HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 09102002 - C37 TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ont a
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FROM: CARLOS BALTODANO, DIRECTOR Costa
BUILDING INSPECTION DEPARTMENT County
GATE: September 10, 2002
SUBJECT: ADOPTION OF THE 2001 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, THE 2001
CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE 2001 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING
CODE, AND THE 2001 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, WITH
AMENDMENTS, CHANGES AND DELETIONS
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S)OR RECOMMENDATION(S)&BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. SET a public hearing for October 1, 2002, at!0:30 a.m.) for adoption of the 2001
California Building Code, the 2001 California Electrical Code, the 2001 California
Plumbing Code, and the 2001 California Mechanical Code,with amendments,changes,
modifications, and deletions.
2. DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to publish notice of the public hearing pursuant to
Government Code 6066 in the Centra Costa Times, a newspaper of general circulation
in this County.
BACKGROUND/REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Pursuant to the State Health and Safety Code section 17922, the California building,
electrical, plumbing, and mechanical codes can be modified by amendments by a
jurisdiction six months after the State adoption. The State Building Standards Commission
adopted these codes with an effective date of November 1, 2002. If modifications or
amendments are not made by a County or City prior to this date, then the technical portion
Of the new uniform codes have to be enforced by that jurisdiction.
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CONTINUED ON ATTACHMENT: X YES SIGNATURE
RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF ETOARD COMMITTEE
APPROVE OTHER
SIGNATURE (S),
ACTION OF BO ON qp�n t . 1 0 12QQ 9 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED BOTHER
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VOTE OF SUPERVISORS I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE
xx UNANIMOUS(ABSENT None ) AND CORRECT COPY OF AN ACTION TAKEN
AYES: NOES: AND ENTERED ON THE MINUTES OF THE
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ON THE DATE
SHOWN.
Contact: Carps Bal#odano(9251335-1108)
ATTESTED: September 10, 002
cc: Building inspection Department Jahn Sweeten,Clerk of the Beard of Supervisors
County Administrator and County Administrator
County Counsel
Community Development
BY ' ,DEPUTY
CB:nr
%dord12001 cbc.cec.cmc.cpc.9-1002
Adaption of the 2001 California Building Code...
September 10, 2002
Page Two
Staff has reviewed the code proposal with the goal of recommending adoption of the
uniform codes and uniform building standards and certain appendices with changes
necessary to meet state and County administrative requirements. The Uniform Codes are
being recommended for adoption with a minimum of technical changes in order to retain as
much uniformity as possible.
Clarifying changes are in the renumbering of certain sections in Title 7. These kinds of
changes need to be reflected in the Contra Costa County Ordinance Code. The 2001
uniform model codes have also undergone changes from both the 1997 codes in order to
standardize types of construction, occupancy, classification and format with other model
codes in the country. The Board reviewed and adopted the 1997 edition of the Uniform
Building Code on June 8, 1999.
In addition, staff has reviewed the applicability of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and has determined that the adoption of the ordinance is not subject to CEQA
under Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA guidelines.
The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the
potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. In the adoption of the
California codes, it can be seen with certainty that the establishment of standards of
review of development plans for construction cannot significantly affect the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT
None known at this time.
CONSEQUENCES OF NEGATIVE ACTION
The goal of staff has been to develop one up-dated ordinance that integrates the prior
County administrative sections and modifications in Title 7 with the requirements of the
uniform model codes. If action is not taken to have one integrated ordinance,
inconsistencies between the county's provisions and the uniform building code will remain.
This may lead to different staff interpretations and general confusion to the public.
5 L
LEGAL PUBLICATION REQUISTION
Y
Contra Costa County
From: Clem of the Board To: West County Times
651 Pine St., Room 106 PO Sox 100
Martinez, CA 94553 Pinole, CA 94564
Requested by: Date:
Phone No: Reference No:
Org: Sub Object:,:, Task: Activity:
Publication Date (s): ',� - '` ----
No. of Pages:
LEGAL PUBLICATION-n.
u ub,C, ull
""Immediately upon expiration of publication,
send in one affidavit for each publication in
order that the auditor may be authorized to pay your bill.
Authorized Signature:
firm date of publication & receipt of this fax. V
Please con
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LEGAL PUBLICATION REQUISTION
. �
Centra Costa County
From: Clerk of the Board To: Contra Costa Times
651 Pine St., Room 106 PO Box 5124
Martinez, CA 94553 Walnut Creek, CA'94596
Requested by: �14 � � ..% ��� Date. 0 "7.
Phone No:. _. � '. Reference No:
Org: Sub Object: - °!�j - --- Task: Activity:
Publication Date (s : -.
F
No. of Pages:
i
n
LEGAL PUBLICATION- . ` -�--,
**"Immediately upon expiration of publication,***_-,'
send in one affidavit for each publication in
order that the auditor may be authorized to pay your bill.
Authorized Signature:
f
Please confirm date of publication &receipt of this fax.
s LEGAL PUBLICATION REQUISTION F
s , w, Contra Costa County ,
rA cdiix'�
From: Clerk of the Board To: Ledger Dispatch
651 Pine St., Room 106 PO Box 2299
Martinez, CA 94553 Antioch, CA 94549
Requested by: � Date: -0-,
Phone No: `� ' " Cts' Reference No:
Org: Sub Object: Task: Activity:
Publication Date (s) -'`( ' � ' -
No. of Pages: __
LEGAL PUBLICATION-
OA�k�
Y
""Immediately upon expiration of publication,""
send in one affidavit for each publication in
order that the auditor may be authorized to pay your bill.
Authorized Signature:
Please confirm date of publication & receipt of this fax.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING BUILDING STANDARDS CODES
The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County proposes to enact an ordinance providing for
the adoption by reference of the 2001 California Building Code, 2001 California Electrical Code,
2001 California Plumbing Code and 2001 California Mechanical Code with changes, additions
and deletions thereto as set forth in the proposed ordinance.
The proposed ordinance provides for greater safety to the public and uniformity in building laws
within the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County.
On October 1, 2002 at 10:30 a.m., in the Chambers of the Board of Supervisors,McBrien
Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez, California, a public hearing will
be conducted upon the proposed enactment of the said ordinance, and at said public hearing any
interested person may appear and be heard.
At least 15 days before the above hearing date, at least one copy of the proposed ordinance and
the 2001 California Building Code, 2001 California Electrical Code, 2001 California Plumbing
Code and 2001 California Mechanical Code shall be on file with the Clerk of this Board, and
open to public inspection.
September 6, 2002
JOHN SWEETEN, Clerk of the Board
of Supervisors and County Administrator
By:
Danielle Kelly,Deputy Clerk
ORDINANCE NO. 2002-
(Adoption of California Building Standards Codes)
The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors ordains as follows (omitting the parenthetical footnotes
from the official text of the enacted or amended provisions of the County Ordinance Code):
SECTION 1. SUMMARY. This ordinance adopts the 2001 California Building Code, the 2001
California Electrical Code,the 2001 California Plumbing Code, and the 2001 California Mechanical
Code, with amendments,changes and deletions.
SECTION II. Chapter 72-6 is amended to read:
Chapter 72-6
GENERAL PROVISIONS
72-6.002 Reference to officials in adopted codes. In the codes adopted by reference in this title,
references to "city"mean the county of Contra Costa;to"city council or mayor"mean the board of
supervisors of this county; to "state"mean the state of California; to "Housing Act"mean the Housing
Act of this state; and to"county building official, administrative authority, or fire chief'mean the director
of building inspection of this county. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 2, 99-1 § 5, 80-14 § 2: prior code § 7102:
Ord. 1372).
72-6.004 Application fees. For the purpose of this title and except as otherwise provided herein,
required fees shall be paid with the submission of an application for filing of a request for any permit
allowed by this title. No application may be filed and accepted as complete until all required fees have
been paid. Any permit issued without the payment of all required fees shall be invalid and of no force
and effect. (Orris. 2002 -_ § 2, 99-1 § 5, 87-55 § 2, 74-32 § 1, 73-58 § 2, 67-70 § 2: prior code
§ 7103: Ords. 1372, 1014 § 5: See § § 76-10.202 ff; 78-4.006, 710-4.010).
72-6.006 Misrepresentations in permit application. No person shall make a false statement or
misrepresentation in or in connection with an application for a permit under this title. Any permit issued
under this title may be revoked or suspended at any time by the county building official for fraud,
misrepresentation or false statement contained in an application for a permit, or for violation of this title
in connection with work done under the permit. (Orris. 2002 -_ § 2, 99-1 § 5: prior code § 7104:
Ord. 1372).
72-6.008 Permit not approval of violations or determination of ownership. The issuance of a
permit or approval of plans and specifications shall not be construed as a permit for an approval of any
violation of this title or code or determination that the permittee is the owner of the subject property or
otherwise authorized to do the work for which the permit has been issued. No permit presuming to
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
1
give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this title shall be valid except insofar as the work or
use which it authorizes is lawful. The issuance of a permit based on plans and specifications shall not
prevent the county building official from later requiring the correction of errors in the plans and
specifications or from preventing building operations being carried on under the permit in violation of
this title or other regulation of this county. (Orris. 2002 - _ § 2, 99-1 § 5:prior code § 7105: Ord.
1372).
72-6.010 Expiration of permit. CBC Section 106.4.4,Expiration, is amended to read:
"Every permit issued by the County Building Official becomes void if the building or
work authorized is not begun within one hundred eighty(184)days from the permit's
date,or if it is suspended or abandoned for one hundred eighty(180)continuous
calendar days without excuse satisfying the County Building Official as being beyond
control and remedy by the permittee. Evidence of starting work shall consist of at least
one required inspection within one hundred eighty(180)days of the permit issuance
date or the date the permit was suspended or the work was abandoned. Once a
permit becomes void, a new permit shall be obtained before any work is commenced
or recommenced, and a new permit fee shall be paid. Any permittee holding an
unexpired permit may apply for a permit extension upon a showing of good and
satisfactory reason acceptable to the County Building Official. If the permittee is unable
to commence work within the time required by this section, the County Building Official
may extend the time of the permit for a period not exceeding one hundred eighty(184)
days upon written request by the permittee. No permit shall be renewed more than
once." (Orris. 2042 - § 2, 99-1 § 5, 87-55 § 3, 80-14 § 3, 74-32 § 2, 71-32 §
1, 67-70 § 3: prior code § 7146: Card. 1372 § 5H.)
