HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-14 CC Ordinance ORDINANCE NO. 2025-14
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF TEMECULA ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2025
EDITIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE;
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE; CALIFORNIA
PLUMBING CODE; CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE;
CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE; CALIFORNIA
ENERGY CODE; CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING
STANDARDS CODE; CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL
BUILDING CODE; CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING
CODE;CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE;CALIFORNIA
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE; CALIFORNIA
REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE; AND CALIFORNIA
FIRE CODE; TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN
AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS,
AMENDING TITLE 15 OF THE TEMECULA MUNICIPAL
CODE, AND APPROVING A CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) EXEMPTION
DETERMINATION
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS
FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Sections 15.04.010 through 15.04.080 of Chapter 15.04 Construction Codes
of Title 15 (Building and Construction) of the Temecula Municipal Code are hereby repealed
provided,however,that such repeal shall not affect or excuse any violation thereof occurring prior
to the effective date of this Ordinance. New Sections 15.04.010 through 15.04.080 are hereby
added to Chapter 15.04 to read as follows:
"15.04.010 Codes adopted. Except as hereinafter provided in this Title, the following
codes are adopted by reference as the Building Codes of the City of Temecula:
A. California Building Code, 2025 Edition, Volumes 1 and 2 (Part 2 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations)
B. California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition (Part 8 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations);
C. California Existing Building Code, 2025 Edition (Part 10 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations);
D. California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition(Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations);
E. California Mechanical Code,2025 Edition(Part 4 of Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations);
F. California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition (Part 5 of Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations), including Appendix A, B, D, H, IAPMO IS 31-2022 of Appendix
I, and J.
G. California Fire Code, 2025 Edition (Part 9 of Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations), including Chapters 3, 25, Sections 503, 510.2, 1103.2 and 5707 are
adopted.
H. California Administrative Code, 2025 Edition (Part 1 of Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations);
I. California Energy Code, 2025 Edition(Part 6 of Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations),
J. California Green Building Standards Code, 2025 Edition(Part 11 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations), including Appendix A5 Non Residential
Voluntary Measures.
K. California Reference Standards Code, 2025 Edition (Part 12 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations),
L. California Residential Code, 2025 Edition (Part 2.5 of Title 24 of the California
Code of Regulations), including Appendix CI Swimming
M. California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, 2025 Edition (Part 7 of Title 24 of the
California Code of Regulations)
A copy of each of the above codes shall be maintained in the office of City Clerk and shall
be made available for public inspection while such codes are in force."
15.04.020 California Building Code. The following amendments,additions and deletions
are made to the California Building Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter.
A. Section 105.2 is hereby amended by modifying subsection 4 under Building,to
read as follows:
4. Retaining walls that are not over three(3) feet in height unless supporting a
sloped surcharge and garden walls not over four(4)feet in height,measured
from the top of footing to top of wall or impounding flammable Class I,
Class II or III-A liquids.
B. Section 105.3 is hereby amended by adding Subsection 8 to read as follows:
8. All contractors and their subcontractors must have current and valid city
business licenses.
C. Section 105.5 is amended to read as follows:
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105.5 Expiration: Every permit issued by the building official under the
provisions of this code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the
building or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 12 months or
if the building or work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at any
time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days or if the permit is
revoked. Before such work can be recommenced a new permit shall first be
obtained by reinstatement of the permit and the fee therefore shall be one half the
amount required for reinstating the permit for such work. A permittee may request
an extension of a permit. The Building Official may grant in writing, one or more
extensions of time for periods of not more than 180 days per extension. The
permittee shall request an extension pursuant to this subdivision in writing and
demonstrate justifiable cause for the extension.
D. Section 110.3.8 is amended to read as follows:
110.3.8 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and
penetrations in fire resistance-rated assemblies shall not be concealed from view
until inspected for all designed fire protection. Required fire seals/fire barriers in
fire assemblies at fire-resistant penetrations shall be installed and certified by a third
party, state of California licensed fireproofing company and certification of
compliance shall be provided for building official's final approval.
E. Section 111.1 is hereby amended by adding the following:
To ensure appropriate continued use of any occupied space the building official
will issue a new Certificate of Occupancy upon any change of tenant at the fee rates
established by resolution of the City Council.
F. Section 114.4.1 is hereby added to read as follows:
114.4.1 Civil Penalty. Any person, firm or corporation who shall proceed with or
commence work for which a permit is required by these building and construction
regulations without first having obtained such permit shall, if subsequently
permitted to obtain a permit therefor, pay double the fee fixed for such work. The
original permit fee shall be for issuance of the permit and the balance shall be a
civil penalty. This provision shall not apply to emergency work when it shall be
proved to the satisfaction of the building official that such work was urgently
necessary and that it was not practical to obtain a permit before commencement of
the work. In all such cases a permit must be secured as soon as it is practicable to
do so,and if there is an unreasonable delay in securing the required permit,the civil
penalty as provided in this section shall be charged. In no event shall such civil
penalty exceed the permit fee plus five hundred dollars. The civil penalty provided
in this section shall be in addition to any other fines and remedies prescribed
elsewhere in this code. The payment of such fees and fine shall not relieve any
person from fully complying with the requirements of these building and
construction regulations in the execution of the work.
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G. Section 502.1 is amended to read as follows:
502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved
address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a
position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the
property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Where required by
the fire code official, address numbers shall be provided in additional approved
locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private
road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or
other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Commercial, multi-
family residential and industrial buildings shall have a minimum of twelve (12)
inch numbers with suite numbers being a minimum of six (6) inches in size. All
suites shall have a minimum of six(6)inch high letters and/or numbers on both the
front and rear doors. Single family residences and multi-family residential units
shall have four(4) inch letters and/or numbers, as approved by the Fire Prevention
Bureau. Address numbers shall be maintained and illuminated.
EXCEPTION: Building address numbers within the Downtown Core District
(DTC) of the Old Town Specific Plan, are permitted to be a minimum of eight (8)
inches in size.
H. Section 901.2.1 is added to read as follows:
901.2.1 As-built/Revised documents. An electronic copy of as-built/revised
drawings shall be submitted to the fire department online for approval prior to final
of any permits. Redlines are not considered as-builts/revised plans.
Section 903.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
903.2 Where required.
1. In all new buildings and structures which are 3,600 square feet or greater, an
approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided regardless of occupancy
classification. Where the Sections 903.2.1 — 903.2.21 of the California Fire
Code require more restrictive requirements than those listed below, the more
restrictive requirement shall take precedence.
2. All existing buildings, except for one- and two-family dwellings, shall be
retrofitted with automatic fire sprinklers when a structure exceeds 3,600 square
feet and changes are made to the building including any of the following:
change of use/occupancy, removal of an existing fire wall as defined by the
California Building Code, or additions of 50%or more are made to the original
building area and the resulting square footage exceeds 5,000 square feet.
3. One- and two-family dwellings shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system
regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential
Code. Fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured
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homes and multifamily manufactured homes with two dwelling units in
accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
Exceptions: Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building
Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following:
1. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for
telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution
equipment, batteries not required to have an automatic sprinkler system
by Section 1207 for energy storage systems and standby engines, provided
that those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke
detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from
the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers
constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building
Code or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in
accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.
2. Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed
in accordance with the California Building Code.
3. Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open
on all sides and used for riding only - no commercial, assembly or storage
uses.
4. Non-combustible fueling station canopies not exceeding 10,000 square feet
when separated from other buildings by a distance of not less than 50 feet.
5. Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all
sides and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of
vehicles and dining areas with no cooking.
6. Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists,
and the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to
other structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted.
The following exceptions in the California Fire Code shall not be allowed:
a. Exception in Section 903.2.3
b. Exception in Section 903.2.11.3
J. Section 903.3.5.3 is added to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically
calculated fire sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90%of the water supply capacity.
K. Section 903.3.10 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
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903.3.10 Floor control valves.Approved supervised indication control valves shall
be provided at the point of connection to the riser in all buildings. Valve locations
will be placed in the fire sprinkler riser room on each riser.
