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STAFF REPORT
Fire Department
DATE: December 7, 2010
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Tony L. Trabbie, Fire Chief T.T.
Prepared By: Mark Krikorian, Fire Marshal Yhk
SUBJECT: ORDINANCE NO. 2280 AMENDING ARTICLE III OF THE ARCADIA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO FIRE REGULATIONS AND
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2010 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA
FIRE CODE IN ITS ENTIRETY, INCLUDING CHAPTER 1 AND
APPENDICES CHAPTER 4, B, C, D, E, F, G, I and J BASED ON THE 2009
EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE PUBLISHED BY THE
INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
Recommendation: Adopt
SUMMARY
The Fire Department is proposing amendments to the Arcadia Municipal Code relating
to fire code regulations for the purpose of complying with current state requirements
and, in addition, is proposing some changes to current administrative and technical
standards. The last amendment to the City's Fire Code was November 2007 through
Ordinance No. 2232.
Staff is recommending that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 2280 to amend the
Arcadia Municipal Code.
DISCUSSION
Every three years, the State of California adopts new model codes to establish uniform
standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings, plumbing systems,
mechanical systems, electrical systems, and fire /life safety systems. Pursuant to
California Health & Safety Code Section 18941.5, local jurisdictions are mandated to
adopt such state codes within 180 days after publication of the code by the California
Building Standards Commission. Prior to adoption, amendments to the State codes may
be incorporated by the local jurisdiction based on local climatic, geologic, and /or
topographic conditions per section 17958.7 of California's Health and Safety Code.
Page 1 of 3
Mayor and City Council
November 2, 2010
Because of the State's requirements, staff has reviewed each of the City's proposed
technical code amendments to verify that they meet the intent of the California Health
and Safety Code.
The Fire Department is proposing to adopt the 2010 California Fire Code in its entirety
and has also proposed a number of amendments. These amendments are deemed
necessary to maintain the current level of protection throughout the City provided with
the current Fire Code. The remainder of the amendments are necessary to address
both new sections of the Code and safety requirements for issues not addressed in the
Code. The following is a summary of proposed changes.
2010 California Fire Code
3124.1 Staff is proposing an amendment to a new section of the Fire Code dealing
with emergency responder radio coverage. The amendment will require
existing buildings to comply with the radio coverage provisions when an
addition of 5,000 square feet is made to a structure or whenever the value of
alterations requiring permits exceed $500,000 in cumulative valuation.
3124.2. This amendment is the same as the 2007 Fire Code amendment requiring fire
sprinklers for all new buildings. Exemptions will still apply for detached
garages under 1,000 square feet and for pool houses, recreation rooms, or
similar accessory R -3 type occupancies (single family dwelling) provided all
portions of the building are within 150 feet of a public street for emergency
Fire Department access.
3124.3. This amendment is the same as the 2007 Fire Code amendment and details
design requirements for NFPA 13R multi - family fire sprinkler systems.
3124.4. This amendment is the same as the 2007 Fire Code amendment and details
design requirements for NFPA 13D single - family fire sprinkler systems.
3124.5. This amendment deals with fire sprinkler retrofit requirements for existing
buildings and is essentially the same as the 2007 Fire Code amendment
except for the addition of an exception for requiring retrofits of fire sprinkler
systems in existing R -3 occupancies. Additions of areas that would not
require sprinklers such as closets or bathrooms per the adopted fire sprinkler
standard will not trigger the retrofit amendment for the structure. The existing
2,500 square feet threshold for R -3 residential occupancies and 5,000 square
feet threshold for commercial occupancies will remain the same.
3124.6. This amendment is the same as the 2007 Fire Code amendment and allows
the Fire Department to require additional interior audible devices within a
building when necessary due to the size or configuration of the building.
Page 2 of 3
Mayor and City Council
November 2, 2010
3124.7. Staff is proposing this addition to provide design requirements related to the
installation of photovoltaic systems. Specific signage and roof access
requirements are provided to assist with occupant and firefighter safety and to
allow adequate spacing of roof mounted solar panels for roof ventilation
procedures.
3124.8. This addition is the same as the 2007 Fire Code addition prohibiting the sale,
use, or display of fireworks in the City unless permitted by the Fire Chief.
3124.9. This is an administrative addition to allow for the establishment of fire permit
fees by City Council resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT
The adoption of the codes and amendments will have no fiscal impact on the City.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The proposed amendments to the Arcadia Municipal Code will not have a potential for
causing a significant effect on the environment and is, therefore, not a project per CEQA
Title 14 sections 15061 (b)(3) and 15378 (b)(2).
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 2280 amending Article III of the
Arcadia Municipal Code relating to fire regulations and adopting by reference the
2010 edition of the California Fire Code in its entirety, including Chapter 1 and
appendices Chapter 4, B, C, D, E, F, G, I and J, based on the 2009 International Fire
Code published by the International Code Council.
