The 2022 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9 of the California Code of Regulations) is amended as set forth in this section.
A. Chapter 1, Scope and Administration, is amended as follows:
1. Section 104.2.1 is added to read as follows:
104.2.1 Approved fire plans. Any work requiring fire department inspection and approval shall have available on site an approved set of construction documents that allow the fire code official to review for inspection of work.
2. Section 104.3.2 is added to read as follows:
104.3.2 Citations and administrative penalties. The fire code official may issue citations for infractions or misdemeanor violations of this chapter in accordance with Sacramento City Code section 1.28.020 and may issue an order imposing administrative penalties pursuant to Sacramento City Code section 1.28.010.
3. Section 104.7.2 is added to read as follows:
104.7.2 Contract inspector. The fire code official may require the owner or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide, without charge to the fire department, a special inspector ("contract inspector"), when the department has no technical expertise available to conduct the required inspections. The contract inspector shall be a qualified person who shall demonstrate his or her competence to the satisfaction of the fire code official. The fire code official shall establish policies and procedures to be followed by the contract inspector for the duration of the contracted duties.
4. Section 105.5.29 is amended to read as follows:
105.5.29 LP-gas. An operational permit is required for:
1. Storage and use of LPG.
Exception: A permit is not required for individual containers with a 500-gallon (1893L) water capacity or less or multiple container systems having an aggregate quantity not exceeding 500 gallons (1893L), serving occupancies in Group R-3.
2. Operation of cargo tankers that transport LP-gas.
5. Section 105.5.31 is amended to read as follows:
105.5.31 Miscellaneous combustible storage. An operational permit is required to store, in any building or upon any premises, combustible empty packing cases, pallets, boxes, barrels, or similar containers, rubber tires, rubber, cork or similar combustible material, in excess of 1,500 cubic feet (457,200 mm) gross volume.
6. Section 105.5.34 is amended to read as follows:
105.5.34 Open burning. An operational permit is required to ignite or maintain a fire on any public property, or on private property without the express permission of the lessee or property owner. Instructions and stipulations of the permit shall be adhered to.
7. Section 105.5.35 is amended to read as follows:
105.5.35 Open flames and torches. An operational permit is required to remove paint with a torch; or to use a torch or open-flame device in a wildfire risk area.
8. Section 105.5.48 is amended to read as follows:
105.5.48 Storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts. An operational permit is required to establish, conduct or maintain storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts exceeding 1,500 cubic feet (457,200 mm) of total volume.
9. Section 105.5.55 is added to read as follows:
105.5.55 Apartments. An operational permit is required for apartments and/or complexes exceeding three units.
10. Section 105.5.56 is added to read as follows:
105.5.56 Battery systems. An operational permit is required for the use and storage, within buildings, of battery systems having a liquid capacity of more than 50 gallons.
11. Section 105.5.57 is added to read as follows:
105.5.57 Day care facilities. An operational permit is required for a commercial day care facility.
12. Section 105.5.58 is added to read as follows:
105.5.58 Hotels and motels. An operational permit is required for the use of a hotel or motel.
13. Section 105.5.59 is added to read as follows:
105.5.59 Institutions. An operational permit is required for the use of an "institution" as defined by Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
14. Section 105.5.60 is added to read as follows:
105.5.60 Marinas. An operational permit is required for the use of a marina.
15. Section 105.5.61 is added to read as follows:
105.5.61 Radioactive materials. An operational permit is required for the use or storage of any amount of materials capable of producing beta or gamma radiation.
16. Section 107.2.1 is added to read as follows:
107.2.1 Administrative costs. The authority having jurisdiction may bill a contractor for cost recovery for time spent at the test/inspection site as well as administrative costs.
17. Section 109.6 is added to read as follows:
109.6 Overcrowding. Overcrowding or admittance of any person beyond the approved capacity of a building or a portion thereof is prohibited. The fire code official, on finding any overcrowding conditions or obstructions in aisles, passageways, or other means of egress, or on finding any condition that constitutes a life-safety hazard, is authorized to cause the event to be stopped until such condition or obstruction is corrected.