L. Section 904.2.2.1 is added to read as follows:
904.2.2.1 Extinguishing system monitoring requirements. All automatic fire-
extinguishing systems will be required to be monitored by a fire alarm monitoring
system. If a fire alarm monitoring system is not present, one will be required to be
installed to provide monitoring for the automatic fire-extinguishing system. Where
a fire alarm signaling system,or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is serving
the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the
automatic fire-extinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72.
M. Sections 907.1.6,907.1.7 and 907.1.8 are added to read as follows:
907.1.6 Fire alarm control panel(FACP).The main fire alarm control panel shall
be located in the same room as, and sharing the same access as the fire sprinkler
riser. The FACP shall have a minimum 36 inches of face clearance and 6 inches
side clearance from any other wall or equipment. Based on our climatic weather
conditions and the requirements set forth in any of the manufacture specifications
and installation requirements for fire alarm electronic equipment/panels,this room
may be required to be climate controlled
907.1.7 Notification appliance. New tenant spaces and new occupancy buildings
shall require alarm notification appliances. For multi-tenant buildings, an alarm
notification appliance shall be placed in each tenant suite. For existing buildings
with new tenants an alarm notification appliance shall be required in each tenant
space. For existing buildings that are not equipped with a fire alarm system or
sprinkler monitoring system, new tenants or owners shall be required to install the
appropriate type of fire alarm system.
907.1.8 Duct Detectors. Duct detectors located in any buildings that have a fire
alarm system shall be powered from the main building fire alarm power supply.
N. Section 1505.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
1505.1 General. Roof assemblies shall be divided into the classes defined in this
section. Class A, B and C roof assemblies and roof coverings required to be listed
by this section shall be tested in accordance with ASTM El 08 or UL 790. In
addition, fire-retardant wood roof coverings shall be tested in accordance with
ASTM D2898. The minimum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply
with Table 105.1 base do the type of construction of the building. The roof covering
or roofing assembly on any structure regulated by this Code within the Historical
District Overlay, generally known as the Old Town Temecula Historical
Preservation District, shall not be less than a Class C roofing assembly.
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O. Section 1907A.2.1 is added to read as follows:
1907A.2.1 Additional requirements. Slab Dowels in all occupancies, slab
connection from existing slabs to new construction shall be placed at a minimum
twenty-four(24) inches on center with reinforcing steel of one-half inch minimum
diameter, eight (18) inches in length. Embedment to existing shall be a minimum
of six(6) inches.
P. The following Appendices are deleted in their entirety:
Appendices A, B, D, G, H, I, J, K, L, M,N, 0 and P
15.04.030 California Residential Code. The following amendments, additions and
deletions are made to the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this
Chapter.
A. All Appendences, except CI are deleted.
B. Appendix CI is amended by adding item (8) to Section 115922(a) to read as
follows:
(8) One (1) of the two (2) required pool safety features of the seven (7) specified above
and from the Health and Safety Code 115922, must be an enclosure that meets the
111 requirements of Section 115923 of that code. The second required pool safety feature must
be one of the remaining six(6) features listed in Section 115922
15.04.040 California Electrical Code. The following amendments, additions and
deletions are made to the California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this
Chapter.
A. Section 90.4 is hereby amended by adding the following to the end of the code
section:
90.4 Enforcement.
Violations of this Code are subject to the prohibitions set forth in Section 15.02.060
and the penalties set forth in Chapter 1.20, of this Municipal Code.
For commercial projects an electrical contractor shall be responsible for
obtaining permits for electrical work performed.
B. Section 90.8 is hereby amended by adding the following:
(C) Connecting Conductors. Accessory uses or other building, or signs,
separately located on the same lot or premises shall have connecting conductors run
underground. (Agricultural area excepted.)
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(D) Spare Circuits. Where spare circuit protective devices are provided or
space for future circuit protective devices are provided on the bus in any flush or
semi-flush mounted panel,then raceways of sufficient capacity to permit utilization
of such space or spaces shall be provided to an approved accessible location.
C. Section 110.5 is hereby amended to read as follows:
110.5 Conductors. Conductors used to carry current shall be of copper,aluminum,
or copper-clad aluminum unless otherwise provided in this Code. Where the
conductor material is not specified, the sizes given in this Code shall apply to
copper conductors. Where other materials are used, the size shall be changed
accordingly. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, no aluminum
conductors smaller than#6 A.W.G. shall be used.
D. Section 334.10 is hereby amended to read as follows:
334.10 Uses permitted. Type NM, Type NMC, and Type NMS cables shall be
permitted to be used in the following:
(1) One and two-family dwellings.
( ) Multi-family dwellings permitted to be types III, IV, and V construction
xcept as prohibited in Section 334.12.
(3) No type NM,NMC, or NMS,or non-metallic sheathed cable(Romex) shall
be used in commercial applications regardless of mixed-use occupancy.
12. Section 690.4 (A) is hereby amended to read as follows:
(A)Photovoltaic Systems. Solar Photovoltaic Systems shall only be installed by
registered California Contractors License Board entities with a valid A, B, C-
10 or C-46 contractor license or the property owner. Valid copies of the
contractor's City of Temecula Business License and California Contractors
License Board license shall be submitted on the plans.
The current carrying conductors of all sources of energy *shall be designed to
de-energize, and remain de-energized, from their respective source of energy
generation when the utility-supplied service's main breaker is opened(set to the
"off'position) on the electrical system being energized by the aforementioned
sources of energy.
*For purposes of this section, "sources of energy" includes alternating current,
solar, wind, battery and fuel cell.
The point where the current carrying conductors are to be de-energized and
remain de-energized shall be immediately adjacent to the point of energy
generation or immediately adjacent to a combiner box, if so equipped. This
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shall apply to all electrical system installations, regardless of location of
conductors inside or outside of any structures.
Solar systems not installed on roofs—
Foundation and/or footings size plans and substantiating design calculations
shall be submitted showing supporting member sizes, dimensions, materials
and the loads which will be imposed on the foundation or footings. Where the
supporting framework of the modules or arrays is shown as part of the
laboratory approved system, design calculations will not be required for the
supporting framework of the modules or arrays provided they are included in
the approved listing.
15.04.050 California Mechanical Code. The following amendments, additions and
deletions are made to the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this
Chapter.
A. Section 104.5 is hereby deleted in its entirety and superseded by Sections 15.02.010
through 15.02.050 of this Municipal Code, expressly incorporated herein by
reference. All references in the California Mechanical Code to fees, fee schedules,
or fee tables shall mean the fee schedule as established by Resolution of the City
Council in accordance with Section 15.02.010 herein.
B. Section 106.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
106.3 Penalties. Violations of this Code are subject to the prohibitions set forth in
Section 15.02.060 and the penalties set forth in Chapter 1.20, of this Municipal
Code.
C. The first paragraph in Section 504.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
504.1 General. Where not specified in this chapter, exhaust ducts shall be
constructed and installed in accordance with Chapter 6 and shall be airtight as
approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Environmental air ducts that have
an alternate function as a part of an approved smoke-control system do not require
design as Class I product-conveying ducts. Aluminum flex ducts are not permitted
to be installed horizontally in rooms that produce steam. An angle greater than
forty-five degrees from the vertical is considered a horizontal run.
15.04.060 California Plumbing Code. The following amendments, additions and
deletions are made to the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this
Chapter:
A. Section 106.3 is amended to read as follows:
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106.3 Penalties. Violations of this Code are subject to the prohibitions set forth in
Section 15.02.060 and the penalties set forth in Chapter 1.20, of this Municipal
Code.
B. Section 104.5 is deleted 'in its entirety and superseded by Sections 15.02.010
through 15.02.050 of this Municipal Code, expressly incorporated herein by
reference. All references in the California Plumbing Code to fees, fee schedules,
or fee tables shall mean the fee schedule as established by resolution of the City
Council in accordance with Section 15.02.010 herein.
