean areas.

2. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of the facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency radio coverage system.

F. Chapter 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 903.2 Where required is hereby revised as follows:

903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in buildings and structures shall be provided when one of the following conditions exists:

1. New buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.21, an automatic sprinkler system shall also be installed in all occupancies when the total building area exceeds 5,000 square feet as defined in Section 202, regardless of fire areas or allowable area, or is more than two stories in height.

Exception: Subject to approval by the Fire Code Official, open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code that are smaller than the area specified in Section 903.2.10(3) or 903.2.10.1 of the California Fire Code.

2. Existing Buildings: Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of this code, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in an existing building when an addition occurs and one of the following conditions exists:

When an addition exceeds 2,000 square feet, and the resulting building area exceeds 5,000 square feet.

Exception: Additions to Group R-3 occupancies shall comply with Section 903.2.8(2).

2. Section 903.2.8 Group R is hereby revised as follows:

903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area as follows:

1. New Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all new buildings, including attached garages.

2. Existing R-3 Buildings: An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout when one of the following conditions exists:

The exceptions in this section remain unchanged.

3. Section 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems is hereby added as follows:

903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.

Exception: When static pressure exceeds 100 psi, and when required by the fire code official, the sprinkler system shall not exceed the water supply capacity specified by Table 903.3.5.3.

G. Chapter 28 LUMBER YARDS AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL, SOLID BIOMASS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:

1. Section 2801.2 Permit is hereby revised as follows:

2801.2 Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5. and 105.5.31.

2. Section 2808.2 Storage site is hereby revised as follows:

2808.2 Storage site. Storage sites shall be level and on solid ground, elevated soil lifts or other all-weather surface. Sites shall be thoroughly cleaned, and approval obtained from the fire code official before transferring products to the site.

3. Section 2808.3 Size of piles is hereby revised as follows:

2808.3 Size of piles. Piles shall not exceed 15 feet in height, 50 feet in width and 100 feet in length.

Exception: The fire code official is authorized to allow the pile size to be increased where a fire protection plan is provided for approval that includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Storage yard areas and materials-handling equipment selection, design and arrangement shall be based upon sound fire prevention and protection principles.

2. Factors that lead to spontaneous heating shall be identified in the plan, and control of the various factors shall be identified and implemented, including provisions for monitoring the internal condition of the pile.

3. The plan shall include means for early fire detection and reporting to the public fire department; and facilities needed by the fire department for fire extinguishment including a water supply and fire hydrants.

4. Fire apparatus access roads around the piles-and access roads to the top of the piles shall be established, identified, and maintained.

5. Regular yard inspections by trained personnel shall be included as part of an effective fire prevention maintenance program.

Additional fire protection called for in the plan shall be provided and shall be installed in accordance with this code. The increase of the pile size shall be based upon the capabilities of the installed fire protection system and features.

4. Section 2808.3.1 Increase in pile or stack size is hereby deleted in its entirety.

5. Section 2808.4 Pile separation is hereby revised as follows:

2808.4. Pile separation. Piles shall be separated from adjacent piles by a minimum distance of 20 feet. Additionally, piles shall have a minimum separation of 100 feet from combustible vegetation.

6. Section 2808.7 Pile fire protection is hereby revised as follows:

2808.7 Pile fire protection. Automatic sprinkler protection shall be provided in conveyor tunnels and combustible enclosures that pass under a pile. Combustible conveyor systems and enclosed conveyor systems shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system. Oscillating sprinklers with a sufficient projectile reach are required to maintain a 40% to 60% moisture content and wet down burning/smoldering areas.

7. Section 2808.9 Material-handling equipment is hereby revised as follows:

2808.9 Material-handling equipment. All material-handling equipment operated by an internal combustion engine shall be provided and maintained with an approved spark arrester. Approved material-handling equipment shall be available for moving wood chips, hogged material, wood fines and raw product during fire-fighting operations.

8. Section 2808.11 Temperature control is hereby added as follows:

2808.11 Temperature control. The temperature shall be monitored and maintained as specified in Sections 2808.11.1 and 2808.11.2.

