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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem No. 26 - Public Hearing to Consider an Urgency Ordinance Amending Title 15, Buildings and26)Public Hearing to Consider an Urgency Ordinance Amending Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Waive further reading and adopt by a four-fifths vote by title only AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 15.02, 15.04, 15.06, 15.20, 15.24, 15.32, 15.38, 15.40, 15.42, AND 15.56 AND ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 15.58 (CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE) OF TITLE 15 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA CODES AND RELATED MODEL CODES WITH APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO. Page 1 of 3 REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council From:Jason Simpson, City Manager Prepared by:Damaris Abraham, Community Development Director Date:November 18, 2025 Subject:Public Hearing to Consider an Urgency Ordinance Amending Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Recommendation Waive further reading and adopt by a four-fifths vote by title only AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 15.02, 15.04, 15.06, 15.20, 15.24, 15.32, 15.38, 15.40, 15.42, AND 15.56 AND ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 15.58 (CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE) OF TITLE 15 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA CODES AND RELATED MODEL CODES WITH APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO. Background The State’s Health and Safety Code requires local governments to adopt the most recent editions of the model codes related to construction. If the City Council approves this Ordinance, the most recent editions of the construction codes with the applicable amendments will be in effect within the City of Lake Elsinore as required by State law. Discussion The State’s Health and Safety Code (Section 17958) mandates that the California Building Standards Commission adopt and publish the California Building Standards Code (Title 24 California Code of Regulations) every three years. The 2025 Edition of the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, which incorporates the below-listed model codes, which become effective statewide on January 1, 2026. The codes proposed for adoption by reference with amendments include the following: 2025 California Building Standards Code 2025 California Building Code 2025 California Residential Code 2025 California Codes Page 3 of 3 2 1 6 2 2025 California Mechanical Code 2025 California Plumbing Code 2025 California Energy Code 2026 California Electrical Code 2025 California Existing Building Code 2025 California Green Building Standards Code 2025 California Fire Code 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code Of note, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is a new, stand-alone state code added this cycle. It consolidates and reorganizes California's wildfire-resistant building and site requirements in designated fire hazard severity zones, which were previously scattered across multiple codes. The Community Development Department, Division of Building & Safety, is recommending that changes and modifications be made to the codes and are advising that certain changes and modifications are reasonably necessary due to local conditions in the City of Lake Elsinore. Staff recommends these local administrative amendments to establish provisions for the effective enforcement of the building codes of the City as a continuation of previously adopted amendments from prior code adoption cycles. Furthermore, many of these proposed amendments are consistent with those adopted by other local jurisdictions and have been specifically requested by CalFire. Additionally, certain proposed amendments are for administrative and procedural clarification and do not modify a building standard. Those modifications that affect code language have been based on express findings due to local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions as set forth in the ordinance. Fiscal Impact There is no fiscal impact as the existing fee schedule will be retained. Attachments Attachment 1 – Urgency Ordinance Attachment 2 – Public Hearing Notice Community Development ORDINANCE NO. 2025-___ AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 15.02, 15.04, 15.06, 15.20, 15.24, 15.32, 15.38, 15.40, 15.42, AND 15.56 AND ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 15.58 (CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE) OF TITLE 15 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA CODES AND RELATED MODEL CODES WITH APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1: Findings. The City Council hereby finds that the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Building Standards Code are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geologic, or topographic conditions, and adopts the findings provided below to support the modifications to the 2025 California Building Standards Code. A. Climatic Conditions 1. Hot, dry Santa Ana winds are common to all areas within the City of Lake Elsinore. These winds, which can cause small fires to spread quickly, are a contributing factor to the high fire danger in the area, and create the need for an increased level of fire protection. This added protection will supplement normal fire department response available and provide immediate protection for life and safety of multiple occupants during fire occurrences. 2. Riverside County and the City of Lake Elsinore are in a semi-arid Mediterranean type climate, which predisposes all fuels, including wood shingles, to rapid ignition and spread of fire. Therefore, there exists a need for additional fire protection measures. B. Geographic Conditions 1. Riverside County and the City of Lake Elsinore are in a highly active seismic area. There are earthquake faults that run along both the northeastern and southwestern boundaries of Riverside County including the San Jacinto and Elsinore faults which are branches of the San Andreas Fault. There have been several substantial earthquakes located along these faults in the Inland Empire area in the past few years. The most recent was in June 2024, located in Riverside California, in the Elsinore San Jacinto Area with a magnitude of 5.7 on the Richter scale. In July Ridgecrest had a 6.1 and the City of Oxnard had a 6.4 earthquake Julian had a 5.2 and with over 500 responses, the department was taxed to its full capabilities. The Ridgecrest earthquake mains supplying water to the district burst during the earthquake. If more fires had been ignited by the earthquake, it would have been difficult for the fire department to contain them. Experts predict a major earthquake in our area within the next 50 years. This situation creates the need for both additional fire protection measures and automatic on-site fire protection for building occupants since a multitude of fires may result from breakage of gas and electric lines because of an earthquake. As noted by “Planning Scenario on a Major Earthquake on the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone, 1988, State Department of Conservation,” page 59, Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 2 of 45 “unfortunately, barely meeting the minimum earthquake standards of building codes places a building on the verge of being legally unsafe”; 2. Traffic and circulation congestion presently existing in the City of Lake Elsinore often places fire department response time to fire occurrences at risk. This condition will be exacerbated by any major disaster, including any earthquake wherein damage to the highway system will occur. This condition makes the need for additional on-site protection for property occupants necessary. 3. Placement of multiple occupancy buildings, location of arterial roads, and fire department staffing constraints due to recent revenue-limiting state legislation have made it difficult for the fire department to locate additional fire stations and provide sufficient manpower to concentrate fire companies and personnel to control fires in high density apartment or condominium buildings. Fire Department equipment does not allow easy access to areas of buildings greater than 55 feet above the level of Fire Department vehicle access. These conditions create the need for built-in on-site fire protection systems to protect occupants and property until firefighting apparatus and personnel arrive on the scene. The City of Lake Elsinore is in an area subject to a climatic condition of high winds and low humidity. This combination of events creates an environment which is conducive to rapidly spreading fires. Control of such fires requires rapid response. Obstacles generated by a strong wind, such as fallen trees, street lights, and utility poles, and the requirement to climb 75 feet vertically up flights of stairs will greatly impact the response time to reach an incident scene. Additionally, Section 6, Figure 6-2 of ASCE 7 identifies a significant increase in the amount of wind force at 60 feet above the ground. Use of aerial-type fire fighting apparatus above this height would place rescue personnel at increased risk of injury. The City of Lake Elsinore is in the middle of the seismically active area. The viability of the public water system would be questionable at best after a major seismic event. This would leave tall buildings vulnerable to uncontrolled fires due to a lack of available water and an inability to pump sufficient quantities of any available water to floors above the 55-foot level. A severe seismic event has the potential to negatively impact any rescue or fire suppression activities because it is likely to create obstacles like those indicated under the high wind section above. With the probability of strong aftershocks there exists a need to provide increased protection for anyone on upper floors. 4. Untreated wood roofs cause or contribute to serious fire hazard and to the rapid spread of fires when such fires are accompanied by high winds. Pieces of burning wooden roofs become flying brands and are carried by the wind to other locations and thereby spread fire quickly. C. Administrative This amendment is also necessary for administrative clarifications that do not modify a building standard pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17985.7, and/or 18941.5. This amendment establishes administrative standards for the effective enforcement of the building standards in the City of Lake Elsinore. The findings (designated as “A” for amendments due to climatic conditions as set forth above, “B” for amendments due to geographic conditions as set forth above, and “Administrative” for Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 3 of 45 administrative amendments) are applicable to amendments to the 2025 California Building Code, California Residential Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Electrical Code, California Green Building Code, California Fire Code, and the California Wildland- Urban Interface Code, as set forth in Exhibit A, which exhibit is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Section 2: Section 15.02.010 of Chapter 15.02 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: 15.02.010 California Building Standards Code. The 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, incorporating the International Building Code, 2024 Edition, published by the International Code Council, with the amendments set forth in LEMC 15.04.020, is hereby adopted. There is one copy of said code on file in the office of the Building Official for use and examination by the public. Section 3: Chapter 15.04 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: 15.04.010 Building Code-Established. For the purpose of prescribing regulations for erecting, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, improving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment use, height, and area of buildings and structures, the following construction codes subject to the modifications set forth in this Chapter, are hereby adopted: the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 International Building Code as published by the International Code Council; the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 International Residential Code as published by the International Code Council; the California Green Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition; the California Plumbing Code, 2024 Edition, based on the 2009 Uniform Plumbing Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials; the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials; the California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 National Electrical Code as published by the National Fire Protection Association. The provisions of these Construction Codes as amended by this chapter shall constitute the Building Regulations of the City of Lake Elsinore. Where the California Code of Regulations and State Building Standards Code of Regulations differ from any sections of the Construction Codes, State regulations shall prevail over the Construction Codes. One (1) copy of all the above codes and standards therefore are on file in the office of the building official pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 18942 (d) (1) and are made available for public inspection. Notwithstanding the provisions of the above-referenced construction codes, all fees for services provided pursuant to the construction codes shall not take effect until a resolution for such fees is adopted by the City Council pursuant to California Government Code Sections 66016 and 66020.” 