18. Section 111 is not adopted.
19. Section 113.1 is amended to read as follows:
113.1 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The fire code official shall have the authority to authorize dis-connection of utility service to the building, structure or system in order to safely execute emergency operations or to eliminate an immediate hazard. The fire code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner's authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, then the owner, the owner's authorized agent or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
B. Section 202, General Definitions, is amended as follows:
1. The definition of "electronic monitoring system" is added to read as follows:
ELECTRONIC MONITORING SYSTEM. "Electronic monitoring system" means an approved method to electronically detect and transmit, to an approved alarm service provider's Type A (listed) Central Station, information indicating that the automatic fire sprinkler system or electronic fire detection system has been activated and to relay the alarm to either (a) the Sacramento Regional Fire/EMS Communications Center, or (b) the Sacramento International Airport Communication Center.
2. The definition of "false alarm" is amended to read as follows:
FALSE ALARM. "False alarm" has the same definition as "false fire alarm" as set forth in Sacramento City Code section 8.38.030.
3. The definition of "qualified attendant" is added to read as follows:
QUALIFIED ATTENDANT. "Qualified attendant" means an individual that has been trained in the proper methods of the handling, storage and dispensing of any material, product or substance regulated by the code. These shall include, but not be limited to ammonia, chlorine, cryogenic fluids, flammable and combustible liquids and gases. The attendant must be able to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the fire code official that he or she possesses adequate knowledge in the subject area.
4. The definition of "recreational fire" is amended to read as follows:
RECREATIONAL FIRE. An outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fireplace, portable outdoor fireplace, barbeque grill or barbeque pit and has a total fuel area of 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purposes.
C. Chapter 3, General Requirements, is amended as follows:
1. Section 307.4.2 is added to read as follows:
307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
2. Section 308.1.6.3 is added to read as follows:
308.1.6.3 Sky lanterns. The use of sky lanterns or other similar devices is prohibited.
3. Section 311.2.2 is added to read as follows:
311.2.2 Fire protection. Fire protection systems shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times.
Exceptions:
1. Where the premises have been cleared of all combustible materials and debris and, in the opinion of the fire code official, the type of construction, fire separation distance and security of the premises do not create a fire hazard.
2. Where approved by the fire code official, buildings that will not be heated and where fire protection systems will be exposed to freezing temperatures, fire alarm and automatic sprinkler systems are permitted to be placed out of service and standpipes are permitted to be maintained as dry systems (without an automatic water supply), provided that the building does not have contents or storage, and windows, doors and other openings are secured to prohibit entry by unauthorized persons.
3. Where approved by the fire code official, fire alarm and automatic sprinkler systems are permitted to be placed out of service in seasonally occupied buildings that will not be heated; where fire protection systems will be exposed to freezing temperatures; where fire areas do not exceed 12,000 square feet (1115 m2); and that do not store motor vehicles or hazardous materials.
4. Section 311.3 is added to read as follows:
311.3 Removal of combustibles. Persons owning, or in charge or control of, a vacant building or portion thereof, shall remove therefrom all accumulations of combustible materials, flammable or combustible waste or rubbish, and shall securely lock or otherwise secure doors, windows, and other openings to prevent entry by unauthorized persons. The premises shall be maintained clear of waste or hazardous materials.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings or portions of buildings undergoing additions, alterations, repairs, or change of occupancy in accordance with the California Building Code, where waste is controlled and removed as required by Section 304.
2. Seasonally occupied buildings.
5. Section 311.4 is added to read as follows:
311.4 Removal of hazardous materials. Persons owning or having charge or control of a vacant building containing hazardous materials regulated by Chapter 50 shall comply with the facility closure requirements of Section 5001.6.
6. Section 311.5 is added to read as follows:
311.5 Placards. Any vacant or abandoned buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 110 of this code relating to structural or interior hazards shall be marked as required by Sections 311.3.1 through 311.5.5.
7. Section 311.5.1 is added to read as follows:
311.5.1 Placards location. Placards shall be applied on the front of the structure and be visible from the street. Additional placards shall be applied to the side of each entrance to the structure and on penthouses.
