HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-07-13 - ORDINANCES - STATE BLDG CODES ADOPT (2).4612.2► ►•
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARI TA, CALIFORNIA,
ADOPTING THE BUILDING CODE, MECHANICAL CODE,
PLUMBING CODE, AND ELECTRICAL CODE,
WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita is located in a region having unique geologic conditions,
including known active seismic faults; and
WHEREAS, the Uniform Building Code and the State of California have identified the region as
having a high degree of seismic activity as evidenced by the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and
prior large magnitude earthquakes; and
WHEREAS, the soil located in the region is unique in its high sulfate content and exhibits a high
degree of expansivity and susceptibility to liquefaction in seismic events; and
WHEREAS, the climate is and in nature and the topography of the City consists of numerous
canyons and hillsides thereby posing a high degree of fire hazard; and
WHEREAS, the above factors justify that all of the attached amendments to the State Building
Code are related to the topography, geology or climate of the City of Santa Clarita, and
WHEREAS, the State of California requires, by its government code, that the City adopt the
latest State building codes;
WHEREAS, the City finds the need to modify or add certain administrative provisions in order
to effectively enforce the provisions of the building codes, and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance repeals and re -adopts those local amendments dealing with specific
unique conditions of this community,
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Titles 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code relating to the
Building Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code , and the Mechanical Code, respectively, are
hereby repealed.
SECTION 2. The Santa Clarita Municipal Code is hereby amended to add Titles 18, 19, 20
and 21 relating to the Building Code, Electrical Code, Plumbing Code, and Mechanical Code,
respectively, to read as follows:
TITLE 18: BUILDING CODE
Chapter 18.01 Adoption of Building Code
Chapter 18.02 Amendments to Certain Sections
Chapter 18.03 Administrative Provisions
TITLE 19: ELECTRICAL CODE
Chapter 19.01 Adoption of Electrical Code
Chapter 19.02 Amendments to Certain Sections
Chapter 19.03 Administrative Provisions
TITLE 20: PLUMBING CODE
Chapter 20.01 Adoption of Plumbing Code
Chapter 20.02 Amendments to Certain Sections
Chapter 20.03 Administrative Provisions
TITLE 21: MECHANICAL CODE
Chapter 21.01 Adoption of Plumbing Code
Chapter 21.02 Amendments to Certain Sections
Chapter 21.03 Administrative Provisions
Title 18
BUILDING CODE
Chapters:
18.01
Adoption Of The Building Code
18.02
Amendments To Certain Sections
18.03
Administrative Provisions
Chapter 18.01
ADOPTION OF THE BUILDING CODE
Sections:
18.01.010 Adoption of the Building Code.
Section 18.01.010 Adoption of the Building Code.
There is adopted by reference that certain building code known and designated as "The Uniform
Building Code, 1997 Edition," prepared by the International Conference of Building Officials and
including those sections of the California Building Code requiring enforcement by the local Building
Department. Further, all appendix chapters of the Uniform Building Code are adopted, except Chapter 3
Divisions III and IV, Chapter 4, Division II, 11, 12, 13, 16, 19, 21, 23, 30, 33, and 34. Such code shall
become the Building Code of the City, regulating the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair,
moving, removal, demolition, conversion, occupancy, use, height, area and maintenance of all structures
and certain equipment therein specifically regulated, regulating grading, providing for the issuance of
permits and a collection of fees therefore, and providing penalties for violation of such code. Amendments
to the technical portions of the Uniform Building Code shall be noted in Chapter 18.02 and the
administrative provisions of the code shall be noted in Chapter 18.03.
At least one copy of the Uniform Building Code, 1997 Edition with California amendments, has been
deposited in the office of the City Clerk, and shall be at all times maintained by the Clerk for use and
examination by the public. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Chapter 18.02
AMENDMENTS TO CERTAIN SECTIONS
Sections:
18.02.010 Amendments to Certain Sections.
Section 18.02.010 Amendments to Certain Sections.
The following sections of the Uniform Building Code, as adopted by Section 18.01.010 hereof, are
added, deleted, or amended as follows:
A. Section 1402.4 Amended—Dampproollne Foundation Walls. Section 1402.4 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 1402.4 Dampproofing Foundation Walls. Unless otherwise approved by the Building
Official, foundation walls enclosing usable space below finished grade shall be waterproofed or
dampproofed in accordance with Appendix Chapter 18.
B. Section 1503 Amended—Roof Coverine Requirements. Section 1503 of the Uniform Building
Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 1503. The roof covering or roofing assembly on any structure regulated by this code shall
be a minimum Class -B, unless required to be Class -A per Table 15-A or Section 6403.2, and as classified
in Section 1504. Wood shakes and shingles shall be fire retardant as defined in UBC Standardl5-2 and in
compliance with all other State regulations. Noncombustible roof covering as defined in section 1504.2
may be applied in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements in lieu of a fire -retardant roofing
assembly.
Roofing shall be secured or fastened to the supporting roof construction and shall provide weather
,� protection for the building at the roof.
C. Table 15-D-1 Amended — ROOFING TILE APPLICATION FOR ALL TILES. Table
15-D- I of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 15 -D -1 -ROOFING TILE APPLICATION[ FOR ALL TILES
' In snow areas, a minimum of two fasteners per tile are required.
In areas designated by the building official as being subject to repeated wind velocities in excess of 80 miles per
hour (129 km/h) or where the roof height exceeds 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade, all tiles shall be attached as
follows:
The heads of all tiles shall be nailed.
-- The noses of all eave course tiles shall be fastened with approved clips.
23 All rake tiles shall be nailed with two nails.
'A The noses of all ridge, hip and rake tiles shall be set in a bead of approved roofers mastic.
a In snow areas, a minimum of two fasteners per tile are required, or battens and one fastener.
On slopes over 24 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (200% slope), the nose end of all tiles shall be securely
fastened.
5 Underlayment shall comply with ASTM D 226-97.
ROOF SLOPE 2 I/2 UNITS
VERTICAL IN 12 UNITS
ROOF SLOPE 3 UNITS
HORIZONTAL (21% SLOPE) TO
VERTICAL IN 12 UNITS
LESS THAN 3 UNITS VERTICAL
HORIZONTAL (25%
IN 12 UNITS HORIZONTAL (259
SLOPE) AND OVER
SLOPE)
I. Deck Requirements
Solid sheathing per Sections 2312.2 and 2320.12.9
2. UNDERLAYMENT
Same as for other climate areas,
In climate areas subject to
except that extending from the
wind -driven snow, roof ice
eaves up the roof to a line 24
damming or special wind
inches (610 mm) inside the
regions as shown in
exterior wall line of the building,
Chapter 16, Figure 16-I.
two layers of underlayment shall
be applied shingle fashion and
solidly cemented together with
an approved cementing material.
Other climate areas
One layer heavy-duty felt or Type
Built-up roofing membrane, three
305 felt side lapped 3 inches (76
piles minimum, applied per Section
mm) and end lapped 6 inches (153
1507.6. Surfacing not required.
mm).
3. Attachment'
Hot dipped galvanized ring shank or other approved corrosion -resistant nails
Type of fasteners
not less than No. 11 gage, 5/16 inch (7.9 mm) head. Fasteners shall comply
with the requirements of Chapter 23, Division III, Part III. Fasteners shall be
long enough to penetrate into the sheathing 3/4 inch (19 mm) or through the
thickness of the sheathing, whichever is less. Attaching wire for clay or
concrete tile shall not be smaller than 0.083 inch (2.11 mm) (No. 14 B.W.
gage) and be of copper, brass or stainless steel.
Number of fasteners' 3
Two fasteners per tile.
Two fasteners per tile.
4. Tile headlap
3 inches (76 mm) minimum.
5. Flashing
Per Sections 1508.4 and 1509.
' In snow areas, a minimum of two fasteners per tile are required.
In areas designated by the building official as being subject to repeated wind velocities in excess of 80 miles per
hour (129 km/h) or where the roof height exceeds 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade, all tiles shall be attached as
follows:
The heads of all tiles shall be nailed.
-- The noses of all eave course tiles shall be fastened with approved clips.
23 All rake tiles shall be nailed with two nails.
'A The noses of all ridge, hip and rake tiles shall be set in a bead of approved roofers mastic.
a In snow areas, a minimum of two fasteners per tile are required, or battens and one fastener.
On slopes over 24 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (200% slope), the nose end of all tiles shall be securely
fastened.
5 Underlayment shall comply with ASTM D 226-97.
Table 15-D-2 of the Uniform Building
amended to read as
TABLE 15 -D -2 -CLAY OR CONCRETE ROOFING TILE APPLICATION INTERLOCKING TILE WITH PROJECTING
ANCHOR LUGS -MINIMUM ROOF SLOPE 4 UNITS VERTICAL IN 12 UNITS HORIZONTAL (33.3% SLOPE)
ROOF SLOPE
4 UNITS VERTICAL IN 12 UNITS HORIZONTAL (33.3% SLOPE) AND OVER
I. Deck requirements
Per Table 15-D-1
2. Underlayment
Solid sheathing one layer of Type 306 felt lapped 3 inches (76 mm) horizontally and 6
In climate areas subject to wind-
inches (152 mm) vertically, except that extending from the eaves up the roof to line 24
driven snow, roof, ice or special
inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line of the building, two layers of the
wind regions as shown in
underlayment shall be applied shingle fashion and solid cement together with approved
Chapter 16, Figure 16- I.
cementing material.
Other climates
For solid sheathing, one layer of Type 306 felt lapped 3 inches (76 mm) horizontally and
6 inches (152 mm) vertically.
3. Attachement'
Hot dipped galvanized ring shank or other approved corrosion resistant nails not less than
Type of fasteners
No. I I gage, 5/16 inch (7.9 mm) head. Fasteners shall comply with the requirements of
Chapter 23, Division III, Part III. Fasteners shall be long enough to penetrate through the
battens'- and into sheathing 3/4 inch (19 mm) or through the thickness of the sheathing,
whichever is less. Attaching wire for clay or concrete tile shall not be smaller than 0.083
inch (2.11 mm) (No. 14 B.W. gage). Horizontal battens are required on solid sheathing
for slopes 7 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (58.3% slope) and over.
Horizontal battens are required for slopes over 7 units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(58.3% slope).
No. of fasteners
One fastener per tile.
4. Tile headlap
3 -inch (76 mm) minimum
5. Flashing
Per Sections 1508.4 and 1509.
In areas designated by the building official as being subject to repeated wind velocities in excess of 80 miles per hour
(129 km/h) or where the roof height exceeds 40 feet (l2 192 mm) above grade, all tiles shall be attached asset forth below:
The heads of all tiles shall be nailed.
rz The noses of all eave course tiles shall be fastened with a special clip.
13 All rake tiles hall be nailed with two nails.
1A The noses of all ridge, hip and rake tiles shall be set in a bead of approved roofers mastic.
2 Battens shall not be less than 1 -inch -by -2 -inch (25 mm by 51 mm) nominal. Provisions shall be made for drainage
beneath battens by a minimum of 1/8 -inch (3.2 mm) risers at each nail or by 4 -foot -long (1219 mm) battens with at least 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) separation between battens. Battens shall be fastened with approved fasteners spaced at not more than 24
inches (6 10 mm) on center.