C. Section 211.0 is amended by revising the definition of `industrial waste pipe' to
read as follows:
Indirect Waste Pipe. An indirect waste pipe is a pipe that does not connect directly
with the drainage system but conveys liquid wastes by discharging through an
approved air gap into a plumbing fixture, interceptor or receptacle which is directly
connected to the drainage system.
1. Section 719.5 is hereby amended to read as follows:
719.5 Access. Cleanouts installed under concrete or asphalt paving shall be made
accessible by yard boxes, or by extending flush in paving with a `brass cap' or
other approved material for installation where subject to vehicular traffic.
2. Section 1213.3.1 is added to read as follows:
1213.3.1 Test Pressure. Testing of gas piping two (2) inches or greater or
exceeding twenty(20)feet in length shall require a thirty(30)minute test witnessed
by the jurisdiction. Such test shall be sixty (60) p.s.i. All welded pipe shall be
graph tested for twenty-four (24) hours at sixty (60) p.s.i. witnessed by the
jurisdiction. No gas tests shall be performed at less than ten (10) p.s.i and at not
less than fifteen(15)minutes witnessed by the jurisdiction.
3. Section 1211.8.1 is added to read as follows:
1211.8.1 Installation.The installation of Seismic Gas Shutoff Valves shall comply
with the following requirements:
1. Be installed by a contractor licensed in the appropriate classification by the
State of California.
Exception: Seismic gas shutoff valves may be installed by a gas utility
provided a permit is obtained and the valves are installed and approved in
accordance with this section.
2. Be mounted rigidly to the exterior of the building or structure containing
the fuel gas piping.
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Exception: This requirement need not apply if the Building Department
determines that the seismic gas shutoff valve has been tested and listed for
an alternate method of installation.
3. Be listed by an approved testing laboratory and certified by the Office of
the State Architect.
4. Be approved by the Building and Safety Department.
5. Have thirty (30) year warranty, which warrants that the valve is free from
defects, and will continue to properly operate for thirty (30)years from the
date of installation.
6. Where seismic gas shutoff valves are installed as required by this section,
they shall be maintained for the life of the building or structure or be
replaced with a valve complying with the requirements of this section.
H. The following chapter of the 2025 California Plumbing Code IS adopted in its
entirety: Chapter 13,Health Care Facilities and Medical Gas and Vacuum Systems.
I. The following Appendices of the 2025 California Plumbing Code are adopted in
their entirety: Appendix A, B, D,H, IAPMO IS 31-2022 of Appendix I, and J.
15.04.070 Penalties for violation of Chapter 15.04. Any person, firm, partnership, or
corporation violating any provision or to failing to comply with any of the requirements of
this Chapter or any of the Codes hereby adopted, shall be subject to the penalties set forth
in Chapters 1.20, 1.21 and 1.24 of the Temecula Municipal Code. Each and every person,
firm, partnership, or corporation shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and
every day or any portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this
Chapter or the Codes hereby adopted is committed,continued or permitted by such person,
firm, partnership or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable therefore as provided in
this Chapter.
15.04.080 Civil remedies available. The violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter
or any of the Codes hereby adopted shall constitute a nuisance and may be abated by the
City through civil process by means of restraining order, preliminary or permanent
injunction or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such nuisances."
Section 2. Chapter 15.16 of Title 15 of the Temecula Municipal Code, including all
provisions of all codes adopted by reference therein, is hereby repealed provided, however, that
such repeal shall not affect or excuse any violation occurring prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance. A new Chapter 15.16 is hereby added to Title 15 of the Temecula Municipal Code to
read as follows:
Chapter 15.16 California Fire Code
15.16.010 Code adopted.
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The City of Temecula hereby adopts by reference Part 9 of Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations, 2025 California Fire Code, inclusive of all the inclusions and exclusions
set forth for each chapter's matrix,subject to amendments,additions,and deletions set forth
in Section 15.16.020. In addition, the following provisions that are excluded in the 2025
California Fire Code are hereby adopted: Chapter 1, Division II is hereby adopted, except
that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted,and Chapters 3,25,and Sections 503,510.2,
1103.2 and 5707 are adopted.
15.16.020 Amendments.
The following amendments, additions, and deletions are made to the California Fire Code,
2025 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter:
A. CHAPTER 1: SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
Section 101.4 is amended to read as follows:
101.4 Severability.If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this ordinance or the
application thereof to any person or circumstances shall be held invalid, such invalidity
shall not affect the other provisions of this ordinance which can be given effect without the
invalid provision or application,and to this end,the provisions of this ordinance are hereby
declared to be severable.
Section 102.5 is amended to read as follows:
102.5 Application of Residential Code.Where structures are designed and constructed in
accordance with the California Residential Code,the provisions of this code shall apply as
follows:
1. Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the
structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire
apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices
are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 of this code shall
apply.
2. Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
3. Automatic fire sprinkler system requirements of this code shall apply to detached
accessory buildings 3,600 square feet or greater in accordance with Section 903.2.
The provisions contained in Section 903.2.18 of the California Fire Code or Section
R317.5.1 of the California Residential Code may be used for the design of the
automatic fire sprinkler system for detached private garages.
Section 102.13.1 is added to read as follows:
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102.13.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a
conflict exists between the provisions of the City of Temecula Municipal Code and the
California Wildland-Urban Interface Code,the most restrictive provisions shall apply.
Section 104.1.1 is added to read as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief and Fire Department.
1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee, is authorized and directed
to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this ordinance and
to perform such duties as directed by the Temecula City Council.
2. The Fire Chief,Chief Deputy,or their designee, is authorized to administer,
interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief', Chief Deputy,
or their designee's, direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is
authorized to enforce ordinances of Riverside County, City of Temecula
pertaining to the following:
2.1. The prevention of fires.
2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires.
2.3. The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.
2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other
private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.
2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.
2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire
hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property,
including those under construction.
2.7. The maintenance of means of egress.
2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and
unauthorized releases of hazardous materials.
3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the
provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as
authorized by law:
3.1. The Unit Chief,Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
3.2. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside
County Fire Department.
3.3. The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.
3.4. The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the
Riverside County Fire Department.
3.5. Officers of the California Highway Patrol.
3.6. Code Officers of the City of Temecula Code Enforcement
Department.
3.7. Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and
Recreation.
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3.8. The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land
Management.
Section 104.2 is amended to read as follows:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The Fire Code Official shall have the authority to
determine compliance with this code, to render interpretation of this code and to develop
policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify
the application if its provisions. Such interpretations,policies, procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code,
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this
code,
3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code.
Section 104.8 is amended to read as follows:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County, City of Temecula or any officer
or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided
by law.
Section 104.12 is added to read as follows:
104.12 Authority of the Fire Chief to close hazardous fire areas. Except upon National
Forest Land, the Fire Chief is authorized to determine and announce the closure of any
hazardous fire area or portion thereof. Any closure by the Fire Chief for a period of more
than fifteen (15) calendar days must be approved by the Riverside County Board of
Supervisors within fifteen(15) calendar days of the Fire Chief's original order of closure.
Upon such closure, no person shall go in or be upon any hazardous fire area, except upon
the public roadways and inhabited areas. During such closure, the Fire Chief shall erect
and maintain at all entrances to the closed area sufficient signs giving notice of closure.
This section shall not prohibit residents or owners of private property within any closed
area, or their invitees, from going in or being upon their lands. This section shall not apply
to any entry, in the course of duty,by a peace officer,duly authorized public officer or fire
department personnel. For the purpose of this section, "hazardous fire area" shall mean
public or private land that is covered with grass, grain, brush or forest and situated in a
location that makes suppression difficult resulting in great damage. Such areas are
designated on Hazardous Fire Area maps filed with the office of the Fire Chief.
Section 108.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the
City of Temecula fee schedule.
Section 108.7 is added to read as follows:
108.7 Cost Recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections
11374.5(b)(1 ), 13009 et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California
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Government Code sections 53150 et seq,and all other provisions of law, all costs incurred
by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement of any
provision of these Codes, the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous
condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the
containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release,and any rescue or rendering
of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any
person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or
omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside
County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department
for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be
collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract,
express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons
in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law
statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt
obligation arising from the incident.