8. Section 311.5.2 is added to read as follows:
311.5.2 Placard size and color. Placards shall be 24 inches by 24 inches (610 mm by 610 mm) minimum in size with a red background, white reflective stripes and a white reflective border. The stripes and border shall have a 2-inch (51 mm) minimum stroke.
9. Section 311.5.3 is added to read as follows:
311.5.3 Placard date. Placards shall bear the date of their application to the building and the date of the most recent inspection.
10. Section 311.5.4 is added to read as follows:
311.5.4 Placard symbols. The design of the placards shall use the following symbols:
1. This symbol shall mean that the structure had normal structural conditions at the time of marking.
2. This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist, and interior firefighting or rescue operations should be conducted with extreme caution.
3. This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist to a degree that consideration should be given to limit firefighting to exterior operations only, with entry only occurring for known life hazards.
4. Vacant marker hazard identification symbols: The following symbols shall be used to designate known hazards on the vacant building marker. They shall be placed directly above the symbol.
4.1. R/O-Roof open
4.2. S/M-Stairs, steps, and landing missing
4.3. F/E-Avoid fire escapes
4.4. H/F-Holes in floor
11. Section 311.5.5 is added to read as follows:
311.5.5 Informational use. The use of these symbols is informational only and shall not in any way limit the discretion of the on-scene incident commander.
12. Section 311.6 is added to read as follows:
311.6 Unoccupied tenant spaces in mall buildings. Unoccupied tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings shall be:
1. Kept free from the storage of any materials.
2. Separated from the remainder of the building by partitions of not less than 0.5-inch-thick (12.7 mm) gypsum board or an approved equivalent to the underside of the ceiling of the adjoining tenant spaces.
3. Without doors or other access openings other than one door that shall be kept key locked in the closed position except during that time when opened for inspection.
4. Kept free from combustible waste and be broom-swept clean.
D. Chapter 5, Fire Service Features, is amended as follows:
1. Section 503.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3.
2. Section 503.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. There fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45,720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route and around the exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions:
1. The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45,720 mm) where any of the following conditions occur:
1.1 The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
1.2 Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided.
1.3 There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
2. Where approved by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads are permitted to be exempted or modified for solar photovoltaic power generation facilities.
3. Section 503.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climactic conditions or other factors that could limit access.
4. Section 503.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
503.1.3 High-piled storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 32.
5. Section 503.2 is amended to read as follows:
503.2 Specifications. Two fire apparatus access roads shall be provided in accordance with Sections 501 and 503 for every facility, building, subdivision, development, campus, or complex, containing 40 or more residential units within the jurisdiction. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)
(a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be allweather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 20 feet in width. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.
Exception: The enforcing agency may waive or modify this requirement if in his opinion such all-weather hard-surfaced condition is not necessary in the interest of public safety and welfare.
6. Section 503.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).
7. Section 503.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.
8. Section 503.2.3 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.
9. Section 503.2.4 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official.
10. Section 503.2.5 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45,720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.
11. Section 503.2.6 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with AASHTO HB-17. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges where required by the fire code official. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces that are not designed for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall be installed and maintained where required by the fire code official.
12. Section 503.2.7 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department's apparatus.
13. Section 503.2.8 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department's apparatus.
14. Section 503.3 is amended to read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or markings that include the words NO PARKING-FIRE LANE shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
15. Section 503.4 is amended to read as follows:
503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances established in Sections 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 shall be maintained at all times.
16. Section 503.4.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.4.1 Traffic calming devices. Traffic calming devices are prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.
17. Section 503.5 is amended to read as follows:
503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates for other approved barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails or other accessways, not including public streets, alleys or highways. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
18. Section 503.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.5.1 Secured gates and barricades. Where required, gates and barricades shall be secured in the approved manner. Roads, trails and other accessways that have been closed and obstructed in the manner prescribed by Section 503.5 shall not be trespassed on or used unless authorized by the owner and the fire code official.
