HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Ord 1719 2025-10-13ORDINANCE 1719
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA
BUILDING CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 2025
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2025 CALIFORNIA
PLUMBING CODE, AND 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS AND
DELETIONS, AMENDING TITLE 9 OF THE SEAL BEACH
MUNICIPAL CODE, AND APPROVING A CEQA
EXEMPTION DETERMINATION
THE SEAL BEACH CITY COUNCIL DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Recitals.
A. California law provides that on January 1, 2026, building standards contained in
the 2025 California Building Standards Code ("CBSC"), Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations, will be effective within the City.
B. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7
and 18941.5, the City may amend building standards contained in the CBSC
based upon express findings that such changes are reasonably necessary
because of local climatic, topographical or geological conditions.
C. The City shall file a copy of this ordinance with its amendments to the CBSC,
together with required findings, with California Building Standards Commission.
D. The Building Official has recommended amending certain building standards in
the CBSC due to local conditions.
E. The findings supporting the necessity for the amendments to building standards
herein are contained by separate Resolution of the City Council to this Ordinance
in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and
18941.5.
F. On October 13, 2025, a duly noticed public hearing was conducted to consider
the adoption of this Ordinance.
G. All legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
Section 2. Section 9.60.010 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
is amended by revising only those sections of Chapter 1 of the California Building Code
set forth below, to read as follows:
"9.60.010 CONSTRUCTION CODES AND PERMITING ADMINISTRATION
1. Subsection 105.2 amended in its entirety to read:
105.2 Work exempt from permit
Exemption from the permit requirements of this Code shall not be deemed to grant
authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this
Code, other laws, ordinances, or regulations, or required approvals from other City
Departments and State and federal agencies.
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.
1. Work not regulated by the Building Code, except where deemed necessary by
the building official to enforce other Federal and/or State Laws, State disabled
access requirements, or to enforce City ordinances or policies.
2. Painting; wallpapering; installing carpet, vinyl, tile, and similar floor coverings,
cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work where disabled access
requirements do not apply.
3. Repairing broken window glass not required by the Building Code to be safety or
security glazing.
4. One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, shade
structures, pump houses, and similar uses, provided the gross floor area does
not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m 2), the height does not exceed 12 feet (3.69
m), and the maximum roof projection does not exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
5. Chain-link, wrought -iron and similar fences not more than 12 feet in height.
6. Masonry, concrete, wood and similar fences not more than 6 feet in height.
7. Exception: Wood fences not more than 8 feet in height with 60 percent or more of
the fence open and incapable of being loaded by wind.
8. Retaining walls that retain not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the
bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or
impounding a Class I, II, or III -A liquids.
9. Ground -mounted radio and television antenna towers that do not exceed 45 feet
in height and ground -supported dish antennas not exceeding 15 feet in height
above finished grade in any position.
10. Light standards which do not exceed 30 feet (9,144 mm) in height.
11. Flagpoles not erected upon a building and not more than 15 feet (4,572 mm)
high.
12.Tanks not storing hazardous material as defined in the Fire Code provided that:
12.1 Steel tanks are supported on a foundation not more than 2 feet (610 mm)
above grade and the overall height to diameter or width does not exceed 1'/2
times the diameter.
12.2 Water tanks constructed of materials other than steel, including cisterns
and rain barrels, are supported directly on grade, the overall height to
diameter or width does not exceed 1 %2 times the diameter, and the capacity
does not exceed 5000 gallons (18925 L).
13. Gantry cranes and similar equipment.
14. Motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery. Buildings or
structures constructed as part of a set or as scenery shall not be occupied or
used for any other purpose.
15. A playhouse or tree house provided that:
15.1 It does not exceed 64 square feet (5.94 m 2 ) in area nor 8 feet (2438 mm)
in height from floor to roof.
15.2 The ceiling height as established by door height or plate line does not
exceed 6 feet (1829 mm).
16. Canopies or awnings, completely supported by the exterior wall, attached to a
('-rnl In R-1 nr I I nr i»4--+--,4;-- --4. _L_ __ iw n-n ._ _
— vVI % v — v vuvUvai iUy, al IU GALGI IUII I, I IUL orCaa54 I id ICS k 13! Lmru)
from the exterior wall of the building, and not encroaching into the public right-of-
way or any required fire separation distance specified by this Code.