9. Section 2808.11.1 Pile temperature control is hereby added as follows:

2808.11.1 Pile temperature control. Piles shall be rotated when internal temperature readings are in excess of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

10. Section 2808.11.2 New material temperature control is hereby added as follows:

2808.11.2 New material temperature control. New loads delivered to the facility shall be inspected and tested at the facility entry prior to taking delivery. Material with temperature exceeding 165 degrees Fahrenheit shall not be accepted on the site. New loads shall comply with the requirements of this chapter and be monitored to verify that the temperature remains stable.

11. Section 2808.12 Water availability is hereby added as follows:

2808.12 Water availability. Facilities with over 2,500 cubic feet shall provide a water supply. The minimum fire flow shall be no less than 500 GPM @ 20 psi for a minimum of 1 hour duration for pile heights up to 6 feet and 2-hour duration for pile heights over 6 feet. If there is no water purveyor, an alternate water supply with storage tank(s) shall be provided for fire suppression. The water supply tank(s) shall provide a minimum capacity of 2,500 gallons per pile (maximum 30,000 gallons) for piles not exceeding 6 feet in height and 5,000 gallons per pile (maximum 60,000) for piles exceeding 6 feet in height. Water tank(s) shall not be used for any other purpose unless the required fire flow is left in reserve within the tank at all times. An approved method shall be provided to maintain the required amount of water within the tank(s).

12. Section 2808.13 Tipping areas is hereby added as follows:

2808.13 Tipping areas shall comply with the following:

1. Tipping areas shall not exceed a maximum area of 50 feet by 50 feet.

2. Material within a tipping area shall not exceed 5 feet in height at any time.

3. Tipping areas shall be separated from all piles by a 20-foot-wide fire access lane.

4. A fire hydrant or approved fire water supply outlet shall be located within 150 feet of all points along the perimeter of the tipping area.

5. All material within a tipping area shall be processed within 5 days of receipt.

6. Section 2808.14 Emergency contact is hereby added as follows:

2808.14 Emergency contact. The contact information of a responsible person or persons shall be provided to the Fire Department and shall be posted at the entrance to the facility for responding units. The responsible party should be available to respond to the business in an emergency situation.

14. Section 2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows is hereby added as follows:

2808.15 Maximum grid of piles and rows. Rows of Piles shall not exceed 500 feet by 500 feet. Grids shall be separated by a minimum 50-foot clear space used for no other purpose.

15. Section 2808.16 Push-out/clear area is hereby added as follows:

2808.16 Push-out/clear area. Piles exceeding 20 cubic yards shall be provided with push-out areas. Push-out areas shall be maintained clear at all times to allow for the largest pile to be spread out to a depth of 2 feet in height. Push-out areas shall be located within 250 feet of all edges of any pile and shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from any building.

H. Chapter 50 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS — GENERAL PROVISIONS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) is hereby revised as follows:

5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall follow OCFA Guideline G-04 "Completion of the Chemical Classification", which shall be completed and approved prior to approval of plans, and/or the storage, use or handling of chemicals on the premises.

2. Section 5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances is hereby added as follows:

5003.1.1.1 Extremely hazardous substances. No person shall use or store any amount of extremely hazardous substances (EHS) in excess of the disclosable amounts (see Health and Safety Code Section 25500 et seq.) in a residential zoned or any residentially developed property.

I. Chapter 56 EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. Section 5608.2 Firing is hereby added as follows:

5608.2 Firing. All fireworks display, regardless of mortar, device, or shell size, shall be electrically fired.

2. Section 5608.3 Application for permit is hereby added as follows:

Section 5608.3 Application for permit.

A diagram of the grounds on which the display is to be held showing the point at which the fireworks are to be discharged, the fallout area based on 100 feet per inch of shell size, the location of all buildings, roads, and other means of transportation, the lines behind which the audience will be restrained, the location of all nearby trees, telegraph or telephone line, or other overhead obstructions shall be provided to OCFA.