19. Section 503.5.2 is amended to read as follows:
503.5.2 Fences and Gates. School grounds may be fenced, and gates therein may be equipped with locks, provided that safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m2) per occupant are located between the school and the fence. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15,240 mm) from school buildings.
Every public and private school shall conform with Section 32020 of the Education Code which states:
The governing board of every school district, and the governing authority of every private school, which maintains any building used for the instruction or housing of school pupils on land entirely enclosed (except for building walls) by fences or walls, shall, through cooperation with the local law enforcement and fire protection agencies having jurisdiction of the area, make provision for the erection of gates in such fences or walls. The gates shall be of sufficient size to permit the entrance of the ambulances, police equipment, and firefighting apparatus, used by the law enforcement and fire protection agencies. There shall be no less than one such access gate and there shall be as many such gates as needed to assure access to all major building and grounds areas. If such gates are to be equipped with locks, the locking devices shall be designed to permit ready entrance by the use of the chain or bolt cutting devices with which the local law enforcement and fire protection agencies may be equipped.
20. Section 503.6 is amended to read as follows:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. There security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
21. Section 505.1 is amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. 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 0.5 inches (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
22. Section 505.1.1 is added to read as follows:
505.1.1 Multiple tenant buildings. Multiple tenant spaces serviced by vehicular access to the rear through any driveway, alleyway, or parking lot shall have numbers or addresses placed prior to occupancy on all new and existing buildings as to be plainly visible and legible from the rear access way when deemed necessary by the fire code official. Multiple tenant spaces serviced by rear access through a corridor, exit court, or exit yard shall have approved numbers or addresses displayed on the rear of the tenant space, when deemed necessary by the fire code official.
23. Section 505.1.2 is added to read as follows:
505.1.2 Multiple tenant spaces. Multiple tenant spaces that front on interior walkways or pedestrian malls shall have approved numbers or addresses placed over the entrance door in all new and existing buildings. An illuminated annunciator or directory board is required at every entrance where deemed necessary by the fire code official.
24. Section 505.1.3 is added to read as follows:
505.1.3 Illumination. Addressing shall be illuminated at night in all new buildings. Signs shall be internally or externally illuminated. When the luminance or the face of a sign is from an external source, it shall have an intensity of not less than 5.0 foot-candles. Internally illuminated signs shall provide equivalent luminance. In all cases, addresses shall be readily identifiable from the nearest fire apparatus access road servicing the building.
25. Section 506.1 is amended to read as follows:
506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location mounted no higher than 5 feet (1524 mm) above grade. The key box shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037, and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official.
26. Section 507.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
507.5.1 Where required. Where any portion of the facility or building within the jurisdiction is more than 150 feet (457,200 mm) from a water supply on a public street, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains capable of supplying the required fire flow shall be provided when required by the fire code official.
Exception: For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with subsections 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2, or 903.3.1.3, the distance requirement shall be not more than 250 feet (76,200 mm).
27. Section 511 is added to read as follows:
SECTION 511 EMERGENCY ACCESS GATES & BARRIERS
511.1 Scope. Where a new gate or barrier is installed on a fire access roadway, the fire department shall have emergency access. Gates or barriers shall have a Click-2-Enter© (Click2Enter) option for motorized gates and a Knox® pad lock or Knox® box (Knox) with appropriate keys for access to the premise.
511.2 Definitions.
GATES AND BARRIERS. A gate, crossbar, door or other obstructive device that is utilized for the purpose of re-stricting, controlling or obstructing entry or exit by motor vehicles or pedestrians to or from a private roadway and is not monitored on a twenty-four-hour, seven-day-per-week basis by a person capable of providing immediate access to a police or fire safety vehicle or person.
PRIVATE DRIVEWAY. A private way for vehicular travel that provides access from an off-street parking area to a public or private drive.
PRIVATE STREET OR ROADWAY. Any roadway (not dedicated as public right-of-way) that is owned and maintained by abutting property owners or association of property owners and is utilized for the purpose of providing vehicular or pedestrian access to a subdivision, apartment complex, condominiums or other residential development or wildland, excluding off-street parking areas, driveways, and driveways to off-street parking areas.