72-6.012 Refunds. CBC; Section 147.6,Fee Refunds, is amended to read.
"The County Building Official may authorize the refund of required permit fees as
follows:
(a) Unused Building Permit. On the voiding of a permit within sixty(60)
days after issuance,no work having been done,the holder may be
allowed a refund of the amount in excess of fifteen dollars but not more
than eighty(80)percent of the permit fee paid. On the voiding of a
permit during the period between sixty days and one year after
issuance, no work having been done,the holder may be allowed a
refund of the amount in excess of fifteen dollars or one-half the total
amount paid for the permit, whichever is smaller. No refunds of plan
check fees for issued permits shall be allowed. Any unused plumbing,
ORDINANCE NO. 2402 -
2
electrical, or mechanical permit(s) taken in conjunction with a building
permit are governed by the refund procedures in subsection(b)of this
section.
(b) Unused pluming, electrical, or mechanical permits. No refund of
deposits for these permits (including subpermits issued in conjunction
with building permits, and miscellaneous permits) shall be allowed,
except that on the voiding of a permit within one year after issuance, no
work having been done, the holder may be allowed a refund of the
amount in excess of ten dollars." (Ords. 2002 - § 2, 99-1 § 5,
80-14 § 4, 76-15.)
72-6.014 Stop work orders. CBC Section 104.2.4, Stop orders, is amended to read:
"Whenever any building work is being done contrary to this title or any other law or
regulation(including,but not limited to,the following: zoning, health, sanitation, grading,
fire protection and safety and/or flood control)relating to or affecting the work,the
County building official may order the work stopped by notice in writing served on any
persons engaged in the doing or causing of the work; and these persons shall stop work
immediately until authorized by the County building official to proceed with the work."
(Orris. 2002 - § 2, 99-17 § 2, 99-1 § 5, 90-1.00 § 2,prior code § 7108, Ord.
1372.)
72-6.016 Entry on premises. CBC Section 104.2.3,Right of entry, is amended to read:
"On presentation of proper credentials, and with the consent of the person in
possession of the premises or as otherwise allowed by law, the County Building Official
or his or her duly authorized representatives may enter at reasonable times any building,
structure or premises in the county to perform any duty imposed on them by the codes
adopted by reference in this title." (Ords. 2002 - § 2, 99-1 § 5:prior code §
7109: Ord. 1372.)
72-6.018 State contractor license required. No permit shall be issued to a person to do or cause to
be done any work regulated by this title except to the holder of a valid,unexpired and unrevoked
license in good standing, issued under Chapter 9, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code of
the state; but permits may be issued to persons and for work exempt from that statute. (Ords. 2002 -
§ 2, 99-1 § 5: prior code § 7110: Ord. 1372).
72-6.020 Abatement procedure. The procedure for the abatement of buildings declared to be a
public nuisance pursuant to Section 102 of the California Building Code(which is adopted by reference
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
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in Division 74),or pursuant to Section 202 of the Uniform Housing Code(which is adopted by
reference in Division 712)or pursuant to Section 712-4.006 of this code, is the procedure specified in
the county's Uniform Nuisance Abatement Ordinance as set forth in Chapter 14-6 of this code. As an
alternative to this procedure, abatement may be performed pursuant to the procedure specified in
Article 6 (Action and Proceedings)of Subchapter 1 (State Housing Law Regulations) of Chapter I of
Division 1 of Title 25 (Housing and Community Development) of the California Code of Regulations
(25 C.C.R. § 48 et seq.). That procedure is adopted by this reference as though fully set forth herein
and is an alternative to enforcement by judicial proceedings. (Orris. 2002 -_§ 2, 99-1 § 5, 97-19 §
3, 90-100 § 3, 82-23, 72-25, 71-76, 69-40, 1631: prior code § 7111: Ord. 1372.)
72-6.022 Disconnection of utility service.The county building official may shut off or disconnect any
or all utility service to any structure or facility or to any electrical conductor or apparatus which he or
she finds to be in violation of any state or county law or regulation relating thereto or to the public
health, safety or welfare, or the county building official may order this done. If the county building
official finds that the violation involves an immediate danger to person(s) or to that or other properties
or to the public health, safety or welfare, the county building official may have the action taken as
quickly as he or she deems necessitated by the danger; otherwise the county building official shall give
ten days advance notice thereof by mail to the utility and to the owner as shown on the last assessment
roll and by conspicuous posting on the property; and the county building official shall conspicuously
post notice of the orders and the action taken, which no person shall remove, tamper with or disobey.
The county building official shall rescind or modify such action which it becomes proper to do so in
view of the danger or violation. (Ords. 2002 -_§ 2, 99-1 § 5, 7 1-110 § 8 (part), 1971: prior code
§ 7112: Ord. 1442).
72-6.023 Withhold permit. The county building official may, in his or her sound discretion,withhold
the issuance or reinstatement of a permit under this Title 7 for any structure on a parcel of land
concerning either or both of which there exists any violation of law or regulation(including but not
limited to the following: building, grading, zoning, fire protection and safety, health, sanitation and/or
flood control) relating to or affecting that permit. In determining whether a permit shall be issued,he or
she shall also consider whether the existing violation constitutes an unlawful occupancy or a hazard to
life or property. He or she may require correction of a violation before issuing a permit, or as a
condition of issuance within a stated period of time including any extensions granted for good cause
shown. Failure to comply with such condition is a ground for revocation as provided by law. (Ords.
2002 - § 2, 99-17 § 3, 99-1 § 5, 77-63 § 2; 2127-2.014, Ord. 1809,prior code § 7100(g)).
72-6.024 Liability of county. This title shall not be construed to impose on the county any liability or
responsibility for damage resulting from defective building,plumbing,mechanical or electrical work; nor
shall the county,or any official or employee of the county, be held to assume this liability or
responsibility because of the inspection authorized under this title. The issuance of a building permit
under this title shall not be construed as a determination by the county that the permittee has legally
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
4
sufficient proprietary rights to perform the work on the property for which the permit has been issued
nor shall it be construed as permission or license to enter on, occupy or otherwise utilize private or
noncounty property without the express consent of the owner or agent in possession thereof. (Orris.
2002 - § 2, 99-1 § 5: prior code § 7113: Ord. 1442).
72-6.026 Enforcement of state law. By authority of Section 18300 of the Health and Safety Code,
the county assumes the responsibility for enforcement of Part 2.1 of Division 13 of the Health and
Safety Code relating to mobilehomes and mobilehome parks, including regulations adopted thereunder
and contained in Chapter 2 (Mobilehome Parks Act) of Division 1 of Title 25 of the California Code of
Regulations (25 C.C.R. § § 1000 ff.)And to the extent allowed by such laws and regulations,may
enforce by the remedies allowed under Division 14 of this code. (Ords. 99-17 § 4, 99-1 § 5, 90-100
§ 4, 1629: prior code § 7114).
SEC'T'ION III. Division 74 is amended to read:
Division 74
BUILDING CODE
Chapter 74-1
ADOPTION
74-1.002 Adoption.
(a) The building code of this county is the 2001 edition of the California Building Code (California
Code of Regulations, Title 24,Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2 [based on the 1997 Uniform Building
Code,published by the International Conference of Building Officials]), including Appendix
chapter 3, division H; chapter 12, divisions I and II; chapter 15, sections 1514, 1516, 1517,
1518, 1519, and 1520; chapter 29; chapter 31, divisions II and III; chapter 34, division I
(sections 3406.1, 3407, 3408, 3409, 3410, 3411 and 3412) and division III; and the 1997
Uniform Building Code,Volume 3.
(b) This California Building Code and Uniform Building Code, with the changes, additions, and
deletions set forth in this division and Division 72, are adopted by this reference as though fully
set forth herein.
(c) At least one copy of this building code is now on file with the building inspection department,
and the other requirements of Government Code section 50022.6 have been and shall be
complied with. (Ords. 2002 -— § 3, 99-17 § 5, 99-1, 90-100 § 5, 87-55 § 4, 80-14 § 5,
74-30.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
5
ti
Chapter 74-3
MODIFICATIONS
Article 74-3.1
General and CBC Chapter 1,Administration
74-3.101 General. The 2001 California Building Code("CBC"), adopted by reference in Section
74-1.002, is effective in this county with the changes, additions and deletions set forth in this Division
and Division 72, including but not limited to expiration of permit(section 72-6.010), refunds(section
72-6.012), and stop work orders (section 72-6.014). Where indicated by the context, chapter and
section numbers used in this chapter are those of the 2001 California Building Code (CBC). (Ords.
2002- § 3, 99-17 § 6, 99-1, 90-100 § 6, 87-55 § 5, 80-14 § 6, 74-30 § 1.)
74-3.104.1 Creation of enforcement agency. CBC Section 104.1 is deleted. (Orris. 2002-_ §
3, 99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 74-30.)
74-3.105 hoard of appeals. CBC Section 105 is deleted. (Ords. 2002 -J § 3, 99-1 § 6: 90-
100 § 6, 74-30.)
74-3.106.2 Work exempt from permit. CBC Section 106.2(5), Work Exempt from Permit, is
amended to read:
"Retaining walls that are not over 3 feet in height measured from the top of the footing
to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or ground slope exceeding 1:2 or
impounding class I, 11, or I11-A liquids." (Ords. 2002 -_§ 3, 99-1 § 6.)
74-3.106.3 Application for permit. CBC Section 106.3.2, Submittal documents, is amended by
deleting the exception. (Orris. 2002 -_ § 3, 99-1 § 6.)
74-3.106.3.3 Information on plans and specifications. CBC Section 106.3.3, Information on
plans and specifications, is amended to read:
"Plans and specifications shall be drawn to scale on substantial paper or cloth and shall
be sufficient clarity to indicate the location,nature and extent of the work proposed and
to show in detail that it will conform to this code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules
and regulations. The first sheet of each set of plans shall give the house and street
address of the work and the name and address of the owner and of the person who
prepared the plans. Plans shall include a plot plan showing the location of the lot
corners as established on the ground,the elevation of the top and toe of cuts and fills,
and the location of the proposed building and of every existing building on the property.
