Article II. - Rules and Regulations.

Sec. 7-14. - Addition of laws that are enforced by the permit and resource management department or by the public health officer as designated in the applicable law.

Sec. 7-14.5. - Stream setback for structures requiring a building permit.

Sec. 7-15. - Private swimming pool—General.

Sec. 7-16. - Signs.

Sec. 7-17. - Regulations for the construction, relocation, repair, maintenance, use and occupancy of floating homes and floating home moorages.

Sec. 7-18. - Local conditions.

Sec. 7-19. - Definitions.

Sec. 7-20. - Examination of codes.

Sec. 7-13. - Codes adopted and modifications.

(A)

2010 California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2, Chapters 1-35, including Part 7, "California Elevator Safety Construction Code," Part 8, "California Historical Building Code," Part 9, "California Existing Building Code," Appendix Chapter A1, Appendix C, Appendix H, and Appendix I; are hereby adopted and incorporated herein by reference, save and except such portions as are deleted, modified or revised as follows:

(1)

Section 101.4.4 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

101.4.4. The provisions of Sections 116 of the California Building Code as amended by Sonoma County Code by adding Sections 116.1.1 and 116.1.2, shall apply to existing buildings and premises

(2)

Intentionally left blank

(3)

Section 105.2 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of the jurisdiction. Such exempt structures must meet all other applicable requirements of this jurisdiction, including required minimum distances from property lines. Permits shall not be required for the following:

(a)

Building Permit Exemptions:

One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, when located on a parcel which contains an existing Group R, and/or Group U Occupancy, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, and the height above grade does not exceed 12 feet. No more than one structure may be allowed under this exemption unless separated from another permit exempt structure my more than 50 feet.

Fences, not over 10 feet high, except that solid wood, concrete, metal, and masonry fences more than 6 feet in height measured from the lowest existing grade to the top of the fence shall require a building permit.

Oil derricks.

Retaining walls, which retain not more than 3 feet of material unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or IIIA liquids. For the purpose of this section, a retaining wall is considered to be supporting a surcharge if:

The wall retains more than one foot of material and the retained material slopes more than two units horizontal to one vertical within a distance equal to twice the height of the wall above the lowest existing grade, or

The wall retains more than one foot of material and any road or structure is located on the retained material within a distance equal to twice the height of the wall above the lowest existing grade.

Tanks, not containing Class I, II, or IIIA liquids supported directly upon grade, or below grade, if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 to 1.

Sidewalks, platforms, driveways, non-structural slabs and decks not more than 30 inches above grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.

Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.

Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R, Division 3 Occupancy which do not exceed 5,000 gallons, and are installed entirely above ground.

10.

Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems. (Plumbing, electrical or mechanical systems associated with the structure require permits.)

11.

Swings, play structures, and other playground equipment, treehouses with a floor area less than 120 square feet, and skateboard ramps, accessory to detached one and two family dwellings, which are not used for commercial purposes, and children's play structures when constructed on a parcel which contains a one or two- family dwelling or a State licensed school or day care center.

12.

Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support of Group R-3 and U Occupancies.

13.

Non-fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in height for office work spaces and cubicles.

14.

Minor repair of interior paneling or gypsum wallboard when it does not serve as a fire-resistive assembly or as lateral bracing for a structure. Minor repairs are limited to 100 square feet, on a one time basis. Subsequent minor repairs will require permits. This exemption shall not apply to structures subject to flood damage.

15.

Replacement of windows or doors with others of the same size, and in the same location when the structural frame of the opening is not altered.

16.

Prefabricated structures no more than 500 square feet in area, constructed of light frame materials and covered with cloth or flexible plastic, accessory to a single family dwelling, with no associated electrical, plumbing, or mechanical equipment and the height above grade does not exceed 12 feet.

17.

Arbors, trellises, and gazebos, when the height above grade does not exceed 12 feet. For the purpose of this section, arbors, trellises, and gazebos are considered for detached shade structures accessory to residential occupancies and are defined as follows:

Structures which have a lattice or fabric roof structure, and

75% of the exterior walls are not less than 75% open, and

Into which a motor vehicle cannot be driven due to the configuration of the structure or placement on the site.

If such a structure contains electrical, plumbing, or mechanical equipment, a permit is required for this work.

18.

Removal of up to 25% of exterior and/or interior or roof coverings or other similar work for the purpose of determining the condition of structural members in a structure where work is being planned. Such work may remain exposed for a maximum of 90 days before being repaired. A permit must be obtained for the repairs unless exempted by this section of the Sonoma county code.

19.

2-bin trash enclosure covers with a height not exceeding 12 feet.

(b)

Electrical Permit Exemptions:

Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electric equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for a power supply and the installations of towers and antennas.

The installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

Listed cord and plug connected temporary decorative lighting.

Reinstallation or replacement of attachment plug receptacles, but not the outlets therefor.

Repair or replacement of branch circuit overcurrent devices of the required capacity in the same location.

Installation or maintenance of communications wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment.

(c)

Gas Permit Exemptions:

Portable heating appliance.

Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

(d)

Mechanical Permit Exemptions:

Portable heating appliance.

Portable ventilation equipment.

Portable cooling unit.

Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.

Replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.

Portable evaporative cooler.

Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (5 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.

(e)

Plumbing Permit Exemptions:

The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with the new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this code.

The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.

(4)

Section 1.8.8.3.1 of the California Building Code is added to Chapter 1, Division 1, of the California Building Code, to read:

Section 1.8.8.3.1 Appeals. Appeals to orders, decisions or determinations of the Building Official relative to the requirements of this code shall be made in accordance with Sections 7-3 and 7-4 of the Sonoma County Code.

(5)

Section 105.5 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 105.5 Expiration. Unless otherwise authorized, every permit issued by the Permit and Resource Management Department under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation three (3) years from the date of permit issuance. The chief building official may limit a permit to a lesser time period when necessary to abate dangerous or substandard conditions. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the three year time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

Before any work can be recommenced on any expired permit, or permit to legalize a violation, a new permit shall first be obtained. The new permit shall be obtained for all work necessary to finish the project including work already completed that has not been previously inspected and approved by the department. The building standards for the work authorized by the new permit shall be governed by the codes in force at the time of the new permit application as described in Chapter 1, Division 1, Section 1.8.3.1 of the California Building Code as to the erection and construction of dwellings and appurtenant structures for which construction was lawfully commenced, commenced to legalize a violation, or approved prior to the effective date of this ordinance. The fees for the new permit shall be based on the current fee schedule at full value of the previously permitted work minus the value of the work inspected and approved prior to expiration of the permit plus the full value of any new work not previously permitted per the Permit and Resource Management Department Expired Permit Policy.

(6)

Section 109.2 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

109.2 Schedule of permit fees. On buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems or alterations requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the schedule as established by the applicable governing authority.

Where plans are incomplete or changed so as to require additional plan review, an additional plan review fee shall be charged at the rate shown in the Permit and Resource Management Department fee schedule.

When approved by the chief building official a reduction in plan review fees by twenty five percent (25%) of that otherwise required may be granted where a peer review or third party plan review or other process results in substantially reduced plan review effort by the Permit and Resource Management Department.

The chief building official may, in his or her discretion, waive the plan check fee for the second and all subsequent buildings or structures identical to a building or structure for which a plan check has been paid. This plan check fee waiver for subsequent submittals shall be limited to one (1) year following date of original fee payment. In each case the applicant must be the same for all permits.

(7)

Section 105.3.2 of Chapter 1, Division II, "Time limitation of application," of the California Building Code is amended to read:

105.3.2 Expiration of plan review. If no permit is issued within one year following the date of application, the application shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the building official. If, after such expiration, the original plans are resubmitted within 180 days following such expiration, the plan review fee shall be 25% of that otherwise required. No application shall be renewed in this fashion more than once. In order to further renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the allowed year time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

(8)

Section 109.7 is added to Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, to read:

109.7 Reinspection Fees.

A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or reinspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or when corrections called for are not made. This section is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is ready for such inspection or reinspection. Reinspection fees may be assessed when the inspection record card not posted or otherwise available on the work site, the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for failure to provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of the building official. The reinspection fee shall be established in the jurisdiction fee schedule. When a reinspection fee has been assessed, no additional inspection of the work shall be performed until the required fees have been paid

(9)

Section 112.4 is added to Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, to read:

112.4 Connection after order to disconnect. Persons shall not make connections from any energy, fuel or power supply nor supply energy or fuel to building service equipment which has been disconnected or ordered to be disconnected by the building official or the use of which has been ordered to be discontinued by the building official until the building official authorizes the reconnection and use of such equipment.

(10)

Section 113 Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, Board of Appeals, is deleted.

(11)

Section 114.4 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law. An investigation fee equal to the amount of the permit fee, whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.

(12)

Sections 116.1.1 and 116.1.2 are added to Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, to read:

116.1.1 Definition of unsafe or dangerous building. Any building or structure which has any or all of the conditions or defects hereinafter described shall be deemed to be an unsafe or dangerous building, provided that such conditions or defects exist to the extent that the life, health, property or safety of the public or its occupants are endangered.

Whenever any door, aisle, passageway, stairway or other means of exist is not of sufficient width or size or is not arranged as to provide safe and adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic.

Whenever the walking surface of any aisle, passageway, stairway or other means of exit is so warped, worn, loose, torn or otherwise unsafe as to not provide safe and adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic.

Whenever the stress in any materials, member or portion thereof, due to all dead and live loads, is more than one and one half times the working stress or stresses allowed in the Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location.

Whenever any portion thereof has been damaged by fire, earthquake, wind, flood or by any other cause, to such an extend that the structural strength or stability thereof is materially less than it was before such catastrophe and is less than the minimum requirements of the Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location.

Whenever any portion or member or appurtenance thereof is likely to fail, or to become detached or dislodged, or to collapse and thereby injure persons or damage property.