Section 112.1 is deleted in its entirely and replaced with the following:
112.1 Board of appeals established. The Board of Appeals shall be the City Manager. If
he or she determines an outside board is needed,he or she shall designate an outside hearing
officer to hear the appeal. The Fire Chief and Chief Deputy shall be notified of any appeal
and the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy or their designee shall be in attendance at the appeal
hearing. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited, at
the expense of the applicant, for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board.
Section 113.4 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
113.4 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or
association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance,or to violate the provisions
of any permit granted pursuant to this code or the Temecula Municipal Code. Punishments
and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with Temecula Municipal Code and
Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5.
B. CHAPTER 2: DEFINITIONS
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS is amended by revising the definition of
Fire Chief, as follows:
FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chiefs designee
C. CHAPTER 3: OPEN FLAMES
Section 308.1.7 is amended to read as follows:
308.1.7 Sky lanterns or similar devices.A person shall not release or cause to be released
a sky lantern or similar device.
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D. CHAPTER 5: FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
Section 503.1.2.1 is added to read as follows:
503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Unless otherwise approved, where two fire apparatus access roads
are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the
length of the overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in
a straight line between accesses.
Section 503.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not
less than 24-feet, exclusive of shoulders, for single family dwellings tract homes,
multifamily homes,commercial,and industrial development,with an unobstructed vertical
clearance of not less than 13-feet 6-inches.
Exception: New custom home lot driveway access shall be a minimum of 20-feet
in width.
Section 503.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority.The fire code official shall be the only authority authorized to designate
fire apparatus access roads and fire lanes and to modify the minimum fire lane access
widths for fire or rescue operations.
Section 503.2.3 Surface is amended to read as follows:
Section 503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to
support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be of a surface to provide all-weather
driving capabilities such as asphalt or cement (AC). Access roads shall have a minimum
AC thickness of.25 feet.
Section 503.2.5 is amended to read as follows:
503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150-feet in length
shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus. The maximum
length of a dead-end road or cul-de-sac shall not exceed 1320 feet, unless a second access
point is provided for fire access.
Section 503.6.1 is added to read as follows:
503.6.1 Automatic opener. New motorized gates shall be provided with means to be
automatically opened remotely by emergency vehicle in accordance with Riverside County
Fire Department Standards and Policies, as may be amended from time to time.
Exception: Gates serving individual one- and two-family dwelling parcels.
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Section 503.7 is added to read as follows:
503.7 Loading areas and passenger drop-off areas. On private properties, where fire
apparatus access roads are utilized for loading or unloading or utilized for passenger drop-
off or pick-up,an additional eight(8)feet of width shall be added to the minimum required
width for the fire apparatus access road.
Section 505.1 is amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address
numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is
plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers
shall contrast with their background. Where required by the fire code official, address
numbers shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency
response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed
from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the
structure. Commercial, multi-family residential and industrial buildings shall have a
minimum of twelve (12) inch numbers with suite numbers being a minimum of six (6)
inches in size. All suites shall have a minimum of six (6) inch high letters and/or numbers
on both the front and rear doors. Single family residences and multi-family residential units
shall have four(4)inch letters and/or numbers,as approved by the Fire Prevention Bureau.
Address numbers shall be maintained and illuminated.
EXCEPTION: Building address numbers within the Downtown Core District (DTC) of
the Old Town Specific Plan, are permitted to be a minimum of eight(8) inches in size.
Sections 507.5.7 is added to read as follows:
507.5.7 Fire hydrant size and outlets.As determined by the fire code official,fire hydrant
sizes and outlets shall be based on the following:
1. Residential Standard—one (1) four(4) inch outlet and one (1) two and one half
(2 %2) inch outlet.
2. Super Hydrant Standard— one (1) four (4) inch outlet and two (2) two and one
half(2 %2) inch outlet.
3. Super Hydrant Enhanced—two (2) four(4) inch outlet and one (1) two and one
half(2 '/2) inch outlet.
Section 507.5.8 is added to read as follows:
507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in
accordance with the City of Temecula, Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines, as
may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the
course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor,
developer or person responsible for removal or damage.
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Section 508.1 is amended to read as follows:
508.1 General.Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified
as high-rise buildings by the California Building Code,in all buildings greater than 300,000
square feet(27 870 m2),and in Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more
than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access a fire command center
for fire department operations shall be provided and shall comply with Sections 508.1.1
through 508.1.7.
Section 508.1.1 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
508.1.1 Location and access. The fire command center shall be located adjacent to the
main lobby and shall be accessible from fire department vehicular access or as approved
by the fire code official. The room shall have direct access from the building exterior at the
lowest level of fire department access.
Section 508.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
508.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be not less than 0.015 percent of the total
building area of the facility served or 200 square feet(19 m2)in area,whichever is greater,
with a minimum dimension of 0.7 times the square root of the room area or 10 feet (3048
mm), whichever is greater.
Where a fire command center is solely required because a building is greater than 300,000
square feet (27 870 m2), the fire command center shall have a minimum size of 96 square
feet (9 m2) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438 mm) where approved by the fire
code official.
Section 509.2.1 is added to read as follows:
509.2.1 Minimum Clearance. A 3-foot(914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around
the circumference of exterior fire protection system control valves, or any other exterior
fire protection system component that may require immediate access, except as otherwise
required or approved.
Section 509.3 is added to read as follows:
509.3 Fire sprinkler system riser room. Fire sprinkler risers shall not be obstructed in
any manner. The fire system riser(s) is to be provided with eighteen(18) inch clearance to
each side and to the front of the system riser. Access shall be provided by means of an
exterior door with the minimum dimensions two (2) feet six(6) inches wide by six(6) feet
eight (8) inches tall. The fire system riser room shall house the fire sprinkler riser(s) and
main fire alarm control panel and not share with any other equipment (i.e. mechanical,
electrical, etc.). The fire sprinkler riser room will be located on an accessible corner of the
structure with easy access for all fire department personnel. Based on our climatic weather
conditions and the requirements set forth in any of the manufacture specifications and
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installation requirements for fire alarm electronic equipment/panels, this room may be
required to be climate controlled.
E. CHAPTER 6: BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
Section 608.11.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
Section 608.11.1.2 Manual operation. When required by the fire code official,automatic
crossover valves shall be capable of manual operation. The manual valves shall be located
in an approved location immediately outside of the machinery room in a secure metal box
or equivalent and marked as Emergency Controls.
F. CHAPTER 9: FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
Section 901.2.2 is added to read as follows:
901.2.2 As-built/Revised documents. A electronic copy of as-built/revised drawings shall
be submitted to the fire department online for approval prior to final of any permits.
Redlines are not considered as-builts/revised plans.
Section 903.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
903.2 Where required.
1. all new buildings and structures which are 3,600 square feet or greater, an approved
automatic sprinkler system shall be provided regardless of occupancy classification.
Where the Sections 903.2.1 — 903.2.21 of the California Fire Code require more
restrictive requirements than those listed below, the more restrictive requirement shall
take precedence.
2. All existing buildings, except for one- and two-family dwellings, shall be retrofitted
with automatic fire sprinklers when a structure exceeds 3,600 square feet and changes
are made to the building including any of the following: change of use/occupancy,
removal of an existing fire wall as defined by the California Building Code,or additions
of 50% or more are made to the original building area and the resulting square footage
exceeds 5,000 square feet.
3. One-and two-family dwellings shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system regardless
of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. Fire sprinkler
systems shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured homes and multifamily
manufactured homes with two dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the
California Code of Regulations.
Exceptions: Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building
Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following:
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1. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for
telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution
equipment, batteries not required to have an automatic sprinkler system
by Section 1207 for energy storage systems and standby engines, provided that
those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke
detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the
remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in
accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or not less than 2-
hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of
the California Building Code, or both.
2. Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed in
accordance with the California Building Code.
3. Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open on all
sides and used for riding only-no commercial, assembly or storage uses.
4. Non-combustible fueling station canopies not exceeding 10,000 square feet
when separated from other buildings by a distance of not less than 50 feet.
5. Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all sides
and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of vehicles and
dining areas with no cooking.
6. Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists, and
the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to other
structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted.
The following exceptions in the California Fire Code shall not be allowed:
a. Exception in Section 903.2.3
b. Exception in Section 903.2.11.3
Section 903.3.5.3 is added to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire
sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.
Section 903.3.10 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
903.3.10 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indication control valves shall be
provided at the point of connection to the riser in all buildings. Valve locations will be
placed in the fire sprinkler riser room on each riser.
Section 904.2.2.1 is added to read as follows:
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904.2.2.1 Extinguishing system monitoring requirements. All automatic fire-
extinguishing systems will be required to be monitored by a fire alarm monitoring system.
If a fire alarm monitoring system is not present, one will be required to be installed to
provide monitoring for the automatic fire-extinguishing system. Where a fire alarm
signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is serving the occupancy
where the extinguishing system is located,the actuation of the automatic fire-extinguishing
system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 72.
Sections 907.1.6, 907.1.7 and 907.1.8 are added to read as follows:
907.1.6 Fire alarm control panel (FACP). The main fire alarm control panel shall be
located in the same room as, and sharing the same access as the fire sprinkler riser. The
FACP shall have a minimum 36 inches of face clearance and 6 inches side clearance from
any other wall or equipment. Based on our climatic weather conditions and the
requirements set forth in any of the manufacture specifications and installation
requirements for fire alarm electronic equipment/panels, this room may be required to be
climate controlled
907.1.7 Notification appliance. New tenant spaces and new occupancy buildings shall
require alarm notification appliances. For multi-tenant buildings, an alarm notification
appliance shall be placed in each tenant suite. For existing buildings with new tenants an
alarm notification appliance shall be required in each tenant space. For existing buildings
that are not equipped with a fire alarm system or sprinkler monitoring system,new tenants
or owners shall be required to install the appropriate type of fire alarm system.
907.1.8 Duct Detectors. Duct detectors located in any buildings that have a fire alarm
system shall be powered from the main building fire alarm power supply.
G. CHAPTER 32: HIGH PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
Section 3206.4.2 is added to read as follows:
3206.4.2 Minimum requirements for client leased or occupant owned warehouses.
Designs of an automatic sprinkler system for client leased or occupant owned buildings
containing high pile storage shall be based on the requirements of NFPA 13. Unless
otherwise approved a Professional Engineer, licensed in the State of California, shall
perform a survey of the building to determine commodity classification, storage
configuration, building height and other information related to the development of an
appropriate sprinkler system design. The engineer shall also make reasonable efforts to
meet with the building owner or operator to understand seasonal or customer related
fluctuations to the stored commodities, storage height, and configuration. The sprinkler
design shall be based on the most demanding requirements determined through the onsite
survey and discussions with the building owner or operator. The technical report shall
describe the basis for determining the commodity and sprinkler design selection, how the
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commodities will be isolated or separated, and include references to the design
document(s). If a specific fire test is used as the basis of design,a copy of the fire test report
shall be provided at the time of plan review.
H. CHAPTER 41: TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS.
New Sections 4107.1,4107.2,4107.2.1,4107.2.2,4107.2.3 are added to read as follows:
4107.1 General. Mobile food preparation vehicles that are equipped with appliances that
produce smoke or grease-laden vapors shall comply with this section.
4107.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of systems on mobile food preparation vehicles shall
be in accordance with Sections 4107.2.1 through 4107.2.3.
4107.2.1 Exhaust system. The exhaust system, including hood, grease removal devices,
fans, ducts and other appurtenances, shall be inspected and cleaned in accordance with
Section 606.3
4107.2.2 Fire protection systems and devices. Fire protection systems and devices shall
be maintained in accordance with Section 901.6
4107.2.3 Fuel gas systems. LP-gas containers installed on the vehicle and the fuel-gas
piping system shall be inspected annually by an approved inspection agency or company
that is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation to requalify LP-gas cylinders,
to ensure that system component are free from damage, suitable for the intended service
and not subject to leaking. CNG containers shall be inspected every 3 years in a qualified
service facility. CNG containers shall not be used past their expiration date as listed on the
manufacture's container label. Upon satisfactory inspection, the approved inspection
agency shall affix a tag on the fuel gas system or within the vehicle indicating the name of
the inspection agency and the date of satisfactory inspections.
I. CHAPTER 56: EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS.
Section 5608.2 is added to read as follows:
5608.2 Fallout Area. For aerial shells, the minimum required radius of the fallout area
shall be 100 ft/in. (22 m/25 mm) of the internal mortar diameter of the largest aerial shell
to be fired, unless otherwise approved.
J. APPENDICES
APPENDIX B
B103.2.1 is added to read as follows:
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B103.2.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Subdivision. The minimum fire flow for any
new subdivision or tract constructed within a Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall be 1,500
gallons per minute.
Table B105.2 is amended to read as follows:
TABLE B105.2
REQUIRED FIRE-FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN ONE- AND TWO-
FAMILY DWELLINGS,GROUP R-3 AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES
AUTOMATIC MINIMUM FIRE-FLOW FLOW DURATION
SPRINKLER SYSTEM (gallons per minute) (hours)
(Design Standard)
No automatic sprinkler Value in Table B105.1(2) Duration in Table
system B 105.1(2)
Section 903.3.1.1 of the 50% of the value in Table Duration in Table
California Fire Code B 105.1(2)a B 105.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of the 50%of the value in Table Duration in Table
California Fire Code B 105.1(2)b B 105.1(2) at the
reduced flow rate
For SI: 1 gallon per minute= 3.785 L/m.
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,000 gallons per minute.
b. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.
Appendix C
Section C103.1 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
C103.1 Hydrant spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing
required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 of the California Fire Code
shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants,as determined by Section C 102.1. Where
more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be
in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3. Fire hydrants shall be provided at street
intersections.
J. 15.16.030 Penalties for violation.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or association of persons to violate
any provision of this Chapter, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant
to this Chapter. Any person, firm, corporation or association of persons violating any
provision of this Chapter or the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this Chapter,
shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor unless specifically designated as an infraction.
Such person or entity shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day
or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter or
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the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this Chapter, is committed, continued, or
permitted.
Violations shall be punishable as provided in Chapters 1.20, 1.21,and 1.24 of the Temecula
Municipal Code. Payment of any fine or penalty herein shall not relieve a person or entity
from the responsibility for correcting the violation.
K. 15.16.040 Civil Remedies Available.
The violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter shall constitute a nuisance and may
be abated by the City through civil process by means of restraining order, preliminary or
permanent injunction or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such
nuisances."
Section 3. A new Chapter 15.17 is hereby added to Title 15 of the Temecula Municipal
Code to read as follows:
"Chapter 15.17 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
15.17.010 Code adopted.
The City of Temecula hereby adopts by reference Part 7 of Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations, 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, inclusive of all of the
inclusions and exclusions set for in each chapter's matrix, subject to amendments,
additions, and deletions set forth in Section 15.17.020. In addition, the following
provisions that are excluded in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code —
Chapter 1,Division II of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are hereby adopted,
except that Sections 103.2 and 112.3 are not adopted, and sections A 101 through A102.2,
A102.4, A104, A105.1, A105.4 through A105.4.2, A106 through A106.2 and A107
through A107.5 are adopted.
15.17.020 Amendments.
The following amendments, additions, and deletions are made to the California Wildland-
Urban Interface Code, 2025 Edition, as adopted by this Chapter:
A. CHAPTER 1, DIVISION II: SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
102.4.1.1 is added to read as follows:
102.4.1.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a
conflict exists between the provisions of the Riverside County Fire Code and the California
Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.
104.1.1 is added to read as follows:
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104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, and Fire Department.
1. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized and directed to
enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this ordinance and to
perform such duties as directed by the Temecula City Council.