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
6
Instead of detailed specifications, the County Building Official may approve references
on the plans to a specific section or part of this code or other ordinances or laws."
(Ords. 2002 - § 3, 99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 80-14 § 7, 74-30.)
74-3.107 Fees. CBC Section 107, Pees and Plan Review, is amended to read:
"Building permit and other fees shall be as set forth in ordinances adopted by the Board
of Supervisors." (Orris. 2002 -_ § 3, 99-1 § 6: 90-100 § 6, 88-91 § 2, 87.55 § 7,
80-76 § 80-14 § 7, 76-15 § 3.)
74-3.108.1 Inspections. CBC Section 108.1, General, is amended by adding the following at the
end:
,,At the time of first inspection by the County Building Official,property corners
(including angle points) shall be identified with monuments in accordance with the legal
description furnished with the application to build, sufficient to locate the proposed
structure in relation to the lot lines, except that this requirement shall not apply to minor
alterations or repairs to existing structures not affecting the exterior limits thereof, and
construction of accessory buildings or structures of a building permit value of less than
$500. The plot plan required by CBC section 106.3.3, as amended herein, shall
indicate the locations and identification of all property corner monuments. Property
corner monuments shall consist of one of the following:
(1) Redwood hub not less than two inches square and twelve inches long;
(2) Galvanized iron pipe not less than one inch in diameter and thirty inches
long filled with concrete; or
(3) Other material of sufficient durability,placed as not to be readily
disturbed, acceptable to the County Building Official.
Monuments shall be driven flush with the ground and tagged as required by the
Land Surveyor Act(Business and Professions Code section 8772)." (Ords.
2002 -_§ 3, 99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 87-55 § 8, 80-14 § 7, 74-30 § 1.)
Article 74-3.5
CBC Chapter 5, General Building Limitations
74-3.502 Premises identification. CBC Section 502,Premises Identification, is amended to read:
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
7
"Approved numbers or addresses shall be provided for all new buildings in such a
position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property.
In addition, every new residential dwelling unit building shall be equipped with a lighted
(illuminated)house number or address plainly visible and legible from the street or road
fronting the property. As appropriate, the planning agency or County Building Official
may grant exceptions to the illumination requirements when satisfied that the application
of its requirements would impose an unreasonable hardship and expense for the owner
and/or applicant due to special circumstances applicable to the involved new
buildings(s)because of location, topography, or surroundings." (Ords. 2002 - § 3,
99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 88-70 § 2).
Article 74-3.9
CBC Chapter 9, Fire-Protection Systems
74-3.904.2.1 Automatic fire extinguishing systems. CBC Section 904.2.1, Where required, is
amended to read.
"(a) For new buildings an automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed:
1. In all buildings when the total floor area, including mezzanines, exceeds
10,000 square feet.
2. In all buildings separated by one or more area separation walls without
openings when the total floor area, including mezzanines, exceeds
20,000 square feet.
Exceptions to (a)1 and(a)2:
A. Agricultural buildings.
B. Group S Division 4 open parking garage buildings containing no
other occupancies and where exterior walls containing openings
are located not less than 20 feet from an adjacent property line
or center street line or public space.
C. When determining a building's total floor area, the floor area of
mechanical rooms of not more than 50 square feet and
separated from the remainder of the building by not less than a
I hour fire resistive occupancy separation need not be
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
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considered.
D. Nothing in this Code prevents the application of more
restrictive automatic fire extinguishing system requirements in
those fire protection districts which have more restrictive
requirements.
For purposes of this section, "new building" includes a building which replaces a
preexisting building which has been substantially destroyed. The county building official
shall determine whether a building has been substantially destroyed." (Ords. 2002 -
§ 3, 99-17 § 7, 99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 89-20 § 3, 87-100 § 3, 80-14 § 7, 74-
30.)
Article 74-3.18
CBC Chapter 18, Foundations and Retaining Walls
74-3.1806.7.2 Slabs-on-ground with turned-down footings. CBC Section 1806.7.2 is amended by
deleting the exception. (Orris. 2002 - § 3, 99-17 § 8, 99-1 § 6, 89-20 § 3, 87-100 § 3, 80-147,
74-30.)
Article 74-3.19
CBC Chapter 19, Concrete
74-3.1900.4.4 Minimum slab thickness. CBC Section 1900.4.4, Minimum slab thickness, is
amended to read:
"The minimum thickness of concrete floor slabs supported directly on the ground shall
be not less than three and one-half inches(3 %"). Slabs shall have six inches (6")by six
inches(6") by ten inches(10") gauge wire mesh or equal at this midheight. Earth under
concrete slabs shall be of proper consistency and thickness to retard capillary action
and shall be approved by the County building official." (Orris. 2002 - § 3, 99-17
§ 9, 99-1 § 90-100 § 6, 80-14 § 7, 74-30.)
Article 74-3.23
CSC Chapter 23,Wood
74-3.2310.4 Shingles or shakes. CBC Section 2310.4, Shingles or Shakes, is amended to read:
"Wood shingles or shakes and asbestos cement shingles may be used for exterior wall
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
9
covering, provided the frame of the structure is covered with building paper as specified
in CBC Section 1402.1. All shingles or shakes attached to sheathing other than wood
sheathing shall be secured with approved corrosion-resistant fasteners or on furring
strips attached to the studs. Wood shingles or shakes may be applied over fiberboard
shingle backer and sheathing with annular grooved nails. The thickness of wood
shingles or shakes between wood nailing boards shall not be less than 3/8 inch(9.5
mm). Wood shingles or shakes and asbestos shingles or siding may be nailed directly
to approved fiberboard nailbase sheathing not less than 1/2 inch(13mm)nominal
thickness with annular grooved nails. The weather exposure of wood shingle or shake
siding used on exterior walls shall not exceed maximums set forth in Table 23-II-K.
When untreated wood shingles or shakes are used for exterior wall covering, there shall
be a minimum often(10) feet from the exterior wall (including shingles or shakes)to the
property line of all sides, except for any sides of exterior walls facing the street."
(Ords. 2002 -_ § 3, 99-17 § 10, 99-1 § 6, 90-100 § 6, 87-55 § 9.)
Chapter 74-6
PERMITS,DRAINAGE AND STREETS
74-6.004 Drainage facility requirements.
(a) Suitable open drainage facilities (such as gutters,ditches, open conduits, or channels, whether
of earth or lines with an acceptable material) shall be provided to protect all buildings,
structures, and improvements from dampness,ponding, and inundation by storm,rain, surface,
foreign, flood, and subsurface waters originating within or without the boundaries of the
property.
(b) Subsurface drainage facilities for controlling, lowering, or intercepting ground water or
subsurface flow shall be installed wherever the water might be detrimental to any building or
structure or might contribute to the instability either of the foundation soil or any earth material
adjacent to or adjoining the building or structure.
(c) Drainage of water from swimming pools and similar improvements(but not waste from water
treatment facilities) shall be conveyed,preferably in closed conduits, to a storm drainage facility
or a natural channel or watercourse,without injury to buildings, structures, or improvements
within or without the property boundaries and without causing erosion.
(d) Property recorded easements or reserves shall be provided for all drainage structures and
facilities (except roof and swimming pool drains), and shall be fully designated for the exclusive
purpose for which the parcels shall be used. (Orris. 2002 -_ § 3, 99-1 § 6, 74-30).
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
10
74-6.006 Construction within future street boundaries. No building permit shall be issued for the
construction within the boundaries of any future street as shown on future street-line maps
recommended by the director of public works and adopted from time to time by the board of
supervisors. (Orris. 2002 -_§ 3, 99-1 § 6, 74-30).
74-6.008 Agreement on grades, sidewalks and curbs. No building permits for the construction of
any structure or improvement for which a permit is required shall be issued unless the applicant shall
make an agreement that as a part of such construction:
(1) 'Where shall be constructed a sidewalk and curb across the property upon which such structure
is proposed, at the grade and in accordance with the specifications of the director of public
works,
(2) The property on which the proposed structure is to be built shall be graded in reasonable
relation to the grade of the public street or way on which the property abuts. In determining
this reasonable relationship, the county building official shall consider, among other factors, safe
vehicular access to and from the property, adequate drainage, and visibility along the adjacent
public street,
(3) Vehicular access to and from the property shall be provided only in locations approved by the
county building official. (Ords. 2002 -^ § 3, 99-1 § 6, 74-30).
74-6.010 Structures with structure setback areas.
(a) No building permit shall be issued for the construction of any permanent structures, other than
drainage structures, within,under or over any structure setback area covered by a drainage
easement or a deed of development rights and established pursuant to Chapter 914-10.
(b) Whenever the property upon which a building permit is sought includes a structure setback
area, the county building official shall refer the application to the public works department for
verification of the structure setback line. (Ords. 2002 -®§ 3, 99-1 § 6, 85-40).
SECTION IV.Division 76 is amended to read:
Division 76
ELECTRICAL CODE
76-2.202 Title and purpose.
(a) This division shall be known as the Electrical Code of Contra Costa County.
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
11
(b) The purpose of this division is the practical safeguarding of persons and property, and of
buildings and their contents, from hazards arising from the use or generation of electricity for
light, heat, power, radio,television, signaling and other purposes. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-
17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.204 Operative date.
(a) This division is effective on and after November 1, 2002, or the date of adoption of this
ordinance, whichever is later.
(b) Any electrical work for which a permit was obtained before the effective date of this ordinance
may be installed and completed in accordance with the laws and regulations in effect when the
permit was issued. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-
24.)
Article 76-2.4
Definitions
76-2.402 General.
(a) The language used in this division and the California Electrical Code (including herein by
reference) is intended to convey the common meaning accepted by and familiar to the electrical
industry.
(b) Unless otherwise specially provided, or required by the context, the following terms have the
indicated meanings in this division. (Ords. 2002 -_§ 4,99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2,
79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.404 Inspector. "Inspector"or"electrical inspector"means the county building official or any
duly authorized deputy building inspector of this county. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 §
2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.406 Approved. "Approved"means acceptable to the county building official or his./her
designated deputy. (Ords. 2002 -_§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-76, 76-24.)