J. Chapter 80 REFERENCED STANDARDS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:

1. NFPA 13, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems is hereby amended as follows:

a. Section 9.2.1.7 is hereby revised as follows:

9.2.1.7 Concealed spaces filled with noncombustible insulation shall not require sprinkler protection when approved by the fire code official.

b. Section 9.4.3.1 is hereby revised as follows:

9.4.3.1 When fire sprinkler systems are installed in shell buildings of undetermined use (Spec Buildings) other than warehouses (S occupancies), fire sprinklers of the quick-response type shall be used. Use is considered undetermined if a specific tenant/occupant is not identified at the time the fire sprinkler plan is submitted. Sprinklers in light hazard occupancies shall be one of the following:

(1) Quick-response type as defined in Section 3.3.223.4.16

(2) Residential sprinklers in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 12

(3) Quick-response CMSA sprinklers

(4) ESFR sprinklers

(5) Standard-response sprinklers used for modifications or additions to existing light hazard systems equipped with standard-response sprinklers.

(6) Standard-response sprinklers used where individual standard-response sprinklers are replaced in existing light hazard systems

c. Section 16.12.3.3 is hereby revised as follows:

16.12.3.3 Fire department connections (FDC) shall be of an approved type. The location shall be approved and be no more than 150 feet from a public hydrant. The FDC may be located within 150 feet of a private fire hydrant when approved by the fire code official. The size of piping and the number of 2 1/2" inlets shall be approved by the fire code official. If acceptable to the water authority, it may be installed on the backflow assembly. Fire department inlet connections shall be painted OSHA safety red or as approved. When the fire sprinkler density design requires more than 500 gpm (including inside hose stream demand), or a standpipe system is included, four 2 1/2" inlets shall be provided.

2. NFPA 13D 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes is hereby amended as follows:

a. Section 7.1.2 is hereby revised as follows:

7.1.2 The sprinkler system piping shall not have separate control valves installed unless supervised by a central station, proprietary, or remote station alarm service.

3. NFPA 24, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances is hereby amended as follows:

a. Section 6.2.8.1 is hereby added as follows:

6.2.8.1 All indicating valves controlling fire suppression water supplies shall be painted OSHA red.

Exceptions:

(1) Brass or bronze valves on sprinkler risers mounted to the exterior of the building may be left unpainted.

(2) Where OS&Y valves on the detector check assembly are the only control valves, at least one OS&Y valve shall be painted red.

b. Section 6.2.9 is hereby revised as follows:

All connections to private fire service mains for fire protection systems shall be arranged in accordance with one of the following so that they can be isolated:

(1) A post indicator valve installed not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building.

(a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a post indicator valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the post indicator valve.

(b) Post indicating valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when a property line or other physical barriers make it impossible to have a post indicating valve 40 ft (12 m) away.

(c) Post indicating valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when building driveway or fire access roadways or other building traffic make it impractical to be 40 ft (12 m).

(2) A wall post indicator valve on risers located within the building, either a nonrising stem gate valve with a wall post indicator or a listed butterfly valve with an indicating handle extending out through the building wall.

(3) A backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve not less than 40 ft (12 m) from the building.

(a) For buildings less than 40 ft (12 m) in height, a backflow preventer with at least one indicating valve shall be permitted to be installed closer than 40 ft (12 m) but at least as far from the building as the height of the wall facing the backflow preventer.

(b) Backflow preventer valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when a property line or other physical barriers make it impossible to have a backflow preventer valve 40 ft (12 m) away.

(c) Backflow preventer valves shall be allowed to be closer than 40 ft (12 m) to the building when building driveway or fire access roadways or other building traffic make it impractical to be 40 ft (12 m).

(4) Indicating control valves installed in a fire-rated room accessible from the exterior.

(5) Indicating control valves in a fire-rated stair enclosure accessible from the exterior as permitted by the AHJ.

(6) Any other valve type or location as permitted by the AHJ.

c. Section 10.1.5 is hereby added as follows:

10.1.5 All ferrous pipe and joints shall be polyethylene encased per AWWA C150, Method A, B, or C. All fittings shall be protected with a loose 8-mil polyethylene tube or sheet. The ends of the tube or sheet shall extend past the joint by a minimum of 12 inches and be sealed with 2-inch-wide tape approved for underground use. Galvanizing does not meet the requirements of this section.

Exception: 304 or 316 Stainless Steel pipe and fittings.

d. Section 10.4.1.1 is hereby revised as follows:

10.4.1.1 All bolted joint accessories shall be cleaned and thoroughly coated with asphalt, bituminous, or other corrosion-retarding material after installation.