2. The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized to administer,
interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their
designee's direction,the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce
ordinances of City of Temecula pertaining to the following:
2.1. The prevention of fires.
2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires.
2.3. The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.
2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other
private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.
2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.
2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards
on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under
construction.
2.7. The maintenance of means of egress.
2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and
unauthorized releases of hazardous materials.
3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the
provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized
by law:
3.1. The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
3.2. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside
County Fire Department.
3.3. The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.
3.4. The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the
Riverside County Fire Department.
3.5. Officers of the California Highway Patrol.
3.6. Code Officers of the City of Temecula Code Enforcement Department.
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3.7. Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
3.8. The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land
Management.
Section 104.2 is amended to read as follows:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to
determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop
policies,procedures,guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the
application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies,procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for
in this code.
3. Shall be enforceable as part of this code.
Sections 104.8 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against Riverside County or any officer or employee for
damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law.
Section 104.8.1 is deleted in its entirety.
Section 105.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
105.2 Permits Required.Unless otherwise exempted,buildings or structures regulated by
this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted,
demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or
structure has first been obtained from the code official.
For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.
Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities,
operations,practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:
1. Automobile wrecking yard.
2. Candles and open flames in assembly areas.
3. Explosives or blasting agents.
4. Fireworks.
5. Flammable or combustible liquids.
6. Hazardous materials.
7. Liquefied petroleum gases.
8. Landscape and fuel modification zones.
9. Lumberyards.
10. Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.
11. Open burning.
12. Pallet Yards.
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13. Pyrotechnical special effects material.
14. Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.
15. Tire storage.
16. Welding and cutting operations.
Section 108.2 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees.Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the City of
Temecula fee schedule.
Section 108.7 is added to read as follows:
108.7 Cost recovery. Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code sections
11374.5(b)(1), 13009, et seq., 25259.4, 25515(a), 25540(a), 25541 (a), California
Government Code sections 53150 et seq, and all other applicable provisions of law, all
costs incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department for the inspection and enforcement
of any provision of these Codes,the investigation of any fire, explosion or other hazardous
condition, the suppression of fire, the response to a traffic collision or accident, the
containment and/or mitigation of a hazardous materials release,and any rescue or rendering
of medical or physical aid or assistance, may be charged to any responsible party, any
person who violates these Codes or any person who, due to a negligent or unlawful act or
omission, is responsible for or requires or causes the emergency response of Riverside
County Fire Department. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department
for such an emergency response shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be
collectible by the County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract,
express or implied. These provisions shall be applied uniformly against all such persons
in violation of a Penal Code, Vehicle Code, Health and Safety Code or other state law
statutory violation; only a county official shall have authority to reduce or cancel the debt
obligation arising from the incident.
Section 109.3.7 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
109.3.7 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or
association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance,or to violate the provisions
of any permit granted pursuant to this code or the Temecula Municipal Code. Punishments
and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with Temecula Municipal Code, Health
and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5 and Government Code Section 51185.
B. CHAPTER 2, DEFINITIONS
Section 202, definition of"Fire Chief' is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chiefs designee.
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C. CHAPTER 3, WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREAS
Section 302.1.1 is added to read as follows:
302.1.1 Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The City of Temecula has adopted
the recommendations of the State Fire Marshal made pursuant to Government Code section
51178 and designated those areas within Riverside County and the City of Temecula as
moderate, high, and very high fire hazard severity zones as shown on the Local
Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones Maps published by the Office of the State
Fire Marshal. The Maps have been adopted under Temecula Ordinance 2025-08
D. CHAPTER 5, SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS.
Section 501.1 is amended as follows:
501.1 Scope. Buildings and structures in a wildland-urban interface area shall be
constructed in accordance with the California Building Code and this code. For the purpose
of this Chapter, a wildland-urban interface area shall be defined as a geographical area
identified by the state as a "Fire Hazard Severity Zone" in accordance with the Public
Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code Sections 51175
through 51189, and other areas designated by the enforcing agency to be at a significant
risk from wildfires, and shall include those areas designated by Ordinance as moderate,
high, and very high fire hazard severity zones based on recommendations from the State
Fire Marshal pursuant to Government Code Section 51178.
Exceptions:
1.Group U accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet(11 m2)in floor area
where located not less than 50 feet(15 240 mm) from applicable buildings.
2.Group U agricultural buildings not less than 50 feet(15 240 mm)from applicable
buildings.
E. CHAPTER 6, FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS
Section 602.1 is amended as follows:
602.1 General. A fire protection plan shall be submitted to the Fire Code Official for any
proposed subdivision of land or building project. The fire protection plan shall be prepared
to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to
mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.
The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified
landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the
code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building,project,premises or region
to recommend necessary changes.
Submittal of a preliminary fire protection plan shall be required prior to the submission of
a final fire protection plan.
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Exception: A single-family dwelling (Group R-3 Occupancy) when located on an
existing legal parcel.
Section 602.3.2 is amended as follows:
602.3.2 Final Fire Protection Plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in
Section 602.3.1 and the following:
1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend
that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include
specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to:
1.1. The plant life-form;
1.2. The scientific and common name; and
1.3. The expected height and width for mature growth.
2. Identification of irrigated and non-irrigated zones.
3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation
routes.
4. Identification of existing vegetation proposed to remain.
5. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain
vegetation in common areas.
6. Methods and timetables for controlling, changing, or modifying areas on the
property.
7. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance
of fuel modification zones.
8. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants,conditions and restrictions
regarding property owner responsibilities for vegetation maintenance.
Section 603.1 is amended as follows:
603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new and replacement landscaping shall be
selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it
matures.
Section 603.3 is amended as follows:
603.3 Landscape and Fuel Modification plans. Landscape and Fuel Modification plans
shall be submitted for any project located in a WUI area. The landscape and Fuel
Modification plan shall include development and maintenance requirements for the
vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways, and to provide
significant fire hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety.
Section 603.3.1 is amended as follows:
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603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following:
1. Delineation of the 5-foot(1524 mm) (Zone 0), 30-foot(9144 mm) (Zone 1) and
100-foot(30 480 mm) (Zone 2) fuel management zones from all structures.
2. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation.
3. Identification of irrigated areas.
4. A plant legend with both botanical and common names, and identification of all
plant material symbols.
5. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot(9144 mm) zone.
Section 604.6 is added to read as follows:
604.6 Clearance of brush, vegetative growth, and combustible material from
improved parcels. All improved parcels declared a Public Nuisance shall be cleared
entirely of combustible material. If the Fire Code Official determines this impractical, the
provisions of Section 604.7 may be used.
Section 604.7 is added to read as follows:
604.7 Clearance of fuels or vegetative growth from structures. Clearance of fuels and
vegetative growth from structures shall be per sections 604.7.1 through 604.7.4 of this
code.
Section 604.7.1 is added to read as follows:
604.7.1 Structures. Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating, or maintaining
any Building or structure in, upon, or adjoining any FHSZ, governed by this section, and
any person owning, leasing, or controlling any land adjacent to such Buildings, shall at all
times maintain around and adjacent to such Building, an effective firebreak made by
removing and clearing away, all combustible material on their property for a distance not
less than 100 feet from all portions of the Building.
Distances may be increased by the Fire Code Official due to a site-specific analysis based
on local conditions and when required, based on a Fire Protection Plan. This section shall
not apply to single specimens or stands of protected species of trees, Ornamental
Landscape or similar plants used in landscaping and ground covers, that are well-pruned,
maintained, and spaced, and do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other
nearby vegetation to a structure or from a structure to other nearby vegetation or to interrupt
the advance of embers toward a structure.
Section 604.7.2 is added to read as follows:
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604.7.2 Timing for New Buildings and additions to Existing Buildings. The provisions
of Section 604.7 shall be completed prior to vertical construction of any New Building or
addition to an Existing Building.