76-2.416 Electrical Work. "Electrical work," when used without any class designation or other
expressed limitation, means the installation, construction, erection, connection, maintenance, alteration
and repair of any and all electrical equipment; and the term shall be broadly construed to include also
the electrical equipment with respect to which the work is connected and the term is used. (Ords.
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
12
2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-2.6
Scope of Application
76-2.602 General. Except as otherwise provided herein, this division applies to all electrical
equipment and electrical work within or on public and private buildings and other premises, including
yards,parking lots, carnivals, industrial substations, conductors connecting installations to a supply of
electricity, and other outside conductors adjacent to the premises including TV antenna systems for
single-family, commercial, community and franchised systems. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11,
89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.604 Moved buildings. Electrical systems which are part of buildings or structures moved into
this jurisdiction shall comply with the provisions of this Code for new buildings. (Ords. 2002 - § 4,
99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.606 Existing electrical work. Except as provided in Section 76-2.604,this division does not
require any electrical work regulated by this division to be changed,reconstructed,removed or
demolished if it was installed before the effective date of this division and in accordance with any laws
or regulations in effect at the time of its installation, unless it is dangerous to life,health or property, in
the county building official's judgment. Abandoned wiring systems, where accessible, shall be removed
by the permittee. Wiring systems includes cable systems, conduit systems,knob and tube wiring, etc.
Abandoned conduit systems that are not accessible shall Ihave the conductors removed by the
permittee. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-2.7
State Codes and Orders, Adoption and Application
76-2.704 Subchapter 5,Chapter 4,Division 1,Title 8, C.C.R., adoption.
(a) Subchapter 5 (Electrical Safety Orders) of Chapter 4(Division of Industrial Safety)of Division
1 (Department of Industrial Relations) of Title 8 (Industrial Relations)of the California Code of
Regulations (8 C.C.R. § 2300 ff), including future amendments thereto, is adopted by this
reference as a part of the Contra Costa County Ordinance Code as though fully set forth
therein.
(b) One copy of this Subchapter 5 is on file with the building inspection department, and the other
requirements of Government Code Section 50022.6 have been and shall be complied with.
(Ords. 2002 -®§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
13
76-2.706 Subchapter 5, Chapter 4,Division 1, Title 8,C.C.R., application to industry.
Electrical work in industrial structures or construction shall comply with Part 3 of Title 24 and with
Subchapter 5 of Chapter 4 of Division 1 of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations ranter than
with the corresponding provisions of this Division 76. Electrical work in or on buildings subject to
regulation by the California Division of Industrial Safety shall comply with the regulations in these
portions of the California Code of Regulations when they are more restrictive than the corresponding
requirements of this division. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.708 Chapters 2, 3, and 5, Division 1,Title 25, C.C.R., adoption.
(a) Chapter 2 (Mobile Home Parks Act), Chapter 3 (Factory-Built Housing), and Chapter 5
(Registration and Titling)of Division 1 of Title 25 (Housing and Community Development)of
the California Code of Regulations (25 C.C.R. § 1000 ff, § 3000 ff, and § 5000 ff), including
future amendments thereto, are adopted by this reference as part of the Contra Costa County
Ordinance Code as though fully set forth herein.
(b) One copy each of these Chapters 2, 3, and 5 are on file with the building inspection
department, and the other requirements of Government Code Section 50022.6 have been and
shall be complied with. (Orris. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
76-2.710 Chapters 2,3, and 5,Division 1, Title 25, C.C.R., application. Electrical work in
mobilehome parks and campgrounds shall comply with Chapters 2, 3, and 5 of Division 1 of Title 25 of
the California Code of Regulations. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-
67, 76-24.)
76-2.712 P.U.C. General Orders 95 and 128, adoption.
(a) General Order 95 (Rules for Overhead Electric Line Construction) and General Order 128
(Rules for Construction of Underground Electric Supply Systems)of the California Public
Utilities Commission(PUC), including future amendments thereto, are adopted by this
reference as a part of the Contra Costa County Code as though fully set forth therein.
(b) One copy each of P.UC. General Orders 95 and 128 are on file with the building inspection
department, and the other requirements of Government Code Section 50022.6 have been and
shall be complied with. (Orris. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
14
76-2.714 P.U.C. General Orders 95 and 128, application overhead and underground.
(a) Electrical work which is outdoors and on poles or on the outside of buildings shall comply with
California Public Utilities Commission General Order 95 (see Section 76-2.712).
(b) Electrical work which is outdoors and underground shall comply with PUC General Order 128
(see Section 76-2.712). (Ords. 2002 -_§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
76-2.716 P.U.C. Generally. Facilities installed by utilities subject to the jurisdiction of the California
Public Utilities Commission shall be installed pursuant to the rules, regulations and orders of that
commission. This division shall not apply to any such facilities except as it relates to utility facilities
located in buildings, in which instance,vaults, conduits,pull boxes or other enclosures shall be installed
in compliance with this division. (Ords. 2002 -_§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
76-2.718 High voltage safety orders, adoption.
(a) The Pugh Voltage Safety Order of the Division of Industrial Safety of the California Department
of Industrial Relations, including future amendments thereto, are adopted by this reference as a
part of the Contra Costa County Code as though fully set forth herein.
(b) One copy of the High Voltage Safety Orders is on file with the building inspection department
and the other requirements of Government Code Section 50022.6 have been and shall be
complied with. (Orris. 2002 -— § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-2.8
Enforcement
76-2.802 County building official. The County building official is the Director of the Building
Inspection Department or his duly authorized deputy charged with enforcement of this division. (Ords.
2002 -^ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.804 Exceptions allowable. The county building official is the Director of the Building Inspection
Department or his duly authorized deputy charged with enforcement of this division. (Ords. 2002 -
§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-2.10
General Requirements
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
15
76-2.1002 General safety. All electrical work shall be performed, and all electrical equipment shall
be constructed, installed, protected, operated, repaired, used and maintained, in accordance with the
requirements of this division and in such manner as to be reasonably safe and free from risk of accident
or injury to person or property by fire, shock or otherwise. No person shall act contrary to this general
regulation or neglect to act as required hereby. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 §11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23
§ 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.1004 Approved equipment.
(a) When obtainable, electrical equipment that an approved testing laboratory has examined, listed
or labeled as conforming to applicable standards shall be used in preference to others.
(b) Listing or labeling conforming to the Standards of the Underwriters' Laboratories, Ind.,the
United States Bureau of Standards,the United States Bureau of Mines, or other similar
institutions of recognized standing shall be prima facie evidence of conformity with the
requirements of Section 76-2.1004. The maker's name, trademark, or other identification
symbol shall be placed on all electrical equipment used or installed under this division.
(c) Old or used electrical equipment shall not be used in any work under this division without the
specific approval of the county building official. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 §
2, 82-23 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-2.1012 Boat docks. Whether open or roofed, lighting shall be provided to insure sufficient
protective lighting at least(0.2)two foot candles at all points for pedestrians on the docks, within
covered berths, and on all walkways or ramps to shore and to the nearest access road within or
adjacent to the harbor property. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
76-2.1014 Public nuisance lighting. Lighting fixtures shall be so installed, controlled or directed that
the light will not glare or be blinding to pedestrians or vehicular traffic or on adjoining property. (Ords.
2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-4.2
Inspections
764.202 Inspection. All electrical systems shall be inspected by the county building official or
designated deputy to insure compliance with this division. No person shall conceal electrical work until
it is inspected and written approval to proceed is given. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 §
2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
16
76-4.204 Correction notice. If the County building official condemns any electrical work as not in
accordance with this division, he/she shall give written notice to the person engaged in the work. Within
ten(10)days after this notice, or within any reasonable further time that the County building official may
prescribe, the person doing the work shall change or remove the work or equipment as the county
building official may require to make it comply fully with this division. (4rds. 2002 - § 4,99-17 §
11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
764.206 lather violations.
(a) No person shall cover electrical work, or allow it to be covered,to prevent or hinder its
inspection, or remove any notice not to cover placed by the county building officials.
(b) No person shall supply current to an electrical installation or current-consuming device until a
certificate of inspection and approval has been issued. (Orris. 2002 - §4, 99-17 § 11,
89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
75-4.208 Notice to inspect. The person doing electrical work authorized by the permit shall notify the
county building official orally or in writing that the work is ready for inspection and meets the
requirements of this division. The notice shall be given not less than one working day before the work
is to be inspected. (Orris. 2002 -_____§ 4, 99-17 § 11,89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
754.210 Types completed before inspection. Before the electric wiring in any building is installed,
inspected, approved, or deemed ready for inspection:
(a) All gas, steam, water, sewer, furnace and other piping and tubing which is to be located
in any portion of the building in which any of the wiring is located, shall be installed and
in place;
(b) The building shall be roofed; and
(c) "Wherever any of the wiring is to be concealed, all lathing strips, furring,bridging,
backing and headers shall be in place. Thermal insulation shall not be installed until all
electrical rough wiring is approved. (Orris. 2002 - _ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2,
82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-4.212 Time of service.
(a) On alteration jobs requiring a change of service, the service shall be changed and inspected at
the frame or rough wiring state.
{,ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
17
(b) On swimming pool jobs requiring a change of service, the service shall be changed and
completed prior to the approval for pouring or cementing of the pool or steel inspection of the
pool cavity. (Ords. 2002 -_ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2.82-23 § 2.79-67, 76-24.)
76-4.214 No change after inspection.
(a) After any electrical work has been inspected and approved, no person shall damage or
interfere with it without due authority,nor(whether working under authority of the original or of
any new permit) in any manner change or alter it without reporting such change or alteration to
the county building official for reinspection.
(b) After electrical work in, on, or about any building has been inspected and approved, no person
shall place any sheet metal, pipe or other metal work within five inches of any electrical
conductor or cable or concealed system of wiring, or within two inches of any so-called open
wiring, without having been authorized to do so by the county building official and then only
when such conductors are protected as may be prescribed by the county building official.