' In snow areas, a minimum of two fasteners per tile are required, or battens and one fastener.
Slopes over 12 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (100% slope), nose ends of all tiles must be securely fastened. Nails
must be 2" (13 mm) from the edge of the batten.
s Perimeter fastening areas include three tile courses but not less than 36 inches (914 mm) from either side of hips or
ridges and edges of eaves and gable rakes.
6 Underlayment felt shall comply with ASTM D 226-97.
E. Section 1629.4.2 Amended—Seismic Zone 4 near -source factor. Section 1629.4.2 of the
Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 1629.4.2. Seismic Zone 4 near -source factor. In Santa Clarita, each site shall be
assumed to have the maximum near -source factor for type B faults unless a geological report specifying a
lower value for the entire site is approved by the City of Santa Clarita. The value of N. used in determine
C„ need not exceed 1.1 for structures complying with all the following conditions:
I. The soil profile type is Sp, Sa, Sc or SD.
2. p = 1.0.
3. Except in single -story structures, Group R, Division 3 and Group U, Division 1 Occupancies,
moment frame systems designated as part of the lateral -force -resisting system shall be special moment -
resisting frames.
4. The provisions in Sections 9.6 a and 9.6 b of AISC - Seismic Part I shall not apply, except for
columns in one-story buildings or columns at the top story of multistory buildings.
5. None of the following structural irregularities is present: Type 1, 4 or 5 of Table 16-L, and Type
I or 4 of Table 16-M.
F. Section 1630.8.2.2 Amended—Detailine requirements in Seismic Zones 3 and 4. Section
1630.82.2 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
Section 1630.8.2.2 Detailing requirements in Seismic Zones 3 and 4. In Seismic Zones 3 and 4,
elements supporting discontinuous systems shall meet the following detailing or member limitations:
I. Reinforced concrete or reinforced masonry elements designed primarily as axial -load members
shall comply with Section 1921.4.4.5.
2. Reinforced concrete elements designed primarily as flexural members and supporting other than
light -frame wood shear wall systems or light -frame steel and wood structural panel shear wall systems shall
comply with Sections 1921.3.2 and 1921.3.3. Strength computations for portions of slabs designed as
supporting elements shall include only those portions of the slab that comply with the requirements of these
sections.
3. Masonry elements designed primarily as axial -load carrying members shall comply with
Sections 2106.1.12.4, Item I, and 2108.2.6.2.6.
4. Masonry elements designed primarily as flexural members shall comply with Section
2108.2.6.2.5.
5. Not Adopted.
6. Steel elements designed primarily as flexural members or trusses shall have bracing for both top
and bottom beam flanges or chords at the location of the support of the discontinuous system.
7. Wood elements designed primarily as flexural members shall be provided with lateral bracing
or solid blocking at each end of the element and at the connection location(s) of the discontinuous system.
G. Subsection 1633.2.9 Amended--Anchoraee of Concrete or Masonry Walls. Item 4 of
subsection 1633.2.9 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
1633.2.9 Diaphragms.
I. The deflection in the plane of the diaphragm shall not exceed the permissible deflection of the
attached elements. Permissible deflection shall be that deflection which will permit the attached element to
maintain its structural integrity under the individual loading and continue to support the prescribed loads.
2. Floor and roof diaphragms shall be designed to resist the forces determined in accordance with the
following formula:
F , + G, F
F .p _ .r w P, (33-1)
W ,
,_ X
The force F, determined from Formula (33-1) need not exceed 1.0 C„ I w,,,, but shall not be less than
0.5 C„ / w,,,.
When the diaphragm is required to transfer design seismic forces from the vertical -resisting elements
.� above the diaphragm to other vertical -resisting elements below the diaphragm due to offset in the
placement of the elements or to changes in stiffness in the vertical elements, these forces shall be added to
those determined from Formula (33-1).
3. Design seismic forces for flexible diaphragms providing lateral supports for walls or frames of
masonry or concrete, shall be determined using Formula (33-1) based on the load determined in accordance
with Section 1630.2 using a R not exceeding 4.
4. Diaphragms supporting concrete or masonry walls shall have continuous ties or struts
between diaphragm chords to distribute the anchorage forces specified in Section 1633.2.8. The spacing of
continuous ties shall not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm). Added chords of subdiaphragms may be used to form
subdiaphragms to transmit the anchorage forces to the main continuous crossties. The maximum
diaphragm shear used to determine the depth of the subdiaphragm shall not exceed 300 pounds per foot
(3.65 kN/m). The maximum length -to -width ratio of the wood structural subdiaphragm shall be 2:1.
5. Where wood diaphragms are used to laterally support concrete or masonry walls, the anchorage
shall conform to Section 1633.2.8. In Seismic Zones 2, 3 and 4, anchorage shall not be accomplished by
use of toenails or nails subject to withdrawal, wood ledgers or framing shall not be used in cross -grain
bending or cross -grain tension, and the continuous ties required by Item 4 shall be in addition to the
diaphragm sheathing.
6. Connections of diaphragms to the vertical elements in structures in Seismic Zones 3 and 4, having a
plan irregularity of Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 in Table 16-M, shall be designed without considering either the one-
third increase or the duration of load increase considered in allowable stresses for elements resisting
earthquake forces.
7. In structures in Seismic Zones 3 and 4 having a plan irregularity of Type 2 in Table 16-M,
diaphragm chords and drag members shall be designed considering independent movement of the
projecting wings of the structure. Each of these diaphragm elements shall he designed for the more severe
of the following two assumptions:
Motion of the projecting wings in the same direction.
Motion of the projecting wings in opposing directions.
EXCEPTION: This requirement may be deemed satisfied if the procedures of Section 1631 in
conjunction with a three-dimensional model have been used to determine the lateral seismic forces for
design.
When designing the diaphragm to comply with the requirements stated above, the return walls and
fins/canopies at entrances shall be designed for seismic deflection. To ensure deflection compatibility with
the diaphragm, the return walls and fins/canopies at entrances shall be either seismically isolated or
attached to the diaphragm by integrating its loads.
H. Table 16-N Amended -Table 16 -N -STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS. Table 16-N of the Uniform
Buildin_ Code is amended to read as follows:
TABLE 16 -N -STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS'
HEIGHT LIMIT
FOR SEISMIC
BASIC STRUCTURAL SYSTEM
LATERAL -FORCE -RESISTING SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
R
ZONES 3 AND 4
(feet)
x 304.8 for mm
1. Bearing wall system
1. Light -framed walls with shear panels
a. Wood structural panel walls for structures three stories or
5.5
2.8
65
less
4.5
2.8
65
b. All other light -framed walls
2. Shear walls
4.5
2.8
160
a. Concrete
4.5
2.8
160
b. Masonry
2.8
2.2
65
3. Light steel -framed bearing walls with tension -only bracing
4. Braced frames where bracing carries gravity load
4.4
2.2
160
a. Steel
2.8
2.2
b. Concrete'
2.8
2.2
65
c. Heavy timber
2. Building frame system
1. Steel eccentrically braced frame (EBF)
7.0
2.8
240
2. Light -framed walls with shear panels.
a. Wood structural panel walls for structures three stories or
6.5
2.8
65
less
5.0
2.8
65
b. All other light -framed walls
3. Shear walls
5.5
2.8
240
a. Concrete
5.5
2.8
160
b. Masonry
4. Ordinary braced frames
5.6
2.2
160
a. Steel
5.6
2.2
b. Concrete'
5.6
2.2
65
c. Heavy timber
5. Special concentrically braced frames
6.4
2.2
240
a. Steel
3. Moment -resisting frame
1. Special moment -resisting frame (SMRF)
system
a. Steel
8.5
2.8
N.L.
b. Concrete°
8.5
2.8
N.L.
2. Masonry moment -resisting wall frame (MMRWF)
6.5
2.8
160
3. Concrete intermediate moment -resisting frame (IMRF)'
5.5
2.8
-
4. Ordinary moment -resisting frame (OMRF)
a. Steels
4
2.8
b. Concrete'
3.5
2.8
5. Special truss moment frames of steel (STMF)
6.5
2.8
240
4. Dual systems
1. Shear walls
a. Concrete with SMRF
8.5
2.8
N.L.
b. Concrete with steel OMRF
4.2
2.8
160
c. Concrete with concrete IMRFs
6.5
2.8
160
d. Masonry with SMRF
5.5
2.8
160
e. Masonry with steel OMRF
4.2
2.8
160
f. Masonry with concrete IMRF3
4.2
2.8
-
g. Masonry with masonry MMRWF
6.0
2.8
160
2. Steel EBF
a. With steel SMRF
8.5
2.8
N.L.
b. With steel OMRF
4.2
2.8
160
3. Ordinary braced frames
a. Steel with steel SMRF
6.5
2.8
N.L.
b. Steel with steel OMRF
4.2
2.8
160
c. Concrete with concrete SMRF'
6.5
2.8
d. Concrete with concrete IMRF3
4.2
2.8
-
4. Special concentrically braced frames
a. Steel with steel SMRF
7.5
2.8
N.L.
b. Steel with steel OMRF
4.2
2.8
160
5. Cantilevered column building
1. Cantilevered column elements
2.2
2.0
356
systems
6. Shear wall -frame interaction
1. Concrete
5.5
2.8
160
systems
7. Undefined systems
See Section 1629.37 and 1629.9.2
Footnotes to Table 16-N
N.L.-no limit
I See Section 1630.4 for combination of structural Systems.
2 Basic structural systems are defined in Section 1629.6.
3 Prohibited in Seismic Zones 3 and 4.
4 Includes precast concrete conforming to Section 1921.2.7.
5 Prohibited in Seismic Zones 3 and 4, except as permitted in Section 1634.2.
6 In Seismic Zones 3 and 4 steel OMFs are permitted as follows:
a. Where the near source factor N , equals one, structures are permitted to a height of 35 ft. or for single
story buildings where the moment joints of field connections are constructed of bolted end plates and the dead load of
the roof does not exceed 15 psi. the height is permitted to be increased to 60ft. The dead weight of the portion of walls
more than 35 feet above the base shall not exceed 15 psf.
h. Where the near source factor N is greater than one, structures are permitted to a height of 35 feet
where the dead weight of the floors, walls and roof do not exceed 15 psf.
7 Total height of the building including cantilevered columns.
S Prohibited in Seismic Zones 2A, 2B, 3 and 4. See Section 1633.2.7.
L Section 1701.5 Amended—Special Inspections. Special moment resisting steel frames. Item 52 of
Section 1701.5 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
5.2 Steel Lateral Force Resisting Systems. In the City of Santa Clarita, welded joints in Special, Ordinary and
Special Truss Moment Frames and in Special and Ordinary Concentrically Braced Frames and in Eccentrically Braced
Frames that are part of the Lateral Force Resisting System shall be inspected in accordance with Section 1701.5 item
5.1 and AISC-Seismic Part I Section 16. In addition to Item 5.1 requirements, nondestructive testing as required by
Section 1703 of this code.