511.3 Permit. A permit issued by the fire authority having jurisdiction is required to install any secured access gate system. Applications to install gates or barriers should be submitted to the City of Sacramento, Fire Prevention Division. Plans shall be approved by the fire authority and a permit issued prior to installation. In addition to the required plans, the following documents shall be submitted when required by the fire code official:
1. Written concurrence of property owners, in the form of a notarized letter, indicating that all property owners served by the gate agree to the installation and operation.
2. A notarized "Road Maintenance Agreement" identifying the addition of the gates and operating systems.
The fire authority having jurisdiction shall inspect all gates for proper installation and operation prior to activation or use.
511.4 Requirements for vehicle gates.
1. All gates shall be UL 325 compliant.
2. Gates shall not be installed within a required turning radius of a fire access roadway.
3. Access for single direction traffic shall be unobstructed 16 feet wide and 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm) high.
4. Access for bi-directional traffic shall be unobstructed 20 feet wide (6096 mm) and 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm) high.
5. Swinging gates for single direction traffic shall swing in the direction of vehicle travel.
6. Swinging gates for bi-directional traffic shall swing into the property being entered.
7. All gates shall be accessible from the driving lane nearest the edge of the street by turning radii of at least 35 feet (10,668 mm) inside and 55 feet (16,764 mm) outside. After passing through a gate, the nearest curb of any cross street shall be no less than 40 feet (12,192 mm).
511.5 Operation of gates, general.
1. Electrically operated gates shall be equipped with the following approved fire department methods for entry and exit:
a. Key override switch (Knox), and
b. Radio operated controller (Click2Enter or other approved equipment).
Exception: Radio controlled exit may be waived by installation of a "free exit" loop.
2. Gates requiring radio-controlled access shall be provided with an approved 2-inch by 2-inch (51 mm by 51 mm), blue, reflective marker visible to approaching traffic. It shall be located in the center of the exit gate.
a. Wiring for electrical gates shall be provided by AC current, underground installation. An electrical permit is required by the Sacramento Building Department.
b. Electrically operated gates shall fail to the open position when the power is off. They shall remain open until power is restored.
c. Knox Company authorization forms are required for orders of key switches, boxes and padlocks. The forms may be obtained by calling the Fire Prevention Division.
511.6 Manual gates or barriers.
1. Manual gates or barriers may be approved on a case-by-case basis for nighttime security of business property or access to wildland property.
2. They shall be constructed in a manner that reflects good construction practices acceptable to the fire authority having jurisdiction.
3. They shall be accessible by means of an approved fire department padlock (Knox) or by the installation of an approved key box (Knox).
4. Approved manual gates or barriers across emergency access roadways shall be provided with an 18-gauge metal sign in the center and on both sides of the gate that shall read, "FIRE LANE-NO PARKING." Letters shall be red on a white background and be a minimum of 3 inches high (76mm) with a ½-inch (12.7 mm) stroke.
5. For nighttime security only, gates to close off a fire lane, in order to minimize dumping and vandalism shall be approved with (Knox) padlock access. Gates to be closed during business hours are required to be electronically operated.
511.7 Prohibitions.
1. No gate shall be installed where access requires the use of a proximity reader or card.
2. Direction-limiting devices, such as fixed tire spikes, are prohibited.
3. The total number of vehicle access control devices or systems, through which emergency vehicles must pass to reach any address shall not exceed one.
4. No commercial property owner shall install fences and gates where more than one gate must be opened in order to reach within 150 feet (45,720 mm) of the rear portion of any building.
511.8 Pedestrian gates.
1. All vehicle gates obstructing pedestrian access to a public way (street) shall have an approved pedestrian gate installed within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the vehicle gate.
2. Gates shall be handicap accessible and comply with exit door requirements of the 2013 California Building Code.
3. An approved key box (Knox) shall be installed at least 48 inches (1220 mm) above grade on the outside of the gate. It shall be provided with a key to open the pedestrian gate.
4. No pedestrian gate shall be located in the median between two vehicle gates.
Exception: Private driveways serving one single-family residence are exempt from this requirement.