(Orris. 2002 - § 4,99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Article 76-4.4
Existing Fork
76-4.402 Generally. The county building official is empowered to inspect all electrical equipment and
work, including electrical equipment and work that is listed in CEC Sections 90-2(b)(4) and 90-2(b)(5)
but is otherwise not covered by the CEC. When the county building official finds any electrical
equipment to be dangerous or unsafe, he/she shall so notify the person owning,using or operating it,
who shall make the repairs or changes required to make the equipment safe, and complete this work
within ten (10)days after notice or such further time as the county building official may set. Any
electrical system deemed an immediate, imminent hazard to life and property shall be de-energized
immediately by the owner,his representative or the county building official. (Ords. 2002 - _ _§ 4, 99-
17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Chapter 76-6
CONNECTIONS
Article 76-6.2
Connections to Installations
76-6.202 County building official's approval required. No person shall connect a source of
electrical energy, or supply electric service, to any electrical equipment for the installation of which a
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
18
permit is required without first obtaining the county building official's certificate of approval. (Orris.
2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-5.204 Unlawful reconnections. No person shall connect a source of electrical energy, or supply
electric service, to any electrical equipment which the county building official has disconnected or
ordered disconnected until he/she issues a certificate of approval authorizing its reconnection and use.
The county building official shall notify the serving utility of the order to discontinue use. (Orris. 2002 -
§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-6.206 Power companies notify county building officials.
(a) Notice. Whenever in, on or about any building any person engaged in the distribution or sale of
electrical energy shall set, reset, install or reinstall any meter for the measurement of electrical
energy, or connect or reconnect to, or supply or service any installation of electrical equipment,
or change the nominal voltage of supply or service to any installation of electrical equipment, or
shall change any such supply or service from two-wire to three-wire or vice versa, or from
single-phase to polyphase or vice versa, or from direct current to alternating current or vice
versa, that person shall within two (2)days thereafter, exclusive of Sundays and holidays, give
written notice thereof to the county building official specifying the location and address of the
installation affected.
(b) Thirty-Day(30) Exception. This notice need not be given for work expressly approved by the
county building official within thirty(30)days after inspection approval.
(c) Authorization Required. No person engaged in the distribution or sale of electrical energy shall
connect a distribution system, including windpower generators, or any live supply or service
conductor(s) therefrom,to any electrical equipment in, on or about any building or cause or
allow any energizing of such connections, including windpower or emergency/stand by electrical
generation until the county building official inspects the electrical equipment and authorizes such
connections.
(d) Electrical permit required. An electrical permit shall be obtained from the County Building
Inspection Department to restore electrical service to any structure that has been without such
service for ninety(90) days or more. The County Building Inspection Department shall notify
the servicing utility that the electrical service equipment and associated wiring has been
inspected and approved before electrical service is reinstated.
(e) Waiver. The county building official may, at his/her discretion, temporarily or permanently
waive any or all requirements of this article by giving written notice of such waiver to all persons
involved. He/she may likewise at any time revoke such waiver by similar notice. (Orris. 2002
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
19
-_§ 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-6.208 Unlawful wiring,electric fences, warning.
(a) Prohibition. Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall construct or maintain any spring
gun,or any electric wiring device, designated or intended to injure and/or shock animals or
persons, or any contribance or apparatus for such purpose.
(b) Livestock Exception. Persons principally engaged in the business of handling livestock as a
primary means of production or income may electrify fences to control or confine livestock
upon complying with all the following requirements:
(1) Any contrivance or mechanism to control electrical current in such fences shall be listed
by an approved testing laboratory, and shall include a suitable interrupting device and
such other safety devices to prevent dangerous currents getting on the fence at any time.
(2) Any electrical fence to which the public may have access, except cross fences to
confine and control livestock, shall be posted with a warning notice containing the
following or similar wording: "DANGER. ELECTRIC PENCE,"or "DANGER.
HIGH VOLTAGE." This notice shall be posted along any such main fence at intervals
of not more than two hundred(200) feet and in letters at least two (2) inches high.
(Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-57, 76-24.)
Article 76-6.4
Construction Power and Temporary Release
76-6.402 Required conditions.
(a) Electrical construction power and lighting installations may be permitted during the period of
construction, remodeling,maintenance, repair or demolition of buildings, structures or similar
activities. Electrical construction power will be de-energized and discontinued when the
permanent electrical system is approved by the County building official and ready to energize
(see Article 76-6.2). Use of any permanent electrical equipment or distribution system for
construction power utilization is not permitted(see CEC Article 305,Temporary Wiring).
(b) The county building official may allow the temporary use of electrical current through any
electrical equipment, subject to the restrictions herein.
(c) The county building official shall not allow such use when it is determined it will endanger life or
property.
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
20
(d) The county building official shall not allow such use for longer than reasonably necessary to fully
comply with this division, and he/she may fix this time period when he/she grants the allowance,
which shall not exceed thirty(30)days.
(e) The county building official may allow such use before completion of project if:
(1) A permit has been obtained;
(2) Range and appliance circuit receptacles, and all lighting fixtures and outlets are in place;
(3) Panel cover trims to be in place on all service and distribution panels;
(4) Properly sized fuses or breakers are installed and in place only on needed circuits;
(5) Structure has been completely sheet rocked; and
(6) Electrical Installation has been approved by the county building official or designated
Deputy Inspector. (Orris. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67,
76-24.)
Chapter 76-8.2
PERMITS
Article 76-8.2
General
76-8.2€/2 Required. No person shall install electrical equipment regulated by this division without
having separate valid unstopped permit therefor for each affected building, structure or premises,
except as otherwise allowed in this chapter. (Orris. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 §
2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-8.204 County building official issues. The county building official shall issue permits only
pursuant to this chapter. (Orris. 2002 -__ § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2,79-67, 76-24).
76-8.206 Permit only to contractor or owner. A permit may be issued only under the following
circumstances:
(a) A permit may be issued to a person holding a valid, unexpired, unrevoked California electrical
contractor's license.
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
2l
(b) A permit may be issued for work in a one family dwelling used exclusively for living purposes,
including the usual accessory buildings and quarters, if the permittee is the owner of the
structure occupied by or designed to be occupied by the owner and the owner performs all
work under the permit.
(c) A permit may be issued to a person holding a valid, unexpired,unrevoked general contractors
license where the contractor is working on a permitted job and is performing two(2)or more
crafts on the permitted job. (Ords. 2442 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-
67, 76-24.)
Article 76-8.4
Application for Permit
76-8.402 Application. Every applicant for a permit shall apply therefore on forms furnished by county
building official. (Ords. 2442 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.).
76.8.404 Required information. Every application shall contain the address, the use,occupancy or
purpose of the building, structure or premises where the proposed electrical work is to be done, the
names and addresses of the owner and of the electrical contractor if any, a complete description of the
proposed work, and other information that the County building official may consider necessary. (Ords.
2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79`67, 76-24.)
76-8.406 Issuance. if, on examination and investigation, the county building official finds that the
proposed work will conform to this division and that all fees have been paid, a permit shall be issued to
the applicant. (Ords. 2042 -_ § 4,99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-8.408 Late application,penalty -Emergencies.
(a) Every person who begins electrical work without first applying for and obtaining the permit(s)
required therefore, shall so apply as soon as practicable. If a Notice To Comply(NTC) is
issued, the applicant shall pay a double permit fee and remains subject to other penalties and
enforcement procedures of this code.
(b) Emergencies. The double fee(s) shall not be imposed when the county building official is
satisfied that the work was urgently necessary and that prior application was not practicable.
(Ords. 2402 -_ § 4,99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
76-8.410 Annual permits.
(a) Allowed. Instead of a separate permit for each building, structure,premises, installation or
ORMNANI CE NO. 2042 -
22
alteration, an annual permit may be issued to any person regularly employing one or more
electricians for electrical work in premises owned or occupied by the applicant for the permit.
(b) Form. The application shall be made on forms furnished by the county building official. All
annual permits expire at the end of the calendar year in which issued.
(c) Reports. In the first fifteen(15)days of each calendar month,the permittee shall report to the
county building official on all electrical work done under the annual permit during the preceding
month. (Orris. 2042 - § 4, 99-17 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
Chapter 76-10
FEES
Article 76-10.2
General
76-10.202 Fees required. No permit for electrical work is valid unless the fee(s)therefor has been
paid as required by this division or other ordinance adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Fees are
due, and shall be paid or provided for by the applicant,before any electrical work (requiring a permit
hereunder) is started and the permit therefor issued. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2,
79-67, 76-24.)
Chapter 76-12
CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTION
Article 76-12.2
Adoption and Application
76-12.202 Adoption.
(a) The 2041 Edition of the California Electrical Code (California Code of Regulations,Title 24,
Part 3 [based on the 1999 National Electrical Code,published by the National Fire Protection
Association]),with the changes, additions and deletions set forth in Article 76-12.4 below, is
adopted by this reference as though fully set forth herein.
(b) One copy of this electrical code is on file with the building inspection department, and the other
requirements of Government Code Section 50422.6 have been and shall be complied with.
(Orris. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
23
76-12.204 Application. The requirements of the 2001 California Electrical Code, as modified in
Article 76-12.4, apply to all things regulated by this division in addition to this division's other
requirements. (Ords. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24).
Article 76-12.4
Modifications
76-12.402 General terminology. The 2001 California Electrical Code, as adopted by Section 76-
12.202, is applicable as modified in this article. Article and section numbers used are those of the
California Electrical Code. "CEC"refers to the California Electrical Code, "NEC"refers to the
National Electrical Code, and"NFPA"refers to the National Fire Protection Association. (Ords. 2002
-a__._ § 4, 99`17 § 11, 89-60 § 2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24).
76-12.404 CEC modifications. The following provisions of the CEC are modified as follows:
(1) Article 100 - Definitions. The following definitions are added:
"Appliance:Utilization equipment, generally other than industrial,
normally built in standardized sizes and types, which is installed or
connected as a unit to perform one or more functions such as clothes
washing, air conditioning, food mixing, deep frying, etc., limited to one
listed and approved power supply cord with no other flexible cords or
unprotected wiring to complete its function.
Appliance, Fixed: An appliance which is fastened or otherwise secured
at a specific location.
Appliance,Portable: An appliance which is actually moved or can
easily be moved from one place to another in normal use.
Appliance, Stationary: An appliance which is not easily moved from
one place to another in normal use."