17. Sheds, office or storage buildings, and other structures that are less than 1,500
square feet (139 m2) and incidental to work authorized by a valid grading or
building permit. Such structures must be removed upon expiration of the permit
or completion of the work covered by the permit.
18. Oil derricks.
19. Decks, walks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade and
not over any basement or story below, and which are not part of an accessible
route.
20. Prefabricated swimming pools and other bodies of water accessory to a Group
R-3 Occupancy that are less than 18 inches (0.46 m) deep, or do not exceed
5,000 gallons (18,927 L) and are installed entirely above adjacent grade.
21. Playground equipment.
22. One-story detached animal cages and kennels, chicken coops, and animal pens
provided the gross floor area does not exceed 300 square feet (37.2 m 2 ) and
the height does not exceed 6 feet (1.8 m) and at least one horizontal dimension
does not exceed 12 feet (3.69 m).
23. Non-combustible livestock shelters provided that the gross floor area does not
exceed 300 square feet (27.9 m 2), the height does not exceed 12 feet (3.69 m),
and at least 3 sides are each a minimum of 65 percent open.
24. Nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5
feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height.
Electrical:
An electrical permit shall not be required for the following:
25. Minor repair work, such as the replacement of lamps, switches, receptacle
devices, sockets, and the like, or the connection of portable motor and
appliances to suitable receptacles which have been permanently installed.
26. The wiring for temporary theater, motion picture or television stage sets.
27. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment operating at less
than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy.
28. Low-energy power, control, and signal circuits are not an integral part of an
appliance and in which the power is limited from a source having a rated output
of not more than 30 volts and 1,000 volt-amperes.
29. Temporary decorative lighting.
30. The installation of temporary wiring for testing or experimental purposes within
suitable facilities.
31. Replacement of over -current devices of the same type and the same rating.
32. Portable generators, portable motors, appliances, tools, power outlets, and other
portable equipment connected by means of a cord or cable having an attachment
plug.
33. Private telephone, intercom, sound and communication systems; provided,
however, that the above system(s) do not exceed the value as indicated in (c)
and (d) of this section. A permit shall be obtained for the power supplies required
by the above systems.
Mechanical:
A mechanical permit shall not be required for the following:
34.Any portable heating appliance.
35.Any portable ventilating equipment.
36. Any portable cooling unit.
37.Any steam, hot, or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment
regulated by this Code.
38. Replacement of any component part or assembly of an appliance which does not
alter its original approval and complies with other applicable requirements of this
Code.
39.Any portable evaporative cooler.
40. Any refrigerating equipment which is a part of the equipment for which a permit
has been issued pursuant to the requirements of this Code.
41. Any unit refrigerating system.
Plumbing:
A Plumbing permit shall not be required for the following:
42. Clearing of stoppages and stopping of leaks which do not involve the
replacement of any plumbing (including fixtures, traps, tailpieces and valves),
drainage piping, vent piping, waste piping, soil piping, water piping or gas piping.
43. (b) Change of residential plumbing fixtures which do not involve the
replacement of the existing waste and vent piping excluding the trap, to include,
residential toilets, residential bathroom hand sinks, bathtub and residential
kitchen sinks.
44. (c) Connection of any appliance approved for and intended to be connected
by flexible gas piping to a gas shutoff valve which was previously permitted and
inspected under a valid Plumbing permit.
2. Subsection 105.3.2 amended in its entirety to read:
105.3.2 Expiration of Applications. A plan check application shall expire and
become null and void if a permit is not issued within one (1) year from the date of
application. Upon expiration, the Building Official may dispose of the submitted plans,
calculations, and related documents.
The Building Official may, at their discretion, grant one or more extensions of time,
each not to exceed one hundred eighty (180) days, provided that:
1. The applicant submits a written request demonstrating that the delay was
due to circumstances beyond the applicant's control.
2. For extensions requested prior to expiration, the request is submitted before
the expiration date.
3. For extensions requested after expiration, the request is submitted within
twelve (12) months following the date of expiration.