,1. Section 1701.5 Amended—Special Inspections. Piling, drilled piers and caissons. Item I I of Section
1701.5 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
11. Piling, drilled piers, caissons and connecting grade beams and tie beams. During driving and testing
of piles and construction of cast -in-place drilled piles or caissons and connecting grade beams and tie beams. See
Items I and 4 for concrete and reinforcing steel inspection.
K. Section 1702 Amended --Structural Observation. Section 1702 of the Uniform Building Code is amended
to read as follows:
Section1702 -- Structural Observation
Structural observation shall be provided in Seismic Zone 3 or 4 when one of the following conditions exists:
I. The structure is defined in Table 16-K as Occupancy Category I, II or III,
2. The structure is required to comply with Section 403
3. A lateral design is required for the entire structure.
EXCEPTION: One- and two-story wood framed Group R, Division 3 and Group U Occupancies
less than 1500 square feet and commercial or industrial occupancies with an occupant load less than
10 provided the adjacent grade is not steeper than 1 unit vertical in 10 units horizontal (10% sloped).
4. When so designated by the architect or engineer of record, or
5. When such observation is specifically required by the building official.
The owner shall employ the engineer or architect responsible for the structural design, or another engineer or
architect designated by the engineer or architect responsible for the structural design to perform structural observation
as defined in Section 220.
The owner or owner's representative shall coordinate and call a preconstruction meeting between the engineer or
architect responsible for the structural design, structural observer, contractor, affected subcontractors and deputy
inspectors. The structural observer shall preside over the meeting. The purpose of the meeting shall be to identify the
major structural elements and connections that affect the vertical and lateral load systems of the structure and to review
scheduling of the required observations. A record of the meeting shall be included in the first report submitted to the
building official.
Observed deficiencies shall be reported in writing to the owner's representative, special inspector, contractor and
the building official. Upon the form prescribed by the building official, the structural observer shall submit to the
building official a written statement at each significant construction stage stating that the site visits have been made
and identifying any reported deficiencies which, to the best of the structural observer's knowledge, have not been
resolved. A final report by the structural observer which states that all observed deficiencies have been resolved is
required before acceptance of the work by the building official.
L. Section 1703 Amended—Nondestructive Testing. Section 1703 of the Uniform Building Code is amended
to read as follows:
Section 1703 - Nondestructive Testing
In Seismic Zones 3 and 4, all complete -joint -penetration grove and partial -joint -penetration grove welded joints in
Special, Ordinary and Special Truss Moment Frames and in Special and Ordinary Concentrically Braced Frames and
in Eccentrically Braced Frames that are subject to net tensile forces as part of the Lateral Force Resisting System shall
tested in accordance with AISC Seismic Part I Section 16. This testing shall be a part of the special inspection
requirements of Section 1701.5. A program for this testing shall be established by the person responsible for structural
design and as shown on plans and specifications.
As a minimum, this program shall include the following:
I. All complete penetration groove welds contained in joints and splices shall be tested 100 percent either by
ultrasonic testing or by radiography.
EXCEPTIONS: I. When approved, the nondestructive testing rate for an individual welder or welding
operator may be reduced to 25 percent, provided the reject rate is demonstrated to be 5 percent or less of the
welds tested for the welder or welding operator. A sampling of at least 40 completed welds for a job shall he
made for such reduction evaluation. Reject rate is defined as the number of welds containing rejectable defects
divided by the number of welds completed. For evaluating the reject rate of continuous welds over 3 feet (914
mm) in length where the effective throat thickness is I inch (25 mm) or less, each 12 -inch increment (305 mm)
or fraction thereof shall be considered as one weld. For evaluating the reject rate on continuous welds over 3
feet to 14 mm) in length where the effective throat thickness is greater than 1 inch (25 mm), each 6 inches (152
mm) of length or fraction thereof shall be considered one weld.
2. For complete penetration groove welds on materials less than `/ib inch (7.9 mm) thick, nondestructive
testing is not required: for this welding, continuous inspection is required.
3. When approved by the building official and outlined in the project plans and specifications, this
nondestructive ultrasonic testing may be performed in the shop of an approved fabricator utilizing qualified test
techniques in the employment of the fabricator.
2. Partial penetration groove welds when used in column splices shall be tested either by ultrasonic testing or
radiography when required by the plans and specifications. For partial penetration groove welds when used in column
splices, with an effective throat less than '/a inch (19.1 mm) thick, nondestructive testing is not required; for this
welding, continuous special inspection is required.
3. Base metal thicker than I'A inches (38 mm), when subjected to through -thickness weld shrinkage strains, shall
be ultrasonically inspected for discontinuities directly behind such welds after joint completion.
Any material discontinuities shall be accepted or rejected on the basis of the defect rating in accordance with the
(larger reflector) criteria of approved national standards.
M . Section 1803.3 Added --Soils Containing Sulfates. Section 1803.3 added to the Uniform Building Code to
read as follows:
1803.3 - Soils Containing Sulfates. Foundations for structures resting on soils containing sulfates shall require
special design consideration. (See also Sections 1904.3, 1804.8 and 1806.12.)
N. Section 1804.1 Amended—Foundation Investigation. General. Section 1804.1 of the Uniform Building
Code is amended to read as follows:
1804.1 General. The classification of the soil at each building site shall be assumed to be expansive sandy clay,
as defined by Table 18 -I -A and subject to the requirements of section 1806.10, unless a soil investigation is prepared
for the site and approved by the building official. The investigation shall be prepared by a design professional licensed
by the State of California.
O. Section 1804.8 Added --Soils Containing Sulfates. Subsection 1804.6 is added to the Uniform Building Code
to read as follows:
1804.8 - Soils Containing Sulfates. In soils containing sulfates, the Building Official may require that special
provisions be made in the foundation design and construction to safeguard against damage due to salt weathering. The
Building Official may require a special investigation and report to provide this design and construction criteria.
P. Section 1806.1 Amended -Footings. General. Section 1806.1 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to
read as follows:
1806.1 General. Footing and foundations other than treated wood piles shall be constructed of masonry or
concrete, shall be supported on native undisturbed materials or approved certified fill, and shall extend below the frost
line. Footings of concrete and masonry shall be of solid material. Foundations supporting wood shall extend at least 6
inches (152 mm) above the adjacent finish grade. Footings shall have a minimum depth as indicated in Table 184-C,
unless another depth is recommended by a foundation investigation.
EXCEPTION: Accessory buildings not used for human occupancy and less than 120 square feet in area may
he supported on treated wood mud sills.
The provisions of this section do not apply to building and foundation systems in those areas subject to scour and
water pressure by wind and wave action. Buildings and foundations subject to such loads shall be designed in
accordance with approved national standards. See Section 3302 for subsoil preparation and wood form removal.
Q. Section 1806.6.1. Amended --Footing. Additional requirements in Seismic Zones 3 and 4. Subsection
1806.6.1 of the Uniform Building Code is amended to read as follows:
1806.6.1 Additional requirements in Seismic Zones 3 and 4.
The followine additional requirements shall apply in Seismic Zones 3 and 4.
1. Sill bolt diameter and spacing for three-story raised wood floor buildings shall be specifically designed.
2. Steel plate washers of minimum size and thickness as specified in Table 23 -1I -L shall be used on each bolt.
R. Section 1806.11 Added --Foundation on Expansive Soil. Section 1806.11 is added to read as follows:
1806.11 - Foundations on Expansive Soil. Foundation systems on expansive soil shall be constructed in a
manner that will minimize damage to the structure from movement of the soil. Slab -on -grade and mat -type footings for
buildings located on expansive soils may be designed in accordance with the provisions of Division III or such other
engineering design based upon geotechnical recommendation as approved by the Building Official. For residential -
type buildings, where such an approved method of construction is not provided, foundations and floor slabs shall
comply with the following requirements:
I . Depth of foundations below the natural or finish grades shall be not less than 24 inches for exterior and 18
inches for interior foundations.
2. Width of foundations shall be not less than 18 inches for exterior and 12 inches for interior foundations, or as
required by Table 18-1-C.
3. Exterior walls and interior bearing walls shall be supported on continuous foundations.
4. Foundations shall be reinforced with at least two continuous one -half-inch diameter deformed reinforcing
bars. One bar shall be placed within four inches of the bottom of the foundation and one within four inches of the top
of the foundation.
5. Concrete floor slabs on grade shall be cast on a four -inch fill of coarse aggregate or on a moisture barrier
membrane. The slabs shall be at least three and one-half inches thick and shall be reinforced with welded wire mesh or
deformed reinforcing bars. Welded wire mesh shall have a cross-sectional area of not less than five -hundredths square
inch per foot each way. Reinforcing bars shall have a diameter of not less than three-eighths (3/8) inch and be spaced
at intervals not exceeding 24 inches each way.
6. The soil below an interior concrete slab shall be saturated with moisture to depth of 18 inches prior to
casting the concrete.
S. Section 1806.12 Added --Foundations on Soils Containing Sulfates. Section 1806.12 is added to read as
follows:
1806.12 - Foundations on Soils Containing Sulfates. Foundations systems on soils containing sulfates shall be
constructed in a manner that will minimize damage to the structure from salt weathering. Slab -on -grade footings for
buildings located on soils containing sulfates may be designed in accordance with engineering design based upon
,,eotechnical recommendations as approved by the Building Official. For residential -type buildings, where such an
approved method of construction is not provided, foundation and floor slabs shall comply with the requirements
specified under Section 1806.11, items 1, 2, 3 and 4, and 1904.3.
T. Section 2104.6.2 Amended—Grouted Masonry. Construction Requirements. Section 2104.6.2 of the
Uniform Building Code is amended as follows:
2104.6.2 Construction requirements. Reinforcement shall be placed prior to grouting. Bolts shall be accurately
set with templates or by approved equivalent means and held in place to prevent dislocation during grouting.
Segregation of the grout materials and damage to the masonry shall be avoided during the grouting process.
Grout shall be consolidated by mechanical vibration during placement before loss of plasticity in a manner to fill
the grout space. Grout pours greater than 12 inches (300 mm) in height shall be reconsolidated by mechanical vibration
to minimize voids due to water loss. Grout pours 12 inches (300 mm) or less in height shall be mechanically vibrated
or puddled.
In one story buildings having wood -frame exterior walls, foundations not over 24 inches (600 mm) high measured
from the top of the footing may be constructed of hollow masonry units laid in running bond without mortared head
joints. Any standard shape unit may be used, provided the masonry units permit horizontal flow of grout to adjacent
units. Grout shall be solidly poured to the full height in one lift and shall be puddled or mechanically vibrated.
In nonstructural elements which do not exceed 8 feet (2440 mm) in height above the highest point of lateral
support, mortar of pouring consistency may be substituted for grout when the masonry is constructed and grouted in
Pours of 12 inches (300 mm) or less in height.
In multiwythe grouted masonry, vertical barriers of masonry shall be built across the grout space the entire height
of the grout pour and spaced not more than 30 feet (9144 mm) horizontally. The grouting of any section of wall
between barriers shall he completed in one day with no interruption longer than one hour.