(2) Section 210-19(a). The fourth FPN is deleted and replaced with the following
paragraph(which is not an FPN):
"Conductors for branch circuits as defined in Article 100, shall be sized
to prevent a voltage drop exceeding 3 percent at the farthest outlet of
power, heating and lighting loads, or combinations of such loads, and
the maximum total voltage drop on both feeders and branch circuits to
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
24
the farthest outlet shall not exceed 5 percent."
(3) Section 210-70(a)(1). The following is added at the end of the last sentence of
this section, before the exceptions,to read:
"Approved numbers or addresses as required by 502 CBC shall be
illuminated for new residential occupancies."
(4) Section 210-70(d). Subsection(d) is added to Section 210-70, to read:
"Industrial and Commercial Occupancies. Outdoor lighting outlets for
illumination shall be installed at entrances and exists to buildings
intended for industrial or commercial occupancies."
(5) Section 215-2(a). The following is added after the first paragraph, to read:
"Conductors for feeders as defined in Article 100 shall be sized to
prevent a voltage drop exceeding 3 percent at the farthest outlet of
power, heating, and lighting loads, or combinations of such loads and
where the maximum total voltage drop on both feeders and branch
circuits to the farthest outlet shall not exceed 5 percent."
(6) Section 300-11(a). Section 300-11(a) is amended to read:
"Secured in Place. Raceways, cable assemblies, boxes, cabinets, and
fittings shall be independently supported and securely fastened in place
by an approved means. Low shall be independently supported and
securely fastened in place by an approve means. Low voltage,
communications, alarms and signaling systems, etc. shall be supported
as above at not to exceed 4 'lz foot intervals.
Exception: In tee-bar suspended ceilings,low voltage(50 volts and less),
communications, alarm and signaling systems, etc. shall be supported as above
at not to exceed 8 foot intervals." (Orris. 2002 - § 4, 99-17 § 11, 89-60 §
2, 82-23 § 2, 79-67, 76-24.)
SECTION V. Division 78 is amended to read:
Division 78
PLUMBING CODE
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
25
Chapter 78-1
GENERAL
Article 78-1.101
Title and Scope
78-1.101 Title. This division is the county's plumbing code. (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12, 74-
29 § 78-2.002.)
78-101.4 Application and scope. The provisions of this division apply to all new construction,
relocated building, and to any alterations, repairs,or reconstruction,except as otherwise provided
herein. (Orris. 2002 - § 5,99-17 § 12, 74-29 § 72-4.008, 1994 UPC § 1.0.)
Article 78-1.102.
Organization and Enforcement
78-1.102.1 Administrative authority. CPC Section 102.1,Administrative Authority, is amended to
read:
,,The Administrative Authority shall be the Authority duly appointed to enforce this
Code. The county building official is the administrative authority of this division. The
term"County building official"unless otherwise restricted, includes any duly authorized
employee in the building inspection department." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12,
90-18 § 2, 74-29.)
78-1.102.2 Duties and powers.
(a) Among the county building official's duties and powers are those listed in this section.
(b) He/she shall require submission of, examine, and check plans and specifications, drawings,
descriptions, and/or diagrams necessary to show clearly the character,kind and extent of work
covered by application for a permit under this division, and upon approval thereof he/she shall
issue the permit applied for.
(c) He/she shall keep a permanent, accurate account of all fees for permits issued and other
moneys collected and received as provided by this division, the names of the persons upon
whose account the same were paid, the date and amount thereof,together with the location or
premises to which they relate.
ORDINANCE,NO. 2002 -
2
(d) He/she shall administer and enforce the provisions of this division in a manner consistent with
their purpose,and shall inspect all plumbing and drainage work authorized by any permit to
assure compliance with provisions of this division or amendments thereto, approving or
condemning such work in whole or in part as conditions require.
(e) He/she shall issue upon request a certificate of approval for any work approved by him/her.
(f) He/she shall condemn and reject all work done or being done or materials used or being used
which do not in all respects comply with the provisions of this division and amendments thereto.
(g) He/she shall order changes in workmanship and/or materials essential to obtain compliance with
all provisions of this division.
(h) He/she shall investigate any construction or work regulated by this division and issue such
notices and orders as provided in Section 78-1.102.2.3.
(i) He/she shall keep a complete record of all the essential transactions of his/her office.
(j) He/she shall transfer all fees collected by him to the proper authority provided by law to receive
such funds. (Orris. 2002 -_§ 5, 99-17 § 12, 74-29, 1970 UPC §§ 1.4, 1.130.)
78-1.102.2.2 Dight of entry. CPC Section 102.2.2, Right of Entry, is amended to read:
"Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code,
or whenever the Administrative Authority has reasonable cause to believe that there
exists in any building or upon any premises, any condition or violation of this code
which make the building or premises unsafe, insanitary, dangerous or hazardous, the
Administrative Authority may enter a building or premises at all reasonable times to
inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the Administrative Authority by this
code,provided that if such building or premises is occupied,the Administrative
Authority shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such building or
premises is unoccupied,the Administrative Authority shall first mare a reasonable effort
to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises
and request entry. If entry is refused,the Administrative Authority has recourse to
every remedy provided by law to secure entry. When the Administrative Authority
shall have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law
to secure entry, no owner, occupant, or person having charge, care, or control of any
building or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper inspection warrant or other
remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner, occupant, or person having charge,
care, or control of any building or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
27
made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry herein by the Administrative
Authority for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this Code. The
county Building official shall carry proper credentials of his/her respective office, upon
exhibition of which they shall have the right of entry, during ususal business hours,to
inspect any and all buildings and premises in the performance of their duties." (Ords.
2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12, 74-29, 1970 UPC § 1.5.)
78-1.102.2.5.1 Dangerous and insanitary construction. CPC section 102.2.5.1 is amended to
read.
"(a) Nuisance. Any portion of a plumbing system found by the county building
official to be insanitary as defined in this division is declared to be a nuisance.
(b) Investigated Order. Whenever it is brought to the attention of any county
official having jurisdiction that any insanitary conditions exist or that any
construction or work regulated by this division is dangerous,unsafe, insanitary,
a nuisance or a menace to life,health or property or otherwise in violation of
this division, that official may request the county building official to investigate.
If the county building official determines that the facts warrant such action,
he/she shall order any person using or maintaining any such condition or
responsible for the use,or maintenance thereof to discontinue the use or
maintenance thereof or to repair, alter, change, remove or demolish the same as
the county building official may consider necessary for the proper protection of
life, health or property. In the case of any gas piping or gas appliance,he/she
may order any person supplying gas to such piping or appliance to discontinue
supplying gas thereto until such piping or appliance is made safe to life, health or
property. Every such order shall be in writing, addressed to the owner, agent
or person responsible for the premises in which such condition exists, and shall
specify the date or time for compliance with such order.
(c) Violation. Refusal, failure or neglect to comply with any such notice or order is
a violation of this ordinance code.
(d) Abatement. In addition to any other remedy available under the law, any
system declared to be a public nuisance pursuant to subsection(a) of this
section may be abated pursuant to Article 14-6.4." (Orris. 2002 - § 5,
99-17 § 12, 88-88 § 13, 74-29.)
Article 78-1.103
Permits and Inspections
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
28
78-1.103.1.1 Permits required. CPC Section 103.1.1, Permits Required, is amended to read by
adding the following at the end:
"(a) No person shall install, remove alter, repair, relocate, or replace any plumbing,
gas or drainage piping work or any fixture or water heating or treating
equipment in a building or premises, or cause the same to be done, without first
obtaining a permit to do such work from the county building official, as
provided herein.
(b) A separate permit shall be obtained for each building or structure.
(c) No permittee shall allow any other person other thann his employees to do or
cause to be done any work under the permit." (Orris. 2002 -_§ 5, 99-17
§ 12, 74-29, 1970 UPC 1.8.)
78-1.143.1.4 Power companies to notify building official. Section 103.1.4, Power
Companies to Notify Building Official, is added to CPC Section 103 to read:
"(a) Notice. Whenever on or about any building, any gas utility provider engaged in
the distribution or sale of natural gas shall set, reset, install, or reinstall any meter
for the measurement of natural gas, or connect or reconnect to, or supply or
service any installation of natural gas, that person shall within two (2)days
thereafter, exclusive of Sundays and holidays, give written notice thereof to the
County building official specifying the location and address of the installation
affected.
(b) Thirty-day exception. This notice need not be given for work expressly
approved by the county building official within thirty(30) days after inspection
approval.
(c) Authorization Required. No gas utility provider engaged in the distribution or
sale of natural gas shall connect his distribution system to any natural gas
equipment in or on or about any building until the county building official
inspects the natural gas installation and authorizes such connections.
(d) A plumbing permit shall be obtained from the county building department to
reconnect natural gas service to any structure that has been without such service
for ninety(90)days or more. The county building official shall notify the gas
utility provider that the natural gas system has been inspected and approved
before gas service is reinstated." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
29
78-1.103.2.1.7 Permit only to contractor or owner. Section 103.2.1.7,Permits Only to Contractor
or Owner, is added to CPC Code Section 103.2 to read:
"A permit required by this division shall be issued only to:
(a) A.person holding a valid, unexpired, unrevoked, unsuspended California
plumbing or general building contractor's license.
(b) A bona fide owner of the premises and structures where work is proposed."
(Ords. 2002 -_ § 5, 99-17 § 12, 80-29 §1.)
78-1.103.4.1. Permit fees. CPC Section 103.4.1, Permit Fees, is amended to read.
"Fees shall be as set forth in ordinances adopted by the Board of Supervisors." (Ords.
2002 -__ § 5, 99-17 § 12, 88-91 § 4, 80-76, 80-29, 76-23, 76-15.)
78-1.103.4.1.1 Payment. Section 103.4.1.1, Payment, is added to CPC Section 103.4 to read:
"Subject to the provisions of Chapter 72-6, any fee or fees required for work subject
to Division 78 shall be paid by the applicant before any work requiring a permit is
started and before the permit is issued." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12, 88-91 §
4, 74-29.)