Section 604.7.3 is added to read as follows:
604.7.3 Photovoltaic Systems. The clearance requirements around freestanding
photovoltaic systems and equipment shall comply with the following:
1. A minimum 10-foot clearance for clusters of panels not exceeding 1,500 square
feet of combined panel area.
2. A minimum of 30-foot clearance for clusters of panels greater than 1,500 square
feet of combined panel area.
3. Clusters shall be separated by a minimum of 20 feet.
4. Panels and clusters shall be not located within 30 feet of any Building subject to
clearance requirements of Section 604 unless the clearance requirements of Section
604 are provided as measured from the perimeter of the panel or cluster.
Section 604.8 is added to read as follows:
604.8 Defensible Space clearance zones and requirements. The required 100-foot
Defensible Space clearance is identified in three (3)distinct zones: Zone 0, 1, and 2.
Section 604.8.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.1 Requirements. Defensible Space shall be in accordance with the requirements of
Appendix A of this code, Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines and the specific
requirements for each zone listed in Sections 604.8.2 through 604.8.5.
Section 604.8.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.2 Zone 0 purpose and location. Zone 0 reduces the likelihood of structure ignition
by reducing the potential for direct ignition of the structure from flame contact, by embers
that accumulate at the base of a wall, and/or indirect ignitions when embers ignite
vegetation, vegetative debris, or other combustible materials located close to the structure
that result in either a radiant heat and/or a direct flame contact exposure to the structure.
Zone 0 is the horizontal area within the first five (5) feet around the structure, including
stairs, balconies, attached or adjacent decks, and outbuildings. Zone 0 is measured from
the edge of a structure, attached or adjacent decks, patio covers, balconies, and floor
projections above-grade. Zone 0 also includes the area on the roof of a building, and
underneath and on top of attached decks,patio covers, balconies, and stair landings.
Advisory Notice: Riverside County Fire Department has local Zone 0 requirements
currently in effect for new Buildings and additions to existing Buildings. New State
regulations for Zone 0 are currently under development by the State Board of Forestry and
Fire Protection. Any State regulation more restrictive than this ordinance shall apply. This
111 may require thinning and/or removal of plants,trees,and vegetation to meet State Law and
regulations.
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Section 604.8.2.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.2.1 Non-Combustible Zone 0 for New Buildings,additions to Existing Buildings,
and new or replacement landscape. Fuels, including Combustible Materials and
vegetation,are prohibited in Zone 0 for all New Buildings,additions to Existing Buildings,
installation of new landscape, and refurbishment of existing landscape areas.
The application date of Section 604.8.2.1 shall be the later application date when any of
the following occur:
1. Fire Department Clearance for a New Building or addition to an Existing
Building.
2. Building permit for a New Building or addition to an Existing Building.
3. Landscape plans submitted for Riverside County Fire Department review.
4. Replacement of landscape when landscape plans are not required.
Section 604.8.2.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.2.2 Additional requirements in Zone 0.
1. New and existing tree canopies are prohibited within 10 feet of New Buildings,
including the addition portion to Existing Buildings.
Exception: Existing protected oak trees shall be trimmed to provide a
minimum 5-foot clearance above the roof and 5 feet to the side of any New
Building, or the addition portion to an Existing Building.
2. Landscaped roofs are prohibited.
3. Vegetation underneath decks is prohibited.
4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck,not part of the deck structure
itself, shall be removed.
5. Artificial or synthetic grass is prohibited within Zone 0.
6. Vines and climbing plants are not allowed on structures, including decks,
patio/shade structures, and any fences within 5 feet of a Building.
7. Combustible mulch and wood chips are prohibited.
8. Firewood is prohibited.
9. All fencing and gates shall be non-combustible. See Section 604.11.
604.8.2.3 Zone 0 requirements for Existing Buildings.
Section 604.8.2.3.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.2.3.1 Zone 0 restrictions. The following requirements apply within Zone 0 for all
Existing Buildings with landscape installed prior to January 1, 2026:
1. No combustible landscape mulch or wood chips.
2. No firewood.
3. No vegetation underneath decks.
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4. Other Combustible Materials underneath any deck,not part of the deck structure
itself, shall be removed.
5. Roofs and gutters on Buildings shall be maintained free of any leaves, needles,
or other vegetative Combustible Materials.
6. The vertical clearance distance for trees and vegetation above any roof shall be
not less than 3 feet.
7. A minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided to the side
and above any eave or roof projection from the exterior wall of a Building. A
minimum 3-foot clearance of trees and vegetation shall be provided below any eave
or roof projection. This requirement also applies to any patio cover or other
Building projections.
8. New trees are not allowed.
9. New or replacement landscaping shall comply with Sections 604.8.1, 604.8.2.1,
and 604.8.2.2.
Section 604.8.3 is added to read as follows:
604.8.3 Zone 1 purpose and location. Zone 1 reduces the likelihood of fire burning
directly to the structure. This is accomplished by modifying Fuels and creating a
discontinuity between planting groups that limits the pathways for fire to burn to the
structure and reduces the potential for near-to-building ember generation and radiant heat
exposures. An additional purpose of this zone is to provide a defendable area for fire
personnel to stage and take direct action. Zone 1 is the area within 5-30 feet of structures
and decks, with slopes not greater than 20 percent; 5-50 feet from Buildings and decks,
when slopes are greater than 20 percent.
Section 604.8.3.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.3.1 Requirements and allowable items. This is a minimal planting zone which
includes very limited trees of a fire-smart type with additional spacing provided.Plants and
other vegetation shall be in accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County
Fire Department Guidelines.
Section 604.8.4 is added to read as follows:
604.8.4 Zone 2 purpose and location.Zone 2 is designed to reduce the potential behavior
of an oncoming fire in such a way as to drop an approaching fire from the crown of trees
to the ground, reducing the flame heights, and the potential for ember generation and
radiant heat exposure to structures. Additional benefits of the Zone 2 include facilitating
direct defense actions and improving the function of Zones 0 and 1.
Zone 2 is the area from the outer edge of Zone 1 to 100 feet from structures and decks.
Section 604.8.4.1 is added to read as follows:
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604.8.4.1 Requirements and allowable items. Plants and other vegetation shall be in
accordance with Appendix A of this code and Riverside County Fire Department
Guidelines.
Section 604.8.4.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.4.2 Spacing. Spacing of vegetation and trees at the outer edge of Zone 2 shall be
based upon the height of the vegetation within Zone 2 or the adjacent area beyond the 100-
foot zone, whichever provides for the greater spacing. This may require clearance outside
the 100-foot zone or setting back vegetation and trees within Zone 2 away from the 100-
foot line.
Section 604.8.5 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5 General requirements for Zone 0, 1, and 2.
Section 604.8.5.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.1 Dead and dying vegetation. All dead or dying grass, plants, shrubs, trees,
branches, leaves, weeds, and tree needles shall be removed.
Section 604.8.5.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.2 Mulch and wood chips within Zones 1 and 2. Use of combustible Mulch and
wood chips shall be in accordance with the requirements Riverside County Fire
Department Guidelines.
Section 604.8.5.3 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.3 Firewood. See Section 607.
Section 604.8.5.4 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.4 Clearance from chimney,stovepipe.Any portion of a tree or shrub that extends
within 10 feet horizontally or vertically of a chimney outlet or stovepipe outlet shall be
removed.
Section 604.8.5.5 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.5 Trees. New trees shall be planted and maintained so that the tree's drip line at
maturity is a minimum of 10 feet from any combustible structure.
Section 604.8.5.5.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.1 Tree spacing. The horizontal distance between crowns of new trees and
crowns of adjacent trees shall not be less than 20 feet in Zone 1 and not less than 10 feet in
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Zone 2. Separation distance may be increased for slopes exceeding 20 percent. Required
spacing is measured between trees at maturity.
Section 604.8.5.5.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.2 Ground clearance of trees. Trees exceeding 6 feet in height shall be limbed
up from the ground 6 feet or 1/3 the height of the tree, whichever is less.
Exception: Fruit trees when approved by the Fire Code Official.