15.04.020 Local Amendments. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 5 of 45 The 2025 California Building Code as adopted by LEMC 15.04.010 is hereby adopted with the following local amendments: Section 109.2 Fees, is hereby amended to include the following as the second and third sentences in the paragraph: The fees for Plan Check and Permit shall be as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code and as adopted in Ordinance 1087. Said plan check fee shall be 75 percent of the building permit fee as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 LEMC. Section 113.3 Appeals, is hereby amended to read as follows: The Board of Appeals when referenced in any of the Building Standards Codes shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore. The Board of Appeals is hereby established for each of the Building Standards Codes. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board. Section 114.4 Violation Penalties; is hereby amended as follows: Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions or failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore is committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and shall be punished accordingly. Section 403 is hereby amended as follows: High-rise buildings having occupied floors located more than 55 feet above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access and group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of Fire Department access. Section 403.1, the first paragraph is hereby amended as follows: New high-rise buildings having occupied floors located more than 55 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access and new Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with Sections 403.2 through 403.6. Section 403.1.1, definition No. 2 is hereby amended as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 6 of 45 2. High-rise structure” means every building of any type of construction or occupancy having floor used for human occupancy located above 55 feet above the lowest floor level having building access (see Section 403.1.2), except buildings used as hospitals as defined by the Health and Safety Code Section 1250. Section 403.4.7.2 and 403.4.8.1 are amended by moving item 2. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equipment for smokeproof enclosures from section 403.4.7.2 Standby Power Loads and placing it in 403.4.8.1 Emergency Power Loads. The revised sections are to read as follows: 403.4.7.2 Standby power loads. The following are classified as standby power loads: 1. Power and lighting for the fire command center required by Section 403.4.5; and 2. Standby power shall be provided for elevators in accordance with Sections 1007.4, 3003, 3007, and 3008. 403.4.8.1 Emergency power loads. The following are classified as emergency power loads: 1. Exit signs and means of egress illumination required by Chapter 10; 2. Elevator car lighting; 3. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems; 4. Automatic fire detection systems; 5. Fire alarm systems; 6. Electrically powered fire pumps; and 7. Ventilation and automatic fire detection equipment for smoke proof enclosures. Section 910.3.2.2 is hereby amended as follows: Where installed in buildings provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to operate automatically by actuation of a heat- responsive device rated at least 100º F above the operating temperature of the sprinkler, unless otherwise approved. Section 1505.1 is amended by the deletion of Table 1505.1 and the addition of a new Table 1505.1a thereto, as follows: TABLE 1505.1a MINIMUM ROOF COVERING CLASSIFICATIONS TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION IA IB IIA IIB IIIA IIIB IV VA VB B B B B B B B B B For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2. a. Unless otherwise required in accordance with Chapter 7A. Section 1505.1.3 is amended as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 7 of 45 The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class B. Section 1505.5 is amended by the deletion of the entire section. Section 1505.7 is amended by the deletion of the entire section. Appendix J is hereby amended by the addition of a new section thereto, to read as follows: Section J110.3 Temporary Erosion Control. A. Separate plans for temporary drainage and erosion control measures to be used during the rainy season shall be submitted prior to October 1. The control devices shown on said plans shall be installed no later than October 15, and maintained in operable condition until April 15. These plans shall provide the following: 1. Temporary soil stabilization measures shall be installed on graded slopes exceeding a three to one ratio and/or ten feet in height. 2. Desilting facility shall be provided at all drainage outlets from the graded site, designed for the twenty-five-year, six hour storm intensity. They must be detailed on the plans. Design and specific recommendations shall be submitted for the following: Desilting basin volume based on gradient and nature of soils The extent of all graded areas and identification of any temporary soil stabilization measures Size of desilting basin outlet pipe and over flow Dike requirements. Minimum wall width, slope of walls, percent of compaction, etc. 3. The following notes shall be placed on the plans: In case of emergency, call _______________ at ______________ (responsible person) (24 hour number) The undersigned civil engineer will supervise erosion control and certify that work is in accordance with the approved plans. _______________________________ (signature, reg. *, expiration date) _______________________________ ________________ (name - printed) (dated) 4. Indicate on the plan, which streets will be paved and which drainage devices will be completed by October 15. 5. Placement of devices to reduce erosion damage within the tract is left to the discretion of the Engineer. These devices, if any, must be shown on the plan because their presence will affect the required capacity of the desilting basin. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 8 of 45 6. Outlet conditions from the desilting basin shall not exceed downstream limitations, with the exception of overflow, which is to be designed to provide capacity of 1.5 times the maximum design flow. B. Temporary Erosion Control Measures 1. The permittee shall keep a standby crew for emergency work, available at all times during the rainy season. Necessary materials shall be available onsite and stockpiled at convenient locations to facilitate rapid construction of temporary devices or to repair any damaged erosion control measures when rain is imminent. 2. Devices shall not be moved or modified without the approval of the Building Official or, in an emergency by the person responsible for grading operations. 3. All removable protective devices shown shall be in place at the end of each working day when the five-day rain probability forecast exceeds forty percent. Forecasts shall be received from broadcasts provided by the United States Weather Service. 4. After a rainstorm, all silt and debris shall be removed from check berms and desilting basins and the basins pumped dry. Any graded slope surface protection measures damaged during a rainstorm shall also be immediately repaired. Failure to provide effective maintenance may result in penalties as provided per Section 205. 5. Fill slopes at the tract perimeter must drain away from the top of the slope at the conclusion of each working day. 6. At least one guard shall be posted on the site whenever the depth of water in any device exceeds eighteen inches. Additional guards may be required as deemed necessary by the Building Official. 7. After a rainstorm, all silt and debris shall be removed from public drains and pipes, and from drains and pipes of adjacent properties. C. Subsequent Rainy Seasons 1. For projects extending into subsequent rainy seasons, for temporary drainage and erosion control plans shall be submitted. These plans shall comply with all requirements in Section J110.3 (A) and (B). 15.04.030 Designation of fire hazard severity zones. Pursuant to Ordinance No. 2025-1519, the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore has adopted and designated the Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City of Lake Elsinore, as recommended by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and presented in the map titled: “City of Lake Elsinore Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map,” which is maintained and published by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. This map is retained on file at the City of Lake Elsinore and is attached as “Exhibit A” to the above-referenced ordinance Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 9 of 45 and shall serve as the official FHSZ designation within the City of Lake Elsinore's Local Responsibility Area. Section 4: Chapter 15.06 is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.06 RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CODE 15.06.010 Residential Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition based on the 2024 International Building Code as published by the International Code Conference, shall be and become the Residential Code of the City, regulating and controlling the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every detached one-and-two-family dwelling, townhouse not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and structures accessory thereto throughout the State of California. The California Residential Code is on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. 15.06.020 Amendments. The 2025 edition of the California Residential Code is hereby amended as follows: Section R108.2 Fees, is hereby amended to include the following as the second and third sentences in the paragraph: The fees for Plan Check and Permit shall be as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code and as adopted in Ordinance 1087. Said plan check fee shall be 75 percent of the building permit fee as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 LEMC. Section R112.3 Appeals, is hereby amended as follows: The Board of Appeals when referenced in any of the Building Standards Codes shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore. The Board of Appeals is hereby established for each of the Building Standards Codes. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board. Section R113.4, Violation Penalties, is hereby amended as follows: Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions or failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore is Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 10 of 45 committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and shall be punished accordingly. Table R301.2(1) is amended and revised in its entirety to read: TABLE R301.2(1) CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA WIND DESIGN SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM GROUND SNOW LOAD Speed d (mph) Topographic effects k SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY f Weathering a Frost line Depth b Termite c WINTER DESIGN TEMP e ICE BARRIER UNDERLAYMENT REQUIRED h FLOOD HAZARDS g AIR FREEZING INDEX i MEAN ANNUAL TEMP j Zero 85 No D2 or E Negligible 12-24” Very Heavy 43 No See Exhibit B 0 60 For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s. a.Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code. The weathering column shall be filled in with the weathering index (i.e., "negligible," "moderate" or "severe") for concrete as determined from the Weathering Probability Map [Figure R301.2(3)]. The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C 34, C 55, C 62, C 73, C 90, C 129, C 145, C 216 or C 652. b.The frost line depth may require deeper footings than indicated in Figure R403.1(1). The jurisdiction shall fill in the frost line depth column with the minimum depth of footing below finish grade. c.