Exception: Bolted joint accessories made from 304 or 316 stainless steel.

e. Section 10.4.1.1.1 is hereby added as follows:

10.4.1.1.1 All bolts used in pipe-joint assembly shall be 316 stainless steel.

f. Section 10.4.3.2 is hereby deleted and replaced as follows:

10.4.3.2 Where fire service mains enter the building adjacent to the foundation, the pipe may run under a building to a maximum of 24 inches, as measured from the interior face of the exterior wall to the center of the vertical pipe. The pipe under the building or building foundation shall be 304 or 316 stainless steel and shall not contain mechanical joints or it shall comply with Sections 10.4.3.2.1 through 10.4.3.2.4.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

The adoption of the City Building, Residential, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire Code and the repeal, addition or amendment of ordinances by this code shall not affect the following matters:

A. Actions and proceedings which began the effective date of this code.

B. Prosecution for ordinance violations committed before the effective date of this code.

C. Licenses and penalties due and unpaid at the effective date of this code, and the collection of these licenses and penalties.

D. Bonds and cash deposits required to be posted, filed or deposited pursuant to any ordinance.

E. Matters of record which refer to or are connected with ordinances the substances of which are included in this code; these references shall be construed to apply to the corresponding provisions of the code.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

A. General Penalty; Continuing Violations. Every act prohibited or declared unlawful and every failure to perform an act required by this code is a misdemeanor or an infraction as set forth in the said respective pertinent sections of this code and any person causing or permitting a violation of any such section of said code shall be subject to the penalties ascribed to each such section as set forth herein.

B. Violations Including Aiding, Abetting, and Concealing. Every person who causes, aids, abets or conceals the fact of a violation of this code is guilty of violating this code.

C. Enforcement by Civil Action. In addition to the penalties provided herein, the said code may be enforced by civil action. Any condition existing in violation of this code is a public nuisance and may be summarily abated by the city.

(Ord. 1719, 10/13/2025)

A. Permit Required. No person shall engage in sandblasting the outside of any building or structure in the city without first obtaining a permit to do so from the building official.

B. Such permit is required for the purpose of placing the city on notice regarding intended sandblasting operations, thus making possible the inspection of sandblasting operations in the city so that sandblasting regulations enacted for the protection of the health and property of members of the public may effectively be enforced.

C. No sandblasting permit shall be issued to any person not licensed or otherwise prohibited by state law from engaging in sandblasting operations.

D. A separate permit shall be required for each separate premise, court or group of structures to be sandblasted. More than one actual building or structure may be included on a single permit if all said buildings or structures are on one lot or one contiguous parcel of land.

E. Application for Permit. Each permit application shall contain the following information:

1. The name and address of the person or company applying for the permit.

2. The name and address of the foreman or person who will be actually directing the job for the applicant.

3. The location of the job.

4. The building or structure or portion thereof to be sandblasted.

5. The estimated length of time of the job.

6. A statement of the amount of the applicant's public liability and property damage insurance, giving the name and address of the company issuing the policy.

7. Such other information as the building official shall reasonably require to aid proper inspection and enforcement of city sandblasting regulations.

F. Inspection Fee. No sandblasting permit shall be issued prior to the payment of an inspection fee set forth in the fee schedule. No checking fee or other type of additional fee shall be required.

G. Notice of Sandblasting. Any person conducting sandblasting in the city shall, not less than 24 hours prior to said sandblasting, deliver to each residence or business establishment within 100 feet of all buildings or structures to be sandblasted, a written notice in a form provided by the building official.

H. Dry Sandblasting. No person shall engage in "dry" sandblasting in the city in the absence of written special permission from the building official. Said special permission to be granted only if the particular circumstances of the job make wet sandblasting impractical.

I. Hours. No person shall engage in sandblasting before 8:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. of any day, or on Sunday or legal holidays, in any neighborhood that is exclusively a residential neighborhood or upon any structure which is within 100 feet of any inhabited single or multi-unit residential dwelling. All clean-up work must be done before 5:00 p.m. In commercial areas, sandblasting is to be done from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. All clean-up must be done by and/or before 7:00 p.m.

J. Property Protection. No person shall engage in sandblasting, liquid washing, compressed air cleaning or steam cleaning of exterior surfaces of buildings without first protecting adjacent property, public streets and pedestrian walkway areas by erecting canvas or other suitable barriers sufficient to protect them from the sandblasting or blowing of and/or water.