78-1.103.4.1.2 Double fees for delayed permit. Section 103.4.1.2, Double Fees for Delayed
Payment, is added to CPC Section 103.4 to read:
"(a) A person who starts any work for which a permit is required under this division
without first having obtained a permit therefore shall, if later issued a permit for
such work,pay double the permit fee otherwise fixed, however, this provision
does not apply to emergency work, if the county building official determines
that such work was urgently necessary and that it was not practicable to obtain
a permit therefor before starting the work. In all such cases, a permit must be
obtained as soon as it is practicable to do so, and if there is an unreasonable
delay in obtaining the permit, a double fee shall be charged.
(b) For the purpose of this section a sanitary plumbing outlet on or to which a
plumbing fixture or appliance may be set or attached is a fixture. Fees for
reconnection and retest of existing plumbing systems in relocated buildings shall
be based on the number of plumbing fixtures, gas systems, water heaters, etc.,
involved." (Orris. 2002 -_§ 5, 99-17 § 12, 88-91 § 4, 74-29.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
30
Chapter 78-3
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE ADOPTED
78-3.002 Adoption.
(a) The plumbing code of this county is the 2041 edition of the California Plumbing Code
(California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 5 [based on the 2044 Uniform Plumbing Code,
published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials]), including
appendix chapters G and J.
(b) This California Plumbing Code ("CPC"), with the changes, additions and deletions set forth in
this division, is adopted by this reference as though fully set forth in this division.
(c) One copy of this plumbing code is on file with the building inspection department, and the other
requirements of Government Code Section 50422.6 have been or shall be met. (Orris. 2042 -
_ § 5, 99-17 § 12, 90-18 § 3, 80-29 § 4, 74-29.)
Chapter 78-5
MODIFICATIONS
Article 78-5.1
General and CPC Chapter 1, Administration
78-5.101 Title,scope and general. The 2001 California Plumbing Code, adopted by reference in
Section 78-3.002, is effective in this county with the changes, additions and deletions set forth in this
chapter, as modified by the provisions of this division. Where indicated by the context, chapter and
section numbers used in this chapter are those of the 2001 California Plumbing Code. (Ords. 2042 -
§ 5, 99-17 § 12.)
78-5.103.5.3.1 Test. CPC Section 103.5.3.1 is amended by adding the following language to the end
of the sentence:
"Bathtubs shall be set, shower pan installed, floor flange for water closet installed,
backing installed, and all water piping strapped and backed before framing inspection."
(Orris. 2002 - § 5, 99-17 § 12, 90-18 § 3, 74-29.)
Article 78-5.3
CPC Chapter 3, General Regulations
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
31 v
78-5.301.2.4 CPC See.301.2.4, Inspection and testing. CPC Section 301.2.4 is amended by
adding subsection 301.2.4.3, as follows:
"Bathtub shall be set, shower pan installed, floor flange for water closet installed,
backing for fixtures installed, and all water piping strapped and backed before framing
inspection." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 90-18 § 3, 74-29.)
Article 78-5.4
CPC Chapter 4, Plumbing Fixtures and Fixture Fittings
78-5.407 CPC See.407,Special fixtures. CPG Section 407 is amended by adding subsection
407.5, as follows:
"Floor sinks. Floor sinks shall be installed with the rim of the sink above the finished
floor. No floor sink shall be used as a combination floor drain and sink." (Ords. 2002
- § 5, 90-18 § 3, 74-29.)
78-5.421 CPC See. 421, Low water consumption water closets and urinals. Section 421 is
added to the CPC to read:
"Low water consumption water closets and urinals. All new buildings shall use water
closets and related flushometers, if any,that use no more than 1.6 gallons of water, and
shall use urinals and related flushometers, if any,that use no more than one(1) gallon of
water. As used in this section,"new building" includes existing buildings in which the
water drainage system is altered, modified,or renovated." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 91-
15 § 2.)
Article 78-5.6
CPC Chapter 6,Water Supply and Distribution
78-5.604 CPC See. 604,Materials. Subsection 6104.1 of CPC Section 604 is amended to read:
"Water pipe and fittings shall be of brass,copper, cast iron, galvanized malleable iron,
galvanized wrought iron, galvanized steel or other approved materials. Asbestos-
cement,PE or PVC water pipe manufactured to recognized standards may be used for
cold water distribution systems outside a building. All materials used in the water
supply system, except valves and similar devices, shall be of a like material, except
where otherwise approved by the enforcement agency." (Orris. 2002 -__ § 5, 90-
18 § 3.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
32
Article 78-5.7
CPC Chapter 7, Sanitary Drainage
78-5.707 CPC Sec. 707,Cleanuuts. CPC Section 707 is amended by adding subsection 707.1.5, as
follows:
"All plumbing trenches under buildings shall be backfilled." (Orris. 2002 - § 5, 90-
18 § 3.)
78-5.710 CPC Sec. 710,Drainage. Subsection 710.5 of CPC section 710 is amended to read:
"Building drains or building sewers receiving discharge from any pump or ejector shall
be adequately sized to prevent over-loading. Two fixture units shall be allowed for
each gallon per minute of continuous flow. The backwash from swimming pools, when
discharging to the sewer, shall be indirectly connected to a four-inch P trap located on
the exterior of the building on the lower terminus of the main building drain." (Orris.
2002 - § 5, 90-18 § 3, 74-29.)
Article 78-5.9
CPC Chapter 9,Vents
78-5.903.CPC Sec. 903.2, Capper tubing. CPC Section 903.2 is amended by adding subsection
903.2.5, as follows.
"Drop-eared fittings will be installed on all fixture and hose bib outlets, and securely
fastened to adequate backing with screws. No galvanized or ferrous pipe and/or
nipples shall be installed in a copper water system." (Ords. 2002 - § 5, 90-18 §
3, 80-29 § b, 74-29.)
Article 78-5.12
CPC Chapter 12,Fuel Piping
78-5.1.211.7.1 Galvanized gas pipe. Section 1211.7.1, Galvanized Gas Pipe, is added to CPC
Section 1211 to read.
"Low pressure gas pipe installed above grade and exposed to the elements is to be
galvanized iron pipe." (Orris. 20012 -_ § 5, 99-17 § 12.)
SECTION VI. Division 710 is amended to read:
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
33
Division 710
MECHANICAL CODE
Chapter 7101
GENERAL
Article 710-1.1
Title and Fees
710-1.101 Title. This division is the county's mechanical code. (Ords. 2002 -i § 6, 99-17 § 13,
74-31.)
710115.2 Permit fees. CMC Section 115.2, Permit Fees, is amended to read:
"Mechanical permit and other fees shall be as set forth in ordinances adopted by the
Board of Supervisors." (Cards. 2402 -_ § 6, 99-17 § 13, 88-91 § 5; see also
Ords. 80-76, 80-28, 76-29, 76-23, 7615.)
710-1.115.2.1 Payment of fees. Section 115.2.1, Payment of Fees, is added to CMC Section
115.2 to read:
"Subject to the provisions of Chapter 72-6, any fee(s)required for work subject to
Division 710 shall be paid by the applicant before any work requiring a permit is started
and the permit is issued." (Ords. 2002 -_ § 6, 99-17 § 13, 88-91 § 5, 74-31.)
710.1.115.2.2 Double fees for delayed permit. Section 115.2.2, Double Fees for Delayed Permit,
is added to CMC Section 115.2 to read:
"A person who starts any work for which a permit is required hereunder without first
having obtained a permit therefor shall, if later issued a permit for such work,pay
double the permit fee otherwise fixed; however, this provision does not apply to
emergency work, if the county building official determines that such work was urgently
necessary and that it was not practicable to obtain a permit before starting the work. In
all such cases a permit must be obtained as soon as it is practicable to do so, and if
there is an unreasonable delay in obtaining the permit, a double fee shall be charged."
(Ords. 2002 -_ § 6, 99-17 § 13, 88-91 § 5, 74-31.)
Chapter 710-3
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE ADOPTED
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
34
710-3.002 Adoption.
(a) The mechanical (heating, ventilating, cooling, etc.) code of this county is the 2001 edition of the
California Mechanical Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 4 [based on the
2000 Uniform Mechanical Code,published by the International Association of Plumbing and
Mechanical Officials]).
(b) This California Mechanical Code("CMC"), with the changes, additions, and deletions set forth
in this division, is adopted by this reference as though fully set forth in this division.
(c) One copy of this California code is on file with the building inspection department, and the other
requirements of Government Code Section 50022.6 have been or shall be met. (Ords. 2002 -
§ 6, 99-17 § 13, 90-19 § 2, 8 0-2 8 § 5, 74-31.)
Chapter 710-5
MODIFICATIONS
Article 710-5.1
General
710-5.101 General. The 2001 California Mechanical Code, adopted by reference in Section 710-
3.002, is effective in this county with the changes, additions and deletions set forth in this chapter, as
modified by the provisions of this division. Where indicated by the context, chapter and section
numbers used in this chapter are those of the 2001 California Mechanical Code. (Ords. 2002 - §
6, 99-17 § 13, 90-19 § 3, 80-28 § 6. 74-31.)
710-5.113 CMC See. 113,Application for permit. Section 113.4, Who Can Get a Permit, is
added to CMC Section 113 to read:
"A permit for the erection, installation, moving alteration, repair or replacement of any
heating or cooling equipment shall be issued only to:
(a) A person holding a valid California State Contractor's license as a
Warm Air Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning or General Building
Contractor; or
(b) An owner who shall do the work for which the permit is issued
personally or only by duly qualified employees." (Ords. 2002 - §
6, 99-17 § 13, 90-19 § 3, 74-31.)
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
35
710-5.114 CMC Sec. 114, Permit issuance. Section 1.14.1.3, Misrepresentation and Revocation, is
added to CIVIC Section. 114 to read:
"No person shall make any false statement or misrepresentation in connection with any
application for a permit under this division. Any permit issued under this division may
be revoked or suspended at any time by the county building official for fraud,
misrepresentation,or false statement contained in an application for a permit,or for
violation in connection with work done under the permit or any provision of this
division." (Ords. 2002 -_ § 6, 99-17 § 13, 90-19 § 3, 74-31.)
710-5.110 CMC See. 110,Board of appeals. CIVIC Section 110,Board of Appeals, is deleted.
(Orris. 2002 -___. § 6,90-19 § 3, 74-31.)