Section 604.8.5.5.3 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.5.3 Ground cover under tree canopy. When approved ground cover and shrubs
are located underneath trees,the vertical clearance to the lowest branch of the tree canopy
shall not be less than three times the height of the ground cover or shrub under or adjacent
to the tree. The horizontal clearance shall be 3 feet from the trunk of the tree.
Section 604.8.5.6 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.6 Continuous tree canopies.
Section 604.8.5.6.1 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.1 New Structures. Continuous tree canopies are not allowed. Tree spacing shall
be in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department...
Section 604.8.5.6.2 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.6.2 Existing Structures. Continuous tree canopies may be allowed as determined
by the Fire Code Official but will require the complete removal of any understory and
smaller trees to meet requirements for a shaded fuel zone. Any remaining trees shall be
limbed up a minimum of 12 feet from the ground or 1/3 the tree height, whichever is less.
The intent is to not allow a crown (canopy) fire to spread unchecked to a structure and to
bring any crown fire down to the ground level prior to Zone 1.
Section 604.8.5.7 is added to read as follows:
604.8.5.7 Grasses. Natural or annual grasses shall be mowed to a maximum height of 4-
inch stubble with clippings removed.
Section 604.9 is added to read as follows:
604.9 Fire protection equipment and utilities. The clearance requirements of Sections
604.7 and 604.8 shall apply to communication site towers and their support Buildings;
required fire protection water supplies, including water tanks, water supply pumps, and
pump houses; and any other utility Structure as required by the Fire Code Official. The
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Fire Code Official may consider a reduced distance, not less than 30 feet, for
communication site towers, water tanks, and Structures with no interior space, based upon
a site risk assessment. Also see Appendix A
Section 604.10 is added to read as follows:
604.10 Planting vegetation under or adjacent to energized electrical lines. No
vegetation shall be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines that,at maturity,will
grow within 10 feet of the energized conductors.
Section 604.11 is added to read as follows:
604.11 Fencing.
Section 604.11.1 is added to read as follows:
604.11.1 Scope. This section only applies to fences, including gates within the fencing,
within 5 feet of Building(s),including Decks,(Zone 0)that are in an applicable Fire Hazard
Severity Zone req by Chapter 6 of this code.
Section 604.11.2 is added to read as follows:
604.11.2 New fencing. New fencing and gates shall be constructed of a non-combustible
material.
Section 604.11.3 is added to read as follows:
604.11.3 Existing fencing. Fencing installed prior to January 1, 2026, may remain.
Exception: The entire fencing not parallel and within 5 feet of the Building,
including gates within the fencing, shall be constructed of a non-combustible
material when any portion of the existing fencing within 5 feet is being replaced.
Fencing beyond 5 feet from the Building is not required to be replaced with non-
combustible material.
Section 607.1 is added to read as follows:
607.1 General. Firewood and combustible materials shall not be stored in unenclosed
spaces beneath Buildings or Structures, or on Decks or under eaves, canopies, or other
projections or overhangs. Firewood piles shall be located 30 feet(9144 mm)or more from
structures unless completely covered by a fire-resistant material. Exposed wood piles
located within the defensible space shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet(3048 mm)
down to bare mineral soil in all directions. Firewood shall not be stored within Zone 0.
Section 607.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
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607.1.1 Combustible Materials. Combustible Materials, other than vegetation, stored
within Zones 1 and 2 shall not be stored so as to pose a hazard to any Building. Piles shall
not exceed 100 square feet of area and a maximum height of 10 feet.Piles shall be separated
by a minimum of 20-foot clear area.
Section 607.2 is amended to read as follows:
607.2 Storage for off-site use. Firewood and Combustible Materials not for consumption
on the premises shall not be stored within Zones 0, 1, and 2. See Appendix A for storage
requirements.
Section 608.1.1 is added to read as follows:
608.1.1 Restricted development setbacks. New Structures and additions to existing
Structures shall not be constructed less than 100 feet from any protected habitat, whether
on the same or adjacent Parcels, where the 100-foot Defensible Space required under
Section 604.7 cannot be provided, unless an alternate method of construction and
protection is provided that can ensure the safety of the Structure and emergency responders
as approved by the Fire Code Official. Protected habitat includes lands restricted from
brush clearance or modification due to Federal or State listed endangered species.Protected
habitat does not include sensitive habitat areas.
Section 608.2 amended to read as follows:
608.2 General. All parcels shall provide a minimum 30-foot (9144 mm) setback for all
buildings from property lines and the center of a road, except as provided for in Section
608.2.1. [CCR T14 §1276.00(a)] This section applies to new Tract and Parcel maps, new
Buildings, and additions to Existing Buildings.
Section 608.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
608.2.1 Setback reduction. A reduction in the minimum setback shall be based upon
practical reasons, which may include but are not limited to, parcel dimensions or size;
topographic limitations;Development density requirements or other Development patterns
that promote low-carbon emission outcomes; sensitive habitat or other site constraints,and
shall provide for an alternative method to reduce structure-to-structure ignition by
incorporating a combination of features such as, but not limited to:
1. Non-combustible block walls or fences; or
2. Non-combustible material extending 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the
furthest extent of the building; or
3. Hardscape landscaping; or
4. A reduction of exposed windows on the side of the structure with setback less
than 30 feet(9144 mm). [CCR T14 §1276.01]
Section 609.2.7.1 is added to read as follows:
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609.2.7.1 Greenbelts. Subdivisions and other developments,which propose Greenbelts as
a part of the development plan, shall locate the Greenbelts strategically, as a separation
between wildland fuels and Structures. The locations shall be approved by the inspection
authority.
Section 609.2.7.2 is added to read as follows:
609.2.7.2 Access to Greenbelts. A minimum of one (1) access point shall be provided to
new Greenbelts at an approved location to allow for on-going maintenance and firefighter
access.Additional access points shall be provided when required by the Fire Code Official.
F. APPENDIX A, GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Section A102.1 is amended to read as follows:
A102.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Sections A102.2 through A102.4
and with Chapter 6.
Section A105.1 is amended to read as follows:
A105.1 General. In addition to the requirements of the California Fire Code, Temecula
Municipal Code and Chapter 6,storage and use of the materials shall be in accordance with
Sections A105.2 through Al 05.4.2.
Section A105.4 is amended to read as follows:
A105.4 Combustible Materials. Outside storage of Combustible Materials such as, but
not limited to, wood, rubber tires, building materials, or paper products shall comply with
the other applicable sections of this Ordinance and this section. Storage of pallets shall be
in accordance with Section 5, Section 2810. Storage and processing of wood chips,hogged
materials, fines, Compost, Compostable Material, Mulch, solid biomass, raw product, and
combustible yard waste and recycle material shall be in accordance with Section 5, Section
2808."
Section 4. Environmental Findings. The City Council hereby finds that this
Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act
("CEQA")pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3)because
it can be seen with certainty that there is,no possibility that the Code Amendments would have a
significant impact on the environment. The Amendments adopt the California Building Codes,
which implement minimum safety standards as required by California Health and Safety Code
§17958. The Community Development Director is hereby directed to file a Notice of Exemption
in accordance with CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines.
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Section 5. Severability. If any section or provision of this Ordinance is for any reason
held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, or contravened by
reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining sections and/or provisions of this Ordinance
shall remain valid. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance,
and each section or provision thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or more section(s) or
provision(s) may be declared invalid or unconstitutional or contravened via legislation.
Section 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon the later of
January 1, 2026, or thirty (30) days after adoption.
Section 7. Certification. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall certify to the
passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same or a summary thereof to be
published and posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Temecula
this 18th day of November, 2025.
Brenden Kalfus, Mayor
ATTEST:
Randi Johl, Ci erk
[SEAL]
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Randi Johl, City Clerk of the City of Temecula, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 2025-14 was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a meeting of the
City Council of the City of Temecula on the 14th day of October, 2025, and that thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Temecula at a meeting thereof held
on the 18th day of November, 2025,by the following vote:
AYES: 5 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Alexander, Kalfus, Rahn, Schwank,
Stewart
NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
Randi Johl, City Clerk
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