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table to indicate the need for protection depending on whether there has been a history of local subterranean termite damage. d.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the wind speed from the basic wind speed map [Figure R30l.2( 4)].Wind exposure category shall be determined on a site-specific basis in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4. e.The outdoor design dry-bulb temperature shall be selected from the columns of 971/2-percent values for winter from Appendix D of the International Plumbing Code. Deviations from the Appendix D temperatures shall be permitted to reflect local climates or local weather experience as determined by the building official. f.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the seismic design category determined from Section R301.2.2.1. g.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with (a) the date of the jurisdiction's entry into the National Flood Insurance Program (date of adoption of the first code or ordinance for management of flood hazard areas), (b) the date(s) of the Flood Insurance Study and (c) the panel numbers and dates of all currently effective FIRMs and FBFMs or other flood hazard map adopted by the authority having jurisdiction, as amended. h.In accordance with Sections R905.2.7.1, R905.4.3.1, R905.5.3.1, R905.6.3.1, R905.7.3.1 and R905.8.3.1, where there has been a history of local damage from the effects of ice damming, Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 11 of 45 the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "NO." i.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the 100-year return period air freezing index (BF-days) from Figure R403.3(2) or from the l00-year (99%) value on the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index- USA Method (Base 32°)" at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.htrnl. j.The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the mean annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index-USA Method (Base 32°F)" at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.html. k.In accordance with Section R301.2.1.5, where there is local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings due to topographic wind speed-up effects, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate "NO" in this part of the table. Section R403.1.3 is modified by deleting the exception for masonry stem walls: In Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 masonry stem walls without solid grout and vertical reinforcing are not permitted. Exception: In detached one- and two-family dwellings which are three stories or less in height and constructed with stud bearing walls, plain concrete footings without longitudinal reinforcement supporting walls and isolated plain concrete footings supporting columns or pedestals are permitted. Section R405.1 shall be modified to read as follows: …..at least one sieve size larger than the tile joint opening or perforation and covered with not less than 6 inches of the same material. Exception: A drainage system is not required with the foundation is installed on well- drained ground or sand-gravel mixture soils according to the Unified Soil Classification System, Group 1 Soils, as detailed in Table R405.1. Section R902.1 is amended by revising it to allow only class A or B roofs as follows: R902.1 Roofing covering materials. Roofs shall be covered with materials as set forth in Sections R904 and R905. A minimum Class A or B roofing shall be installed in areas designated by this section. Classes A or B roofing required by this section to be listed shall be tested in accordance with UL 790 or ASTM E 108. Exceptions: 1. Class A roof assemblies include those with coverings of brick, masonry and exposed concrete roof deck. 2. Class A roof assemblies also include ferrous or copper shingles or sheets, metal sheets and shingles, clay or concrete roof tile, or slate installed on noncombustible decks. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 12 of 45 Section R902.1.3 is amended by revising it to require a minimum Class B roof as follows: R902.1.3 Roof coverings within all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one- year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class B. Section R902.2, first paragraph is amended by revising it to allow only Class A or B treated wood roofs as follows: R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes. Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles are wood shakes and shingles complying with UBC Standard 15- 3 or 15-4 which are impregnated by the full-cell vacuum-pressure process with fire- retardant chemicals, and which have been qualified by UBC Standard 15-2 for use on Class A or B roofs. Section 5: Chapter 15.20 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.20 MECHANICAL CODE Section 15.20.010 Mechanical Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, shall be and become the Mechanical Code of the City, regulating and controlling the design, construction, installation, quality of materials, location, operation, and maintenance or use of heating, ventilating, cooling, and refrigeration systems; incinerators; and other miscellaneous heat-producing appliances within this jurisdiction. The California Mechanical Code is on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. 15.20.020 Amendments. The 2025 edition of the California Mechanical Code is hereby amended as follows: Section 110.1 General, is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with the following paragraph: The Board of Appeals when referenced in any of the Building Standards Codes shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore. The Board of Appeals is hereby established for each of the Building Standards Codes. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board. Section 115.1 General, is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with the following paragraph: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 13 of 45 “The fees for each Permit shall be as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code and as adopted in Ordinance 1087.” Section 115.2 is hereby deleted in its entirety. Section 6: Chapter 15.24 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.24 PLUMBING CODE 15.24.010 Plumbing Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, shall be and become the Plumbing Code of the City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement, addition, to, use, or maintenance of plumbing systems within this jurisdiction. The California Plumbing Code will be on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. 15.24.020 Amendments. The 2025 Edition of the California Plumbing Code is hereby amended as follows: Section 1.11.2.5 Appeals, is hereby amended in its entirety and replaced with the following paragraph: “The Board of Appeals when referenced in any of the Building Standards Codes shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore. The Board of Appeals is hereby established for each of the Building Standards Codes. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board.” Section 102.3.2, Penalties, is hereby amended by revising the following text to read as follows: “Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions or failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore is committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and shall be punished accordingly.” Section 103.4.1 is hereby amended to read as follows: “The fees for each Permit shall be as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code and as adopted in Ordinance 1087.” Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 14 of 45 Section 7: Chapter 15.32 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.32 ENERGY CODE 15.32.010 Energy Code - Established. Except as provided in this Chapter, the California Energy Code 2025 Edition as published by the 2024 International Code Council, shall be and become the Energy Code of the City, regulating all buildings in the City with respect to State energy requirements. The California Energy Code will be on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. Section 8: Chapter 15.38 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.38 ELECTRICAL CODE 15.38.010 Electrical Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, based on the 2024 National Electrical Code as published by the National Fire Protection Association, shall be and become the Electrical Code of the City, regulating all installation, arrangement, alteration, repair, use and other operation of electrical wiring, connections, fixtures and other electrical appliances on premises within the City. The California Electrical Code will be on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. 15.38.020 Amendments. The 2025 Edition of the California Electrical Code is hereby amended as follows: Section 89.108.4.2 Fees, is hereby amended to include the following wording as the second sentence in the paragraph: The fees for each Permit shall be as set pursuant to Chapter 3.40 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code and as adopted in Ordinance 1087. Section 89.108.8.2 Definitions, the definition of Housing Appeals Board and Local Appeals Board shall be amended it its entirety. The following language shall be used for the purposes of defining these terms as hereby amended by the following paragraph: The Board of Appeals, when referenced in any of the Building Standards Codes, shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elsinore. The Board of Appeals is hereby established for each of the Building Standards Codes. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board. Article 310.2(b) is hereby amended, by the addition of a second paragraph to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 15 of 45 Copper wire shall be used for wiring No. six (6) and smaller in all installations. Consideration for use of aluminum wiring can be made by the Building Official for feeder lines only on an individual basis where adequate safety measures can be ensured. Article 310 is amended, by addition of a new Article 310.6, to read as follows: Aluminum conductors of No. six (6) or smaller used for branch circuits shall require continuous inspection by an independent testing agency approved by the Building Official for proper torquing of connections at their termination point. Section 9: Chapter 15.40 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.40 EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15.40.010 Existing Building Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the 2025 California Existing Building Code Appendix A-1 based on the 2024 International Existing Building Code as published by the International Code Council, shall become the Existing Building Code of the City, for regulating existing buildings in the City. The California Existing Building Code will be on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. Section 10: Chapter 15.42 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.42 GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 15.42.010 Green Building Standards Code - Established. Except as provided in this chapter, the California Green Building Standards Code as published by the California Building Standards Commission, shall become the Green Building Standards Code of the City, for planning, design, operation, construction, use and occupancy of every newly constructed building or structure, unless otherwise in this code, throughout the City of Lake Elsinore. The California Green Building Standards Code will be on file for public examination in the office of the Building Official. 15.42.020 Amendments. Section 5.106.8 Light Pollution Reduction, is amended by adding exceptions #3 and #4 to read as follows: Comply with lighting power requirements in the California Energy Code, CCR, Part 6, and design interior and exterior lighting such that zero direct-beam illumination leaves the building site. Meet or exceed exterior light levels and uniformity ratios for lighting zones 1- 4 as defined in Chapter 10 of the California Administrative Code, CCR, Part 1, using the following strategies. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 16 of 45 1. Shield all luminaries or provide cutoff luminaries per Section 132 (b) of the California Energy Code. 2. Contain interior lighting within each source. 3. Allow no more than .01 horizontal lumen foot-candles to escape 15 feet beyond the site boundary. 