511.9 Additional requirements. Because of the delays caused by vehicle access control devices or systems, additional fire protection requirements may be applied based on other access limitations, such as narrow or winding streets, or dead-end streets without an approved turnaround available for fire apparatus. Other than the obstruction and the reduced width controlled within this standard, no other requirement of the fire authority having jurisdiction shall be adversely affected by the placement of any vehicle access control device or system in any required fire apparatus access road. Fire department approval does not waive any requirement by other authorities having jurisdiction.
E. Chapter 6, Section 602.1, Definitions, is amended as follows:
1. The definition of "roof access points" is added to read as follows:
ROOF ACCESS POINTS. An area that does not place ladders over openings (i.e., windows or doors) and are located at strong points of building construction and in locations where it does not conflict with overhead obstructions such as tree limbs, wires, or signs.
2. The definition of "sloped roof" is added to read as follows:
SLOPED ROOF. For the purpose of solar photovoltaic power systems, a roof with a greater than a 2-in-12 pitch.
3. The definition of "structural strong point" is added to read as follows:
STRUCTURAL STRONG POINT. Bearing wall or other such suitable load bearing member.
F. Chapter 9, Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems, is amended as follows:
1. Section 903.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. For all occupancies except Group R-3 and detached U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed and equipped with an electronic monitoring system as follows:
1. In every new building where the total floor area exceeds 3,599 square feet (1097 m2).
2. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in every building when there is an addition to the floor area in existence on the effective date of this ordinance of 20 percent or more within a 12-month period and the aggregate floor area of the building exceeds 3,599 square feet (1097 m2).
3. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in any portion of a building where there is a change of occupancy that creates a greater fire or life safety hazard, and the floor area of that portion of the building, which is changed, exceeds 3,599 square feet (1097 m2).
4. For the provisions of this Section, area separation walls shall not apply to eliminate the installation of a sprinkler system.
Exception: Non-combustible, detached canopies open on four sides not exceeding the basic allowable square footage in CBC Table 503 used exclusively for the parking or storage of private or pleasure vehicles and noncombustible storage (includes fuel islands).
2. Section 903.2.11.7 is added to read as follows:
903.2.11.7 Covered floats, marinas and piers. A fire sprinkler system shall be provided for all covered floats, marinas, piers, and any/all other covered floating structures that are commercially operated and exceeds 3,599 square feet (1097 m2).
3. Section 903.3.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses are permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and the City of Sacramento standards. Every submittal shall include a full set of plans including details of type of pipe and fittings, hydraulic calculations, elevation views of all potential models if site is a master planned community and any other requested data sheets.
4. Section 903.3.8.4 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.8.4 Supervision. Control valves shall not be installed between the water supply and sprinklers unless the valves are of an approved indicating type that are supervised or secured in the open position.
5. Section 903.4.1.1 is added to read as following:
903.4.1.1 Fire control room. An approved fire control room shall be provided for all new buildings or occupancies with a change of use, protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system. The room shall contain all system control valves, fire alarm control panels and other fire equipment required by the fire code official. Fire control rooms shall be located within the building at a location approved by the fire code official and shall be provided with a means to access the room directly from the exterior. Durable signage shall be provided on the exterior side of the access door to identify the fire control room. Fire Control Rooms shall not be less than 50 square feet (15.24 m2).
Exceptions:
1. Group R, Division 3, Occupancies.
2. Occupancies with a fire pump shall have a fire control room that is a minimum of 200 square feet (61 m2).
3. In highrise buildings, the fire control room shall not be less than 200 square feet (61 m2).
6. Section 907.2.3 is amended to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. Group E Occupancies shall be provided with fire alarm systems in accordance with Section 907.2.3. Group E Occupancies having an occupant load of 50 or more, shall be provided with an approved automatic fire alarm system. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system. When more than one fire alarm control unit is used, they shall be interconnected and shall operate all indicating devices. Group E Occupancies with an occupant load of 50 persons or less shall have an early-warning device as approved by the fire authority having jurisdiction.
7. Section 907.6.6 is amended to read as follows:
907.6.6 Monitoring. Required alarm systems shall be monitored by an approved alarm service provider's Type A (listed) Central Station as established by Sacramento Regional Fire/EMS Communication Center.