(Ord. 1600; Ord. 1634; Ord. 1661)

A. 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as published by International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference pursuant to the provisions of Sections 50022.1 through 50022.10 of the Government Code of the State of California as though fully set forth herein, and made a part of the City of Seal Beach Municipal Code with the same force and effect as though set out herein in full, including all of the regulations, revisions, conditions and terms contained therein except that those certain sections thereof which are necessary to meet local conditions as hereinafter set forth in Section 9.60.040.020 of this Code are hereby repealed, added or amended to read as set forth therein.

The administration of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code shall be as set forth in Section 9.60.010 of this Code.

B. Not less than one copy of said 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code together with any and all amendments thereto proposed by the City of Seal Beach, has been and is now filed in the office of the community development department and shall remain on file with the building official, and shall collectively be known as the City of Seal Beach Swimming Pool and Spa Code and may be cited as Section 9.60.040.010 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1681)

1. Chapter 1 is deleted in its entirety.

2. Chapter 2 the following definitions added to read:

In addition to the definitions specified in Chapter 2 Section 202 of this Code, the following certain terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as specified in this section.

(Ord. 1681)

(Ord. 1634; Ord. 1661)

The text within Chapter 1 is deleted and replaced with the following:

The purpose of this section is to establish an expedited, streamlined solar energy system permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems that complies with the Solar Rights Act and Assembly Bill 2188 (Chapter 521, Statutes of 2014) to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of small residential rooftop solar energy systems. This section encourages the use of solar energy systems by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the city, and expanding the ability of property owners to install solar energy systems. This section allows the city to achieve these goals while protecting the public health and safety.

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

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

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

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

The following words and phrases as used in this section are defined as follows:

"Small residential rooftop solar energy system"

means all of the following:

A solar energy system that is no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal.

A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the city and paragraph (iii) of subdivision (c) of Section 714 of the Civil Code, as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or re-designated from time to time.

A solar energy system that is installed on a single- or duplex-family dwelling.

A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction.

"Solar energy system"

has the same meaning set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 801.5 of the Civil Code, as such section or subdivision may be amended, re-numbered, or redesignated from time to time.

"Association"

means a nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association created for the purpose of managing a common interest development.

"Common interest development"

means any of the following:

A community apartment project.

A condominium project.

A planned development.

A stock cooperative.

"Electronic submittal"

means the utilization of one or more of the following:

Electronic mail or e-mail.

City's website.

Facsimile.

"Significant"

with regards to solar domestic water heating systems or solar swimming pool heating systems that comply with state and federal law, to mean an amount exceeding 10% of the cost of the system, not to exceed $1,000 or decreasing the efficiency of the solar energy system by an amount exceeding 10%, and with regard to photovoltaic systems that comply with state and federal law, an amount not to exceed $1,000 over the system cost or a decrease in system efficiency of an amount exceeding 10%.

"Specific, adverse impact"

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

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

A. All solar energy systems shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and the city, and the local utility provider's electricity grid.

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

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

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

A. All documents required for the submission of an expedited solar energy system application shall be made available on the city's website.

B. An applicant may submit the permit application and associated documentation to the city's building and safety division by personal delivery, mail, or electronic submittal together with any required permit processing and inspection fees.

C. An applicant's electronic signature shall be accepted on all forms, applications, and other documents in lieu of a wet signature.

D. The city's building and safety division shall adopt a standard plan(s) and checklist(s) of all requirements with which small residential rooftop solar energy systems shall comply to be eligible for expedited review.

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

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

A. Prior to submitting an application, the applicant shall:

1. Verify to the applicant's reasonable satisfaction through the use of standard engineering evaluation techniques that the support structure for the small residential rooftop solar energy system is stable and adequate to transfer all wind, seismic, and dead and live loads associated with the system to the building foundation; and

2. At the applicant's cost, verify to the applicant's reasonable satisfaction using standard electrical inspection techniques that the existing electrical system including existing line, load, ground and bonding wiring as well as main panel and subpanel sizes are adequately sized, based on the existing electrical system's current use, to carry all new photovoltaic electrical loads.