4. An extension fee, in an amount determined by the Building Official, not to
exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the original plan check fee, is paid for
each extension; and
5. The total cumulative extension period shall not exceed two (2) years from the
original expiration date, with extensions issued only in increments not
exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days, and a separate extension fee
required for each extension granted.
Any extension granted after expiration shall be deemed a continuation of the original
application and shall not constitute a reissuance or a new application.
Once an application, including any extension thereof, has expired without further
extension, the applicant shall file a new application, submit new plans and
calculations, and pay all applicable fees in accordance with the codes and
regulations then in effect.
3. Section 105.7 amended in its entirety to read:
105.7 Expiration of Permits. Every permit issued under the provisions of this Code
shall expire by limitation and become null and void if any of the following conditions
occur:
1. The work authorized by such permit is not commenced within one (1) year
from the date of permit issuance; or
2. No required building inspection, as defined in this Code and as identified
on the Job Record issued with the permit, is approved by the Building
Official within one (1) year from the date of the last approved inspection.
Partial inspections, or inspections related solely to electrical, mechanical, plumbing,
grading, or reroofing, shall not constitute a required building inspection unless such
work is integral to the primary building permit.
Supplemental permits for electrical, grading, mechanical, plumbing, or reroofing shall
remain valid so long as the associated primary building permit remains active.
The Building Official may, at their discretion, grant one or more extensions of time,
each not to exceed one hundred eighty (180) days, to prevent or cure the expiration
of a permit, provided that:
1. The permittee submits a written request demonstrating that the delay in
progress was due to circumstances beyond the permittee's control;
2. For extensions requested prior to expiration, the request is submitted
before the expiration date;
3. For extensions requested after expiration, the request is submitted within
twelve (12) months following the date of expiration; and
4. An extension fee, in an amount determined by the Building Official, not to
exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the original permit fee, is paid for each
extension.
Multiple extensions may be granted to cover the requested period of time; however,
each extension shall be issued in increments not exceeding one hundred eighty (180)
days, and a separate extension fee shall apply to each extension granted.
Any extension granted after expiration shall be deemed a continuation of the original
permit and shall not constitute a reissuance or issuance of a new permit.
If no extension is granted, the permit shall remain expired and no further work shall be
performed under that permit. The permittee shall be required to submit a new permit
application, including all required plans and calculations, and pay all applicable fees in
accordance with the codes and regulations then in effect.
4. Subsection 106.2 deleted in its entirety and can be indicated as reserved.
5. A new subsection 108.8 added to read:
108.8 Valuation. The determination of value or valuation under any of the
provisions of this code shall be made by the building official. Valuation shall be
based on the type of construction, occupancy classification, and size of the project,
and shall include all components of the permitted work, including structural
elements, finishes, roofing, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection
systems, and other permanently installed features or equipment.
In establishing valuation, the Building Official may reference the most current
Building Valuation Data (BVD) published by the International Code Council or other
similar industry data sources. These references are intended to provide a
consistent and uniform basis for determining construction valuation for fee
assessment purposes. The calculated valuation is not required to reflect actual or
reported construction costs.
6. Subsection 108.5 amended in its entirety to read:
108.5 Plan Check and Permit Fee Refunds
108.5.1 Plan Check Fee Refunds. Plan check fees may be refunded up to a
maximum of eighty percent (80%) of the original plan check fee, provided that:
1. No plan review has been performed; and
2. A written request for a refund is submitted to the Building Official within
one (1) year from the date of payment; and
3. The refundable amount exceeds the equivalent of the minimum permit fee,
as determined by the current adopted fee schedule.
The Building Official shall determine eligibility and the amount of any refund in
accordance with these provisions.
108.5.2 Permit Fee Refunds. Permit fees may be refunded to a maximum of eighty
percent (80%) of the original permit fee, provided that:
1. No portion of the work authorized by the permit has commenced; and
2. The permit has been cancelled; and
3. A written request for refund is submitted to the Building Official within one
(1) year from the date of permit cancellation or expiration; and
4. The refundable amount exceeds the equivalent of the minimum permit fee,
as determined by the current adopted fee schedule.
Permit issuance fees are non-refundable. The Building Official shall determine
eligibility and the amount of any refund in accordance with these provisions.