APPROVED: Oe - Q
Donald Penman, City Manager
Attachment: Ordinance No. 2280
Page 3 of 3
ORDINANCE NO. 2280
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ARTICLE III OF THE
ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO FIRE
REGULATIONS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2010
EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE IN ITS
ENTIRETY, INCLUDING CHAPTER 1 AND APPENDICES
CHAPTER 4, B, C, D, E, F, G, I AND J BASED ON THE 2009
EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE PUBLISHED
BY THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, DOES
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council finds that the amendments and additions to
the California Fire Code herein are supported by Findings of Fact which are attached as
Exhibit "A" and incorporated as part of this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Section 3121 of Article III, Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 1 of the
Arcadia Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
3121. CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE ADOPTION.
Subject to the exception of the deletions or additions hereinafter set forth, and
further subject to the amendments hereinafter specified, there is adopted by reference
for the City of Arcadia the 2010 Edition of the California Fire Code, including Chapter 1
and Appendices Chapter 4, B, C, D, E, F, G, I, and J based on the 2009 Edition of the
International Fire Code published by the International Code Council, and the foregoing
shall constitute the Fire Code of the City of Arcadia.
One (1) copy of said codes are on file in the office of the City Clerk for use and
examination by the public.
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SECTION 3. Section 3123 of Article III, Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 3 of the
Arcadia Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
3123. VIOLATIONS.
1. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of Sections 104, or 105 of
Chapter 1 of the Fire Code or who shall build in violation of any detailed statement of
specifications or plans submitted and approved under the provisions of this Code or
Standards adopted, or any certificate or permit issued thereunder, and from which no
appeal has been taken, or who shall fail to comply with such an order as affirmed or
modified by the City Council or by a court of competent jurisdiction, with the time fixed
herein, shall severally for each and every such violation, be guilty of a misdemeanor or
an infraction, punishable pursuant to Section 1200 of the Arcadia Municipal Code.
2. Any person who shall violate any other section of the Fire Code shall be guilty
of an infraction, punishable by fine as adopted by City Council Resolution.
3. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the violation or
permit it to continue; and all such persons shall be required to correct or remedy such
violations or defect in a timely manner as specified by the Fire Chief or his authorized
representative.
4. The application of the above penalties shall not be held to prevent the
enforced removal of prohibited conditions.
SECTION 4. Article III, Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 4 is hereby amended in
its entirety to read as follows:
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3124. AMENDMENTS AND ADDITIONS.
The California Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
3124.1. AMENDMENT.
Section 510.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions:
510.3 Emergency responder radio coverage in existing buildings. Existing
buildings that do not have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within
the building shall be equipped with such coverage according to one of the following:
1. Wherever an existing wired communication system cannot be repaired or
is being replaced, or where not approved in accordance with Section 510.1, Exception
1.
2. Whenever total additions result in an increase of more than 5000 square
feet in the total floor area, including mezzanines or additional stories, regardless of
ownership. Additions shall be cumulative with each application for building permit from
January 1, 2011.
3. Whenever the value of alterations requiring permits exceed $500,000 in
valuation. Alteration values shall be cumulative with each application for a building
permit from January 1, 2011.
3124.2. AMENDMENT.
Section 903.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions:
903.2. Where required. Approved automatic extinguishing systems shall be
installed:
1. In all new buildings regardless of the type of construction or occupancy.
EXCEPTIONS:
A) Detached Group U occupancies, providing the floor area does not
exceed 1000 square feet.
B) Pool houses, recreation rooms, and similar accessory R -3 occupancies
providing no portion of the exterior wall of the building is more than 150 feet
from a public street.
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C) Other minor buildings and /or occupancies as approved by the Fire Chief.
2. In existing buildings with new occupancies as required by other sections of
the Fire Code.
3124.3. AMENDMENT.
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions:
903.3.1.2. NFPA 13R SPRINKLER SYSTEMS. Where allowed in buildings of
Group R, up to and including buildings four stories in height, automatic sprinkler
systems shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R with the following
additions:
A) Attics shall be fully sprinklered with quick- response intermediate temperature
heads.
B) Private garages shall be sprinklered and shall have a design density of an
Ordinary Hazard Group 1 occupancy with a design area of two (2) heads. Quick-
response intermediate temperature commercial type heads shall be used for the
garage area.
3124.4. AMENDMENT.
Section 903.3.1.3 of the Califomia Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local climatic, geographical, and topographical conditions:
903.3.1.3. NFPA 13D SPRINKLER SYSTEMS. Where allowed, automatic
sprinkler systems installed in one -and two- family dwellings shall be installed throughout
in accordance with NFPA 13D with the following additions:
A) Attics containing forced air units shall have one or more quick- response
intermediate temperature sprinkler heads adjacent to each unit.