U. Section 2204 Amended—Desien Methods. Section 2204 of the Uniform building Code is amended as
follows:
Section 2204 - Design Methods
Design shall be by one of the following methods.
2204.1 Load and Resistance Factor Design. Steel design based on load and resistance factor design methods
shall resist the factored load combinations of Section 1612.2 in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section
2205.
2204.2 Allowable Stress Design. Steel design based on allowable stress design methods shall resist the factored
load combinations of Section 1612.3 in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 2205.
2204.3 Seismic Design Provisions for Structural Steel. Steel structural elements that resist seismic forces shall,
in addition to the requirements of Section 2205.2 be designed in accordance with Division IV.
V. Division IV of Chapter 22 Amended—Seismic Provisions For Structural Steel Buildines. Division IV of
Chapter 22 of the Uniform Building Code is amended as follows:
Division IV - Seismic Provisions For Structural Steel Buildings
Based on Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel
Buildings, of the American Institute of Steel Construction. Part I and III
(April 15, 1997)
W. Section 2210 Deleted and Replaced --Adoption. Section 2210 of the Uniform Building Code is deleted in its
entirety and replaced with the following:
Section 2210 Adoption
Except for the modifications as set forth in Section 2211 and 2212 of this division and the requirements of the
building code, the seismic design, fabrication, and erection of structural steel shall be in accordance with the Seismic
Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings, April 15, 1997 published by the American Institute of Steel Construction, l
East Wacker Drive, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL 60601, as if set out at length herein. The adoption of Seismic Provisions
for Structural Steel Buildings in this Division, hereinafter referred to as AISC-Seismic, shall include Part I (LRFD) and
Part III (ASD).
Where other codes, standards, or specifications are referred to in this specification, they are to be considered as
only an indication of an acceptable method or material that can be used with the approval of the building official.
X. Section 2211, 2211.1, 2211.2. 2211.3. 2211.4. 2211.5 Deleted and Replaced --DESIGN METHODS.
Sections 2211, 2211.1, 2211.2, 2211.3, 2211.4, and 2211.5 of the Uniform Building Code are deleted and replaced
with the following:
Section 2211 Design Methods
When the load combinations from Section 1612.2 for LRFD are used, structural steel buildings shall be designed
in accordance with Chapter 22 Division II (AISC-LRFD) and Part I of AISC Seismic as modified by this Division.
When the load combinations from Section 1612.3 for ASD are used, structural steel buildings shall be designed in
accordance with Chapter 22 Division III (AISC-ASD) and Part III of AISC-Seismic as modified by this Division.
Y. Division V, Chapter 22 Deleted and Replaced --Seismic Provisions For Structural Steel Buildings For
Use With Allowable Stress Design. Division V, Chapter 22 of the Uniform Building Code is deleted and replaced
with the follows:
Section 2212 - Amendments
The AISC Seismic Provisions adopted by this Division applies to the seismic design of structural steel members except
as modified by this section.
The following terms that appear in AISC Seismic shall be taken as indicated in the 1997 UBC.
AISC Seismic
Seismic Force Resisting
System
Design Earthquake
Load Combinations 4-1
and 4-1
LRFD Specification
Section A4-1 through
A4-6
A.QE
The AISC Seismic Provisions are modified as follows:
Part I
1. SCOPE
1997 Uniform Building
Code
Lateral Force Resisting
System
Design Basis Ground
Motion
Chapter 16 Eq. 12-17 and
12-8 respectively
Chapter 16 Eq. 12-1
through 12-6 respectively
Em
These Provisions are intended for the design and construction of structural steel members and connections in the
Seismic Force Resisting Systems in buildings for which the design forces resulting from earthquake motions have been
determined on the basis of various levels of energy dissipation in the inelastic range of response. These Provisions
shall apply to buildings in the City of Santa Clarita.
These Provisions shall be applied in conjunction with Chapter 22 Div. II, hereinafter referred to as the LRFD
Specification. All members and connections in the Lateral Force Resisting System shall have a design strength as
provided in the LRFD Specification to resist Load Combinations 12-1 through 12-6 (in Chapter 16) and shall meet the
requirements in these Provisions.
Part I includes a Glossary, which is specifically applicable to this Part, and Appendix S.
4.1. Loads and Load Combinations
L The loads and load combinations shall be those in Section 1612.2 except as modified throughout these
Provisions.
Z. Section 2307 Amended—WOOD SUPPORTING MASONRY OR CONCRETE. Section 2307 of the
Uniform Building Code is amended as follows:
2307 -- Wood Supporting Masonry Or Concrete
Wood members shall not be used to permanently support the dead load of any masonry or concrete.
EXCEPTIONS: 1. Masonry or concrete nonstructural floor or roof surfacing not more than 4 inches (102 mm)
thick may be supported by wood members.
2. Any structure may rest upon wood piles constructed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 18.
3. Veneer used as an interior wall finish may be supported on wood floors that are designed to support the additional
load and designed to limit the deflection and shrinkage to I/600 of the span of the supporting members.
4. Glass block masonry having an installed weight of 20 pounds per square foot (97.6 kg/m') or less and installed with
the provisions of Section 2109.5. When glass block is supported on wood floors, the floors shall be designed to limit
deflection and shrinkage to 1/600 of the span of the supporting members and the allowable stresses for the framing
members shall be reduced in accordance with Division III, Part I.
See Division II, Part II for wood members resisting horizontal forces contributed by masonry or concrete.
AA. Section 2315.1 Amended -General. WOOD SHEAR WALLS AND DIAPHRAGMS. Section 2315.1 of
the Uniform Building Code is amended as follows:
2315.1 General. Lumber and wood structural panel horizontal and vertical diaphragms may be used to resist
horizontal forces in horizontal and vertical distributing or resisting elements, provided the deflection in the plane of the
diaphragm, as determined by calculations, tests or analogies drawn therefrom, does not exceed the permissible
deflection of attached distributing or resisting elements. See UBC Standard 23-2 for a method of calculating the
deflection of a blocked wood structural panel diaphragm.
Permissible deflection shall be that deflection up to which the diaphragm and any attached distributing or resisting
element will maintain its structural integrity under assumed load conditions, i.e., continue to support assumed loads
without danger to occupants of the structure.
Connections and anchorages capable of resisting the design forces shall be provided between the diaphragms and
the resisting elements. Openings in diaphragms that materially affect their strength shall be fully detailed on the plans
and shall have their edges adequately reinforced to transfer all shearing stresses.
Size and shape of each horizontal diaphragm and shear wall shall be limited as set forth in Table 23 -II -G. The
height of a shear wall shall be defined as:
1. The maximum clear height from foundation to bottom of diaphragm framing above, or
2. The maximum clear height from top of diaphragm to bottom of diaphragm framing above.
The width of a shear wall shall be defined as the width of sheathing. See figure 23 -II -1, Section (a).
Where shear walls with openings are designed for force transfer around the openings, the limitations of Table 23 -
II -G shall apply to the overall shear wall including openings and to each wall pier at the side of an opening. The height
of a wall pier shall be defined as the clear height of the pier at the side of an opening. The width of a wall pier shall be
defined as the sheathed width of the pier at the side of an opening. Design for force transfer shall be based on a
rational analysis. Detailing of boundary members around the opening shall be provided in accordance with Section
2315. See figure 23 -II -1, Section (b). Vertical diaphragms shall also meet the story drift limitations of Section
1628.8.2 of this code.
In all buildings in Seismic Zone 4, lumber, and wood structural panel diaphragms shall not be considered as
transmitting lateral forces by rotation.
EXCEPTION: One-story, attached or detached residential garages or similar Group U, Division 1 wood framed
structures with a maximum depth normal to the open side of 25 feet (7260 mm) and a maximum width of 25 feet (7260
mm) provided the diaphragm is not constructed of straight sheathing.
In masonry or concrete buildings, lumber or wood structural diaphragms shall not be considered as transmitting
lateral forces by rotation.
Diaphragm sheathing nails or other approved sheathing connectors shall be driven flush but shall not fracture the
surface of the sheathing.
Cantilevered diaphragms supporting floors or roofs above shall not exceed 15 percent of the distance between
lines of lateral -load -resisting elements from which the diaphragm cantilevers. The depth to width ratio of the
cantilevered portion of the diaphragm shall not be less than 4:1.
BB. Subsection 2315.3.3 Amended -Wood structural panel diaohraems. Subsection 2315.3.3 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
2315.3.3 Wood structural panel diaphragms. Horizontal and vertical diaphragms sheathed with wood structural
panels may be used to resist horizontal forces not exceeding those set forth in Table 23 -II -H for horizontal diaphragms
�-- and Table 23 -II -I-1 for vertical diaphragms, Wood structural panels for horizontal diaphragms shall be as set forth in
Tables 23 -II -E -I and 23 -II -E-2 for corresponding joist spacing and loads. Wood structural panels in shear walls shall
be at least 3/8 inch ( 9.5 mm) thick and studs spaced no more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center.
Maximum spans for wood structural panel subtloor underlayment shall be as set forth in Table 23 -II -F-1. Wood
structural panels used for horizontal and vertical diaphragms shall conform to UBC Standard 23-2 or 23-3.
All boundary members shall be proportioned and spliced where necessary to transmit direct stresses. Framing
members shall be at least 2 -inch (51 mm) nominal in the dimension to which the wood structural panel is attached. In
general, panel edges shall bear on the framing members and butt along their center lines. Nails shall be placed not less
than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in from the panel edges and not less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) from the edge of the connecting
members for shear greater than 300 pounds per foot (4.38kN/m). Nails shall be placed not less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm)
from panel edges and not Tess than t/4 inch (6.4 mm) from the edge of the connecting members for shears of 300
pounds per foot or less. Nails shall be spaced not more than 6 inches (152 mm) on center along panel edge bearings, -
and shall be firmly driven into the framing members. No unblocked panels less than 12 inches (305 mm) wide shall be
used.
Diaphragms with panel edges supported in accordance with Tables 23 -II -E-1, 23 -II -E-2 and 23 -II -P -I shall not be
considered as blocked diaphragms unless blocking or other means of shear transfer is provided.
CC. Section 2315.5.5 Deleted. Section 2315.5.5 of the Uniform Building Code is hereby deleted
DD. Section 2315.5.6 Added—Hold Down Connectors. Section 1-3 15.5.6 is hereby added to the Uniform
Building Code as follows:
2315.5.6 Hold-down connectors. Hold-down connectors shall be designed to resist shear wall overturning
moments using approved cyclic load values or 75 percent of the allowable earthquake load values that do not consider
cyclic loading of the product. Connector bolts into wood framing require steel plate washers in accordance with Table
23 -II -L. Hold-downs shall be re -tightened just prior to covering the wall framing.