Whenever any portion of a building, or any member, appurtenance or ornamentation on the exterior thereof is not of sufficient strength or stability, or is not so anchored, attached or fastened in place so as to be capable of resisting a wind pressure of one half of that specified in the Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location without exceeding the working stresses permitted in the Building Code for such buildings.

Whenever any portion thereof has wracked, warped, buckled or settled to such an extent that walls or other structural portions have materially less resistance to winds or earthquakes than is required in the case of similar new construction.

Whenever the building or structure, or any portion thereof, because of (i) dilapidation, deterioration or decay; (ii) faulty construction; (iii) the removal, movement or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for the purpose of supporting such building; (iv) the deterioration, decay or inadequacy of its foundation; or (v) any other cause, is likely to partially or completely collapse.

Whenever, for any reason, the building or structure, or any portion thereof, is manifestly unsafe for the purpose for which it is being used.

10.

Whenever the exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not fall inside the middle one third of the base.

11.

Whenever the building or structure, exclusive of the foundation, shows 33 percent or more damage or deterioration of its supporting member or members, or 50 percent damage or deterioration of its non-supporting members, enclosing or outside wall or coverings.

12.

Whenever the building or structure has been so damaged by fire, wind, earthquake or flood, or has become so dilapidated or deteriorated as to become (i) an attractive nuisance to children; (ii) a harbor for vagrants, criminals or immoral persons; or as to (iii) enable persons to resort thereto for the purpose of committing unlawful or immoral acts.

13.

Whenever any building or structure has been constructed, exists or is maintained in violation of any specific requirement including construction without permit or prohibition applicable to such building or structure provided by the building regulations of this jurisdiction, as specified in this Code or Health and Safety Code section 17920.3 or Uniform Housing Code Chapters 4, 5, 6 and Sections 701.2, 701.3, or of any law or ordinance of this state or jurisdiction relating to the condition, location or structure of buildings.

14.

Whenever any building or structure which, whether or not erected in accordance with all applicable laws and ordinances, has in any non-supporting part, member or portion less than 50 percent, or in any supporting part, member or portion less than 66 percent of the (i) strength, (ii) fire-resisting qualities or characteristics, or (iii) weather-resisting qualities or characteristics required by law in the case of a newly constructed building of like area, height and occupancy in the same location.

15.

Whenever a building or structure, used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes, because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty construction or arrangement, inadequate light, air or sanitation facilities, or otherwise, is determined by the health officer to be unsanitary, unfit for human habitation or is such a condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease.

16.

Whenever any building or structure, because of obsolescence, dilapidated condition, deterioration, damage, inadequate exits, lack of sufficient fire-resistive construction, faulty electric wiring, gas connections or heating apparatus, or other cause, is determined by the fire marshal to be a fire hazard.

17.

Whenever any building or structure is in such a condition as to constitute a public nuisance known to the common law or equity jurisprudence.

18.

Whenever any portion of a building or structure remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the building or structure or whenever any building or structure is abandoned for a period in excess of six months so as to constitute such building or portion thereof an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.

19.

Whenever any building or structure has been abandoned and unsecured for a period in excess of six months so as to constitute an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.

(12.1)

116.1.2 Definition of nuisance. The following shall be defined as a nuisance:

Any public nuisance know at common law or in equity jurisprudence.

Any attractive nuisance that may prove detrimental to children whether in a building, on the premises of a building or on an unoccupied lot. This includes, but is not limited to, any abandoned wells, shafts, basements or excavations; abandoned refrigerators and motor vehicles; any structurally unsound fences or structures; or any lumber, trash, fences, debris, or vegetation that may prove a hazard for inquisitive minors.

Whatever is dangerous to human life or is detrimental to health, as determined by the health officer.

Overcrowding a room with occupants.

Insufficient ventilation or illumination.

Inadequate or unsanitary sewage or plumbing facilities.

Uncleanliness, as determined by the health officer.

Whatever renders air, food or drink unwholesome or detrimental to the health of human beings, as determined by the health officer.

(13)

Section 116.3 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code is amended to read:

116.3 Notice. If an unsafe condition is found, the building official shall serve on the owner, agent or person in control of the structure, a written notice that describes the condition deemed unsafe per Section 1-7.3 of the Sonoma County Code.

(14)

Section 117 is added to Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, to read:

SECTION 117
NOTICE TO VACATE

117.1 Posting. Every notice to vacate shall, in addition to being served as provided in Section 116.4, be posted at or upon each exit of the building and shall be in substantially the following form:

DO NOT ENTER
UNSAFE TO OCCUPY

It is a misdemeanor to occupy this building, or to remove or deface this notice.

Building Official
.......of.......

117.2 Posting during declared emergencies. During a declared local emergency or State of emergency as defined in Chapter 10 of this Code, each structure or property affected by the declaration and subsequently reviewed shall be evaluated and posted in accordance with the standards established in Applied Technology Council (ATC) 20, ATC 45 or the most recently adopted standard by the California Office of Emergency Services as an emergency response plan.

117.3 Compliance. Whenever such notice is posted, the building official shall include a notification thereof in the notice and order issued under Section 115.3 reciting the emergency and specifying the conditions which necessitate the posting. No person shall remain in or enter any building which has been so posted unless specifically stated on the posting. Entry may be made to repair, demolish or remove such building under permit. No person shall remove or deface any such notice after it is posted until the required repairs, demolition or removal have been completed and a certificate of occupancy issued pursuant to the provisions of the Building Code.

117.4 Appeals. Appeals of any notice and order to abate any violation of this Code shall be heard and decided by a hearing officer pursuant to Section 1-7.3 of the Sonoma County Code.

(15)

Section 202 of the California Building Code is amended to revise the definition of "building" to read:

BUILDING. Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy. Building is also any structure as to which state agencies have regulatory power, and housing or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, equipment or property of any kind. Building is also any structure wherein things may be grown, made, produced, kept, handled, stored or disposed of, and all appendages, accessories, apparatus, appliances and equipment installed as a part thereof. Building shall not include machinery, equipment or appliances installed for manufacture or process purposes only, nor shall it include any construction installations which are not a part of a building, any tunnel, mine shaft, highway or bridge, or include any house trailer or vehicle which conforms to the Vehicle Code.

(16)

Section 202 of the California Building Code is amended to revise the definition of "building, existing" to read:

BUILDING, EXISTING. A building legally erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for which a legal building permit was issued for the construction or legalization thereof prior to the adoption of this code.

(16.5)

Section (17) through Section (31) Sonoma County Code is deleted. A new Section (17) through Section (47) is added as follows:

(17)

Section 903.2 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

Section 903.2 Where required. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in new buildings and structures, and when additions are made to buildings or structures, as described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.18

(18)

Section 903.2.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

903.2.1 Group A.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies.

903.2.1.1 Group A-1

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-1 occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-1 occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.

The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

The fire area contains a multi-theater complex.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.1.2 Group A-2

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-2 occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-2 occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.

The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.1.3 Group A-3

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-3 occupancies.

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-3 occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more; or

The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.1.4 Group A-4

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-4 occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-4 occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more: or

The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.1.5 Group A-5

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-5 occupancies in the following areas: concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet.

(19)

Section 903.2.2 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(20)

New Section 903.2.2 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.2 Group B

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group B occupancies. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group B occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.2.1 Remodel or addition - Group B ambulatory health care

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided when a Group B ambulatory health care occupancy is created and any of the following conditions result.

Four or more care recipients are incapable of self-preservation.

One or more care recipients who are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such occupancy.

(21)

Section 903.2.3 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(22)

New Section 903.2.3 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.3 Group E

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group E occupancies an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group E occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

903.2.3.1 Public Schools -Automatic Sprinkler Requirements

903.2.3.1.1 New Public School Campus.

An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all buildings of a new public school campus as defined in Section 202 regardless of occupancy classification.

Exceptions:

Exempted portable buildings.

Ticket booths and athletic field storage buildings that are less than 500 square feet in floor area and located a minimum of 100 feet from all other buildings.

Shade or lunch shelters that are incapable of trapping heat, smoke or other by-products of combustion and located a minimum of 20 feet from all other buildings.

Shade or lunch shelters that are constructed of non-combustible materials and located a minimum of 20 feet from all other buildings.

903.2.3.1.1.1 Sprinklers shall be installed in spaces where the ceiling creates a "ceiling-plenum" or space above the ceiling is utilized for environmental air.

(23)

Section 903.2.4 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(24)

New Section 903.2.4 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.4 Group F

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group F occupancies.

Exceptions:

Canopied winery crush pads less than 12,000 square feet in area, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

The canopy and supporting structure are constructed of non-combustible materials.

If attached, the crush pad is separated from other portions of the building by one-hour fire-resistive walls.

The crush pad is not used for storage of combustible materials.

The canopy and supporting structure is in incapable of trapping heat, smoke or other byproducts of combustion.

Dairy milking facilities less than 12,000 feet in area.

903.2.4.1 Existing F-1 Woodworking operations

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet in area which generate finely divided combustible waste or which use finely divided combustible materials. A fire wall of less than four-hour fire resistance rating without openings, or any fire wall with opening shall not be used to establish separate fire areas.

903.2.4.2 Additions or remodels - F Occupancy

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F occupancy where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

The fire area is located more than three stories, or more than 30 feet, above grade plane.

The combined area of all fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet.

The fire area contains woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet in area which generate finely divided combustible waste or which use finely divided combustible materials.

(25)

Section 903.2.5.5 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.5.2 Additions or remodels - H Occupancy

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group H occupancy, and where an H Occupancy is created as a result of a remodel or addition.

(26)

Section 903.2.6.3 of the California Fire Code is added to read:

903.2.6.3 Additions or remodels - I Occupancy

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group I occupancy, and where an I Occupancy is created as a result of a remodel or addition.