B) Attached private garages shall be sprinklered and shall have a design
density of an Ordinary Hazard Group 1 occupancy with a design area of two (2)
heads. Quick- response intermediate temperature commercial type heads shall
be used for the garage area.
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C) Detached private garages over 1000 square feet in total area shall be
sprinklered and shall have a design density of an Ordinary Hazard Group 1
occupancy with a design area of 2 heads. Quick- response intermediate
temperature commercial type heads shall be used for the garage area.
D) Residential structures under 5000 square feet in total area shall be
designed for two (2) heads flowing in the residential area. Residential structures
over 5000 square feet in total area shall be designed for four (4) heads flowing in
the residential area.
3124.5. AMENDMENT.
Section 903.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local climatic, geographical, and topographic conditions:
903.6. EXISTING BUILDINGS. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system
shall be installed in existing buildings, including any additions thereto, in the
occupancies and buildings as set forth in this section.
1. In all commercial and industrial buildings greater than 5000 square feet in
area when enlarged by an addition to the existing structure or as required by the
Fire Chief.
2. In all commercial and industrial buildings equal to or Tess than 5000 square
feet in area, when enlarged by an addition to the existing structure, exceeds
5000 square feet or as required by the Fire Chief.
3. In all Group R -1 or R -2 Occupancies when an addition results in additional
guestrooms or dwelling units.
4. In all Group R -3 Occupancies greater than 2500 square feet in living area
when enlarged by an addition to the living area of the existing structure.
EXCEPTIONS:
A) Additions of areas that would not require sprinklers such as closets or
bathrooms.
5. In all Group R -3 Occupancies equal to or less than 2500 square feet in
living area, when enlarged by an addition to the living area of the existing
structure, exceeds 2500 square feet in residential area.
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EXCEPTIONS:
A) Additions of areas that would not require sprinklers such as closets or
bathrooms.
6. In existing buildings for new occupancies as required by other sections of
the Fire Code.
3124.6. AMENDMENT.
Section 903.4.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows due to
local topographic conditions:
903.4.2. ALARMS. Approved audible devices shall be connected to
every automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler water -flow alarm devices shall be
activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice
size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the
building in an approved location. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the
automatic fire sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system. Approved
audible notification appliances shall be provided in the interior of the building at
locations required by the Fire Chief.
3124.7. ADDITION.
Sections 504.4, 504.4.1 and 504.4.2 are hereby added to Chapter 5 of the
California Fire Code to read as follows due to local climatic conditions:
504.4. Photovoltaic system installation requirements.
504.4.1. Signage. Approved signage shall be provided at the following
locations:
1. Direct Current Conduit, Raceways, Enclosures, Cable Assemblies, and
Junction Boxes
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a. Marking should be placed on all interior and exterior DC conduit,
raceways, enclosures, and cable assemblies, every 10 feet, at turns and above
and /or below penetrations and at all DC combiner and junction boxes.
b. Marking should read - "CAUTION: SOLAR CIRCUIT"
2. DC Disconnect
a. Signage should read — "PV SYSTEM - DC DISCONNECT"
3. INVERTER:
a. Signage should read — "PV SYSTEM — INVERTER — WARNING:
ELECTRICAL SHOCKHAZARD"
4. AC DISCONNECT:
a. Signage should read — "PV SYSTEM — AC DISCONNECT"
5. Permanent directory or plaque providing location of service disconnecting
means and photovoltaic system disconnecting means, if not located at the
same location.
504.4.2. Emergency access pathways. Emergency access pathways shall
be provided for photovoltaic system installations as follows:
1. Residential Systems:
EXCEPTIONS: Photovoltaic systems on detached garages and /or pool houses.
a. Residential Buildings with hip roof layouts: Modules should be located
in a manner that provides 3' wide clear access pathway from the eave to the
ridge on each roof slope where modules are located. The access pathway should
be located at a structurally strong location on the building (such as a bearing
wall).
b. Residential Buildings with a single ridge: Modules should be located in
a manner that provides 3' wide access pathways from the eave to the ridge on
each roof slope where modules are located.
c. Hips and valleys: Modules should be located no closer than 1.5' to a hip
or a valley if modules are to be placed on both sides of a hip or valley. If the
modules are to be located on only one side of a hip or valley that is of equal
length then the modules may be placed directly adjacent to the hip or valley.
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d. The modules should be located no higher than 3' below the ridge.
2. Commercial Systems:
a. Should be over structural members.
b. Centerline axis pathways should be provided in both axes of the roof.