7. Subsection 110.2 amended in its entirety to read:
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:
1. The building permit number.
2. The address of the building or structure.
3. A description of the portion of the building covered by the certificate.
4. A statement that the described portion was inspected and found to comply
with applicable codes and regulations for the intended occupancy and use
classification.
5. The date of final approval; and
6. Any additional information deemed necessary by the Building Official.
8. Subsection 110.3 amended in its entirety to read:
110.3 Temporary Certificate of Occupancy
The Building Official may issue a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for the use or
occupancy of any portion of a building or structure prior to the completion of all
permitted work, provided it is determined that no substantial hazard will result from
such use or occupancy.
A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy shall:
1. Specify the portion of the building or premises to be occupied.
2. Be valid for an initial period of thirty (30) calendar days; and
3. Be subject to a fee per 30 -day period, as established by the adopted fee
schedule.
If additional time is needed, the Building Official may, upon written request and
justification, approve a longer duration by allowing multiple 30 -day periods to be
purchased in advance. The total authorized time shall be based on project -specific
conditions and shall remain at the discretion of the Building Official.
Upon expiration of a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy and any approved
extensions, no portion of the building or premises shall be occupied until final
approval, or a Certificate of Occupancy is issued."
9. Except as expressly amended herein, all provisions of Section 9.60.010 shall continue
in full force and effect."
Section 3. Section 9.60.020.010 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.010 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.010 BUILDING CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE AND AMENDED
A. CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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
9.60.020.010.13 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.
B. CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE AMENDED
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:
1- Chapter 1 of Division II is deleted in its entirety
2- Chapter 9 is amended in its entirety to read:
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 9.60.020.060.A and 9.60.020.060.B."
Section 4. Section 9.60.020.020 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however, that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.020 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.020 RESIDENTIAL CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE AND
AMENDED
A. CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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
9.60.020.020.13 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.
B. CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE AMENDED
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."
Section 5. Section 9.60.020.030 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however, that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.030 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.030 ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
A. CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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."
Section 6. Section 9.60.020.040 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however, that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.040 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.040 MECHANICAL CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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."
Section 7. Section 9.60.020.050 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however, that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.050 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.050 PLUMBING CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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."
Section 8. Section 9.60.020.060 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal
Code is hereby repealed provided, however, that such repeal shall not affect or excuse
any violation thereof occurring prior to the effective date of this Ordinance. A new Section
9.60.020.060 is hereby added to Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
to read as follows:
"9.60.020.060 FIRE CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE AND AMENDED
A. CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE
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 9.60.020.060.B 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.
B. CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE AMENDED
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:
Chapter 1
Scope and Administration
Chapter 1 SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION is adopted in only those sections and
subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:
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.
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.
Chapter 2
Definitions
Chapter 2 DEFINITIONS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM with the
following amendments:
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 particlesldebris 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.
Chapter 3
General Requirements
Chapter 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is adopted in only those sections and
subsections adopted by the SFM with the following amendments:
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. "
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.
LYV VULUVVI 111 es l.Islllg ally luvi lype clre perrnirrud when predicted sustained winas
exceed 20 MPH or when such fires present a hazard as determined by the fire code
official.
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.
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
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.
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.
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:
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,
Portable fireplaces, and fire pitslrings equipped with a device to arrest
sparks, shall be located at least 15 feet from combustible structures at
other R occupancies.
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.
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."
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.
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 andlor 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.
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.
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 ace// phone nearby and call 911 immediately in case of fire.
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.
Chapter 4
Emergency Planning and Preparedness
Chapter 4 EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS is adopted in only those
carrfinnc gnrJ ciihcon+inrin-,4-,+-,4 h..+4... 017RA...:+4. 44--
--1 — ui — . U"v % NaLIUI w auvNLCU Vy LI IG JrIVI VVILI I LI It: IUIIUVVII ly dI11U11UfTlerlt:
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.
Chapter 5
Fire Service Features
Chapter 5 FIRE SERVICE FEATURES is adopted in its entirety as amended by the SFM
with the following amendments:
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 8-01 "Fire Master Plans for Commercial & Residential Development."
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 Sheriffs 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:
1.1. Existing buildings or structures, unless required by the Building
Official and OCFA for buildings and structures undergoing
extensive remodel and/or expansion.