(27)

Section 903.2.7 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(28)

New Section 903.2.7 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.7 Group M

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group M occupancies, and when an addition or remodel occurs affecting a Group M Occupancy as provided in this section.

Exception: Detached non-combustible motor fuel-dispensing facility canopies classified as a Group M occupancy where the canopy and supporting structure is in incapable of trapping heat, smoke or other byproducts of combustion.

903.2.7.1 High-piled storage.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided as required in Chapter 23 in all buildings where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.

903.2.7.2 Additions or remodels - M Occupancies

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group M occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.

The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet.

A Group M occupancy is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture.

The structure exceeds 24,000 square feet in area, contains more than one fire area containing a Group M occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating.

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

(29)

Section 903.2.8. of the California Building Code is amended to add Section 903.2.8.1 to read:

903.2.8.1 Additions or remodels - R Occupancies.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group R occupancies where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

Exception: Attached carports of non-combustible construction classified as a Group-U Occupancy where there is no habitable space above, and which are accessory uses to a one- or two-family residential dwelling.

(30)

Section 903.2.9 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(31)

New Section 903.2.9 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.9 Group S

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group S occupancies, and when an addition or remodel occurs affecting a Group S Occupancy as provided in this section.

903.2.9.1 Repair garages

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406 of the California Building Code.

903.2.9.2 Bulk storage of tires

Building, structures used for the storage of tires shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

903.2.9.3 Additions or remodels - Group-S Occupancies

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S occupancy where any of the following conditions is created as a result of a remodel or addition:

The fire area is increased beyond the areas specified in Table 903.2.

A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet.

A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.

The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet.

A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial trucks or buses where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.

(32)

Section 903.2.11.7 is added to read:

903.2.11.7 Group U Occupancy special requirements

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout new buildings and portions thereof used as Group U occupancies, and when an addition or remodel occurs affecting a Group U Occupancy as provided in this section.

Exceptions:

Detached Group U occupancies 3000 square feet or less in area.

Agricultural exempt buildings and agricultural buildings as approved by the Fire Code Official.

903.2.11.7.1 Group U accessory areas

For a U Occupancy less than 3000 square feet in area: In addition to the occupancy separations of California Building Code Chapter 5, an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all accessory areas of a U Occupancy regardless of the mixed-use ratio.

(33)

Table 903.2 is added to the California Building Code, to read:

Table 903.2.

Existing Building Area	Allowable Area Increase
0-1000 sq ft:	200% (c)
1001-4000 sq ft:	100% (a)(c)
Greater than 4000 sq ft:	50% (a)(b)(c)

(a)

A 2000 sq ft. maximum increase is allowed.

(b)

Maximum cumulative allowable area is 6000 square feet.

(c)

Fire sprinklers are required when additions to Limited Density Owner-Built Rural Dwellings (as described in Sonoma County Code Chapter 7-A) exceed 640 square feet in area.

(34)

Section 903.2.11.8 is added to read:

903.2.11.8 Changes of Occupancy.

When any change of occupancy occurs where the proposed new occupancy classification is more hazardous as determined by the Fire Code Official including the conversion of residential buildings to condominiums, the building shall meet the fire sprinkler requirements for a newly constructed building.

(35)

Section 903.2.11.9 is added to read:

903.2.11.9 Elevation of existing buildings

An automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed throughout all existing buildings when the building is elevated to: three or more stories, or more than 35 feet in height, from grade to the exposed roof.

Exceptions:

An automatic fire-extinguishing system need not be provided when the area above 35 feet is provided for aesthetic purposes only and is a non-habitable space.

An automatic fire-extinguishing system need not be provided when existing single-family and two-family dwellings are elevated to comply with the requirements of Chapter 7B of the Sonoma County Code, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

(a)

The elevation creates a building no more than three stories in height.

(b)

Two approved exits are provided for the highest floor, including a third story having less than 500 square feet of floor area.

(c)

Approved interconnected smoke alarms are installed at each floor level and in all sleeping rooms, and hallways adjacent to sleeping rooms.

(d)

There is no expansion or modification of use other than installation of the exits required by subparagraph (b) above and a utility room less than 100 square feet. The space created at ground level by the elevation shall be used only as a private parking garage or as unused vacant space.

(e)

Any addition to the building after the elevation shall require installation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system.

(36)

Section 903.2.18 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(37)

New Section 903.2.18 of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.2.18 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies.

Carports with habitable space above, attached garages, and detached Group U structures greater than 3000 square feet in area containing a use similar to a: B Occupancy, S Occupancy, or M Occupancy which is accessory to Group R-3 occupancies, shall be protected by residential fire sprinklers in accordance with his section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm per square foot over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not to exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not be considered obstructions to sprinkler placement.

(38)

Section 903.4.2 of the California Building Code is deleted.

(39)

New Section of the California Building Code is added to read:

903.4.2 Alarms.

At least one exterior approved audible device activated by the water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system shall be connected to every automatic fire alarm system in an approved location, and approved audible devices shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system for the purpose of occupant notification. Every new fire alarm system installed for the purpose of evacuation, including those systems activated solely by fire sprinkler systems shall be designed so that all occupants of the building shall be notified audibly and visually.

(40)

Section 905.3.1 is amended to read as follows:

905.3.1 Height.

In other than R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies, Class III standpipe systems shall be installed throughout at each floor level where any of the following occur:

Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

Buildings that are three or more stories in height.

Buildings where the floor level of the lowest story is located more than 30 feet below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

On the roof of buildings three or more stories in height.

Exceptions:

Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking garages where the highest floor is located not more than 150 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open parking garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose connections are located as required for Class II standpipes in accordance with Section 905.5.

Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

In determining the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, it shall not be required to consider:

5.1.

Recessed loading docks for four vehicles or less; and

5.2

Conditions where topography makes access from the fire department vehicle to the building impractical or impossible.

(41)

Section 905.9 is amended to read as follows:

905.9 Valve supervision

Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal at the supervising station required by Section 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the control unit.

Exceptions:

Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility do not require supervision.

(42)

Section 907.2.8.1 is amended to read as follows:

907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system for R-1 Occupancies

A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.

Exceptions:

Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building when the following conditions are met.

1.1

The building is equipped throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

1.2

Notification devices will activate within each residential unit upon sprinkler water flow.

1.3

At least one manual fire alarm box is installed in an approved location.

(43)

Section 1505.1 of the California Building Code is amended to read:

1501.1 Scope.

General. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (2), the roof covering assembly on any structure regulated by this code shall be as specified in Table No. 1505.1 and as classified in Section 1505.

Roof Covering Assembly on Specified Structures. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, the roof-covering assembly on the following structures regulated by this code shall be a Class A roof-covering assembly as classified in Section 1505.2.

(a)

Any new structure regulated by this code;

(b)

Any existing structure regulated by this code when more than fifty percent (50%) of the roof area of the structure is re-roofed;

(c)

Any addition regulated by this code when the addition creates a new roof and the floor area of any single floor of the addition exceeds six hundred forty (640) square feet.

Roof-covering Assembly. The roof-covering assembly includes the roof deck, underlayment, interlayment, insulation and covering which is assigned to a roof-covering classification.

The following types of structures are exempt from this requirement:

(a)

Greenhouses.

(b)

Patio covers.

(c)

Fabric membrane structures when the fabric is certified as "flame retardant" by the State Fire Marshall.

(d)

Residential vehicle covers.

(e)

Awnings.

(f)

Sod roofs.

(44)

Section 3405.6 is added to Chapter 34, Section 3405 "Repairs" of the California Building Code, for Repair and Reconstruction of Existing Buildings to read:

3405.6 Seismic Design and Evaluation Procedures. Seismic design and evaluation procedures shall conform to the provisions of this chapter and Chapter 1, Section 101.5.4 of the 2010 International Existing Building Code.

(45)

Section 3405.7 is added to Chapter 34, Section 3405 "Repairs" of the California Building Code, for Repair and Reconstruction of Existing Buildings to read:

3405.7 Wind Design. Wind design of existing buildings shall be based on the procedures specified in the building code.

(46)

Section 3405.8 is added to Chapter 34, Section 3405 "Repairs" of the California Building Code, for Repair and Reconstruction of Existing Buildings to read:

3405.8 Unsafe Conditions. Regardless of the extent of the structural damage, unsafe conditions shall be eliminated.

(47)

Section 3405.9 is added to Chapter 34, Section 3405 "Repairs" of the California Building Code, for Repair and Reconstruction of Existing Buildings to read:

3405.9 Referenced Standards. Referenced standards for evaluation and rehabilitation of existing buildings shall conform with Chapter 15 of the 2010 International Existing Building Code.

(B)

The 2010 California Mechanical Code Chapters 1-17 and Appendix A, B C, and D, is adopted and incorporated herein by reference, save and except such portions as are deleted, modified or amended as follows:

(1)

Section 1.8.8.3, Appeals, of Chapter1, Division I, of the California Mechanical Code is amended to read as follows:

1.8.8.3. Appeals. Appeals to orders, decisions or determinations of the Building Official relative to the requirements of this code shall be made in accordance with Sections 7-3 and 7-4 of the Sonoma County Code. Except as otherwise provided in law, any person, firm or corporation adversely affected by a decision, order or determination by a city, county or city and county relating to the application of building standards published hi the California Building Standards Code, or any other applicable rule or regulation adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development, or any lawfully enacted ordinance by a city, county or city and county, may appeal the issue for resolution to the local appeals board or housing appeals board as appropriate. The local appeals board shall hear appeals relating to new building construction and the housing appeals board shall hear appeals relating to existing buildings.

(2)

Section 110.0 of the California Mechanical Code Chapter 1, Division II, entitled Board of Appeals, is hereby deleted.