The Central Station monitoring company or approved alarm company shall notify the authority having jurisdiction in writing, within 24 hours, of systems that are found not to be in compliance with applicable codes.
Receipt of supervisory signals by the monitoring company require the dispatch of a runner or maintenance person (arrival time not to exceed 3 hours), unless the condition can be restored to normal through the subscriber's efforts.
Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:
1. Single and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
2. Group I-3 occupancies shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
8. Section 907.6.6(A) is added to read as follows:
907.6.6(A) Branch electrical circuits. When providing a fire alarm circuit in a multiple-occupancy type building (multiple metering), the circuit shall be energized from the building meter panel board. When a separate source of power (i.e., emergency generator) is provided, the fire alarm circuit shall be energized from the emergency panel board.
9. Section 907.6.6(B) is added to read as follows:
907.6.6(B) Alarm transmission. The activation of a fire sprinkler system, hood extinguishing system, special extinguishing system or a fire alarm/detection system shall cause the system to initiate a signal to the Central Station within 90 seconds. Retransmission from the Central Station to the Fire Dispatch Center shall not exceed 60 seconds.
Exception: Hood extinguishing systems or special extinguishing systems installed in existing buildings without a fire alarm system need not be monitored.
10. Section 907.6.6(C) is added to read as follows:
907.6.6(C) Signal interference. Signal amplification is required to provide signal integrity at the discretion of the fire code official. All costs regarding the installation, maintenance, and continuous operation of those lines of transmission are the responsibility of the building owner.
11. Section 907.6.6.1 is amended to read as follows:
907.6.6.1 Automatic telephone dialing devices. Two separate telephone lines (numbers) that use Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitters (DACT) shall be provided from the protected premises to the Central Station. All costs regarding the installation, maintenance, and continuous operation of those lines are the responsibility of the building owner.
G. Chapter 11, Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings, is amended as follows:
1. Section 1101.3 is added to read as follows:
1101.3. Permits. Permits are required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6 and the California Building Code.
2. Section 1101.3.1 is added to read as follows:
1101.3.1 Helicopter use permits. A permit is required for any person, firm or business landing a helicopter at a site other than an approved airport or heliport as described by Federal Aviation Administration F.A.R. Part 77, for the purpose of advertising, promotions, lifting, or rides whether for public or private use. The fire code official is authorized to issue permits for these uses in accordance with the provisions in section 105 permits. In addition to any other information that the fire code official may require under Section 105.2 Application, sufficient information shall be provided to the fire code official to allow him or her to reasonably determine or assess the operational safety of the use.
H. Section 2006.5.1.4, is added to read as follows:
2006.5.1.4 Fueling at rooftop heliports. Refueling at rooftop heliports, helistops or emergency landing areas is prohibited.
I. Section 2603.3, is added to read as follows:
2603.3 Notification. The fire code official and fire chief shall be notified in writing not less than 48 hours before the building, structure or space is to be closed in connection with the utilization of any toxic or flammable fumigant. Notification shall give the location of the enclosed space to be fumigated or fogged, the occupancy, the fumigants or insecticides to be utilized, the person or persons responsible for the operation, and the date and time at which the operation will begin. Written notice of any fumigation or insecticidal fogging operation shall be given to all affected occupants of the building, structure or space in which such operations are to be conducted with sufficient advance notice to allow the occupants to evacuate the building, structure or space. Such notice shall inform the occupants as to the purposes, anticipated duration and hazards associated with the fumigation or insecticidal fogging operation. advanced notice to the occupants of the enclosed space involved to enable the occupants to evacuate the premises.
J. Chapter 56, Explosives and Fireworks, is amended as follows:
1. Section 5601.2 is added to read as follows:
5601.2 Permit required. Permits are required as set forth in Section 105.5 and regulated in accordance with this section, and are required for the sale and display of "Safe and Sane" approved fireworks as permitted and regulated by Chapter 8.48 of the Sacramento City Code.