EE. Section 2315.5.7 Added -Shear Wall Displacement Analysis. Section 2315.5.7 is hereby added to the
Uniform Building Code as follows:
2315.5.7 Shear Wall Displacement Analysis. Wood structural panel shear walls shall meet the story drift
limitation of Section 1628.8.2 of this code. Conformance to the story drift limitation shall be determined by approved
testing or calculation or analogies drawn therefrom and not the use of an aspect ratio. Calculated deflection shall be
determined according to U.B.C. Standard 23-2, Section 23.223 - Calculation of Shear Wall Deflection, and shall be
increased 25 percent to account for inelastic action and repetitive loading. Contribution to the deflection from the
anchor or tie down slippage shall also be included. The slippage contribution shall include the vertical elongation of
the metal, the vertical slippage of the fasteners and compression or shrinkage of the wood elements. The total vertical
slippage shall be multiplied by the aspect ratio and added to the total horizontal deflection.
FF. Section 2315.5.8 Added -Quality of Nails. Section 2315.5.8 is hereby added to the Uniform Building
Code as follows:
2315.5.8 Quality of Nails. Mechanically driven nails used in shear wall panel construction shall meet the same
tolerances as that required for hand driven nails. The allowable design value for clipped nails in existing construction
may be taken at no more than the nail -head -area ration of that of the same size hand driven nails.
GG. Section 2515.6 Deleted -Fiberboard Sheathing Diaphraems. Section 2315.6 of the Uniform Building
Code is hereby deleted.
HH. Table 23 -H -I-1 Amended— Allowable Shear for Wind or Seismic Forces in Pounds per Sangre Foot
for Wood Structural Panel Shear Walls with Framing of Douelas Fir -Larch or Southern Pine. Table 23 -II -I-1 of
the Uniform Building Code is amended as follows:
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II. Table 23 -II -L Added -Minimum Size for Square Plate Washers. Table 23 -II -L is hereby
added to the Uniform Building Code as follows:
TABLE 23 -II -L Minimum Size For Square Plate Washers
BOLT SIZE
PLATE WASHER SIZE
1/2"
3/16" x 2" x 2"
5/8"
1/4" x 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"
3/4"
5/16" x 2-3/4" x 2-3/4"
7/8"
5/16" x 3" x 3"
I"
3/8" x 3-1/2" x 3-1/2"
JJ. Section 2320.1 Amended—General. Conventional Light -Frame Construction Design
Provisions. Section 2320.1 Of The Uniform Building Code Is Amended As Follows:
2320.1 General. The requirements in this section are intended for conventional light -frame
construction. Other methods may be used provided a satisfactory design is submitted showing compliance
with other provisions of this code.
Only the following occupancies may be constructed in accordance with this division
I. One-story buildings housing Group R Occupancies. Cripple walls shall be considered as a story.
2. One-story Occupancy Category 4 buildings, as defined in Table 16-K, when constructed on a slab -
on -grade floor.
3. Group U Occupancies.
4. (Not Adopted)
5. For all occupancies interior nonload-bearing 8 feet (2438 mm) or higher shall be laterally braced
at the top at 8 feet (2438 m) maximum on center.
When total loads exceed those specified in Tables 23 -IV -J-1, 23 -IV -J-3, 23 -IV -R-1, 23 -IV -R-2, 23 -IV-
R -3, 23 -IV -R-4, 23 -IV -R-7, and 23 -IV -R-8, 23 -IV -R-9, 23 -IV -R-10, 23 -IV -R-11, 23 -IV -R-12; 23 -VII -R-
I, 23 -VII -R-3, 23 -VII -R-7, 23 -VII -R-9, 23 -VIII -A, 23 -VIII -B, 23 -VIII -C, 23 -VIII -D, an engineering
system shall be provided for the gravity load system.
Other approved repetitive wood members may be used in lieu of solid -sawn lumber in conventional
construction provided these members comply with the provisions of this code.
KK. Section 2320.5.1 Amended -Braced wall lines. Section 2320.5.1 of the Uniform Building Code
is amended as follows:
2320.5.1 Braced wall lines. Buildings shall be provided with exterior and interior braced wall lines.
Spacing shall not exceed 25 feet (7620) on center in both the longitudinal and transverse directions in each
story.
LL. Section 2320.5.3 Amended -Veneer. Section 2320.5.3 of the Uniform Building Code is
amended as follows:
2320.5.3 Veneer. Anchored masonry and stone wall veneer shall not exceed 5 inches (127 mm) in
thickness, shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 14 and shall not extend more than 5 feet (1219
mm) above first story finish floor.
MM. Section 2320.5.6 Amended—Interior braced wall support. Section 2320.5.6 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
2320.5.6 Interior braced wall support. Interior braced wall lines shall be supported on continuous
foundations.
NN. Section 2320.9.2 Amended -Wood structural panels. Section 2320.9.2 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
2320.9.2 Wood structural panels. Where used as structural subflooring, wood structural panels shall
be as set forth in Tables 23 -II -E-1 and 23 -II -E-2. Wood structural panel combination subfloor
underlayment shall have maximum spans as set forth in Table 23 -II -F-1.
00. Section 2320.11.3 Amended -Bracing. Section 2320.11.3 of the Uniform Building Code is
amended as follows:
2320.11.3 Bracing. Braced wall lines shall consist of braced wall panels which meet the requirements
for location, type and amount of bracing specified in Table 23 -IV -C -I and are in line or offset from each
other by not more than 4 feet (1219 mm). Braced wall panels shall start at not more than 8 feet (2438 mm)
from each end of a braced wall line. All braced wall panels shall be clearly indicated on the plans.
Construction of braced wall panels shall be by one of the following methods:
1. (Not Adopted)
2. (Not Adopted)
3. Wood structural panel sheathing of a thickness not less than 15/32 inch (11.9 mm) nominal of
structural I grade for a maximum 16 -inch (406 mm) stud spacing in accordance with Tables 23 -II -A-1 and
23 -IV -D-1. Nailing shall be minimum 8d common placed 3/8 inches from panel edges and spaced not
more than 6 inches on center, and 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members.
4. (Not Adopted)
5. (Not Adopted)
6. (Not Adopted)
7. Portland cement plaster on studs spaced 16 inches (406 mm) on center installed in accordance
with Table 25-1.
8. (Not Adopted)
For Method 3, each braced panel must be at least 48 inches (1219 mm) in length, covering three stud
spaces where studs are spaced 16 inches (406 mm) apart and have a height -to -length ratio not exceeding 2
to 1.
For Method 7 each braced.wall panel must be at least 96 inches (2438 mm) in length and have a
height -to -length ratio not exceeding l to 1.
PP. Section 2320.11.4 Amended -Bracing. Section 2320.11.4 of the Uniform Building Code is
amended as follows:
2320.11.4 Alternate braced wall panels. For one story Group U, Division 1, occupancies a braced
wall panel required by Section 2320.11.3 may be replaced by an alternate braced wall panel constructed in
accordance with the following-,
1. In one-story buildings, each panel shall have a length of not less than 2 feet 8 inches (813 mm) and
a height of not more than 10 feet (3048 mm). Each panel shall be sheathed on one face with 1/2 -inch -
nominal minimum -thickness (12.7 mm) plywood sheathing nailed with 8d common or galvanized box nails
in accordance with Table 23 -II -B-1 and blocked at all plywood edges. Two anchor bolts installed in
accordance with Section 1806.6 shall be provided in each panel. Anchor bolts shall be placed at panel
quarter points. Each panel end stud shall have a tie -down device fastened to the foundation, capable of
providing an approved uplift capacity of not less than 1,800 pounds (816.5 kg). The tie -down device shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. The panels shall be supported
directly on a foundation or on floor framing supported directly on a foundation or on floor framing
supported directly on a foundation which is continuous across the entire length of the braced wall line.
This foundation shall be reinforced with not less than one No. 4 bar top and bottom, or
2. Braced wall panels required by Section 2320.5.1 may be eliminated when all of the following
requirements are met
a. Detached or attached garage is no more than 25 feet in depth or length.
b. The roof and three enclosing walls are solid sheathed with 2" inch nominal thickness wood
structural panels with 8d common nails placed 3/8 inches from panel edges and spaced not more than 6
inches on center along all panel edges and 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members. Wall
openings for doors or windows are permitted provided a minimum 4 foot wide wood structural braced
panel with minimum height to length ratio of 2 to I is provided at each end of the wall line and that the wall
line be sheathed for 50% of its length.
QQ. Table 23 -IV -C-1 Amended—BRACED WALL PANELS. Table 23 -IV -C -I of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
TABLE 23 -IV -C -1 -BRACED WALL PANELS
SEISMIC
ZONE
CONDITION
CONSTRUCTION METHOD 23
BRACED PANEL
LOCATION AND
LENGTH°
I
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
4
One story
X
X
Each end and not
more than 25 feet
(7620 mm) on center
but not less than 25%
of building length for
method 3 and 50%
for method 7.
This table specifies minimum requirements for braced panels which form interior or exterior braced wall lines.
' See Section 2320.11.3 for full description.
See Section 2320.11.4 for alternate braced panel requirement.
' Building length is the dimension parallel to the braced wall length.
' Gypsum wallboard applied to supports at 16 inches (406 mm) on center.
Not permitted for bracing cripple walls in Seismic Zone 4. See Section 2320.11.5.
7 The required lengths shall be doubled for gypsum board applied to only one face of a braced wall panel.
RR. Section 2513.4 Amended—Height-to-length Ratio. Section 2513.4 of the Uniform Building
Code is amended as follows:
2513.4 Height -to -length Ratio. All shear walls designed to resist lateral loads in the City of Santa Clarita
shall have a maximum allowable height -to -length ratio of l to 1.
SS. TABLE 25-I Amended—ALLOWABLE SHEAR FOR WIND OR SEISMIC FORCES IN
POUNDS PER FOOT FOR VERTICAL DIAPHRAGMS OF LATH AND PLASTER OF GYPSUM
BOARD FRAME WALL ASSEMBLIES. TABLE 25-I of the Uniform Building Code is amended as
follows:
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TT. Section 3102.4 Amended -Masonry Chimneys. Section 3102.4 of the Uniform Building Code is amended
as follows:
3102.4.1 Design. Masonry chimneys shall be designed and constructed to comply with Sections 3102.3.2 and
3102.4.2.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, an existing masonry chimney which is altered or repaired more
than 10 percent of its replacement cost within any 12 -month period shall have its entire chimney structure comply with
the current requirements of this code or other standards approved by the building official.
UU. Section 3102.4.3 .Amended -Reinforcing and seismic anchorage. Section 3102.4.3 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
3102.4.3 Reinforcing and seismic anchorage. The masonry and concrete chimney shall be designed per
requirements in Chapter 21 and shall be tied to a structural element of the building capable of providing lateral
resistance for the horizontal forces specified in Section 1632. The anchorage of the ties to the resisting structural
element shall be designed for the loads specified in Section 1632.
VV. Section 3403.1 Amended -General. Additions, Alterations or Repairs. Section 3403.1 of the Uniform
Building Code is amended as follows:
3403.1 Cenral. Buildings and structures to which addition, alterations or repairs are made shall comply with all
the requirement of this code for new facilities except as specifically provided in this section. See Section 310.9 for
provisions requiring installation of smoke detectors in existing Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.