4. Automatically control exterior lighting dusk to dawn to turn off or lower light Levels during incentive periods. Exceptions: i. Part 2, Chapter 12, Section 1205.6 for campus lighting requirements for parking facilities and walkways. ii. Emergency lighting and lighting required for night time security. iii. Existing facilities which include athletic playing areas, theatrical facilities, theme parks, theme park resorts and similar facilities which have Zoning designations as such, and which have lighting level criteria established by Ordinance. iv. New athletic playing areas, theatrical facilities, theme parks, theme park resorts and similar facilities which have Zoning designations as such and which have lighting level criteria adopted by ordinance may be designated as LZ4 in Table 10-114-A in the California Administrative Regulations. Section 11: Chapter 15.56 of Title 15 of the City of Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.56 FIRE CODE 15.56.010 Fire Code - Established. A. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Chapter is to adopt the 2025 California Fire Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, and the California Wildland Urban Interface Code, California Code of Regulations as Title 24, Part 7, as amended, to govern the safeguarding of life and property from fire, explosion hazards and hazardous conditions and to regulate the issuance of permits and collection of fees. B. AUTHORITY. This Chapter is adopted pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 which allows a public agency to adopt modifications or changes to the California Fire Code and the California Wildland Urban Interface Code that are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological and topographical conditions. C. APPLICATION AND ADOPTION OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE. Except as stated in this Section or as amended below, all of the provision of the 2025 California Fire Code, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set forth in this chapter, are hereby adopted and shall apply throughout the city. In addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California Fire Code are hereby adopted - Chapter 1, Division II of the California Fire Code is hereby adopted, except that Section 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and Chapters 3, 25, and Sections 503, 510.2, 1103.2, and 5707 are adopted. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 17 of 45 15.56.020 Amendments. A. Scope and General Requirements. Section 101.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 101.4 Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this Chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this Chapter are hereby declared to be severable. B. Applicability. Section 102.5 of the California Fire Code is amended as follows: 102.5 Application of Residential Code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residential Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows: 1. Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply, including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access, and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 of this code shall apply. 2. Administrative, operational, and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply. 3. Automatic fire sprinkler system requirements of this code shall apply to detached accessory buildings 5,000 square feet or greater in accordance with Section 903.2. The provisions contained in Section 903.2.18 of the California Fire Code or Section R309.6 R317.5.1 of the California Residential Code may be used for the design of the automatic fire sprinkler system for detached private garages. A new Section 102.13.1 is added to Section 102.13 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 102.13.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the this California Fire Code and the California Wildland- Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provision shall apply. C. Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official A new Section 104.1.1 is added to Section 104.1 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and Fire Department. 1. The Fire Chief is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this Chapter and to perform such duties as directed by the City. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 18 of 45 2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee, is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this Chapter. Under the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce ordinances of the City pertaining to the following: 2.1. The prevention of fires. 2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires. 2.3. The storage use and handling of hazardous materials. 2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment. 2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes. 2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction. 2.7. The maintenance of means of egress. 2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials. 3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this Chapter and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law: 3.1. The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. 3.2. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department. 3.3. The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff. 3.4. The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department. 3.5. Officers of the California Highway Patrol. 3.6. Code Officers of the City of Lake Elsinore. 3.7. Building Official and Building Officials Public Officers of the City of Lake Elsinore. 3.8. Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation. 3.9. The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management. Section 104.2 of the California Fire Code is deleted and replaced with the following: 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedure: 1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code. 2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code. 3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code. A new Section 104.6.5 is added to Section 104 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 19 of 45 104.6.5 Requests for Public Records. Request for copies of public and legal documents, photographs, and other records relating to department activities are available as authorized by law through the City Clerk; all document requests shall be in writing. Section 104.8 and 104.8.1 are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following: 104.8 Liability. Any liability against the City of Lake Elsinore, Riverside County or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law. A new Section 104.12 is added to Section 104 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 104.12 Authority of the Fire Chief to close hazardous fire areas. Except upon National Forest Land, the Fire Chief is authorized to determine and announce the closure of any hazardous fire area or portion thereof. Any closure by the Fire Chief for a period of more than 15 calendar days must be approved by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and/or the City Council within 15 calendar days of the Fire Chief’s original order of closure. Upon such closure, no person shall go in or be upon any hazardous fire area, except upon the public roadways and inhabited areas. During such closure, the Fire Chief shall erect and maintain at all entrances to the closed area sufficient signs giving notice of closure. This section shall not prohibit residents or owners of private property within any closed area, or their invitees, from going in or being upon their lands. This section shall not apply to any entry, in the course of duty, by a peace officer, duly authorized public officer or fire department personnel. For the purpose of this section, “hazardous fire area” shall mean public or private land that is covered with grass, grain, brush or forest and situated in a location that makes suppression difficult resulting in great damage. Such areas are designated on Hazardous Fire Area maps filed with the office of the Fire Chief. D. Fees. Department of Fire Prevention. Section 108.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in Chapter 3.40 of the LEMC. A new Section 108.7 is added to Section 108 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 11374.5(b)(1 ), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement of any provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release, and any rescue or rendering of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the County in Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 20 of 45 the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt obligation arising from the incident. E. Means of Appeals. Section 112.1 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 112.1 Board of appeals established. The Board of Appeals shall be the City Manager. If he or she determines an outside board is needed, he or she shall designate an outside hearing officer to hear the appeal. The Fire Chief and Chief Deputy shall be notified of any appeal and the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or designee’s shall be in attendance at the appeal hearing. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited, at the expense of the applicant, for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board. F. Violations. Section 113.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 113.4 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate any provision of this Chapter, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code. Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions or failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of the Ordinances of Lake Elsinore shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under the Ordinances of the City shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not to exceed one hundred eighty days, or both such fine and imprisonment. Such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of the Ordinances of the City is committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and shall be punished accordingly. G. Definitions. Section 202, definition of “Fire Chief” in the California Fire Code, is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief’s designee. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 19 of 45 H. Open Flames. Section 308.1.7 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 308.1.7 Sky lanterns or similar devices. A person shall not release or cause to be released a sky lantern or similar device. I. Fire Apparatus Access Roads. A new Section 503.1.2.1 is added to Section 503.1.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Unless otherwise approved, where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses. Section 503.2.1 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 24 feet, exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6 and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches. For additional requirements or alternatives see Riverside County Fire Department Standards and Policies, as may be amended from time to time. Section 503.2.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 503.2.2 Authority. The Fire Code Official shall be the only authority authorized to designate, require, or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations. A new Section 503.6.1 is added to Section 503.6 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 503.6.1 Automatic opener. New motorized gates shall be provided with means to be automatically opened remotely by emergency vehicle in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department standards and Policies, as may be amended from time to time. Exception: Gates serving individual one- and two-family dwelling parcels. A new Section 503.7 is added to Section 503 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 503.7 Loading and passenger drop-off areas. On private properties, where fire apparatus access roads are utilized for parallel parking, loading or unloading or utilized for passenger drop-off or pick-up, an additional eight (8) feet of width shall be added to the minimum required width for the fire apparatus access road. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 21 of 45 J. Fire Protection Water Supplies. A new Section 507.5.7 is added to Section 507.5 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 507.5.7 Fire hydrant size and outlets. As determined by the fire code official, fire hydrant sizes and outlets shall be based on the following: a. Residential Standard – one (1) four (4) inch outlet and one (1) two and half (2 1/2) inch outlet b. Super Hydrant Standard – one (1) four (4) inch outlet and two (2) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlet. c. Super Hydrant Enhanced – two (2) four (4) inch outlet and one (1) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlet. A new Section 507.5.8 is added to Section 507.5 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines, as may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor, developer or person responsible for removal or damage. K. Fire Command Center. Section 508.1 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 508.1 General. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the California Building Code, in all buildings greater than 500,000 300,000 square feet in area, and in Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and comply with Sections 508.1.1 through 508.1.7. Section 508.1.1 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 508.1.1 Location and access. The fire command center shall be located adjacent to the main lobby and shall be accessible from fire department vehicular access or as approved by the fire code official. The room shall have direct access from the building exterior at the lowest level of fire department access. Section 508.1.3 of the California Fire Code is amended as follows: 508.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be not less than 0.015 percent of the total building area of the facility served or 200 square feet (19 m2) in area, whichever is greater, with a minimum dimension of 0.7 times the square root of the room area or 10 feet (3048 mm), whichever is greater. Where a fire command center is soley required because a building is greater than 300.000 square feet (27 870 m2), the fire command center shall have a minimum size of 96 square Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 23 of 45 feet (9 m2) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438 mm) where approved by the fire code official. L. Fire Protection and Utility Equipment Identification and Access. A new section 509.2.1 is added to section 509.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 509.2.1 Minimum clearances. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained exterior fire protection system control valves, or any other exterior fire protection system component that may require immediate access, except as otherwise required or approved. M. Mechanical Refrigeration. Section 608.11.1.2 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 608.11.1.2 Manual Operation. When required by the Fire Code Official, automatic crossover valves shall be capable of manual operation. The manual valves shall be located in an approved location immediately outside of the machinery room in a secure metal box or equivalent and marked as Emergency Controls. N. Automatic Sprinkler Systems. Section 903.2 of the California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 903.2 Where required. Automatic Fire Sprinklers shall be provided for the following: In all new buildings and structures which are 5,000 square feet or greater, an approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided regardless of occupancy classification. Where Sections 903.2.1 – 903.2.2.1 of the California Fire Code has more restrictive requirements than those listed below, the more restrictive requirement shall take precedence. Exception: Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following: 1. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries not required to have an automatic sprinkler system by Section 1207 for energy storage systems and standby engines, provided that those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both. 2. Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed in accordance with the California Building Code. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 24 of 45 3. Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open on all sides and used for riding only - no commercial, assembly or storage uses. 4. Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all sides and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of vehicles and dining areas with no cooking. 5. Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists, and the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to other structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted. 6. Non-combustible fueling station canopies not exceeding 10,000 square feet when separated from other buildings by a distance of not less than 50 feet. One- and two-family dwellings shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. Fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured homes and multifamily manufactured homes with two dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations. The following exceptions in the California Fire Code shall not be allowed: a. Exception in Section 903.2.3. b. Exception 2 in Section 903.2.11.3. Any existing building shall retrofit with automatic fire sprinklers when a structure exceeds 5,000 square feet and changes are made to the building including any of the following: change of occupancy, removal of an existing Fire Wall as defined by the California Building Code, or additions are made to the original building square footage. A new Section 903.3.5.3 is added to Section 903 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90 percent of the water supply capacity. O. Commercial Hood and Duct Systems. A new Section 904.2.2.1 is added to Section 904.2.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 904.2.2.1 Activation of the Fire Alarm System. Where a fire alarm signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72. If a fire alarm signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is not present, one will be required to be installed to provide monitoring for the automatic fire -extinguishing system. P. Designation of High-Piled Storage Areas. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 25 of 45 A new Section 3206.4.2 is added to Section 3206.4 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 3206.4.2 Minimum requirements for client leased or occupant owned warehouses. Designs of an automatic sprinkler system for client leased or occupant owned buildings containing high pile storage shall be based on the requirements of NFPA 13. Unless otherwise approved a Professional Engineer, licensed in the State of California, shall perform a survey of the building to determine commodity classification, storage configuration, building height and other information related to the development of an appropriate sprinkler system design. The fire engineer shall also make reasonable efforts to meet with the building owner or operator to understand seasonal or customer related fluctuations to the stored commodities, storage height, and configuration. The sprinkler design shall be based on the most demanding requirements determined through the onsite survey and discussions with the building owner or operator. The technical report shall describe the basis for determining the commodity and sprinkler design selection, how the commodities will be isolated or separated, and include references to the design document(s). If a specific fire test is used as the basis of design, a copy of the fire test report shall be provided at the time of plan review. Q. Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles. A new Section 4107 is added to Chapter 41 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 4107 MOBILE FOOD PREPARATION VEHICLES. New Sections 4107.1 through 4107.2.3 are added to Section 4107 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 4107.1 General. Mobile food preparation vehicles that are equipped with appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapors shall comply with this section. 4107.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of systems on mobile food preparation vehicles shall be in accordance with Sections 4107.2.1 through 4107.2.3. 4107.2.1 Exhaust system. The exhaust system, including hood, grease-removal devices, fans, ducts and other appurtenances, shall be inspected and cleaned in accordance with Section 606.3. 4107.2.2 Fire protection systems and devices. Fire protection systems and devices shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.6. 4107.2.3 Fuel gas systems. LP-gas containers installed on the vehicle and fuel-gas piping systems shall be inspected annually by an approved inspection agency or a company that is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation to requalify LP-gas cylinders, to ensure that system components are free from damage, suitable for the intended service and not subject to leaking. CNG containers shall be inspected every 3 years in a qualified service facility. CNG containers shall not be used past their expiration date as listed on the manufacturer’s container label. Upon satisfactory inspection, the approved inspection agency shall affix a tag on the fuel gas system or within the vehicle indicating the name of the inspection agency and the date of satisfactory inspection. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 26 of 45 R. Fireworks Display. A new Section 5608.2 is added to Section 5608 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: 5608.2 Fallout Area. For aerial shells, the minimum required radius of the fallout area shall be 100 ft/in. (22 m/25 mm) of the internal mortar diameter of the largest aerial shell to be fired, unless otherwise approved. S. Appendix B. A new Section B103.2.1 is added to Section B103.2 of the California Fire Code to read as follows: B103.2.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Subdivisions. The minimum fire flow for any new subdivision or tract constructed within a Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall be 1,500 gallons per minute. Table B105.2 of the California Fire Code is amended as follows: TABLE B105.2 REQUIRED FIRE-FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS, GROUP R-3 AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM (Design Standard) MINIMUM FIRE-FLOW (gallons per minute) FLOW DURATION (hours) No automatic sprinkler system Value in Table B105.1(2) Duration in Table B105.1(2) Section 903.3.1.1 of the California Fire Code 50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)a Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the reduced flow rate Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code 50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)b Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the reduced flow rate For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m. a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,000 gallons per minute. b. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute. R. Appendix C. Section C103.1 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: C103.1 Hydrant spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 of the International Fire Code shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants, as determined by Section C102.1. Where more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3. Fire hydrants shall also be provided at street intersections. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 27 of 45 Section 12: Title 15 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby amended to add Chapter 15.58, Wildland-Urban Interface Code, to read as follows: CHAPTER 15.58 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 15.58.010 Wildland-Urban Interface Code - Established. A. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Chapter is to adopt the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7, as amended, to protect life and property from wildfires by setting minimum standards for new construction, additions, and remodels in areas where structures and wildlands meet. B. AUTHORITY. This Chapter is adopted pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 which allows a public agency to adopt modifications or changes to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code that are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological and topographical conditions. C. APPLICATION AND ADOPTION OF THE CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE. Except as stated in this Section or as amended below, all of the provisions and appendices of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set forth in each chapter's matrix, are hereby adopted. In addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code – Chapter 1, Division II of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is hereby adopted, except that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and sections A101 through A102.2, A102.4, A104, A105.1, A105.4 through A105.4.2, A106 through A106.2, and A107 through A107.5 are adopted. 