2. Section 5601.7 is added to read as follows:
5601.7 Seizure. The fire code official is authorized to seize, take, remove or cause to be removed at the expense of the owner all stocks of fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored or held in violation of local, state, or federal regulations.
K. Section 5704.2.14.1, is amended to read as follows:
5704.2.14.1 Removal. Tanks shall not be disassembled at the site by any means.
L. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards in Chapter 80, Referenced Standards, are amended to read as follows:
NFPA - National Fire Protection Association
All NFPA Standards current as of the date of this code's adoption are adopted except: 11C, 13E, 297, 473, 550, 902, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1021, 1031, 1033, 1035, 1041, 1201, 1221, 1402, 1404, 1405, 1410, 1500, 1561, 1581, 1710, 1720, 1901, 1911, 1914, 1931, 1932, 1971, 1975, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1999.
M. Appendix C, Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution, is amended as follows:
1. Section C104.2 is added to read as follows:
C104.2 Existing single outlet 2½-inch (63.5-mm) hydrants. Existing single-outlet 2½-inch (63.5-mm) hydrants shall be changed to an approved steamer-style hydrant, when construction or use increases the required fire flow.
2. Section C104.3 is added to read as follows:
C104.3 Water main improvements. Where water main improvements are required to meet gallon per minute (gpm) flow, and the existing water main has a single 2½-inch (63.5-mm) outlet fire hydrant, an upgrade of hydrants is required.
3. Section C104.4 is added to read as follows:
C104.4 Existing hydrants. Existing hydrants affected by right-of-way improvements shall be moved to an approved location at no cost to the fire authority.
4. Section C104.5 is added to read as follows:
C104.5 Hydrant type. The fire code official shall approve the type of fire hydrants to be installed in public right-of-way or on private property prior to any such installation under the City Utilities Standard.
N. Appendix CC, Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution, is amended as follows:
1. Table CC105.1 is amended to read as follows:
TABLE NO. CC105.1
NUMBER AND DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS f
NUMBER AND DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS f
FIRE FLOW REQUIREMENT (gpm)c | MINIMUM NUMBER OF HYDRANTS | AVERAGE SPACING BETWEEN HYDRANTS a, b, d, e (Ft.) | MAXIMUM DISTANCE FROM HYDRANT TO ANY POINT ON STREET OR ROADWAY FRONTAGE (Ft.) |
FIRE FLOW REQUIREMENT (gpm)c | MINIMUM NUMBER OF HYDRANTS | AVERAGE SPACING BETWEEN HYDRANTS a, b, d, e (Ft.) | MAXIMUM DISTANCE FROM HYDRANT TO ANY POINT ON STREET OR ROADWAY FRONTAGE (Ft.) |
1750 or less | 1 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
2000-2250 | 2 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
2500-3250 | 3 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
3500-4250 | 4 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
4500-5250 | 5 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
5500-5750 | 6 | 300 (91,440 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
6000-6250 | 6 | 250 (76,200 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
6500-7250 | 7 | 250 (76,200 mm) | 150 (45,720 mm) |
7500 or more | 8 or more b | 200 (60,960 mm) | 120 (36,576 mm) |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m
a. Reduce by 100 feet (30,480 mm) for dead-end streets or roadways
b. Hydrants are required on both sides of the street whenever one or more of the following conditions exist:
1. Street has a median center divider that makes access to hydrants difficult, causes a time delay, or creates an undue hazard;
2. There are four or more lanes of traffic;
3. Width of the street is in excess of 88 feet (26,822 mm); or
4. The existing street will be widened or will have a raised median center divider installed in the future pursuant to the General Plan Roadway Improvement Plans for the City of Sacramento.
c. One hydrant for each 1,000 gpm or fraction thereof.
d. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants should be provided every 1,000 feet (304,800 mm) of street to provide for transportation hazards. In addition, there shall be at least one hydrant at each intersection.
e. Average spacing between hydrants may be extended to 500 (152,400 mm) feet on streets serving one- and two-family dwellings.
f. The fire code official is authorized to modify the location, number and distribution of the fire hydrants, based on site-specific constraints hazards.
(Ord. 2023-0014 § 3)