(3)

Section 114.4 of the California Mechanical Code Chapter 1, Division II, is amended to read as follows:

Section 114.4 Expiration. Unless otherwise authorized, every permit issued by the Permit and Resource Management Department under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation three (3) years from the date of permit issuance. The chief building official may limit a permit to a lesser time period when necessary to abate dangerous or substandard conditions. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents tire project from being completed within the three year time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

Before any work can be recommenced on any expired permit, a new permit shall first be obtained. The new permit shall be obtained for all work necessary to finish tire project including work already completed that has not been previously inspected and approved by the department. The building standards for the work authorized by the new permit shall be as described in Section 1.8.3.1, Chapter1, Division I, as to the erection and construction of dwellings and appurtenant structures for which construction was lawfully commenced or approved prior to the effective date of this ordinance.

The fees for the new permit shall be based on the current fee schedule at full value of the previously permitted work minus the value of the work inspected and approved prior to expiration of the permit plus the full value of any new work not previously permitted per PRMD Expired Permit Policy

(4)

Section 115.1 of the California Mechanical Code Chapter 1, Division II, is hereby deleted.

(5)

Section 115.2 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Mechanical Code is amended to read as follows:

115.2 Permit Fees. The fee for each permit shall be set forth by separate fee ordinance of the board of supervisors.

(6)

Section 115.4 of the California Mechanical Code, Chapter 1, Division II, is amended to read as follows:

115.4 Expiration of Plan Review. If no permit is issued within one year following the date of application, the application shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the building official. If, after such expiration, the original plans are resubmitted within 180 days following such expiration, the plan review fee shall be 25% of that otherwise required. No application shall be renewed in this fashion more than once. In order to further renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the allowed time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official' s decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

(C)

The 2010 California Plumbing Code Chapters 1-16A and Appendices A, B, D, G, I, K, and L are adopted and incorporated herein by reference, save and except such portions as are deleted, modified or amended as follows:

(1)

Section 108.8.3 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to read as follows:

108.8.3 Appeals. Appeals to orders, decisions or determinations of the Building Official relative to the requirements of this code shall be made in accordance with Sections 7-3 and 7-4 of the Sonoma County Code.

(2)

Section 203.0 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to add the following definition: Administrative Authority - The chief building official.

(3)

Section 305.0 of the California Plumbing Code is amended to add the following sections:

305.4 Every dwelling or other building or place where persons congregate, reside or are employed shall be provided with an adequate number of water flush toilets connected to a sewage disposal system which shall consist of a public sewer connection or a septic tank and a system of underground drams for the disposal of the tank effluent, or other systems approved by the chief building official. Such system shall be constructed to meet the requirements of construction and maintenance provided in tins chapter and the codes adopted hereby.

Exception: A facility for boarding of horses as defined in Sonoma County Zoning Regulations Definitions § 26-02-140 may have one part time or full time employee without being required to meet this requirement.

305.5 No privy, including vault privies, chemical privies, pit privies or cesspools shall be constructed, maintained or used except upon written approval of the Director of Permit and Resource Management Department unless otherwise specifically permitted by law.

305.6 It is unlawful to discharge from any privy, cesspool, septic tank, container, sewer pipes or conduits not connected to a public sewer system, sewage, polluted or contaminated water or any matter of substance offensive, injurious or dangerous to public health where such water overflows any land whatsoever, including tideland, or where such water empties, flows, seeps or drains into or adversely affects any springs, streams, rivers, lakes, other waters or any public highway within the County of Sonoma.

(4)

Section 103.3.4 of the California Plumbing Code Appendix 1 is amended to read as follows:

Section 103.3.4 Expiration. Unless otherwise authorized, every permit issued by the Permit and Resource Management Department under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation three (3) years from the date of permit issuance. The chief building official may limit a permit to a lesser time period when necessary to abate dangerous or substandard conditions. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the allowed time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

Before any work can be recommenced on any expired permit, a new permit shall first be obtained. The new permit shall be obtained for all work necessary to finish the project including work already completed that has not been previously inspected and approved by the department. The building standards for the work authorized by the new permit shall be as described in Section 108.3.1 as to the erection and construction of dwellings and appurtenant structures for which construction was lawfully commenced or approved prior to the effective date of this ordinance.

(5)

Section 103.4.1 of the California Plumbing Code Chapter 1, Division II is amended to read as follows:

103.4.1 Permit Fees. Each applicant shall pay for each permit, at the time of issuance, a fee in accordance with fee schedule adopted by the board of supervisors.

(6)

Section 103.4.2 is hereby deleted.

(7)

Section 103.4.3 of the California Plumbing Code Chapter 1, Division II is amended to read as follows:

103.4.3 Expiration of Plan Review. If no permit is issued within one year following the date of application, the application shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the building official. If, after such expiration, the original plans are resubmitted within 180 days following such expiration, the plan review fee shall be 25% of that otherwise required. No application shall be renewed in this fashion more than once. In order to further renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the allowed time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

(8)

The phrase "abutting lot" as used in Section 721.2 and Appendix Chapter K Section Kl G of the California Plumbing Code, includes:

(a)

An unimproved lot connected to another lot by an easement provided the lots are in common ownership;

(b)

An improved lot connected to another lot by an easement. The lots need not be under common ownership so long as the lot owner has an easement over the abutting lot sufficient for private sewage disposal subject to approval of the chief building official.

(9)

In Table K-1 of the California Plumbing Code, the first sentence under "NOTE" shall be deleted due to the general topographic nature of Sonoma County. Horizontal distances between parts of a leaching system shall be determined by the Director of Permit and Resource Management.

(10)

Section K-3 of Appendix Chapter K of the California Plumbing Code, 1998 Edition is amended by deleting Item 3, the exception thereto and Item 5.

(D)

The 2010 California Electrical Code, Articles 89.101, 89.108, 90, including Annex H is adopted and incorporated herein by reference and amended as follows:

(1)

Section 89.108.8.3, Appeals, of the California Electrical Code, is amended as follows:

89.108.8.3 Appeals. Appeals to orders, decisions or determinations of the Building Official relative to the requirements of this code shall be made in accordance with Sections 7-3 and 7-4 of the Sonoma County Code.

(2)

Section 80.15 of Annex H of the California Electrical Code is hereby deleted.

(3)

Section 80.23(B)(1) of Annex H of the California Electrical Code is amended to read as follows:

80.23(B)(1) Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of the a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to an investigation fee equal to the amount of the permit fee, whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.

(4)

Section 80.19 of annex H of the California Electrical code is amended by adding the following: Section I: 80.19 (I) Expiration. Unless otherwise authorized, every permit issued by the Permit and Resource Management Department under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation three (3) years from the date of permit issuance. The chief building official may limit a permit to a lesser time period when necessary to abate dangerous or substandard conditions. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the three year time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

(5)

Section 80.19 (E) of Annex H of the California Electrical Code is amended to read as follows:

80.19 (E) Permit Fees. The fee for each electrical permit shall be as set forth in a separate fee ordinance of the board of supervisors.

(6)

Section 80.19 of Annex H of the California Electrical Code is amended by adding the following to Section J:

80.19(J) Expiration of Plan Review. If no permit is issued within one year following the date of application, the application shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the building official. If, after such expiration, the original plans are resubmitted within 180 days following such expiration, the plan review fee shall be 25% of that otherwise required. No application shall be renewed in this fashion more than once. In order to further renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. The chief building official may extend this time period when such extension is warranted, including but not limited to (1) to correct an error by the department, (2) when a legal action prevents the project from being completed within the allowed time frame, or (3) in the interest of public health and safety. The chief building official's decision regarding the limitation period shall be final.

(7)

Section 80.27 of Annex H of the California Electrical Code is hereby deleted.

(E)

The 2010 California Residential Code Chapters 1-9 and Appendix H, are adopted and incorporated herein by reference, save and except such portions as are deleted, modified or amended as follows:

(1)

Chapter 1, Division II, is here by deleted. California Building Code Chapter 1, Division II shall be referenced and incorporated herein.

(2)

Section 1.1.3.1.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

1.1.3.1.2 Utility and Miscellaneous Group U.

Buildings and structures of an accessory character and miscellaneous structures not classified in any specific occupancy shall be constructed, equipped and maintained to conform to the requirements of this code commensurate with the fire and life hazard incidental to their occupancy. Group U shall include, but not be limited to the following:

Agricultural buildings

Aircraft hangars accessory to a one or two-family residence (See Section 412.5 of the California Building Code)

Barns

Carports

Fences more than 6 feet high

Grain silos accessory to a residential occupancy

Greenhouses

Livestock shelters

Private garages

Pool houses accessory to a one- or two-family residence

Private riding arenas accessory to a one- or two-family residence

Private home studios accessory to a one- or two-family residence

Retaining walls

Sheds

Storage building accessory to a one- or two-family residence

Stables

Tanks

Towers

(3)

Section R109.1.5.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R109.1.5.2 Fire sprinkler system inspections

Where a fire sprinkler system is required, the building official shall require: a pressure test and pre-concealment inspection, and flow test. Such inspections and tests shall be completed by the fire code official. The pressure test shall require that the installed piping be pressurized to 200 psig for not less than two-hours. Fire sprinkler piping shall not be concealed from view until inspected, pressure tested and approved.

(4)

Section R309.6 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R309.6 Fire sprinklers

Carports with habitable space above and attached garages shall be protected by residential fire sprinkler systems in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, a fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 or NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/sq ft over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not to exceed four sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not be considered obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Exception 1: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing carports and/or garages that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with this section.

Exception 2: Detached garages and carports without a dwelling unit above.

(5)

Section R313.1of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R313.1 Townhouses automatic fire sprinkler system

An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in new townhouses. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be required when additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses in accordance with Sonoma County Code Section 7-13(A)(34) Table 903.2.