B. For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner and may include a consolidated inspection by the building official and fire chief. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized; however, the subsequent inspection need not conform to the requirements of this subsection.

C. An application that satisfies the information requirements in the checklist, as determined by the building official, shall be deemed complete. Upon receipt of an incomplete application, the building official shall issue a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance.

D. Except as otherwise required by subsection E of this section, upon confirmation by the building official of the application and supporting documentation being complete and meeting the requirements of the checklist and standard plan(s), the building official shall administratively approve the application and issue all required permits or authorizations. Such approval does not authorize an applicant to connect the small residential rooftop energy system to the local utility provider's electricity grid. The applicant is responsible for obtaining such approval or permission from the local utility provider.

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

F. Requirement for a Use Permit.

1. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the building official may require the applicant to apply for a use permit if the building official makes a finding, based on substantial evidence, that the solar energy system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety.

2. If a use permit is required, the building official may deny an application for the use permit if the building official makes written findings based on substantial evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon public health or safety and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid, as defined, the adverse impact. Such findings shall include the basis for the rejection of the potential feasible alternative for preventing the adverse impact.

3. Any conditions imposed on an application shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon health or safety at the lowest possible cost.

4. A feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact includes, but is not limited to, any cost-effective method, condition, or mitigation imposed by the city on another similarly situated application in a prior successful application for a permit. The city shall use its best efforts to ensure that the selected method, condition, or mitigation meets the conditions of subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 714 of the Civil Code defining restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or decrease its efficiency or specified performance, or as such statute may be amended from time to time.

5. Any decision of the building official under this subsection F may be appealed to the planning commission.

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

The city council may adopt or amend plan review and permit fees by resolution to implement and administer this section. The applicant shall pay all plan review fees at the time of plan review submittal. Permit fees shall be paid at the time of permit issuance.

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

In the event of any conflict between this section and any other provision of this Code, this section shall control.

(Ord. 1657; Ord. 1661)

A. The City Council of the City of Seal Beach hereby adopts by reference the 1997 Edition of the Uniform Code for Abatement of Dangerous, as published by the International Code Council, as Section 9.60.130.010 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of this code, except such portions as are deleted, modified, or amended as set forth in this chapter. Said Code is adopted and incorporated as if fully set forth herein.

B. The purpose of this code is to prescribe regulations for the protection of the public health and safety and to establish minimum regulations for the abatement of dangerous buildings within the city.

(Ord. 1634; Ord. 1661)

A. The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all buildings and structures of all occupancies regulated by the City of Seal Beach. The city council may extend the provisions as necessary.

B. For the purposes of this section, the following definition applies:

1. Safety Assessment: a visual, non-destructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy.

C. Safety Assessment Placards.

1. The following Safety Assessment Placards shall be used to designate the condition for continued occupancy of buildings or structures.

a. INSPECTED - Lawful Occupancy Permitted shall be posted on any building or structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been found and shall not mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.

b. RESTRICTED USE shall be posted on each damaged building or structure wherein the damage has resulted in some form of restriction to the continued occupancy. The Restricted Use placard shall contain a general description of the type of damage encountered and shall clearly and concisely note the restrictions on continued occupancy.

c. UNSAFE - Do Not Enter or Occupy shall be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life, health, or safety. No person or persons shall enter a building or structure on which such a placard has been posted under any circumstance except safety assessment teams or persons authorized in writing by the building official. The "Unsafe – Do Not Enter or Occupy" placard shall not be used or construed to be a demolition order. The individual who posts such placard shall note thereon in general terms the type of damage encountered.

2. Every Safety Assessment Placard shall cite this section number, and include the city's name, address, and phone number.

3. Once a Safety Assessment Placard has been attached to a building or structure, it shall not be removed, altered or covered except by an authorized representative of the building official. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to alter, remove, cover, obscure, or deface a Safety Assessment Placard unless authorized pursuant to this section.