1.2. Elevators.
1.3. Structures that meet all of 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.
1.4. Structures that meet all of the following:
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.
Chapter 9
Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Chapter 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS is adopted in its entirety
as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:
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:
2.1. When an addition exceeds 2000 square feet, and the resulting
building area exceeds 5000 square feet.
Exception: Additions to Group R-3 occupancies shall comply with
Section 903.2.8 (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:
2.1. All existing Group R occupancies and U garages when the total area
is increased by 750 square feet or more.
2.2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout any
existing Group R Occupancy building when the floor area of the
alteration or combination of an addition and alteration, is 50% or more
of an area/value of the existing structure and where the scope of the
work exposes building framing and facilitates sprinkler installation and
is such that the Building/Fire Code Official determines that the
complexity of installing a sprinkler system would be similar as in a new
building.
2.3. Any addition to an existing building which has fire sprinklers installed.
The exceptions in this section remain unchanged.
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.
Design
75
80
85
on
TABLE 903.3.5.3
Hydraulically Calculated Systems
100 110 120 130 140 150 PSI
Chapter 28
Lumber Yards and Agro -Industrial, Solid Biomass and Woodworking Facilities
Chapter 28 LUMBER YARDS AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL, SOLID BIOMASS AND
WOODWORKING FACILITIES is adopted in its entirety with the following amendments:
Section 2801.2 Permit is hereby revised as follows:
2801.2 Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5. and
105.5.31.
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.
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.
Section 2808.3.1 Increase in pile or stack size is hereby deleted in its entirety.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Section 2808.12 Water availability is hereby added as follows:
2808.12 Water availability. Facilities with over 2500 cubic feet shall provide a
water supply. The minimum fire flow shall be no less than 500 GPM c@ 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 2500 gallons per pile (maximum
30,000 gallons) for piles not exceeding 6 feet in height and 5000 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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Chapter 50
Hazardous Materials — General Provisions
Chapter 50 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS — GENERAL PROVISIONS is adopted in its
entirety as amended by the SFM with the following amendments:
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.
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 al) in a residential zoned
or any residentially developed property.
Chapter 56
Explosives and Fireworks
Chapter 56 EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS is adopted in its entirety as amended by
the SFM with the following amendments:
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.
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.
Chapter 80
Referenced Standards
Chapter 80 REFERENCED STANDARDS is adopted in its entirety as amended by the
SFM with the following amendments:
NFPA 13, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems is hereby
amended as follows:
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.
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 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
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%" 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%" inlets shall be provided.
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:
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.
NFPA 24, 2025 Edition, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains
and Their Appurtenances is hereby amended as follows:
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.
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 (12m) 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
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
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.
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.
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 10.4.3.2.1 through
10.4.3.2.4."
Section 9. Section 9.60.020 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
is hereby amended by adding a new Section 9.60.020.070 to read as follows:
"9.60.020.070 EFFECT OF ADOPTION
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."
Section 10. Section 9.60.020 of Chapter 9.60 of Title 9 of the Seal Beach Municipal Code
is hereby amended by adding a new Section 9.60.020.080 to read as follows:
"9.60.020.080 PENALTY; VIOLATIONS
(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."
Section 11. CEQA. The City Council finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is
no possibility the adoption of this Ordinance may have a significant effect on the
environment because the Ordinance provides for greater environmental protection by
adopting and amending building standards and administrative provisions designed to
provide for greater energy efficiency, construction sustainability, and protection from
seismic and climatic forces, including fire -related dangers. Therefore, it is exempt from
California Environmental Quality Act review pursuant to Title 14, Section 15061(b)(3), of
the California Code of Regulations (CEQA Guidelines).
Section 12. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or
portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held out to be invalid or unconstitutional by the
decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision will not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council of the City of Seal Beach hereby
declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence,
clause, phrase or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections,
subsection, sentence clause, phrases or portions be declared valid or unconstitutionally.
Section 13. CONTINUITY. To the extent the provisions of this Ordinance are substantially
the same as previous provisions of the Seal Beach Municipal Code, these provisions will be
construed as continuations of those provisions and not as amendments of the earlier
provisions.