(6)

Section R313.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R313.2 One and two-family dwellings automatic fire systems

An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in one and two-family dwellings. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be required when additions or alterations are made to existing one- and two-family dwellings in accordance with Sonoma County Code Section 7-13(A)(34) Table 903.2.

Exceptions:

Single-story detached Group U occupancies 3,000 sq. ft. or less in area.

Single-story detached Group S occupancies 3,000 sq. ft. or less in area.

A room or area which is used for storage only and that does not contain a bathroom, cooking or refrigeration facilities or connections for such facilities which is constructed above a detached garage, Group U Occupancy, or Group S occupancy.

Agricultural exempt buildings and agricultural buildings as approved by the Fire Code Official.

Private riding arenas, provided that all of the following conditions are met:

The building has a minimum of 60 feet of clearance to property lines or other structures on all sides.

The building has an on-site water supply complying with the requirements of this code.

The building has an annual fire inspection by the chief.

The portions of the building that are not part of the private riding arena are equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system and are separated from the private riding arena by area separation walls meeting the requirements of the Building Code.

(7)

Section R313.3.1.2 of the California Residential Code is added to read as follows:

R313.3.1.2 Water-flow alarm

One exterior approved audible device shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system in an approved location. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a building fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.

(8)

Section R313.3.1.3 of the California Residential Code is added to read as follows:

R313.3.1.3 Spare sprinkler heads

A spare-head cabinet shall be installed in an approved location with a head wrench at least three spare heads of a type similar to those used in the system.

(9)

Section R313.3.1.3 of the California Residential Code is added to read as follows:

R313.3.5.2 Required capacity

The water supply shall have the capacity to provide the required design flow rate for sprinklers for a period of 10 minutes. Where a well system, a water supply tank system, a pump, or a combination thereof is used, the water supply shall serve both domestic and fire sprinkler systems. Any combination of well capacity and tank storage shall be permitted to meet the capacity requirements.

(10)

Section R313.3.8.1 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R313.3.8.1 Pre-concealment inspection

The following items shall be verified prior to the concealment of any sprinkler system:

Sprinklers are installed in all areas as required by Section R313.3.1.1.

Where sprinkler water spray patterns are obstructed by construction features, luminaries or ceiling fans, additional sprinklers are installed as required by Section R313.3.2.4.2.

Sprinklers are the correct temperature rating and are installed at or beyond the required separation distances from heat sources as required by sections R313.3.2.1 and R313.3.2.2.

The pipe size equals or exceeds the size used in applying Tables R313.3.6.2(4) through R313.3.6.2(9) or, if the piping system was hydraulically calculated in accordance with Section R313.3.6.1, the size used in the hydraulic calculation.

The pipe length does not exceed the length permitted by Tables R313.3.6.2 (4) through R313.3.6.2.(9) or, if the piping system was hydraulically calculated in accordance with Section R313.3.6.1, pipe lengths and fittings do not exceed those used in the hydraulic calculations.

Nonmetallic piping that conveys water to sprinklers is listed for use with fire sprinklers.

Piping is supported in accordance with the pipe manufacturer's and sprinkler manufacturer's installation instructions.

The piping system is hydraulically pressure tested to 200 psig for at least 2 hours.

(11)

Section R313.3.8.2 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R313.3.8.2 Final inspection

The following items shall be verified upon completion of the system:

Sprinklers are not painted, damaged or otherwise hindered from operation.

Where a pump is required to provide water to the system, the pump starts automatically upon system water demand.

Pressure-reducing valves, water softeners, water filters, or other impairments to water flow that were not part of the original design have not been installed.

The sign or valve tag required by Section R313.3.7 is installed and the owner's manual for the system is present.

A spare-head cabinet is installed in an approved location with a wrench at least three spare heads of a type similar to those used in the system.

A flow tested is conducted to confirm system functions as designed.

(12)

Section R322.1.6 and R322.1.7 are hereby deleted, new Section R322.1.6 is added as follows:

R322.1.6 Flood Damage Protection

see Sonoma County Code Chapter 7B-11A for Flood Damage Protection

(13)

Section R327.1.3 of the California Residential Code is amended to read as follows:

R327.1.3 Application.

New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone or any Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area designated by the enforcing agency constructed after the application date shall comply with the provisions of this chapter.

Exceptions:

Buildings of an accessory character classified as a Group U occupancy and not exceeding 120 square feet in floor area, when located at least 30 feet from property lines or an applicable building.

Buildings of an accessory character classified as Group U occupancy less than 1000 square feet in floor area located at least 50 feet from property lines or an applicable building.

Buildings less than 3000 square feet in floor area classified as a Group U Agricultural Building, as defined in Section 202 of this code (also see Appendix C - Group U Agricultural Buildings), when located at least 50 feet form an applicable building.

Additions to and remodels of buildings originally constructed prior to the application date.

(14)

Section R907.7 of the California Residential Code is added to read as follows:

R907.7 Photovoltaic Panels/Modules

Solar photovoltaic panels/modules shall comply with the requirements of this code and the California Fire Code

(F)

The 2010 California Green Building Standards Code Chapters 1-9 and Appendix A4 (Tier 1) and Appendix A5 (Tier 1) are adopted as mandatory provisions and incorporated herein by reference.

(G)

2010 California Energy Code is adopted and incorporated by reference.

(H)

2010 California Historical Building Code is adopted and incorporated by reference.

(I)

2010 California Referenced Standards Code is adopted and incorporated by reference.

(J)

2010 California Administrative Code is adopted and incorporated by reference.

(K)

The 2010 California Existing Building Code Chapter 1, Section 101.5.4 and Chapter 15 is adopted and incorporated herein by reference

(Ord. No. 5904, § I, 11-2-2010; Ord. 5754, § 1(l), 2007; Ord. No. 5666, § 1(a)—(b), 2006; Ord. No. 5603, § 1(a), 2005; Ord. No. 5402, § 1, 2003; Ord. No. 5374, § 1(a), 2002; Ord. No. 5167, § 1(i), 1999; Ord. No. 5086, § 1, 1997; Ord. No. 4959, §§ 1, 2, 1996; Ord. No. 4941, § 4, 1996; Ord. No. 4906, § 3 (part), 1995.)

Sec. 7-14. - Addition of laws that are enforced by the permit and resource management department or by the public health officer as designated in the applicable law.

(a)

State of California Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 2, Part 2.1 and Part 2.2 and State of California Administrative Code Title 25, relating to the administration, construction, maintenance, use and occupancy of mobile homes, located on parcels of land other than in mobile home parks. Except for those obligations imposed upon the public health officer, the permit and resource management department is charged with the administrative of the aforementioned regulations with the unincorporated areas of the county of Sonoma.

(b)

State of California Health and Safety Code Division 22, Chapter 4. (c) State of California Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 2.3 and State of California Administrative Code Title 17, Sections 30700-30751.

(d)

State of California Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 1, Health and Safety of Bathers and State of California Administrative Code Title 17, Sections 7774-7833.

(e)

State of California Health and Safety Code Division 5, Chapter 7, Water and Water Systems.

(f)

State of California Administrative Code, Title 17, Sections 13650-13693, Roadside Stand Regulations.

(g)

State of California Administrative Code, Title 24, Part 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8.

(Ord. No. 4906, § 3 (part), 1995.)

Sec. 7-14.5. - Stream setback for structures requiring a building permit.

All structures requiring a building permit or an agricultural exemption shall be set back from streams, as measured from the toe of the stream bank outward, a distance of two and one-half (2.5) times the height of the stream bank plus thirty (30) feet, or thirty (30) feet outward from the top of the stream bank, whichever distance is greater, unless a greater distance is established in the general plan, local coastal program, and/or zoning code. If the top of the stream bank cannot be determined by visual analysis, it shall be determined by hydraulic analysis as the water surface elevation for the one hundred-year event plus one and one-half (1.5) feet. Stream bank height is the change in elevation from the top of bank and the lowest toe of bank.

(a)

Exceptions. An exception to the thirty (30) feet portion may be approved by the chief building official if one (1) or more of the following criteria apply:

(1)

Constructability. The stream setback in makes the lot unbuildable for the primary use of the base planning district.

(2)

Minor expansion. The proposed development involves a minor expansion of an existing structure. A minor expansion shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the existing structure by area, and shall not expand in a direction toward, or closer to, any stream.

(3)

Existing structures. The proposed development involves only the maintenance or restoration of an existing structure or a non-structural use.

(4)

Stream bank restoration or stabilization. The proposed development involves the restoration or stabilization of a stream bank.

(b)

Exception provisions. An exception may be approved by the chief building official if the following provisions are met:

(1)

Minimize disturbance. The removal of the natural vegetation is minimized or compensated by planting of natural vegetation within the setback.

(2)

Riparian function. The applicant demonstrates that the encroachment into the setback area will be accomplished with a minimum damage to the riparian functions and no reasonable alternative exists.

(3)

Soils report. The applicant submits a soils report that is acceptable to the chief building official. The soils report shall address the soil stability relative to the foundation of the proposed development and relative to the potential destabilizing effect the stream may or may not have on the proposed development.

(Ord. No. 5904, § I, 11-2-2010; Ord. No. 5891, § 4, 12-9-2008.)

Sec. 7-15. - Private swimming pool—General.

(a)

For purposes of this section, "private swimming pool" shall include any structure, whether in-ground or above-ground, designed or used for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water in excess of eighteen (18) inches. For purposes of this section, "private swimming pool" shall not include:

(1)

Swimming pools operated for the use of the general public with or without charge, or for the use of the members and guests of a private club, unless such pool is located on the grounds of a private single-family home;

(2)

Hot tubs or spas with locking safety covers that comply with the American Society for Testing Materials - Emergency Performance Specification (ASTM-ES 13-89 and ASTM-ES 13-91);

(3)

Swimming pools located at an apartment complex or any residential setting other than a single-family home; and

(4)

Swimming pools located at any facility regulated by the State Department of Social Services even if the facility is also used as the private residence of the operator.