15.58.020 Amendments to Wildlands Urban Interface Code. A. APPLICABILITY. A new Section 102.4.1.1 is added to Section 102.4.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 102.4.1.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the Riverside County Fire Code and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply. B. DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL. A new Section 104.1.1 is added to Section 104.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and Fire Department. 1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this Chapter and to perform such duties as directed by the City Council. 2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this Chapter. Under the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee’s Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 28 of 45 direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce ordinances of the City pertaining to the following: 2.1. The prevention of fires. 2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires. 2.3. The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials. 2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment. 2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes. 2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction. 2.7. The maintenance of means of egress. 2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials. 3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this Chapter and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law: 3.1. The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. 3.2. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department. 3.3. The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff. 3.4. The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department. 3.5. Officers of the California Highway Patrol. 3.6. Code Officers of the Riverside County Code Enforcement Department. 3.7. Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation. 3.8. The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management. Section 104.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted and replaced with the following: 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures: 1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code. 2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code. 3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code. Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following: 104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law. C. PERMITS. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 29 of 45 Section 105.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in it’s entirety and replaced with the following: 105.2 Permits Required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official. For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3. Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area: 1. Automobile wrecking yard. 2. Candles and open flames in assembly areas. 3. Explosives or blasting agents. 4. Fireworks. 5. Flammable or combustible liquids. 6. Hazardous materials. 7. Liquefied petroleum gases. 8. Landscape and fuel modification zones. 9. Lumberyards. 10. Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations. 11. Open burning. 12. Pallet Yards. 13. Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures. 14. Tire storage. 15. Welding and cutting operations. D. FEES. Section 108.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in City of Lake Elsinore fee schedule. A new Section 108.7 is added to Section 108 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 108.7 Cost recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections 11374.5(b)(1), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement of any provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release, and any rescue or rendering of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 30 of 45 of Riverside County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied. These provisions shall or other state law statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt obligation arising from the incident. E. INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT Section 109.3.7 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: 109.3.7 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate any provision of this Chapter, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code or Ordinance 787. Punishments and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with Ordinance No. 725, Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5 and Government Code Section 51185. F. DEFINITIONS. Section 202, definition of "Fire Chief” in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief’s designee. G. WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA DESIGNATIONS. Section 302.1.1 is added to Section 302.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 302.1.1 Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Pursuant to Ordinance No. 2025- 1519, the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore has adopted and designated the Fire Hazard Severity Zones within the City of Lake Elsinore, as recommended by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and presented in the map titled: “City of Lake Elsinore Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map,” which is maintained and published by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. This map is retained on file at the City of Lake Elsinore and is attached as “Exhibit A” to the above-referenced ordinance and shall serve as the official FHSZ designation within the City of Lake Elsinore's Local Responsibility Area. H. SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS. Section 501.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface shall be amended as follows: 501.1 Scope. Buildings and structures in a wildland-urban interface area shall be constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and this code. For the purpose of this Chapter, a wildland-urban interface area shall be defined as a geographical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175 through 51189, and other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires, and shall include those areas designated by Ordinance 999 as Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 31 of 45 moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on recommendations from the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Government Code Section 51178. Exceptions: 1. Group U accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m2) in floor area where located not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings. 2. Group U agricultural buildings not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from applicable buildings. I. FIRE PROTECTION PLANS. Section 602.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 602.1 General. A fire protection plan shall be submitted to the Fire Code Official for any proposed subdivision of land or building project. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration. The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes. Submittal of a preliminary fire protection plan shall be required prior to the submission of a final fire protection plan. Exception: A single-family dwelling (Group R-3 Occupancy) when located on an existing legal parcel. Section 602.3.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 602.3.2 Final Fire Protection Plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in Section 602.3.1 and the following: 1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to: 2.1 The plant life-form; 2.2 The scientific and common name; and 2.3 The expected height and width for mature growth. 2. Identification of irrigated and non-irrigated zones. 3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes. 4. Identification of existing vegetation proposed to remain. 5. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain vegetation in common areas. 6. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing, or modifying areas on the property. 7. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zones. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 32 of 45 8. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants, conditions and restrictions regarding property owner responsibilities for vegetation maintenance. J. VEGETATION PLAN. Section 603.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new and replacement landscaping shall be selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures. Section 603.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 603.3 Landscape and Fuel Modification plans. Landscape and Fuel Modification plans shall be submitted for any project located in a WUI area. The landscape and Fuel Modification plan shall include development and maintenance requirements for the vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways, and to provide significant fire hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety. Section 603.3.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following: 1. Delineation of the 5-foot (1524 mm) (Zone 0), 30-foot (9144 mm) (Zone 1) and 100- foot (30 480 mm) (Zone 2) fuel management zones from all structures. 2. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation. 3. Identification of irrigated areas. 4. A plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all plant material symbols. 5. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot (9144 mm) zone. K. MAINTENANCE OF DEFENSIBLE SPACE. Section 604.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 604.1 General. Vegetation and fuels shall be managed to reduce the severity of potential exterior wildfire exposure to buildings and to reduce the risk of fire spreading to buildings as required by applicable laws and regulations. Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended as follows: 604.3 Requirements. Vegetation and fuels around all buildings and structures shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations: 1. Public Resources Code, Section 4291. 2. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 3, Article 3, Section 1299.03. 3. California Government Code, Section 51182. 4. California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Section 3.07. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 33 of 45 5. The requirements of Section 7, Appendix A of this Chapter and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines. Section 604.3.1 is added to Section 604.3 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.3.1 Retroactivity. When required by the Fire Code Official, or State Law, existing Defensible Space/Fuel Modification Zones (FMZ) shall require retrofitting, including thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation, to meet this Code or State Law. Upon notification by the Fire Code Official, and when approved, work to bring an existing Defensible Space and FMZ into compliance with this Code, may be done over a two to four (2-4) year period as determined by the Fire Code Official. A compliance plan prepared by the property owner may be requested for review and approval by the Fire Code Official. Section 604.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.6 Clearance of brush, vegetative growth, and combustible material from improved parcels. All improved parcels declared a Public Nuisance shall be cleared entirely of combustible material. If the Fire Code Official determines this impractical, the provisions of Section 604.7 may be used. Section 604.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.7 Clearance of fuels or vegetative growth from structures. Clearance of fuels and vegetative growth from structures shall be per sections 604.7.1 through 604.7.4 of this code. Section 604.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.7.1 Structures. Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining any Building or structure in, upon, or adjoining any FHSZ, governed by this section, and any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such Buildings, shall at all times maintain around and adjacent to such Building, an effective firebreak made by removing and clearing away, all combustible material on their property for a distance not less than 100 feet from all portions of the Building. Distances may be increased by the Fire Code Official due to a site-specific analysis based on local conditions and when required, based on a Fire Protection Plan. This section shall not apply to single specimens or stands of protected species of trees, Ornamental Landscape or similar plants used in landscaping and ground covers, that are well-pruned, maintained, and spaced, and do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other nearby vegetation to a structure or from a structure to other nearby vegetation or to interrupt the advance of embers toward a structure. Section 604.