710-5.115 CMC Table 1-1,Mechanical permit fees. CMC Table I-1, Mechanical Permit Fees,
is deleted. (Ords. 2002 -_____ § 6,99-17 § 13, 90-19 § 3, 80-28 § 7, 74-31.)
SECTION VII. Effective date. This ordinance becomes effective 30 days after passage, and within
15 days after passage shall be published once with the names of supervisors voting for and against it in
the Contra Costa Times, a newspaper published in this County.
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: JOHN SWEETEN,
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Board Chair
and County Administrator
By: [SEAL]
Deputy
TLG-
K\2002'Bur"lding hspection\2002 BLDG CODE REVISIONS.wpd
ORDINANCE NO. 2002 -
36
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
FINDINGS JUSTIFYING CHANGES DUE TO LOCAL
CONDITIONS
1. Changes or Modifications
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code section 17958 the Board of
Supervisors of Contra Costa County, in its ordinance adopting the 2001 California
Building Code, the 2001 California. Electrical Code, the 2001 California Plumbing
Code, and the 2001 California Mechanical Code (collectively, the "California
Building Standards Codes"), changes, modifies, and amends provisions of the
California Building Standards Codes regarding fire-protection systems, premises
identification, concrete slabs, shingles and shakes, low-water-consumption, water
supply materials, galvanized gas pipes, and other related provisions.
11. Findin
Pursuant to Health & Safety Code sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 the Board of
Supervisors of Contra Costa County finds that changes, modifications, and
amendments to the California Building Standards Codes are needed and are
reasonably necessary because of certain local climatic, geological, and
topographic conditions as described below.
A. Geological and Topographic
1. Seismic
(a) Conditions
Contra Costa County is located in Seismic Risk Zone 4,
which is the worst earthquake area in the United States.
Buildings and other structures in Zone 4 can experience major
seismic damage. Contra Costa County is in close proximity
to numerous earthquake faults including the San Andreas
Fault and contains all or portions of the Hayward, Calaveras,
Concord, Antioch, Mt. Diablo, and other lesser faults. A 4.1
earthquake with its epicenter in Concord occurred in 1958,
and a 5.4 earthquake with its epicenter also in Concord
occurred in 1955. The Concord and Antioch faults have a
potential for a Richter 6 earthquake and the Hayward and
Calaveras faults have the potential for a Richter 7 earthquake.
Minor tremblers from seismic activity are not uncommon in
the area.
A study released in 1990 by the United States Geological
Survey says that there is a 67% chance of another earthquake
the size of Loma Prieta during the next 30 years, and that the
quake could strike at any time, including today. Scientists,
therefore, believe that an earthquake of a magnitude 7 or
larger is now twice as likely to happen as to not happen.
Interstates 680, 80, 580 and State Route 4 run the length
throughout Contra Costa County. These interstates and state
routes divide the County into a west, south, north and east.
An overpass or undercrossing collapse would significantly
alter the response route and time for responding emergency
equipment. This is due to limited crossings of the interstate
and that in some areas there is only one surface street, which
runs parallel to the interstate, which would be congested
during a significant emergency.
Earthquakes of the magnitude experienced locally can cause
major damage to electrical transmission facilities and to gas
lines in buildings, which in turn start fires throughout the
County. The occurrence of multiple fires will quickly deplete
existing fire department resources; thereby reducing and/or
delaying their response to any given fire.
(b) Impact
A major earthquake could severely restrict the response of all
Contra. Costa County Fire Districts and their capability to
control fires involving buildings of wood frame construction,
with ordinary roofing materials and flammable exteriors, or
with large interior areas not provided with automatic smoke
and fire control systems. Also, when buildings not equipped
with earthquake structural support move off their foundations,
gas pipes may rupture. Fires develop from line ruptures and
spread from house to house, causing an extreme demand for
fire protection resources.
2. Soils
(a) Conditions
The area is replete with various soils, which are unstable, clay
loam and alluvial fans being predominant. These soil
conditions are moderately to severely prone to swelling and
shrinking, are plastic, and tend to liquefy.
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Throughout Centra Costa County, the topography and
development growth has created a network of older, narrow
roads. These roads vary from gravel to asphalt surface and
vary in percent of slope, many exceeding twenty (20) percent.
Several of these roads extend up through the winding
passageways in the hills providing access to remote, affluent
housing subdivisions. The majority of these roads are private
with no established maintenance program. During inclement
weather, these roads are subject to rock and mudslides, as
well as down trees, obstructing all vehicle traffic. It is
anticipated that during an earthquake, several of these roads
would be unpassable so as to prevent fire protection resources
from reaching fires cause by gas line ruptures or other
sources.
3. Topographic
(a) Conditions
i. Ve etation
Highly combustible dry grass, weeds, and brush are
common in the hilly and open space areas adjacent to
built-up locations six (6) to eight (8) months of each
year. Many of these areas frequently experience
wildland fires, which threaten nearby buildings,
particularly those with woad roofs, or sidings. This
condition can be found throughout Contra Costa
County, especially in those developed and developing
areas of the County. Earthquake gas fires due to gas
line ruptures can ignite grasslands and stress fire
district resources.
(b) impact
The above local geological and topographical conditions
increase the magnitude, exposure, accessibility problems, and
fire hazards presented to the County fire resources. Fire
following an earthquake has the potential of causing greater
loss of life and damage than the earthquake itself. Most
earthquake fires are created by natural gas developed from
gas line ruptures. Hazardous materials, particularly toxic
gases, could pose the greatest threat to the largest number,
should a significant seismic event occur. Public safety
resources would have to be prioritized to mitigate the greatest
Contra Costa County Findings 3
threat, and may likely be unavailable for smaller single
dwellings that were caused by broken gas lines.
Other variables may tend to intensify the situation:
1. The extent of damage to the water system
2. The extent of isolation due to bridge and/or freeway
overpass collapse.
3. The extent of roadway damage and/or amount of debris
blocking the roadways.
4. Climatic condition (hot, dry weather with high winds).
5. Time of day will influence the amount of traffic on
roadways and could intensify the risk to life during normal
business hours.
6. The availability of timely mutual aid or military
assistance.
7. The large portion of dwellings with wood shake or shingle
coverings could result in conflagrations.
8. The large number of dwellings that slip off their
foundations and rupture gas lines resulting in further
conflagrations.
B. Climatic
1. Precipitation and Relative Humidity
(a) Conditions
Precipitation ranges from 15 to 24 inches per year with an
average of approximately 20 inches per year. Ninety-six (96)
percent falls during the months of October through April and
four (4) percent from May through September. This is a dry
period of at least five (5) months each year. Additionally, the
area is subject to occasional drought. Relative humidity
remains in the middle range most of the time. It ranges from
forty-five (45) to sixty-five (65) percent during spring,
summer, fall, and from. sixty (60) to ninety (90) percent in the
winter. It occasionally falls as low as fifteen (15) percent.
(b) Impact
Locally experienced dry periods cause extreme dryness of
untreated wood shakes and shingles on buildings and non-
irrigated grass, brush and weeds, which are often near
buildings with wood roofs and sidings. Such dryness causes
these materials to ignite very readily and burn rapidly and
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intensely. Gas fires due to gas line ruptures can also spark
and engulf a single family residence during these dry periods.
Because of dryness, a rapidly burning gas fire or exterior
building fire can quickly transfer to other buildings by means
of radiation or flying brands, sparks or embers. A small fire
can rapidly grow to a magnitude beyond the control
capabilities of the Fire District resulting in an excessive fire
loss.
2. Temperature
(a) Conditions
Temperatures have been recorded as high as 114° F. Average
summer highs are in the 75° - 900 range, with average
maximums of 105' F in some areas of unincorporated Contra
Costa County.
(b) Impact
High temperatures cause rapid fatigue and heat exhaustion of
firefighters, thereby reducing their effectiveness and ability to
control large building, wildland fires, and fires caused by gas
line ruptures.
Another impact from high temperatures is that combustible
building material and non-irrigated weeds, grass and brush
are preheated, thus causing these materials to ignite more
readily and burn more rapidly and intensely. Additionally,
the resultant higher temperature of the atmosphere
surrounding the materials reduces the effectiveness of the
water being applied to the burning materials. This requires
that more water be applied, which in turn requires more fire
resources in order to control a fire on a hot day. High
temperatures directly contribute to the rapid growth of fires to
an intensity and magnitude beyond the control capabilities of
the Fire Districts in Contra Costa.County.
3. Winds
(a) Conditions
Prevailing winds in many parts of Contra Costa County are
form the north or northwest in the afternoons. However,
winds are experienced from virtually every direction at one
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time or another. Velocities can reach fourteen (14) mph to
twenty-three (23) mph ranges, gusting to twenty-five (25) to
thirty-five (35) mph. Forty (40) mph winds are experienced
occasionally and winds up to fifty-five (55) mph have been
registered locally. During the winter half of the year, strong,
dry, gusty winds from the north move through the area for
several days, creating extremely dry conditions.
(b) Impact
Winds such as those experienced locally can and do
exacerbate fires, both interior and exterior, to burn and spread
rapidly. Fires involving non-irrigated weeds, grass, brush,
and fires caused by gas line ruptures can grow to a magnitude
and be fanned to an intensity beyond the control capabilities
of the fire services very quickly even by relatively moderate
winds. When such fires are not controlled, they can extend to
nearby buildings, particularly those with untreated wood
shakes or shingles.
Winds of the type experienced locally also reduce the
effectiveness of exterior water streams used by all Contra
Costa County Fire Districts on fires involving large interior
areas of buildings, fires which have vented through windows
and roofs due to inadequate built-in fire protection and fires
involving wood shake and shingle building exteriors. Local
winds will continue to be a definite factor toward causing
major fire losses to buildings not provided with fire resistive
roof and siding materials and buildings with inadequately
separated interior areas, or lacking automatic fire protection
systems, or lacking proper gas shut-off'devices to shut off gas
when pipes are ruptured. National statistics frequently cite
wind conditions, such as those experienced locally, as a major
factor where conflagrations have occurred.
4. Summar
Due to these conditions, it is necessary for Contra Costa County to
change, modify and amend the California Building Standards Codes.
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