(b)

No building permit shall be issued for any private swimming pool, except in compliance with this section and Article 2.5 of Chapter 5 of Part 10 of Division 104 of the California Health and Safety Code (commencing with Section 115920 of the California Health and Safety Code), and further providing that:

(1)

If the pool is equipped with a power-operated safety pool cover pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 115922(b), the control for the pool cover shall be mounted at least sixty (60) inches above grade or above the floor; and

(2)

If doors providing direct access from the home to the pool are equipped with exit alarms pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 115922(c), the exit alarms shall produce sounds at or exceeding sound pressure of eighty (80) DB at ten (10) feet distance from the alarm emitter.

(c)

Private swimming pools constructed prior to June 1, 1998, shall be equipped with at least one of the following safety features:

(1)

The pool is isolated from access to a home by an enclosure that has all of the following characteristics:

(A)

Any access gates through the enclosure open away from the swimming pool, and are self-closing with a self-latching device placed no lower than sixty (60) inches above the ground;

(B)

A minimum height of sixty (60″) inches;

(C)

A maximum vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the enclosure of two (2″) inches;

(D)

Gaps or voids, if any, do not allow passage of a sphere equal to or greater than four (4″) inches in diameter; and

(E)

An outside surface free of protrusions, cavities or other physical characteristics that would serve as handholds or footholds that could enable a child below the age of five (5) years to climb over.

(2)

The pool is equipped with a manually or power-operated safety pool cover that meets all of the performance standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), in compliance with standard F1346-91. If the safety, pool cover is electrically operated, the control for the pool cover shall be mounted at least sixty inches (60″) above grade or above the floor;

(3)

All doors providing direct access from the home to the pool are equipped with exit alarms, either battery operated or connected to the electrical wiring of the residence, that make audible, continuous alarm sounds when the door is opened or left ajar. The exit alarms shall produce sounds at or exceeding sound pressure of eighty (80) DB at ten feet (10′) distance from the alarm emitter;

(4)

All doors providing direct access from the home to the pool are equipped with a self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism placed no lower than fifty-four (54″) inches above the floor; or

(5)

Other means of protection, if the degree of protection afforded is equal to or greater than that afforded by any of the devices set forth in subdivisions (1) through (4), inclusive, of this subsection, as determined by the building official.

(d)

Applications for building permits for the construction of private swimming pools shall show compliance with the requirements established by subsection (b) and with following:

(1)

All plans submitted to the county for private swimming pools shall include a plot plan. Pool plans, specifications and design calculations shall be prepared by a civil or structural engineer, licensed to practice in the state of California.

(2)

Soil around the private swimming pool shall slope away from the pool to prevent surface waters from draining into the pool and to prevent ponding, or a drainage system shall be provided to collect surface water.

(3)

Drywells shall be ten feet, ten inches (10′ 10″) minimum in depth. The drywell must be lined with masonry, having solid mortar joints to a point two feet, zero inches (2′ 0″) below the bottom of the swimming pool. Alternate methods of waste water disposal may be approved by the county public health officer.

(4)

For private swimming pool design and construction, soils in Sonoma County shall be assumed to be expansive unless the owner can show by actual soil tests, performed by a recognized soil testing laboratory, that the soils are not expansive.

(5)

Additional design criteria for private swimming pools may include, but not necessarily be limited to, consideration of geologic, geographic and topographic features of a pool site, groundwater, soil conditions, performance standards and maintenance requirements. The building official may require whatever information he deems necessary to satisfy himself that a pool design protects the public health and safety.

(6)

Final inspection, approval and use of all new, repaired or remodeled private swimming pools shall be withheld until all of the above requirements have been met.

(Ord. No. 5167 § 1(j), 1999; Ord. No. 5102 § 1, 1998: Ord. No. 4906 § 3 (part), 1995.)

Sec. 7-16. - Signs.

(a)

Signs and outdoor advertising structures erected or constructed shall conform to all zoning regulations, department of transportation and public works requirements and be structurally designed and constructed to comply with the California Building Code for resisting wind, gravity and seismic forces.

(b)

Political campaign signs shall be, if approved by the permit and resource management department for a limited period, exempt from meeting the requirements of the above unless it is determined by the building official that they pose a threat to life or limb.

(Ord. No. 5167 § 1(k), 1999; Ord. No. 4906 § 3 (part), 1995.)

Sec. 7-17. - Regulations for the construction, relocation, repair, maintenance, use and occupancy of floating homes and floating home moorages.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location and maintenance of all floating homes and floating home moorages within the county of Sonoma.

(b)

Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to the construction, alteration, repair, demolition, removal, relocation of berthing of any floating home within the county, and to the requirements for floating home sites and floating home moorages together with appurtenant structures and facilities as regulated herein.

(c)

Application to Existing Floating Homes and Moorages. Floating homes and floating home moorages in existence prior to the effective date hereof shall be examined by the building official and health officer and shall comply with the requirements for new floating homes, new floating home sites and new floating home moorages as provided in this part, it being expressly found and determined that the public health and safety require and justify the retrospective application of all the provisions contained in this section; provided, however, that the building official may grant an exception to strict compliance with specifications in the building code if he/she finds and determines a floating home which is in existence prior to the effective date thereof does not by reason of a violation of said code, adversely affect the public health, safety and welfare, and that said floating home otherwise complies with the requirements of this section.

(d)

Application to Moorage Occupancies other than Floating Homes. Moorage structures, floatable or otherwise, and occupied or intended to be occupied for purposes other than as a floating home shall conform with the applicable requirements of this section with respect to flotation, compartmentation, construction sanitation, sewage disposal, plumbing, electrical and other utility systems, open spaces, fire protection, movement or relocation, certificate of occupancy and to the requirements of such uses or occupancies as are administered and enforced by the health officer and building official.

(e)

Definitions. The following definitions apply to the words and phrases of this section, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

"Berth" or "moor" means the fixing of a floating home by anchoring or being at an approved floating home site. Berth or moor shall not include intentional grounding, beaching or placement on piles, wharves, docks or other permanently fixed supports except as may be permitted in emergencies or for making required repairs.

(2)

Floating Homes. A "floating home" is any building supported by means of flotation with one hundred percent (100%) flotation occurring at all times, designed to be used without a permanent foundation, used, intended or designed to be built, used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied, or which is occupied for living purposes by one family with facilities for living, sleeping, cooking and eating. Any such building used or intended to be used, as a dwelling for more than one family is prohibited with the county. The term "floating home" shall include "houseboat" or "ark" but shall not include any vessel designed or used primarily for commercial and recreational purposes. Floating homes are not permitted in designated flood hazard zones.

(3)

"Floating home moorage" means a waterfront facility for the moorage of one (1) or more floating homes, and the land and water premises on which such facility is located. Moorage must provide flotation at all times.

(4)

Floating Home Site. A "floating home site" is a part of a floating home moorage located over water and designed to accommodate one (1) floating home.

(5)

"Garbage" means all discarded putrescible waste matter and all discardable rubbish but not including sewage or human or animal excrement.

(6)

"Health officer" means health officer of the county of Sonoma or his authorized representative assigned to the county of Sonoma.

(7)

Nuisance. "Nuisance" includes:

(i)

Any public nuisance known at common law or in equity jurisprudence;

(ii)

Whatever is dangerous to human life or is detrimental to health;

(iii)

Overcrowding a room with occupants;

(iv)

Insufficient ventilation or illumination;

(v)

Inadequate or unsanitary sewage or plumbing facilities;

(vi)

A floating home moored in an area that does not provide flotation at all times;

(vii)

Any of those items with exception to foundations described as a nuisance in Chapter 7 of the code of the county of Sonoma and the Uniform Housing Code.

(8)

Person. The term "person" shall include any person, firm, association, corporation or any members, agents or employees of any of the foregoing.

(9)

Sewage. The term "sewage" means any and all waste substance, liquid or solid, associating with human habitation, whether or not it contains human or animal excreta or excrement, offal or any feculent matter.

(10)

Story. "Story" is the portion of a floating home between the upper surface of the deck or ceiling next above.

(11)

Superstructure. "Superstructure" is that portion of a floating home above the lowest deck or the level of flotation.

(12)

Transient Vessel. The term "transient vessel" shall mean any vessel temporarily moored in the county of Sonoma which is occupied for a period of less than four (4) consecutive days or ten (10) days in any calendar month.

(13)

Vessel. The term "vessel" means any watercraft of any type or size, including but not limited to barges, ferry boats, arks, yachts, houseboats, floating homes and rafts.

(14)

Waterway. The term "waterway" means any water, waterway, lake, river, creek, canal, lagoon, bay, inlet, slough, tributary or arm of the sea situated within or bounding the county of Sonoma.

(f)

Movement or Relocation of Floating Homes. Floating homes proposed to be moved into the county or proposed to be moved from one moorage site to another moorage site within the county shall comply with the requirements of this section pertaining to new floating homes.

No floating home shall be moved or relocated unless relocation permit has been issued by the permit and resource management department.

No floating home shall be moved into or relocated within the county if, after inspection and investigation by the building official, it is found to be dilapidated, unseaworthy or otherwise substandard to such an extent that it would be impractical to repair, improve or rehabilitate said floating home in accordance with the requirements of this section for new floating homes.

The building official shall not issue a permit to move or relocate a floating home until the site plan has received approval from the fire chief, the health officer, the director of permit and resource management department, or their duly authorized staff.

The fee for relocation permit is fifty-three dollars ($53.00) or as set by ordinance by the board of supervisors.

(g)

Requirements For and Location of Moorages.