In assessing proposed alterations or repairs to existing buildings, the Building Official may allow the work to
conform to the code in effect at the time the building was originally constructed provide the work is less that ten (10)
percent of the area being repaired. When the work is over ten (10) percent of the area but less than fifty (50) percent of
the area or value, the current code requirements shall apply to the area of alteration or repair. When the repair
addresses over fifty (50) percent of the area or value of a structure, the entire structure shall be made to comply with
the current code requirements, unless the Building Official that a hazard would not exist by allowing portions of the
existing structure to remain.
WW. Appendix Chapter 10 Amended -Building Security. Section 1010 is hereby added to the Uniform
Building Code read as follows:
Section 1010 - Building Security
1010.1. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide a nominal level of resistance to unlawful entry.
1010.2. Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to enclosed Group B, F, M and R Occupancies and
enclosed private garages.
1010.3. Limitations. No provisions of this chapter shall require or be construed to require devices on exit
doors or on sleeping room emergency exits contrary to the requirements specified in Chapter 10 and Section 310.4.
1010.4. Alternate Security Provisions. The provisions of this chapter are not intended to prevent the use of
any device or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code when such alternate provides equivalent
security.
1010.5. Definitions. For the purpose of this section, certain terms are defined as follows:
CYLINDER GUARD is a protective metal device of hardened steel or with a hardened steel insert that covers
or surrounds the exposed portion of the lock cylinder for the purpose of protecting the cylinder from wrenching,
prying, cutting, driving through, or pulling out by attack tools.
DEAD BOLT is a bolt which has no automatic spring action and which is operated by a key cylinder,
thumbturn or lever, and is positively held fast when in the projected position.
DEADLOCKING LATCH is a latch in which the latch bolt is positively held in the projected position by a
guard bolt, plunger or auxiliary mechanism.
LATCH is a device I -or automatically retaining the door in a closed position upon its closing.
1010.6. TESTS.
1010.6.1 Sliding Glass Doors. Panels shall be closed and locked. Tests shall be performed in the following
order:
I. Test A. With the panels in the normal position, a concentrated load of 300 pounds shall be applied
separately to each vertical pull stile incorporating a locking device, at a point on the stile within six inches of the
locking device, in the direction parallel to the plane of glass that would tend to open the door.
2. Test B. Repeat Test A while simultaneously adding a concentrated load of 150 pounds to the same area of
the same stile in a direction perpendicular to the plane of glass toward the interior side of the door.
3, Test C. Repeat Test B with the 150 -pound force in the reversed direction toward the exterior side of the
door.
4. Test D, E, and F. Repeat Tests A, B and C with the movable panel lifted upwards to its full limit within
the confines of the door frame.
5. Identification. Sliding glass door assemblages subject to the provisions of this section shall bear a label or
other approved means of identification indicating compliance with these tests. The label shall be a type authorized
through a recognized testing agency which provides periodic follow-up inspection service.
1010.6.2 Sliding Glass Windows. Sash shall be closed and locked. Tests shall be performed in the following
order:
I. Test A. With the sliding sash in the normal position, a concentrated load of 150 pounds shall be applied
separately to each sash member incorporating a locking device, at a point on the sash member within six inches of the
locking device, in the direction parallel to the plane of glass that would tend to open the window.
2. Test B. Repeat Test A while simultaneously adding a concentrated load of 75 pounds to the same area of
the same sash member in the direction perpendicular to the plan of glass toward the interior side of the window.
3. Test C. Repeat Test B with the 75 pounds of force in the reversed direction toward the exterior side of the
window.
4. Test D, E and F. Repeat Tests A, B and C with the movable sash lifted upwards to its full limit within the
confines of the window frame.
5. Identification. Sliding glass window assemblages subject to the provisions of this section shall bear a
label or other approved means of identification indicating compliance with these tests. The label shall be a type
authorized through a recognized testing agency which provides periodic follow-up inspection service.
1010.7 DOORS
1010.7.1 General. A door forming a part of the enclosure of a dwelling unit or of an area occupied by one
tenant of a building shall be constructed, installed, and secured as set forth in Sub -Sections 1010.7.2, 1010.7.4, and
1010.7.5 when such door is directly reachable or capable of being reached from a street, highway, yard, court,
passageway, corridor, balcony, patio, breezeway, private garage, portion of the building which is available for use by
the public or other tenants, or similar area. In residential occupancies, all entry doors to dwelling units or guest rooms
shall be arranged so that the occupant has a view of the area immediately outside the door without opening the door.
Such view may be provided by a door viewer, through windows located in the vicinity of the door, or through view
ports in the door or adjoining wall. Such windows or view ports shall be constructed in compliance with the provisions
of Section 1010.8. A door enclosing a private garage with an interior opening leading directly to a dwelling unit shall
also comply with said Section 1010.7.2, 1010.7.3, 1010.7.4, 1010.7.5.
1010.7.2.1. Swinging Doors. Swinging wooden doors which are openable from the inside without the use of a key
shall be one of the following constructions or shall be of a construction having equivalent forced -entry resistance:
I . Solid core doors not less than 1 3/8 inches in thickness.
2. Wood panel -type doors with panels fabricated of lumber not less than 9/16 inch thickness, provided shaped
portions of the panels are not less than 1/4 inch thick. Individual panels shall not exceed 300 square inches in area.
.— Stiles and rails shall be of solid lumber with overall dimensions of not less than 1 3/8 inches in thickness and 3 inches
in width. Mullions shall be considered a part of adjacent panels unless sized as required herein for stiles and rails
except mullions not over 18 inches long may have an overall width of not less than 2 inches. Carved areas shall have a
thickness of not less than 3/8 inches. Dimensional tolerance published in recognized industry standards may be
utilized.
3. Hollow -core doors- or doors less than 13/8 inches in thickness either of which are covered on the side face
with 16 -gauge sheet metal attached with screws at 6 inches maximum centers around the perimeter.
Lights in doors shall be as set forth in Sections 1010.8.
1022.7.2.1 A single swinging door, the active leaf of a pair of doors, and the bottom leaf of Dutch doors shall be
equipped with a dead bolt and a latch. If a key -locking feature is incorporated in the latching mechanism, a dead latch
shall he used. The dead bolt and latch may be activated by one lock or by individual locks. Dead bolts shall contain
hardened inserts, or equivalent, so as to repel cutting tool attack. The dead bolt lock or locks shall be key operated
from the exterior side of the door and engaged or disengaged from the interior side of the door by a device not
requiring a key, tool or excessive force.
EXCEPTIONS: 1. The latch may be omitted from doors in Group B, F, or M Occupancies.
2. In other than residential occupancies, locks may be key, or otherwise operated from the inside when not
prohibited by Chapter 10 or other laws and regulations.
3. A swinging door of width greater than 5 feet may be secured as set forth in Section 1010.7.2.3.
4. In residential occupancies, doors not required by Section 310.4 or 1003.3.1 may be equipped with security -
type hardware which requires a key to release from the interior side of the door if the sleeping rooms are protected with
a fire -warning system as set forth in Section 310.9.
A straight dead bolt shall have a minimum throw of I inch and the embedment shall be not less than 5/8 inch into
the holding device receiving the projected bolt. A hook shape or expanding lug dead bolt shall have a minimum throw
of 3/4 inch. All dead bolts or locks which automatically activate two or more dead bolts shall embed at least 1/2 inch,
but need not exceed 3/4 inch, into the holding devices receiving the projected bolts.
1010.7.2.3 The inactive leaf of a pair of doors and the upper leaf of Dutch doors shall be equipped with a dead bolt
or dead bolts as set forth in Subsection 1010.7.2.2
EXCEPTIONS: 1. The bolt or bolts need not be key operated, but shall not be otherwise activated, from the
exterior side of the door.
2. The bolt or bolts may be engaged or disengaged automatically with the dead bolt or by another device on the
active leaf or lower leaf.
3. Manually -operated hardened bolts at the top and bottom of the leaf and which embed a minimum of 1/2 inch
into the device receiving the projected bolt may be used when not prohibited by Chapter 10 or other laws and
regulations.
1010.7.2.4 Door stops on wooden jambs for in -swinging doors shall he of one-piece construction with the jamb or
joined by a rabbet.
1010.7.2.5 Nonremovable pins shall be used in pin -type hinges which are accessible from the outside when the
door is closed.
1010.7.2.6 Cylinder guards shall be installed on cylinder locks for dead bolts whenever the cylinder projects
beyond the outside face of the door or is otherwise accessible to attack tools.
1010.7.3. Sliding Glass Doors. Sliding glass doors shall be equipped with locking devices and shall be so installed
that, when subjected to tests specified in Section 1010.6, remain intact and engaged. Movable panels shall not be
rendered easily operable or removable from the frame during or after the test.
Cylinder guards shall be installed on all mortise or rim -type cylinder locks installed in hollow -metal doors
whenever the cylinder projects beyond the face of the door or is otherwise accessible to gripping tools.
Locking devices installed on sliding glass doors providing a means of egress required by Section 1003 or
providing for the emergency escape or rescue required by Section 310.4 shall be releasable from the inside without the
use of a key, tool or excessive force.
1010.7.4. Overhead and Sliding Doors. Metal or wooden overhead and sliding doors shall be secured with a dead
bolt lock, padlock with a hardened steel shackle, or equivalent when not otherwise locked by electric power operation.
Locking devices, when installed at the jamb of metal or wooden overhead doors, shall be installed on both jambs when
such doors exceed 9 feet in width. Metal or wooden sliding doors exceeding 9 feet in width and provided with a jamb -
locking device shall have the door side opposite the lock restrained by a guide or retainer.
Cylinder guards shall he installed on all mortise or rim -type cylinder locks installed in hollow -metal doors
whenever the cylinder projects beyond the face of the door or is otherwise accessible to gripping tools.
1010.7.5. Metal Accordion Grate or Grille -Type Doors. Metal accordion grate or grille -type doors shall he
equipped with metal guides at top and bottom, and a cylinder lock or padlock and hardened steel shackle shall be
provided.
Cylinder guards shall be installed on all mortise or rim -type cylinder locks installed in hollow -metal doors
whenever the cylinder projects beyond the face of the door or is otherwise accessible to gripping tools.
1010.8. LIGHTS
1010.8.1 General. A window, skylight or other light forming apart of the enclosure of a dwelling unit or of an area
occupied by one tenant of a building shall be constructed, installed and secured as set forth in Sections 1010.8.3, when
the bottom of such window, skylight or tight is not more than 16 feet above the grade of a street, highway, yard, court,
passageway, corridor, balcony, patio, breezeway, private garage, portion of the building which is available for use by
the public or other tenants, or similar area.
A window enclosing a private garage with an exterior opening leading directly to a dwelling unit shall also comply
with said Sections 1010.8.3.
1010.8.2. Material. Lights within 40 inches of a required locking device on a door when in the closed and locked
position and operable from the inside without the use of a key, and lights with a least dimension greater than 6 inches
but less than 48 inches in Group B, F or M Occupancies, shall be fully tempered glass, laminated glass of at least 1/4
inch thickness, approved burglary -resistant material, or guarded by metal bars, screens or grilles in an approved
manner.