4. The form of Safety Assessment Placard shall be substantially the same as follows:

(Ord. 1600; Ord. 1634; Ord. 1661)

A. Construction of Curbs, Gutters and Sidewalks.

1. Requirements. Any person constructing or arranging for the construction of any commercial building, industrial building, residential building or any other facility, or addition thereto, exceeding 400 square feet in floor area, who is not otherwise required to make the improvements enumerated herein, shall provide for the construction of concrete curbs, gutters, sidewalks and pavement on the one-half of the street and alley abutting the lot on which the building or facility is to be constructed in accordance with the standard specifications of the city engineer unless adequate concrete curbs, gutter, sidewalks and pavement already exist along all streets and alleys abutting the lot on which the building or facility is to be constructed, except as provided in subsection B below.

Curbs, gutters and sidewalks required to be constructed by this section shall be located within the street right-of-way at the locations and grades established by the city engineer.

2. Delay of Construction. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the city engineer may delay the construction of curbs, gutters and/or sidewalks and pavement upon determining that the street grade cannot be readily established or when on a block by block basis in the immediate vicinity of the proposed development appears to the engineer to be imminent, provided the property owner posts a cash bond with the city insuring the construction may be performed in a more efficient and expeditious manner.

3. Improvement Procedure.

a. Any person required to make improvements by the provisions of this section shall file with the city engineer a bond in such amount as the city engineer shall estimate and determine to be necessary to complete all of the improvements required.

b. Such bond may be either a cash bond or a bond executed by a company authorized to act as a surety in this state. The bond shall be payable to the city and be conditioned upon the faithful performance of any and all work required to be done and should the work not be done or completed within the time specified, the city may, at its option, cause the same to be done or completed, and the parties executing the bond shall be firmly bound under a continuing obligation for the payment of all necessary costs and expenses incurred in the construction thereof. The bond shall be executed by the owner of the lot as principal and, if a surety bond, shall also be executed by a corporation authorized to act as a surety under the laws of the State of California.

4. Approval and Acceptance by Building Official. The building official shall deny final approval and acceptance on final public utility connections to any commercial building, industrial buildings, residential building, or any other facility until such concrete curbs and gutters, or concrete curbs, gutters, sidewalks and pavement exist or are constructed, or their construction is guaranteed by cash deposited with the city in a sum determined by the city engineer, based upon the number of lineal feet of concrete curbs, gutters, sidewalks and pavement to be installed.

Whenever the owner elects to deposit a cash bond, the city is authorized in the event of any default on his part to use any or all of the deposit money to cause all of the required work to be done or completed and for payment of all costs and expenses therefor. Any money remaining shall be refunded to the owner.

When a substantial portion of the required improvement has been completed to the satisfaction of the city engineer and the completion of the remaining improvements is delayed due to conditions beyond the owner's control, the city engineer may accept the completed portion and consent to a proportionate reduction of the surety bond in an amount estimated and determined by the city engineer to be adequate to assure the completion of the required improvement remaining to be made.

B. Existing Public Utilities.

1. Required. Any person constructing or arranging for the construction of any commercial building, industrial building, residential building, or addition thereto exceeding 2,000 square feet in floor area, shall be required to replace existing public utilities facilities such as street lighting, water and sewer lines, and related appurtenances serving the property if in the determination of the city engineer the existing public utilities facilities are insufficient to accommodate such construction.

C. Future Undergrounding of Utilities. Any person constructing or arranging for the construction of any commercial building, industrial building, residential building or any other facility, or addition thereto, exceeding 400 square feet in floor area or ground area, or any accessory building having an area greater than 400 square feet, shall provide for future underground power and telephone connections. Undergrounding facilities shall consist of conduits acceptable to the city engineer running from the power panel and/or telephone line hookup to the appropriate utility easement, alley, or street as determined by the city engineer.

D. Development Fee for Park and Recreation Facilities. Any person constructing or arranging for the construction of any residential dwelling unit shall, through the payment of a fee, provide at least in part for the park and recreational needs of the proposed development's inhabitants.

The amount of the park and recreation fee to be levied pursuant to this section shall be as adopted by the city council on a dwelling unit basis. The building official shall not issue a building permit until such fee has been paid to the city.

Provided, however, that the net increase in the number of dwelling units situated upon a lot shall be used in determining the fee to be levied under the provisions of this section, and provided further that this section shall not apply to any property the subdivision of which has caused either the dedication of parkland or the payment of a fee in lieu thereof.

(Ord. 1600; Ord. 1634; Ord. 1661)

The purpose of this section is to create an expedited, streamlined electric vehicle charging station permitting process that complies with Government Code Section 65850.7 to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of electric vehicle charging stations.