(1)

Moorage, Register of Ownership of Floating Homes. Every owner or operator of a floating home moorage shall maintain a current register of every floating home moored on the premises under his control, such register to record the name and address of the legal owner of each floating home. A copy of said register shall be available on request to the building official.

(2)

Moorage Location. Floating homes shall be berthed or moored in a marina, harbor or similar facility conforming to the requirements of this section and allocated on privately owned or privately controlled property. Moorages shall be located in any waterway or fairway, or in the public waters of any street or street end.

(3)

Moorage Site Plan. Three (3) copies of a moorage site plan drawn to scale and fully dimensioned shall be submitted by the owner of said moorage to the building official for approval. The moorage plan shall include the following de-tails.

(i)

Name and address of an owner or operator;

(ii)

Address and legal description of the property on which moorage is located;

(iii)

The dimensions of the floating home moorage site;

(iv)

The location of abutting public waterways;

(v)

The location and dimensions of private waterways and land access to the moorage;

(vi)

The location and identification of individual floating home sites;

(vii)

The location and dimension of off-street parking spaces;

(viii)

The location and dimensions of walkways and any accessory structures or facilities;

(ix)

The water service system;

(x)

The fire protection system;

(xi)

The electrical service and lighting system;

(xii)

The complete sewage system including main sewer and side sewers serving each floating homesite.

(h)

Regulations for the Construction, Repair, Maintenance, Use and Occupancy of Floating Homes. The rules and regulations applicable to floating homes shall be all those rules, regulations, procedures and fee schedules as determined by the board of supervisors except as modified herein and/or herein provided.

(i)

Material. All material, such as decking, siding and subflooring which is subjected to moisture or water splash shall be of a type not adversely affected by moisture, or shall be treated.

(j)

Construction. Flooring, wall and flotation shall be designed and constructed by use of diaphragm walls in such a manner that the superstructure acts as an independent unit and is not adversely affected by point reactions under the flotation.

(k)

Ramps or horizontal entrance ways. Ramps shall be not less than thirty-six inches (36″ in width, exclusive of required handrails which shall not reduce the width more than three inches (3″).

Ramps or horizontal exits, other than mooring docks, shall be provided with two handrails or guard railings. Railings and guardrails shall meet the requirements of the California Building Code. Private ramps or horizontal exits shall be capable of carrying a live load in accordance with the following schedule.

Live Load	Length of Ramp Between Supports
50 psf	0 to 5 feet
40 psf	5 feet to 10 feet
30 psf	OVER 10 feet

Ramp design shall also include dead load. Minimum framing members shall be two inch by four inch (2″ × 4″) if constructed of wood.

All ramps and horizontal exits shall have exit illumination with minimum intensity of one foot candle at floor level of entry or one-tenth (1/10) foot candle on walkways or ramps. Alternate materials and methods of construction may be allowed as provided in the Sonoma County Code.

(l)

Inboard Sewerage Device. A sewage receiving tank and ejector device must be installed aboard every floating home. Said device shall consist of a tank with a liquid capacity not less than thirty (30) gallons, nor more than forty (40) gallons, and shall be equipped with a two inch outlet and a one-half h.p. pump. Said device must connect to the local sewerage lateral system, when the floating home is moored in the waters within, adjoining or encompassed in the county of Sonoma.

(m)

Water Distribution. Water shall not be piped to supply floating homes through flexible hose unless the hose is a high-pressure type terminating in approved connectors and is preceded by an approved backflow prevention device. No hose shall be immersed in water or run exposed on docks, piers, etc. Length of hose shall not be excessive.

(n)

Fuel-Gas Piping. All gas piping installed in floating homes shall be made with approved high-pressure hose and terminate in approved positive disconnect couplings. Gas hoses shall not be immersed in water or run exposed on docks, piers or floating homes. Length of hose shall not be excessive.

(o)

A wiring system shall be nominally rated 115-230 volts, 3 wire AC, with a grounded neutral supplemented with a No. 6 minimum (or the equivalent) equipment ground conductor as an integral part of a cable assembly connected to a grounding electrode on the shore facilities while providing a minimum of one hundred (100) amperes to the houseboat, shall be provided for in all floating homes.

(p)

Power Supply. Service equipment shall be located adjacent to the floating home and may not be mounted in or on the floating home.

The power supply to the floating home shall be comprised of feeder circuits consisting of not more than two floating home supply cords, each rated fifty (50) amperes minimum. Larger cords or permanently installed circuits may be used if desired.

(q)

Supply Cord. Each floating home supply cord shall be approved and have four conductors, one of which shall be identified by a continuous green color with a yellow stripe. The attachment plug, connectors and mating receptacles shall be 3-pole, 4-wire grounding types covered by American Standard C-73 attachment plug and receptacles. The power supply cord shall be permanently attached to the distribution panel. A suitable clamp or equivalent shall be provided at the distribution panel to afford strain relief for the cord in order to prevent strain at the terminals. The length of power supply cord shall not be excessive.

(r)

Second Supply Cord. Where a second fifty (50)-ampere floating home supply cord is installed, the two (2) cords shall not be interconnected on either the line side or the load side except that the grounding circuits and grounding means shall be electrically interconnected.

(s)

Disconnection Means. Disconnecting means shall be provided in each floating home by approved service entrance equipment, consisting of circuit breakers, or a switch and fuses, and their accessories installed in a readily accessible location near the point the supply cord or conductors enter the floating home. This equipment shall contain a solderless type of grounding connector or bar with sufficient terminals for all grounding conductors. The neutral bar termination of the grounded circuit conductors shall be insulated. The disconnecting equipment shall have a rating suitable for the connected load.

Where two (2) power supply cords are installed disconnecting means shall be provided for each cord but may be combined in single equipment without electrical interconnections other than for grounding purposes. Branch circuit equipment may be combined with the disconnecting means as a single assembly, and designed as a distribution panel. Plug fuses and fuse holders shall be tamper-resistant, type "S," enclosed in dead front panels.

(t)

Wiring Exposed to Weather. If outdoor wiring is exposed to moisture or physical damage, it shall be protected by rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit or liquid-tight flexible metal conduit.

(u)

Grounding. Grounding of electrical and nonelectrical metal parts in a floating home shall be effected through connection to a grounding bus in the floating home distribution panel. The grounding bus shall be grounded through the green con-ductor in the supply cord or the feeder wiring to the service ground in the service entrance equipment.

(v)

Overall Stability. The floating home shall be stable with both dead load and live load included.

(1)

Metacentric Height. The metacentric height (MG) shall be equal to +1.0 foot or more according to the following equation:

(MG) equals Wsty/W - L

Where:

Ws equals unit weight of sea water

W equals total weight of floating home including dead load and live load (L.L. equals 20 pounds per square foot of first floor area and 10 pounds per square foot of second floor, habitable attic or loft.)

ty equals moment of inertia of the area encompassed by the waterline around the hull or flotation (fully loaded boat) as taken about the longitudinal axis of the houseboat.

L equals the distance between the center of the gravity and the center of buoyancy of the fully loaded boat.

(2)

Freeboard. The freeboard as measured from the waterline to the top of the first floor or deck of the completed houseboat, including dead load but not live load, shall be at least 1.3 feet (with list angle equals 0.0).

(3)

Stability with off-center loading; or wind loading. The floating home when subjected to either off-center loading or wind loading shall not exceed the limitations on hull immersions and angle of list set forth as follows:

(i)

The maximum angle of list shall not exceed forty (40) degrees.

(ii)

The freeboard shall be measured from the waterline to the top of the first floor or deck at side of the vessel at a point where said freeboard has its least dimension.

The allowable immersion shall not be more than two-thirds (2/3) of this freeboard. The off-center loading shall be considered as applicable to the completed houseboat, including dead load, and shall consist of a live load of one hundred (100) pounds, or five (5) pounds per foot of width, whichever is greater per lineal foot (first floor) and fifty (50) pounds, or two and one-half ((½) pounds per foot of width, whichever is greater, per lineal foot (second floor, habitable attic, or loft). The uniform live load is to be applied halfway between the center of gravity and the outside edge of deck, to one side of the floating home at a time. The dividing line is the longitudinal axis of the vessel, and the overturning moment resulting from the off-center loading shall be taken about the computed center of gravity. Stability with the off-center loading applied shall be tested on both sides of the longitudinal axis.

Wind loading shall be applied to the completed houseboat, including dead load and live load, but not off-center loading. The moment due to the wind loading shall be computed at:

Mw equals P×A×H

Where:

Mw equals wind heeling moment, in foot pounds.

P equals wind pressure factor, in pounds per square foot in accordance with the following:

8.0 (for partially protected waters)

A equals area, in square feet, of the projected lateral surface of the vessel above the load waterline. This surface includes the hull superstructure and areas bounded by railings and/or structural canopies.

H equals height, in feet, to the center of area 9A) above the first floor deck.

(w)

Calculations by Engineer. Calculations by a qualified engineer showing that the stability of the floating home con-forms to the above minimum requirements will be acceptable. Said calculations shall be subject to the following provisions:

(1)

With reference to paragraph v(a), Mg equals - 1.0 or more.

(2)

With reference to paragraph v(c), calculations will show that a result of the list angle caused by the off-center loading, the original freeboard (with list angle equals 0.0 degrees) shall not be diminished by more than sixty-seven percent (67%).

(3)

With reference to paragraph v(c), calculations shall show that:

Mr/M equals 10. Applied with a list equals 4.10 degrees or more.

MO equals overturning moment resulting from the off-center loading, said moment to be taken about a longitudinal line passing through the computed center of gravity of the floating home.

MR equals resisting moment due to buoyancy, said moment to be taken about a longitudinal line passing through

And:

Mr/Mw equals 1.0′ or more applied with a list equals 4.0 or more.

where:

Mw equals wind healing moment.