10 10.8.3 Locking Devices
1010.8.3.1. Locking devices installed on windows providing the emergency egress required by Section 310.4 shall
be releasable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or excessive force.
1010.8.3.2 Sliding glass windows shall be provided with locking devices that, when subject to the tests specified
in Section 1010.6, remain intact and engaged. Movable panels shall not be rendered easily openable or removable from
the frame during or after the tests.
1010.8.3.3 Other openable windows shall be provided with substantial locking devices which render the building
as secure as the devices required by this section. In Group B, F, and M Occupancies, such devices shall be a glide bar,
cross bar, and/or padlock with a hardened steel shackle.
1010.8.3.4 Special louvered windows, except those above the first story in Group R Occupancies which cannot be
reached without a ladder, shall be of material or guarded as specified in Section 1010.14 and individual panes shall be
securely fastened by mechanical fasteners requiring a tool for removal and not accessible from the outside when the
window is in the closed position.
1010.9 OTHER OPENINGS
1010.9.1. General. Openings, other than doors or lights, which form a part of the enclosure, or portion thereof,
housing a single occupant and the bottom of which is not more than 16 feet above the grade of a street, highway, yard,
court, passageway, corridor, balcony, patio, breezeway or similar area, or from a private garage, or from a portion of
the building which is occupied, used or available for use by the public or other tenants, or an opening enclosing a
private garage attached to a dwelling unit which openings therein shall be constructed, installed and secured as set
forth in Section 1010.9.2.
1010.9.2 Hatchways, Scuttles and Similar Openings
1010.9.2.1. Wooden hatchways less than 1 3/4 -inch -thick solid wood shall be covered on the inside with 16 -gauge
sheet metal attached with screws at 6 inch maximum centers around perimeter.
1010.9.2.2 The hatchway shall be secured from the inside with a slide bar, slide bolt, and/or padlock with a
hardened steel shackle.
1010.9.2.3 Outside pin -type hinges shall be provided with nonremovable pins or a means by which the door
cannot be opened through removal of hinge pins while the door is in the closed position.
1010.9.2.4 Other openings exceeding 96 square inches with a least dimension exceeding 8 inches shall be secured
by metal bars, screens or grilles in an approved manner.
XX. Chapter 98 and 99 Added—Unoccupied Buildings and Structures, and Building and Property
Rehabilitation. Chapters 98 and 99 of the Los Angeles County Building Code, most current edition, are adopted in
their entirety.
YY. Sections 6401 through 6403.8 Added—Fire Hazard Zones. Sections 6401 through 6403.8 are added to
read as follows:
Section 6401. Fire Hazard Zones (Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones)
For the purpose of this Code, Fire Hazard Zones are those zones that pose a significant threat of fire from
adjoining natural brush hillside area(s), Fire Hazard Zones in Santa Clarita are defined as those areas within 1,000 feet
of a natural brush hillside area, which poses a significant threat to fire as established by the Fire Department. A
reference map showing the fire zone locations in the City is to be kept and maintained by the Building and Safety
office and the Fire Department for review by the public at all times.
Section 6402. (Reserved)
Section 6403. Construction Requirements for Buildings and Structures in Fire Hazard Zones.
Section 6403.1. General. Buildings or structures hereafter erected, constructed, moved within or into a Fire Hazard
Zone shall comply with the requirements of this Section.
EXCEPTION: Greenhouses constructed as specified in Appendix Chapter 3. Division II, when approved by the
Building Official.
Section 6403.2. Roof covering. Roof coverings for all new construction shall have a Class "A" rating as specified
in Section 1504. L Tile roofs shall be fire stopped at the eave ends.
Roofs being repaired or replaced with a cumulative area greater than 50% of the roof area shall comply with the
Class "A" rating requirements in their entirety.
Roof repairs with a cumulative area greater than 10%, but less than 50% of the roof area are required to comply
with the Class "A" rating requirements in the areas of repair only.
Wood shakes and wood shingles shall be Fire Retardant as defined by Section 1502 of the State Building Code,
and have a Class "A" rating.
Section 6403.3. Exterior Walls. All exterior walls of buildings or structures located in a Fire Hazard Zone shall be
constructed of non-combustible materials. Roof eaves in buildings located in a Fire Hazard Zone shall be enclosed
with non-combustible finish materials.
Exterior walls being repaired or replaced with a cumulative area greater than 50% of the total wall area are
required to be constructed of non-combustible finish materials in their entirety.
Wall repairs with a cumulative area greater than 10%, but less than 50% of the total wall area are required to be
constructed with non-combustible finish materials in the areas of repair only.
Section 6403.4. Exterior Doors. All exterior doors other than vehicular access doors to garages shall be solid core
construction of not less than 1-3/8 inches (35mm) thick or shall be of not less than double -pane glazing.
EXCEPTION: 1) Multiple glazing may be omitted when the opening for a window or other light forming a part
of the enclosure of a building is less than 150 square inches (0.0968 -sq. m). 2) Multiple glazing may be omitted for
lights less than 900 square inches (0.0968 -sq. m) within doors, which form part of the enclosure of the building.
Section 6403.5. Protection of Openings. Openings into attics, underfloor areas or other enclosed unusable areas
shall be covered with corrosion -resistant wire mesh with mesh openings having a 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) in any dimension
except where such openings are equipped with a sash or doors. Openings shall not exceed 10% of the area of the wall
in which they are located. Chimneys shall have spark arrestors with openings of not more than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in
any dimension.
Section 6403.6. Underfloor Areas. Decks and buildings with raised floors shall have all unusable underfloor areas
enclosed to the ground with construction as required for exterior walls.
EXCEPTION: Complete enclosure may be omitted where the underside of all exposed floors and all exposed
structural columns, beams and supporting walls are protected as required for exterior one-hour fire resistive
construction.
Section 6403.7. Accessory Structures. Accessory structures such as carports, decks or patio covers that are
attached to, or within 20 feet (6.1 m) of a habitable building, must be of not less than 2x nominal framing in its
smallest dimension. Trellises of less than 2x nominal framing in any direction are not permitted within 20 feet (6.1 m)
of habitable structures.
Section 6403.8. Pool Identification Signage. Every building constructed in a Fire Hazard Zone on a property
having a pool or spa with a capacity of 5,000 gallons or greater shall be identified by a permanent sign indicating the
presence of an emergency water source for fire -fighting purposes. Such sign shall depict a white water -and -swimmer
icon, with a blue background and securely fastened to the building or post. The sign shall be rectangular with
dimensions of not less than 10 inches high by 7-1/2 wide and be retro -reflective, fade resistant and able to withstand
the elements. The sign shall be placed and maintained in such a location as to be plainly visible from the street or road
fronting the property.
EXCEPTION: Where curb address numbers exist, pools and spas may be identified by painting a rectangular 4 -
inch by 4 -inch pool graphic next to the curb address numbers. The graphic shall depict a white water -and -swimmer
icon against a blue background and shall be maintained in a distinguishable condition.
(Ord. 97-4, 4/8/97; amend. Ord. 98-5, 5/12/98)
Chapter 18.03
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Sections
18.03.1110
General.
18.03.020
Title.
18.03.030
Purpose.
18.03.040
Scope.
18.03.050
Unsafe Buildings --Definitions.
18.03.060
Notice of Unsafe Building.
18.03.070
Posting of Signs.
18.03.080
Unsafe Buildings Hearings.
18.03.090
Demolition or Repair.
18.03.100
Prohibited Uses of Building Sites.
18.03.110
Violations and Penalties.
18.03.120
Notices of Building Code Violation.
18.03.130
Organization and Enforcement.
18.03.140
Board of Appeals.
18.03.150
Permits --Required.
18.113.160
Permits --Work Exempted.
18.03.170
Permits --Application.
18.03.180
Design Professional of Record.
18.03.190
Inspection and Observation Program.
18.03.200
Standard Plans.
18.03.210
Permits --Issuance.
18.03.220
Fees.
18.03.230
Inspections.
18.03.240
Certificate of Occupancy.
18.03.250
Disaster Response.
Section 18.03.010 General.
Title IS of the municipal code of the City of Santa Clarita, 'Building Code," may be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this code."
Section 18.03.020 Title.
The regulations contained in this chapter shall be known as the Administrative Provisions of the Santa Clarita
Building Code and shall be used in conjunction with the technical provisions of Title 18 and the provisions of Title 24,
California Code of Regulations, mandated by the State of California to be enforced by the local Building Department,
all of which may be cited herein as "this code."
Section 18.03.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this code is to:
A. Provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating and
controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and occupancy, location and maintenance of all buildings
and structures within the City of Santa Clarita and certain equipment specifically regulated herein; and
B. To ensure that barrier -free design is incorporated in all buildings, facilities, site work and other developments
to which this code applies to ensure that they are accessible to, and usable by persons with disabilities.
Consistent with these purposes, the provisions of this code are intended and always have been intended to confer a
benefit on the community as a whole and are not intended to establish a duty of care toward any particular person.
This code shall not be construed to hold the City or an officer, employee, or agent thereof responsible for any
damage to persons or property by reason of any inspection authorized herein, and/or for any action or omission in
connection with the application and/or enforcement of this code. By adopting the provisions of this code the City does
not intend to impose on itself, its employees, or agents any mandatory duties of care toward persons and property
within its jurisdiction so as to provide a basis of civil liability for damages.
This section is declaratory of existing law and is not to be construed as suggesting that such was not the purpose
and intent of previous code adoptions. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
action 18.03.040 Scope.
The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair and use of any
building, structure or site within the City of Santa Clarita, except work located in a public way, public utility towers
and poles, mechanical equipment not specifically regulated in this code, and hydraulic flood control structures.
For additions, alterations, moving and maintenance of buildings and structures, see Chapter 34. For temporary
buildings and structures see Section 3103 and Appendix Chapter 31.
Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or
other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a
specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.
Wherever in this code reference is made to the appendix, only the UBC appendix sections adopted in Section
18.01.010 of the municipal code shall apply.
Section 18.03.050 Unsafe Buildings --Definitions.
All buildings or structures which are structurally unsafe or not provided with adequate egress, or which constitute
a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life, or which in relation to existing use constitute a hazard to safety
or health, or public welfare, by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire hazard, disaster
damage, or abandonment as specified in this code or any other effective ordinance, are for the purposes of this code,
unsafe buildings. Whenever the Building Official determines by inspection that a building or structure whether
structurally damaged or not is dangerous to human life by reason of being located in an area which is unsafe due to
hazard from landslide, settlement or slippage or any other cause, such building shall for the purposes of this chapter, be
considered an unsafe building.
All such unsafe buildings are declared to be public nuisances and shall be abated by repair, rehabilitation,
demolition or removal in accordance with the procedure specified in this chapter. As an alternative, the Building
Official may institute any other appropriate action to prevent, restrain, correct, or abate the violation.
As used in this code, "party concerned" means the person, if any in real or apparent charge and control of the
premises involved, the record owner, the holder of any mortgage, trust deed or other lien or encumbrance of record, the
owner or holder of any lease of record, the record holder of any other estate or interest in or to the building or structure
or the land upon which it is located. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.060 Notice of Unsafe Building.