Centerline axis pathways should run on structural members or over the next
closest structural member nearest to the center lines of the roof.
c. Should be straight line not less than 4' clear to skylights and /or
ventilation hatches.
d. Should be straight line not less than 3' clear to roof standpipes.
e. Should provide not less than 3' clear around roof access hatch with a
single minimum 4' clear pathway to parapet or roof edge.
f. Arrays should be no greater than 150 feet by 150 feet in size measured
in either axis.
g. Pathway width options between array sections should be either:
1) 8' or greater in width.
2) 4' or greater in width and bordering on existing roof skylights or
ventilation hatches.
3) 4' or greater in width and bordering 4' x 8' "venting cutouts" every 20' on
alternating sides of the pathway.
3. Ground Mounted Arrays:
a. A clear brush area of 10' is required for ground mounted photovoltaic
arrays.
3124.8. ADDITION.
Section 3308.2 is added to Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code to read as
follows due to local climatic conditions:
3308.2. FIREWORKS PROHIBITED. No person shall sell, display for sale,
possess, store, or manufacture, use, light, fire, discharge, explode or set off any fire-
8
works, including "Safe and Sane" fireworks anywhere within the City, except as allowed
by the Fire Chief.
3124.9. ADDITION [ADMINISTRATIVE].
Section 105.1.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:
When the application for a permit under this section is filed, a non - refundable fee
as adopted by City Council Resolution shall be paid for the purpose of recovering the
cost of services provided.
SECTION 5. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of the Ordinance and
shall cause a copy of same to be published in the official newspaper of said City within
fifteen (15) days after its adoption..
Passed, approved and adopted this day of , 2010.
Mayor of the City of Arcadia
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
,„Pix P 4-ard
Stephen P. Deitsch
City Attorney
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FINDINGS OF FACT
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1 111 Pursuant to the 2010 Edition of the California Fire Code Preface, the report
contained herein shall be submitted as the Findings of Fact document with
regard to Article III of the City of Arcadia Municipal Code, Ordinance No.
cadia 2280, as adopted by the City of Arcadia. Under this adopting Ordinance specific
amendments have been established, which are more restrictive in nature than
those sections adopted by the California Building Standards Code.
Fire The amendments to the California Fire Code, 2010 Edition have been
Department recognized by the City of Arcadia to address the fire problem(s), concern(s) and
future direction(s) by which this City can establish and maintain an
environment, which will afford a level of fire and life safety to its citizens and
guests.
Tony L. Trabbie
Fire Chief Under the provisions of California Fire Code Preface, local amendments shall be
based on climatic, geographical or topographical conditions. The Findings of
Facts contained herein shall address each of these situations and shall present
the local situation, which singularly or in combination cause the established
amendments to be adopted.
Climatic: The City of Arcadia is located in the County of Los Angeles, and is
subject to long periods of dry, hot and windy climates, which increase the
chance of a fire occurring and predispose the City to large destructive fires.
These dry climatic conditions and winds contribute to the rapid spread of even
small fires originating in moderate density housing or vegetation. These fires
spread very quickly and create a need for increased levels for fire prevention and
protection.
Geographical: The geographic layout and contours of the City of Arcadia
create barriers for accessibility for fire suppression forces. Due to the City's
close proximity to major fault lines, there is a significant possibility for multiple
fires spreading out of control due to ruptured gas lines and multiple structural
collapses. Because of the major earthquake hazard, and due to some older
nonconforming buildings, it is necessary during the new construction or building
renovation to use the City ordinance to control and minimize conditions
hazardous to life and property, which may result from fire, hazardous materials
or an explosion.
Topographical: The water supply (domestic and fire flow) system within the
City is directly affected by the topographical layout of Arcadia. The distribution
system consists of high -low pressure and gravity systems zones, which carry the
water from various reservoirs and storage tanks to different zones via water
pipes. These street mains consist of high - pressure lines and low pressure lines
630 S. Baldwin Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91007
(626) 574-5100
(626) 446-7410
where the pressure and flows are adequate in most of the areas of the city. There are certain areas
in the southern portion of the City with static pressures of 40 psi., and in the northern portion as
low as 20 psi. This variation of pressure causes major problems to development, as well as fire
suppression forces.
As a result of the Findings of Fact, which identified the various climatic, geographical, and
topographical elements, the requirements established by the City of Arcadia Fire Department
within the adopted Ordinance No. 2280 are considered reasonable and necessary modifications
to the California Fire Code based upon local conditions.
While it is clearly understood that the adoption of such regulations may not prevent the incidents
of fire, it is further noted that with the implementation of these various regulations and /or
requirements it may serve to reduce the severity and potential loss of life and property.
The City of Arcadia Fire Department submits these Findings of Fact and request acceptance of
these as defined in the California Fire Code Preface.
Prepared and submitted by: Mark Krikorian, Fire Marshal