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.7.2 Timing for New Buildings and additions to Existing Buildings. The provisions of Section 604.7 shall be completed prior to vertical construction of any New Building or addition to an Existing Building. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 34 of 45 Section 604.7.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.7.3 Photovoltaic Systems. The clearance requirements around freestanding photovoltaic systems and equipment shall comply with the following: 1. A minimum 10-foot clearance for clusters of panels not exceeding 1,500 square feet of combined panel area. 2. A minimum of 30-foot clearance for clusters of panels greater than 1,500 square feet of combined panel area. 3. Clusters shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet. 4. Panels and clusters shall be not located within 30 feet of any Building subject to clearance requirements of Section 604 unless the clearance requirements of Section 604 are provided as measured from the perimeter of the panel or cluster. Section 604.8 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8 Defensible Space clearance zones and requirements. The required 100-foot Defensible Space clearance is identified in three (3) distinct zones: Zone 0, 1, and 2. Section 604.8.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.1 Requirements. Defensible Space shall be in accordance with the requirements of Appendix A of this code, Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines and the specific requirements for each zone listed in Sections 604.8.2 through 604.8.5. Section 604.8.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.2 Zone 0 purpose and location. Zone 0 reduces the likelihood of structure ignition by reducing the potential for direct ignition of the structure from flame contact, by embers that accumulate at the base of a wall, and/or indirect ignitions when embers ignite vegetation, vegetative debris, or other combustible materials located close to the structure that result in either a radiant heat and/or a direct flame contact exposure to the structure. Zone 0 is the horizontal area within the first five (5) feet around the structure, including stairs, balconies, attached or adjacent decks, and outbuildings. Zone 0 is measured from the edge of a structure, attached or adjacent decks, patio covers, balconies, and floor projections above-grade. Zone 0 also includes the area on the roof of a building, and underneath and on top of attached decks, patio covers, balconies, and stair landings. Advisory Notice: Riverside County Fire Department has local Zone 0 requirements currently in effect for new Buildings and additions to existing Buildings. New State regulations for Zone 0 are currently under development by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. Any State regulation more restrictive than this Chapter shall apply. This may require thinning and/or removal of plants, trees, and vegetation to meet State Law and regulations. Section 604.8.2.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 35 of 45 604.8.2.1 Non-Combustible Zone 0 for New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, and new or replacement landscape. Fuels, including Combustible Materials and vegetation, are prohibited in Zone 0 for all New Buildings, additions to Existing Buildings, installation of new landscape, and refurbishment of existing landscape areas. The application date of Section 604.8.2.1 shall be the later application date when any of the following occur: 1. Fire Department Clearance for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building. 2. Building permit for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building. 3. Landscape plans submitted for Riverside County Fire Department review. 4. Replacement of landscape when landscape plans are not required. Section 604.8.2.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.2.2 Additional requirements in Zone 0. 1. New and existing tree canopies are prohibited within 10 feet of New Buildings, including the addition portion to Existing Buildings. Exception: Existing protected oak trees shall be trimmed to provide a minimum 5-foot clearance above the roof and 5 feet to the side of any New Building, or the addition portion to an Existing Building. 2. Landscaped roofs are prohibited. 3. Vegetation underneath decks is prohibited. 4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed. 5. Artificial or synthetic grass is prohibited within Zone 0. 6. Vines and climbing plants are not allowed on structures, including decks, patio/shade structures, and any fences within 5 feet of a Building. 7. Combustible mulch and wood chips are prohibited. 8. Firewood is prohibited. 9. All fencing and gates shall be non-combustible. See Section 604.11. Section 604.8.2.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.2.3 Zone 0 requirements for Existing Buildings. Section 604.8.2.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.2.3.1 Zone 0 restrictions. The following requirements apply within Zone 0 for all Existing Buildings with landscape installed prior to January 1, 2026: 1. No combustible landscape mulch or wood chips. 2. No firewood. 3. No vegetation underneath decks. 4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck, not part of the deck structure itself, shall be removed. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 36 of 45 5. Roofs and gutters on Buildings shall be maintained free of any leaves, needles, or other vegetative Combustible Materials. 6. The vertical clearance distance for trees and vegetation above any roof shall be not less than 3 feet. 7. A minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided to the side and above any eave or roof projection from the exterior wall of a Building. A minimum 3- foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided below any eave or roof projection. This requirement also applies to any patio cover or other Building projections. 8. New trees are not allowed. 9. New or replacement landscaping shall comply with Sections 604.8.1, 604.8.2.1, and 604.8.2.2. Section 604.8.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.3 Zone 1 purpose and location. Zone 1 reduces the likelihood of fire burning directly to the structure. This is accomplished by modifying Fuels and creating a discontinuity between planting groups that limits the pathways for fire to burn to the structure and reduces the potential for near-to-building ember generation and radiant heat exposures. An additional purpose of this zone is to provide a defendable area for fire personnel to stage and take direct action. Zone 1 is the area within 5-30 feet of structures and decks, with slopes not greater than 20 percent; 5-50 feet from Buildings and decks, when slopes are greater than 20 percent. Section 604.8.3.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.3.1 Requirements and allowable items. This is a minimal planting zone which includes very limited trees of a fire-smart type with additional spacing provided. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines. Section 604.8.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.4 Zone 2 purpose and location. Zone 2 is designed to reduce the potential behavior of an oncoming fire in such a way as to drop an approaching fire from the crown of trees to the ground, reducing the flame heights, and the potential for ember generation and radiant heat exposure to structures. Additional benefits of the Zone 2 include facilitating direct defense actions and improving the function of Zones 0 and 1. Zone 2 is the area from the outer edge of Zone 1 to 100 feet from structures and decks. Section 604.8.4.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.4.1 Requirements and allowable items. Plants and other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines. Section 604.8.4.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 37 of 45 604.8.4.2 Spacing. Spacing of vegetation and trees at the outer edge of Zone 2 shall be based upon the height of the vegetation within Zone 2 or the adjacent area beyond the 100-foot zone, whichever provides for the greater spacing. This may require clearance outside the 100-foot zone or setting back vegetation and trees within Zone 2 away from the 100-foot line. Section 604.8.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5 General requirements for Zone 0, 1, and 2. Section 604.8.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.1 Dead and dying vegetation. All dead or dying grass, plants, shrubs, trees, branches, leaves, weeds, and tree needles shall be removed. Section 604.8.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.2 Mulch and wood chips within Zones 1 and 2. Use of combustible Mulch and wood chips shall be in accordance with the requirements Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines. Section 604.8.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.3 Firewood. See Section 607. Section 604.8.5.4 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.4 Clearance from chimney, stovepipe. Any portion of a tree or shrub that extends within 10 feet horizontally or vertically of a chimney outlet or stovepipe outlet shall be removed. Section 604.8.5.5 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.5 Trees. New trees shall be planted and maintained so that the tree’s drip line at maturity is a minimum of 10 feet from any combustible structure. Section 604.8.5.5.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.5.1 Tree spacing. The horizontal distance between crowns of new trees and crowns of adjacent trees shall not be less than 20 feet in Zone 1 and not less than 10 feet in Zone 2. Separate distance may be increased for slopes exceeding 20 percent. Required spacing is measured between trees at maturity. Section 604.8.5.5.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.5.2 Ground clearance of trees. Trees exceeding 6 feet in height shall be limbed up from the ground 6 feet or 1/3 the height of the tree, whichever is less. Exception: Fruit trees when approved by the Fire Code Official. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 38 of 45 Section 604.8.5.5.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.5.3 Ground cover under tree canopy. When approved ground cover and shrubs are located underneath trees, the vertical clearance to the lowest branch of the tree canopy shall not be less than three times the height of the ground cover or shrub under or adjacent to the tree. The horizontal clearance shall be 3 feet from the trunk of the tree. Section 604.8.5.6 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.6 Continuous tree canopies. Section 604.8.5.6.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.6.1 New Structures. Continuous tree canopies are not allowed. Tree spacing shall be in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department. Section 604.8.5.6.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.6.2 Existing Structures. Continuous tree canopies may be allowed as determined by the Fire Code Official but will require the complete removal of any understory and smaller trees to meet requirements for a shaded fuel zone. Any remaining trees shall be limbed up a minimum of 12 feet from the ground or 1/3 the tree height, whichever is less. The intent is to not allow a crown (canopy) fire to spread unchecked to a structure and to bring any crown fire down to the ground level prior to Zone 1. Section 604.8.5.7 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.8.5.7 Grasses. Natural or annual grasses shall be mowed to a maximum height of 4- inch stubble with clippings removed. Section 604.9 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.9 Fire protection equipment and utilities. The clearance requirements of Sections 604.7 and 604.8 shall apply to communication site towers and their support Buildings; required fire protection water supplies, including water tanks, water supply pumps, and pump houses; and any other utility Structure as required by the Fire Code Official. The Fire Code Official may consider a reduced distance, not less than 30 feet, for communication site towers, water tanks, and Structures with no interior space, based upon a site risk assessment. Also see Appendix A. Section 604.10 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.10 Planting vegetation under or adjacent to energized electrical lines. No vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines that, at maturity, will grow within 10 feet of the energized conductors. Section 604.11 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.11 Fencing. Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 39 of 45 Section 604.11.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.11.1 Scope. This section only applies to fences, including gates within the fencing, within 5 feet of Building(s), including Decks, (Zone 0) that are in an applicable Fire Hazard Severity Zone req by Chapter 6 of this code. Section 604.11.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.11.2 New fencing. New fencing and gates shall be constructed of a non-combustible material. Section 604.11.3 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 604.11.3 Existing fencing. Fencing installed prior to January 1, 2026, may remain. Exception: The entire fencing not parallel and within 5 feet of the Building, including gates within the fencing, shall be constructed of a non-combustible material when any portion of the existing fencing within 5 feet is being replaced. Fencing beyond 5 feet from the Building is not required to be replaced with non-combustible material. L. STORAGE OF FIREWOOD AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS. Section 607.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: 607.1 General. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed spaces beneath Buildings or Structures, or on Decks or under eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs. Firewood piles shall be located 30 feet (9144 mm) or more from structures unless completely covered by a fire-resistant material. Exposed wood piles located within the defensible space shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet (3048 mm) down to bare mineral soil in all directions. Firewood shall not be stored within Zone 0. Section 607.1.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: 607.1.1 Combustible Materials. Combustible Materials, other than vegetation, stored within Zones 1 and 2 shall not be stored so as to pose a hazard to any Building. Piles shall not exceed 100 square feet of area and a maximum height of 10 feet. Piles shall be separated by a minimum of 20-foot clear area. Section 607.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: 607.2 Storage for off-site use. Firewood and Combustible Materials not for consumption on the premises shall not be stored within Zones 0, 1, and 2. See Appendix A for storage requirements. M. BUILDING SITING AND SETBACKS Section 608.1.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 40 of 45 608.1.1 Restricted development setbacks. New Structures and additions to existing Structures shall not be constructed less than 100 feet from any protected habitat, whether on the same or adjacent Parcels, where the 100-foot Defensible Space required under Section 604.7 cannot be provided, unless an alternate method of construction and protection is provided that can ensure the safety of the Structure and emergency responders as approved by the Fire Code Official. Protected habitat includes lands restricted from brush clearance or modification due to Federal or State listed endangered species. Protected habitat does not include sensitive habitat areas. Section 608.2 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: 608.2 General. All parcels shall provide a minimum 30-foot (9144 mm) setback for all buildings from property lines and the center of a road, except as provided for in Section 608.2.1. [CCR T14 §1276.00(a)] This section applies to new Tract and Parcel maps, new Buildings, and additions to Existing Buildings. Section 608.2.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: 608.2.1 Setback reduction. A reduction in the minimum setback shall be based upon practical reasons, which may include but are not limited to, parcel dimensions or size; topographic limitations; Development density requirements or other Development patterns that promote low-carbon emission outcomes; sensitive habitat or other site constraints, and shall provide for an alternative method to reduce structure-to-structure ignition by incorporating a combination of features such as, but not limited to: 1. Non-combustible block walls or fences; or 2. Non-combustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the furthest extent of the building; or 3. Hardscape landscaping; or 4. A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less than 30 feet (9144 mm). [CCR T14 §1276.01] N. RIDGELINES, FUEL BREAKS, AND GREENBELTS. Section 609.2.7.1 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 609.2.7.1 Greenbelts. Subdivisions and other developments, which propose Greenbelts as a part of the development plan, shall locate the Greenbelts strategically, as a separation between wildland fuels and Structures. The locations shall be approved by the inspection authority. Section 609.2.7.2 is added to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code to read as follows: 609.2.7.2 Access to Greenbelts. A minimum of one (1) access point shall be provided to new Greenbelts at an approved location to allow for on-going maintenance and firefighter access. Additional access points shall be provided when required by the Fire Code Official. O. APPENDIX A Section A102.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 41 of 45 A102.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Sections A102.2 through A102.4 and with Chapter 6. Section A105.1 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: A105.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the California Fire Code, Ordinance 787 and Chapter 6, storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with Sections A105.2 through A105.4.2. Section A105.4 of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code is amended to read as follows: A105.4 Combustible Materials. Outside storage of Combustible Materials such as, but not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials, or paper products shall comply with the other applicable sections of this Chapter and this section. Storage of pallets shall be in accordance with Section 5, Section 2810. Storage and processing of wood chips, hogged materials, fines, Compost, Compostable Material, Mulch, solid biomass, raw product, and combustible yard waste and recycle material shall be in accordance with Section 5, Section 2808. Section 13: Purpose and findings; Urgency. Health and Safety Code Section 17958 mandates adoption of Building Standards Codes within 180 days after the State adopts and publishes them. The City is required to adopt any amendments within that time frame to have them in full force and effect. The City Council finds that it is necessary to enact permanent regulations immediately, consistent with State law, as amended above, to protect life, safety, and property of residents and that, without this Urgency Ordinance, the lack of revised, amended standards could result in structures not being built, renovated or improved to the highest current standards. Based upon the findings set forth herein, the City Council finds and determines that the adoption of this Ordinance is necessary for the immediate preservation and protection of the public peace, health, safety and welfare pursuant to the requirements of Government Code Sections 36934 and 36937. This Ordinance is adopted pursuant to California Government Code Section 36937 and upon adoption by a four-fifths vote of the City Council, shall take effect January 1, 2026. Section 14: If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Ordinance and are hereby declared to be severable. Section 15: The City Clerk shall certify as to adoption of this Ordinance and cause this Ordinance to be published and posted in the manner required by law. The City Clerk is further directed to file a copy of this Ordinance with the California Building Standards Commission of the State of California. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore held on the 18th day of November 2025. __________________________________ Brian Tisdale, Mayor Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 42 of 45 Attest: Candice Alvarez, MMC City Clerk I, Candice Alvarez, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Lake Elsinore, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 2025-_____ was adopted by the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore at its Regular meeting of November 18, 2025, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: I further certify that said Synopsis was published as required by law in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Lake Elsinore, California on the _____day of __________, 2025, and on the ______day of _________, 2025. ____________________________ Candice Alvarez, MMC City Clerk Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 41 of 45 EXHIBIT A FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF AMENDMENTS Code Code Section Findings Building Code 109.2 Administrative 113.3 Administrative 114.4 Administrative 403 A, B 403.1 A, B 403.1.1 A, B 403.4.7.2 A, B 403.4.8.1 A, B 910.3.2.2 A, B 1505.1 A, B 1505.1.3 A, B 1505.5 A, B 1505.7 A, B J110.3 A, B Residential Code R108.2 Administrative R112.3 Administrative R113.4 Administrative Table 301.2(1)A, B R403.1.3 A, B R405.1 A, B R902.1 A, B R902.1.3 A, B R902.2 A, B Mechanical Code 101.1 Administrative 115.1 Administrative 115.2 Administrative Plumbing Code 1.11.2.5 Administrative 1.02.3.2 Administrative 1.03.4.1 Administrative Electrical Code 89.108.4.2 Administrative 89.108.8.2 Administrative Art. 310.2(b)A, B Art. 310.A, B Green Building Code 5.106.8 A, B Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 43 of 45 Code Code Section Findings Fire Code 101.4 Administrative Code Code Section Findings 102.5 A, B 102.13.1 Administrative 104.1.1 Administrative 104.2 Administrative 104.6.5 Administrative 104.8 Administrative 104.8.1 Administrative 104.12 Administrative 108.2 Administrative 108.7 Administrative 112.1 Administrative 113.4 Administrative 202 Administrative 308.1.7 A, B 503.1.2.1 A, B 503.2.1 Administrative 503.6.1 Administrative 503.7 Administrative 507.5 A, B 508.1 A, B 508.1.1 A, B 508.1.3 A, B 509.2 A, B 608.11.1.2 A, B 903 2 A, B 903.3.5.3 A, B 904.2.2 A, B 3206.4 Administrative 4107 A, B 5608 A, B B103.2 A, B B105.2 (Table)A, B C103.1 A, B Wildland-Urban Interface Code 102.4.1 Administrative 104.1 Administrative 104.2 Administrative 104.8 Administrative 104.8.1 Administrative 105.2 Administrative 108.2 Administrative 108.7 Administrative Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 44 of 45 Code Code Section Findings 109.3.7 Administrative 202 Administrative 302.1 Administrative Code Code Section Findings 501.1 A, B 602.1 A, B 602.3.2 A, B 603.1 A, B 603.3 A, B 603.3.1 A, B 604.1 A, B 604.3 A, B 604.6 A, B 604.7 A, B 604.7.1 A, B 604.7.2 A, B 604.7.3 A, B 604.8 A, B 604.8.1 A, B 604.8.2 A, B 604.8.2.1 A, B 604.8.2.2 A, B 604.8.2.3 A, B 604.8.2.3.1 A, B 604.8.3 A, B 604.8.3.1 A, B 604.8.4 A, B 604.8.4.1 A, B 604.8.4.2 A, B 604.8.5 A, B 604.8.5.1 A, B 604.8.5.2 A, B 604.8.5.3 A, B 604.8.5.4 A, B 604.8.5.5 A, B 604.8.5.5.1 A, B 604.8.5.5.2 A, B 604.8.5.5.3 A, B 604.8.5.6 A, B 604.8.5.6.1 A, B 604.8.5.6.2 A, B 604.8.5.7 A, B 604.9 A, B 604.10 A, B 604.11 A, B 604.11.1 A, B Ord. No. 2025-___ Page 45 of 45 Code Code Section Findings 604.11.2 A, B 604.11.3 A, B 607.1 A, B 607.1.1 A, B Code Code Section Findings 607.2 A, B 608.1.1 A, B 608.2 A, B 608.2.1 A, B 609.2.7.1 A, B 609.2.7.2 A, B A102.1 A, B A105.1 Administrative A105.4 A, B The Press-Enterprise 3512 14 Street Riverside, California 92501 (951) 368-9229 City of Lake Elsinore 130 South Main Street Lake Elsinore, California 92530 Publication: The Press-Enterprise PROOF OF PUBLICATION OF Ad Desc: 0011763776 FILE NO. 0011763776 PROOF OF PUBLICATION I am a citizen of the United States. I am over the age of eighteen years and not party to or interested in the above- entitled matter. I am an authorized representative of THE PRESS- ENTERPRISE, a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published daily in the County of Riverside, and which newspaper has been adjudicated a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California, under date of April 25, 1952, Case Number 54446, under date of March 29, 1957, Case Number 65673, under date of August 25, 1995, Case Number 267864, and under date of September 16, 2013, Case Number RIC 1309013; that the notice, of which the annexed is a printed copy, has been published in said newspaper in accordance with the instructions of the person(s) requesting publication, and not in any supplement thereof on the following dates, to wit: 11/07/2025 I certify (or declare) under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Date: November 7, 2025. At: Riverside, California ______________________________ Signature Adopt 2025 California Codes - Page 1 of 1