(Ord. 1686)

This section applies to the permitting of all electric vehicle charging systems in the city. Electric vehicle charging systems legally established or permitted prior to the effective date of this section are not subject to the requirements of this section unless physical modifications or alterations are undertaken that materially change the size, type, or components of an electric vehicle charging system in such a way as to require new permitting. Routine operation and maintenance or like-kind replacements of the components of an electric vehicle charging station shall not be considered a material change.

(Ord. 1686)

"Electric vehicle charging station" or "charging station"

means any level of electric vehicle supply equipment station that is designed and built in compliance with Article 625 of the California Electrical Code and delivers electricity from a source outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in vehicle.

"Electronic submittal"

means the utilization of one or more of either electronic mail, the Internet, or facsimile.

"Feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific adverse impact"

includes, but is not limited to, any cost-effective method, condition or mitigation imposed by the city on another similarly situated application in a prior successful application for a similar permit.

"Specific adverse impact"

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

(Ord. 1686)

A. The building official shall adopt a checklist of all application requirements for expedited building permits for electric vehicle charging stations. The checklist shall substantially conform to the most current version of the "Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist" found in the "Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook" published by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research. The checklist, application form, and any other documents required by the building official to process an application shall be published on the city's website.

B. Anyone seeking to install an electric vehicle charging station at any site within the city may apply to the building official for an expedited nondiscretionary building permit.

C. An application for an expedited building permit for an electric vehicle charging station and all associated documentation may be submitted to the building official in person, by mail, or by electronic submission. Electronic signatures may be used in lieu of wet signatures.

D. An application for an electric vehicle charging station shall be deemed complete and the permit available for issuance, when the chief building official determines that the application satisfies all the requirements found in the checklist.

E. If an application is deemed incomplete, a written plan check correction notice will be available to the applicant within 10 working days, detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be given to the applicant for resubmission.

F. If the building official determines that an application for an expedited building permit is complete, the building official shall process the application. If the building official determines that the proposed charging station meets all health and safety requirements of state and federal law, and would not have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety, the application shall be approved and a building permit shall be issued.

G. If the building official finds, based on substantial evidence, that a proposed charging station could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety, the applicant must apply for an electric vehicle charging station use permit in order to install the proposed charging station.

H. An application for an electric vehicle charging station use permit shall be reviewed by the building official. The building official shall not deny such an application without making written findings, based upon substantial evidence in the record, that the proposed charging station would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety which could not feasibly be satisfactorily mitigated or avoided. The written findings required for rejection of an electric vehicle charging station use permit application shall include the building official's basis for rejecting any potentially feasible alternatives that could mitigate or prevent the alleged adverse impact. Pursuant to Government Code Section 65850.7, the building official's review shall be limited to health and safety issues. Aesthetic concerns, or other items not related to public health or safety shall not be considered. In addition, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the building official shall not condition the approval for any electric vehicle charging station permit on the approval of such a system by a homeowners association, as that term is defined by Civil Code Section 4080.

I. A decision of the building official made pursuant to subsections F through H of this section may be appealed to the planning commission. The planning commission's review shall be subject to the same limitations as that of the building official, and only health and safety issues may be considered.

J. Any condition imposed on an application for an expedited building permit or electric vehicle charging station use permit shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon health and safety at the lowest possible cost.

(Ord. 1686)

A. All electric vehicle charging systems shall meet all applicable health and safety standards and requirements, including, but not limited to, any requirements imposed by the state, local fire department, California Building and Electrical Code, this code, and federal laws, including the Americans with Disability Act.

B. All electric vehicle charging systems shall further meet the applicable safety and performance standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as underwriters laboratories, and rules of the public utilities commission regarding safety and reliability.

C. Installation of electric vehicle charging stations shall be incorporated into the load calculations of all new or existing electrical services and shall meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code. Electric vehicle charging equipment shall be considered a continuous load.

D. Anchorage of either floor-mounted or wall-mounted electric vehicle charging stations shall meet the requirements of the California Building or Residential Code as applicable per occupancy, and the provisions of the manufacturer's installation instructions. Mounting of charging stations shall not adversely affect building elements.

(Ord. 1686)