Section 14. INTENT TO COMPLY WITH LAWS. The City Council intends this Ordinance
to supplement, not to duplicate or contradict, applicable state and federal law and this
Ordinance will be construed in light of that intent.
Section 15. PUBLICATION. The City Clerk is directed to cause this ordinance to be
published in the manner required by law.
Section 16. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance will take effect on January 1St, 2026.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Seal Beach held on
the 22"d day of September 2025.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED by the Seal Beach City Council at a regular
meeting held on the 13th day of October 2025.
AYES: Council Members Kalmick. Wong. Landau Senecal, Steele
NOES: Council Members
ABSENT: Council Members
ABSTAIN: Council Members
A
k_71una U. n
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Nicholas Ghirelli, City Attorney
Lisa Landau, Mayor
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF ORANGE } SS
CITY OF SEAL BEACH }
I, Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk of the City of Seal Beach, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of Seal Beach held on the 22nd day of September, 2025, and was
passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting on the 13th day
of October 2025.
oris D. Harper,�Pity`Clerk
ICODE
SECTION
Chapter 1
Chapter 9
R301.1.3.2
R309
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING AND RESIDENTIAL CODE
AMENDMENT FINDINGS LEGEND
TITLE (Clarification)
Division II
Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Wood Frame Structures
Automatic Fire Sprinkler System
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
AMENDMENT FINDINGS LEGEND
FINDINGS
Administrative
I, II & III and Code
correlation with Fire
Code amendments
II & III
I, II & III and Code
_Lcorrelation with Fire
ode amendments
CODE
SECTION
TITLE (Clarification)
FINDINGS
Administrative
113.4
Violation penalties
113.4.2
Infraction and misdemeanor
Administrative
202
General definitions
Administrative
304.1.3
OCFA vegetation management
I
305.6
Hazardous conditions outdoor fires
I & II
305.7
Disposal of rubbish
I & II
307
Open burning, recreational fires, fire pits, fire rings, and
outdoor fireplaces
Administrative
307.6
Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, fire rings
Administrative
307.6.1
Gas -fueled devices outdoor fires
Devices using wood or fuels other than natural gas or
LPG
I & II
307.6.2
I & II
I & II
307.6.2.1
Where prohibited(burning of solid fuels
324
Fuel modification requirements for new construction
1
325
Clearance of brush or vegetation growth from roadways
1
326
Unusual circumstances (vegetation management)
Administrative
327
Use of equipment IC engines and spark arresters
1
327.2 Use of equipment and devices generating heat, sparks
or op en flames
327.3 Spark arresters
407.5 'Hazardous material inventor statement
501.1 Scope (fire service features) I
1
I & 11
Administrative, I, 11 & III
510.1
Emergency responder radio coverage
Administrative
903.2
Where required (sprinklers)
I, II & III
903.2.8
Group R sprinklers
I, II & III
903.3.5.3
Hydraulically calculated systems
I, II & III
2801.2
Permit (biomass storage and handling)
Administrative
2808.2
Storage site
Administrative
2808.3
Size of piles
2808.4
Pile separation
2808.7
Pile fire protection
I
2808.9
Material -handling equipment
I
2808.11
Temperature control
I
2808.11.1
Pile temperature control
I
2808.11.2
New material temperature control
I
2808.12
Water availability for iles
2808.13
TIpping area
2808.14
Emergency contact information
Administrative
2808.15
Maximum grid of piles and rows
Administrative, 1
2808.16
Push -out / clear area
Administrative, I
5001.5.2
Hazardous materials inventory statement
Administrative
5003.1.1.1
Extremely hazardous substances
I, II & III
5608.2
Firing (commercial fireworks)
Administrative
5608.3
Application for permit (commercial fireworks)
Administrative
Chapter
80
Reference Standards
2025 NFPA 13 (commercial sprinkler systems)
N/A
Administrative, II & III
2025 NFPA 13D (single family sprinkler systems)
I & II
2025 NFPA 24 (underground water supply systems)
Administrative & III
AB 130 Finding
Amendments to building standards affecting residential uses contained in Ordinance
1719, are changes or modifications substantially equivalent to existing changes or
modifications that were previously filed by the City of Seal Beach and were in effect as
of September 30, 2025. See Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and 18941.5.