Mr equals resisting moment due to buoyancy (same as Mr above).

(x)

Compartmentation and Flotatation.

(1)

Bulkheads. Watertight pontoons, floats or any other device to keep the floating home afloat shall be fitted with transverse and/or longitudinal watertight bulkheads which provide compartmentation sufficient to keep the fully loaded vessel afloat with positive stability, with any one main compartment flooded.

For pontoon type flotation, the maximum allowable distance between bulkheads is eight feet zero inches (8′0″). No single compartment shall comprise more than twenty percent (20%) of the total available flotation volume.

(2)

Hull Type Flotation. The hull shall be fitted with at least one (1) longitudinal head and two (2) transverse bulk-heads. No compartment shall comprise more than twenty percent (20%) of total available flotation volume. Hull type flotation with less than two (2) transverse bulkheads may be utilized upon demonstration that the structure will remain afloat with one (1) compartment flooded. If construction materials are utilized which make the possibility of rupture of the hull extremely remote, the county may waive this requirement.

(3)

Flotation Devices. The external surfaces of all flotation devices shall be watertight and thoroughly protected from corrosion from salt water, solvents and weather. Flotation devices shall be constructed so that access to each compartment is readily available from the first floor level of the completed floating home. Flotation devices shall be structurally sound and securely fastened to the main houseboat structure as approved by the officials.

(4)

Bilge Pump. Where permanent type of flotation, such as styrofoam or plastic foam is not provided, a portable bilge pump shall be maintained in proper working order. Bilge pump size and installation shall be approved by the building inspection division. Bilge pump shall discharge into sewer in an approved manner.

(5)

Cross Connection. A cross connection is any connection or arrangement, physical or otherwise, between a potable water supply system and any plumbing fixture or any tank, receptacle, equipment or device through which it may be possible for nonpotable, used, unclean, polluted and contaminated water, or other substances to enter into any part of such potable water system under any condition. Cross connections are prohibited.

(y)

Fire Prevention. Each floating home shall maintain, on board, at least one ten (10) pound (or equivalent) all purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher for each separate level of floor of habitable living space.

(z)

Life Saving Equipment. Suitable accessible storage shall be provided on deck for the storage of life preservers, and life buoys or other coast guard approved life saving devices.

(aa)

Garbage Disposal. No garbage as defined in this code shall be discharged overboard, but shall be contained in a ro-dent and leak-proof container with a tight-fitting cover and disposed of in an approved refuse disposal site.

(bb)

Occupancy Permits. All owners of floating homes moored in Sonoma County shall apply for and obtain an occupancy permit prior to occupancy. Following the inspection of a floating home for an occupancy permit, the owner will be advised of any deficiencies that must be corrected and of applicable building permits that may be required.

(cc)

Restrictions. It shall be illegal to inhabit, occupy, moor, lease, rent or sell any floating home which does not comply with the provisions of this chapter.

(dd)

Household Occupancy Permits, Form, Fee. All applications for occupancy permits shall be in writing on a form sup-plied by the Sonoma County health department and shall be accompanied by the required fee.

(ee)

Contents of Applications. All applications shall, as nearly as possible, contain the following information:

(1)

The size, type and location of the vessel for which the permit is sought;

(2)

The number of people to be accommodated on board;

(3)

All provisions that have been made for disposal of sewage by connection to an approved shore-side sewage disposal system;

(4)

All provisions that have been made for connection of shore-side utilities;

(5)

Such other information as the director of permit and resource management department may deem necessary to effectuate the provision of this section.

(ff)

Issuance. If the chief building official, after investigation, determines that suitable provisions have been made for the disposal of sewage and connection of shore-side utilities, and that occupancy of the vessel for which the permit is requested will not create a hazard to health, welfare or safety of the occupants thereof or the community in general, he/she shall issue a permit. All permits may be made subject to such conditions as the chief building official deems appropriate to insure compliance with the provisions of this section.

(gg)

Posting. Permits shall be permanently posted and maintained upon the vessel in a conspicuous location.

The registration number of the occupancy permit shall be affixed to the vessel in letters and numbers four inches (4″) in height and clearly visible in the vicinity of the main entrance.

(hh)

Term-Renewal. All permits issued hereunder shall be effective for a period of one (1) calendar year, provided however, that any material change in the conditions shown upon the application or any change in ownership or location of the vessel shall revoke the permit. Permits may be renewed by resubmission of an appropriate application and payment of fees.

(ii)

Inspections-Revocation. The chief building official shall have authority, with the owner's consent, to board and/or inspect any vessel when he has reasonable cause to believe that the vessel is occupied in violation of the provisions hereof. The chief building official shall have the right to order the floating home vacated within ten (10) days and shall have the right to revoke any permit granted hereunder in the event that he ascertains that the permittee, or any occupant of the vessel, is acting in contravention of any of the provisions hereof, or if it is deemed to be a substandard floating home.

(jj)

Appeal. In the event that any applicant or permittee is for any reason dissatisfied with the action of the chief building official by reason of failure to grant a permit, the order to vacate, revocation of a permit, or imposition of any conditions relating to the permit, the applicant or permittee shall have the right to appeal to the board of supervisors, in writing, within ten (10) days after notification of action of the health officer. Upon receipt of an appeal the board of supervisors shall call a hearing within thirty (30) days from receipt of the appeal and give the applicant notice thereof by registered or certified mail addressed to the appellant at the address shown on the application or permit. At the conclusion of the hearing, the board of supervisors shall render a decision, which decision shall be final.

(kk)

Approval by Permit and Resource Management Department. No permit shall be issued until the Sonoma County permit and resource management department has determined that the vessel for which the application is made substantially complies with the provisions contained in this chapter of the code of the county of Sonoma.

(Ord. 5754 § 1(m), 2007: Ord. No. 5167 § 1(l), 1999; Ord. No. 4906 § 3, 1995.)

Sec. 7-18. - Local conditions.

Modifications to the building standards in the referenced codes are made pursuant to the authority granted in the California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7 and 18941.5 based on local climatic, geographical or topographical conditions. A copy of the findings for such modifications is on file with the Sonoma County clerk of the board.

(Ord. No. 5904, § I, 11-2-2010; Ord. 5754, § 1(n), 2007; Ord. No. 4906, § 3, 1995.)

Sec. 7-19. - Definitions.

Whenever any of the following names or terms are used herein or in any codes adopted by reference by this chapter, unless the context directs otherwise, such names or terms so used shall have the meaning ascribed thereto by this section as follows:

(a)

"Building official," "chief building official," "chief electrical inspector," "administrative authority," and similar references to a chief administrative position shall mean the director of the permit and resource management department of the county or his or her designee; provided, however, that where such terms are used in conjunction with those duties imposed upon the public health officer, the terms shall mean the public health officer of the county.

(b)

The "building division," "electrical division," or "plumbing division" shall mean the permit and resource management department of the county.

(c)

"City" shall mean the county when referring to a political entity, or an unincorporated area of the county.

(d)

"City clerk" means "county clerk" and/or "clerk of the board of supervisors."

(e)

"City council" or "mayor" means the board of supervisors.

(f)

"Board of appeals" shall mean the local appeals board and housing appeals board provided for in Section 7-3

(g)

"California Building Code" or "2010 California Building Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, 2010 California Building Code, which incorporates by adoption the 2009 International Building Code, published by the International Code Council, with necessary California amendments.

(h)

"California Building Standards Administrative Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, 2010 California Building Standards Administrative Code, which incorporate by adoption the 2010 edition of the California Administrative Code published by the International Code Council.

(i)

"California Electrical Code" or "2010 California Electrical Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 3, California Electrical Code, which incorporate by adoption the 2008 edition of the National Electric Code, with necessary California amendments.

(j)

"California Energy Code" or "2010 California Energy Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, 2010 California Energy Code.

(k)

"California Fire Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, 2010 California Fire Code, which incorporate by adoption the edition of the International Fire Code, with necessary California amendments.

(l)

"California Historical Building Code" or "2010 California Historical Building Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8, 2010 California Historical Building Code.

(m)

"California Mechanical Code" or "2010 California Mechanical Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 4, 2010 California Mechanical Code, which incorporate by adoption the 2009 edition of the Uniform Mechanical Code published by International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, with necessary California amendments.

(n)

"California Plumbing Code" or "2010 California Plumbing Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 5, 2010 California Plumbing Code, which incorporate by adoption the 2006 edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, with necessary California amendments.

(o)

"California Referenced Standards Code" or "2010 California Referenced Standards Code" means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, 2010 California Referenced Standards Code.

(p)

"California Residential Code" or "2010 California Residential Code," means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.5 California Residential Code, which incorporate by the 2009 International Residential Code, with necessary California amendments.

(q)

"California Green Building Standards Code" or 2010 California Green Building Standards Code," means the regulations adopted by the California Building Standards Commission in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11, 2010 California Green Building Standards Code.

(r)

"Local coastal program" means the Sonoma County local coastal program.

(s)

"General plan" means the Sonoma County general plan.

(t)

"Stream" means any natural channel with bed and banks containing flowing water or showing evidence of having contained flowing water (e.g., deposit of rock, sand, gravel, or soil).

(u)

"Zoning Code" means Chapters 26 and 26C of this code.

(Ord. No. 5904, § I, 11-2-2010; Ord. No. 5891, § 5, 12-9-2008; Ord. 5754, § 1(o), 2007; Ord. No. 5581, § 1, 2005; Ord. No. 5374, § 1(b), 2002; Ord. No. 5167, § 1(m), 1999; Ord. No. 4906, § 3, 1995.)

Sec. 7-20. - Examination of codes.

One (1) copy of each of the codes adopted by reference in this chapter have heretofore been filed with the clerk of the board of supervisors and shall be maintained for use and examination by the public in the office of the clerk of the board of supervisors.

(Ord. No. 4906 § 3, 1995.)