The Building Official shall examine or cause to be examined every building or structure or portion thereof
reported as dangerous or damaged and, if, in the opinion of the Building Official, such is found to be an unsafe
building as defined in this code the Building Official shall give to the party concerned written notice stating the defects
thereof. This notice may require the owner or person in charge of the building or premises, within forty-eight (48)
hours, to commence either the required repairs or improvements or demolition and removal of the building or
structures of portions thereof and all such work shall be completed within ninety (90) days from date of notice, unless
otherwise stipulated by the Building Official. If necessary, such notice shall also require the building, structure, or
portion thereof to be vacated forthwith and not reoccupied until the required repairs and improvements are completed,
inspected and approved by the Building Official.
Proper service of such notice shall be by personal service or by registered or certified mail upon every party
concerned. In the event the Building Official, after reasonable effort, is unable to serve the notice as specified above,
proper service shall be posting on the structure a copy of the notice.
The designated period within which the owner or person in charge is required to comply with such notice shall
begin as of the date such notice is received by personal service or registered or certified mail. If the notice is by
posting, the designated period shall begin 10 days following the date of the posting.
The failure of any owner or other person to receive such notice shall not affect in any manner the validity of any
proceedings taken hereunder.
A person notified to vacate an unsafe building by the Building Official shall vacate within the time specified in the
order.
The Building Official may file with the office of the County Recorder a declaration that the building described has
•— been inspected and found to be an unsafe building, as defined in this code, and that the owner thereof has been so
notified. After all required work has been completed and all fees and/or costs to the City been paid by the party
concerned, the Building Official shall file with the office of the County Recorder a properly executed form terminating
the above declaration. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.070 Posting of Signs.
The Building Official shall cause to be posted on buildings required to be vacated or remain unoccupied, a notice
to read substantially as follows: "DO NOT ENTER, UNSAFE TO OCCUPY. Building and Safety Division, City of
Santa Clarita." Such notice shall be posted at the main entrance and shall be visible to persons approaching the
building or structure from a street. Such notice shall not be removed without written permission of the Building
Official and no person shall enter the building except for the purpose of making the required repairs or for demolishing
the building. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.080 Unsafe Buildings Hearings.
A. Right of Hearing. The party concerned or the Building Official may request a hearing regarding the unsafe
condition of the building or structure. The request by the interested party shall be made in writing to the Board of
Appeals, as specified in Section I8.03.140(C) of this code, within thirty (30) days of the date of the notice of the
unsafe condition. A hearing shall be requested by the Building Official prior to demolition or repair of an unsafe
building by the City except when such demolition or repair is done under the emergency procedure set forth in this
code.
All interested parties who desire to be heard may appear before the Board of Appeals to show cause why the
building or structure should not be ordered repaired, vacated and repaired or demolished.
B. Notice of Hearing. No less than ten (10) days prior to the hearing the Building Official shall serve or cause to
be served either in the manner required by law for the service of summons or by first class mail, postage prepaid, a
copy of the notice of hearing upon every party concerned.
C. Form and Content of Notice. The notice of hearing shall contain the following information:
I. The street address and a legal description sufficient for identification of the premises upon which the
building or structure is located.
2. The conditions because of which the Building Official believed that the building or structure is unsafe.
3. The date, hour and place of the hearing.
D. Posting of the Notice. The Building Official shall post one copy of the notice in a conspicuous place on the
unsafe building involved, not less than ten (10) days prior to the hearing.
E. Hearing by the Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals shall hold a hearing and consider all competent
evidence offered by any person pertaining to the matters set forth in the report of the Building Official.
The Board of Appeals shall make written findings of fact as to whether or not the building or structure is an
unsafe building as defined in this code.
F. Order. If the Board of Appeals finds that the building or structure is an unsafe building, it shall make an
order based upon its finding that:
I. The building or structure is an unsafe building and directing that repairs be made and specifying such
repairs; or
2. The building or structure is an unsafe building, directing that it be vacated and specified repairs be made;
or
3. The building or structure is an unsafe. building and shall be vacated and demolished.
The order shall state the time within which the work required must be commenced, which shall be not less
than ten (10) nor later than thirty (30) days after the service of the order. The order shall state a reasonable time within
which the work shall be completed. The Board of Appeals for good cause may extend the time for completion in
writing.
The order shall be served upon the same parties and in the same manner as required by subsection B of this
section for the notice of hearing. It shall also be conspicuously posted on or about the building or structure. (Ord. 96-3,
1/23/96)
Section 18.03.090 Demolition or Repair.
A. Work by City. If the repairs or demolition necessary to remove the unsafe condition as set forth in the notice
of unsafe building are not made within the designated period and a hearing has not been requested by any party
concerned, the Building Official shall request that a hearing be held regarding the unsafe condition. If the finding by
the Board of Appeals is not complied within the period designated by the Board, the Building Official may then
demolish or repair such portions of the structure, or may cause such work to be done, to the extent necessary to
eliminate the hazard determined to exist by the Board of Appeals.
B. Emergency Procedures. Whenever any portion of a structure constitutes an immediate hazard to life or
property, and in the opinion of the Building Official the conditions are such that repairs, or demolition must be
undertaken within less than the designated period; the Building Official may make such alterations or repairs, or
demolish such portions of the structures as are necessary to protect life or property, or both after giving such notice to
the parties concerned as the circumstances will permit or without any notice whatever when, in the opinion of the
Building Official, immediate action is necessary.
C. Costs. The costs involved in work performed pursuant to subsection A or B of this section, including all
administrative costs as established by the City Council, shall be a special assessment against the property upon which
the work was performed. The Building Official shall notify, in writing, all parties concerned of the amount of such
assessment resulting from such work. Within five (5) days of the receipt of such notice any party concerned may file
with the Building Official a written request for a hearing on the correctness or reasonableness, or both, of such
assessment. All requests shall be accompanied with the appropriate fee as established by the City Council. Any party
concerned who did not receive a notice pursuant to Section 18.03.060 of this code and who has not had a hearing on
the necessity of the demolition or repairs, in such request for hearing also may ask that such necessity be reviewed.
The Board of Appeals thereupon shall set the matter for hearing, give such party concerned notice thereof as provided
in Section 18.03.060 of this code, hold such hearing and determine the reasonableness or correctness of the assessment,
or both, and if requested, the necessity of the demolition or repairs. The Board of Appeals, in writing, shall notify such
party concerned of its decision. If the total assessment determined as provided for in this section is not paid in full
within ten (10) days after receipt of such notice from the Building Official or the Board of Appeals, as the case may he,
the Building Official shall record in the office of the County Recorder a statement of the total balance still due and a
legal description of the property. From the date of such recording the balance due shall be a special assessment against
the parcel.
The assessment shall be collected at the same time and in the same manner as ordinary county taxes are collected,
and shall be subject to the same penalties and the same procedure and sale in case of delinquency as provided for
ordinary county taxes. All the laws applicable to the levy, collection and enforcement of county taxes shall be
applicable to such special assessment.
D. Interference Prohibited. A person shall not obstruct, impede, or interfere with the Building Official or any
representative of the Building Official, or with any person who owns or holds any estate or interest in any unsafe
building which has been ordered by the Board of Appeals to be repaired, vacated and repaired, or vacated and
demolished or removed, whenever the Building Official or such owner is engaged in repairing, vacating and repairing,
or demolishing any such unsafe building pursuant to this code, or in the performance of any necessary act preliminary
to or incidental to such work, or authorized or directed pursuant hereto.
E. Prosecution. In case the owner shall fail, neglect or refuse to comply with the notice to repair, rehabilitate, or
to demolish and remove said building or structure or portion thereof, the Building Official shall cause the owner of the
building to be prosecuted as a violator of this code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.100 Prohibited Uses of Building Sites.
A. Flood and Debris Hazard Sites. Buildings, other structures or appurtenances (including but not limited to
walls and fences of any height) and fill are not permitted in an area determined by the Floodplain Administrator to be
subject to flood hazard by reason of inundation, overflow, other special flood and debris hazards or erosion except as
discussed in this section.
The placement of the building, other structures or fill on the building site shall be such that water or debris flow
will not be a hazard to the building or adjacent property, and not be in violation of the provisions of Chapter 10.06.
This prohibition shall not apply when provisions are made to eliminate such hazard (on -or off-site), as demonstrated
with quantitative engineering analyses prepared by a registered civil engineer to the satisfaction of the Transportation
and Engineering Services Department by providing adequate drainage facilities, by protective walls, suitably -protected
till, raising the floor level of the building, using a combination of these methods, or other means.
A person shall not perform building or grading work within the boundaries of an established floodplain if such
work increases the flood hazard to adjacent properties by either raising the capital floodwater surface elevation
deflecting or concentrating flows, or increasing deposition, scour or erosion, unless such work can be demonstrated
with quantitative analyses prepared by a registered civil engineer to the satisfaction of the Floodplain Administrator
that all increases in the flood hazard including cumulative adverse impacts due to adjacent potential developments will
be avoided or permanently mitigated.
Buildings permitted on properties containing identified flood hazard areas require elevation certificates which are
to be completed by a registered civil engineer or licensed land surveyor. No framing or construction above the finished
floor elevation specified on the elevation certificate will be allowed until the elevation certificate is submitted to, and
approved by, the Floodplain Administrator.
Buildings permitted in identified flood hazard areas require recorded covenants against the property informing the
current and any future owners of the special building restrictions and required permits governing any and all
improvements, facilities or structures on the property.
Building and Safety shall examine each building or grading permit application to determine if this section shall
apply.
B. Geologic Hazard Sites.
I. No building or grading permit shall be issued under the provisions of this subsection when the Building
Official finds that property outside the site of the proposed work could be damaged by activation or acceleration of a
eeologically hazardous condition and such activation or acceleration could be attributed to the proposed work on, or
change in use of, the site for which the permit is requested. For the purpose of this section, geologically hazardous
condition does not include surface displacement due to earthquake faults.
2. Work requiring a building or grading permit by this code is not permitted in an area determined by the
Building Official to he subject to hazard from landslide, settlement or slippage. These hazards include those from loose
debris. slopewash and the potential for mud Flows from natural slopes or graded slopes. For the purpose of this section,
landslide, settlement or slippage does not include surface displacement due to the earthquake faults.
3. Subject to the conditions of subdivision I of this subsection, permits may be issued in the following
cases:
a. When the applicant has submitted a geological and/or engineering report or reports complying with
the provisions of subsection F of this section which report or reports show that the hazard will be eliminated prior to
the use of occupancy of the land or structures by modification of topography, reduction of subsurface water,
buttressing, a combination of these methods, or by other means.
b. When the applicant has submitted a geological and/or engineering report or reports complying with
the provision of subsection F of this section which report or reports contain sufficient data to show that the site appears
to be in no danger for the intended use.
c. When the applicant has submitted a geological report complying with the provisions of subsection F
of this section which report indicates that the site appears to be geologically safe for the proposed use but is located in
an area subject to a hazard of a geological nature. Before a permit is issued the owner first shall record in the
Department of Registrar -Recorder the findings of such report or reports, together with an agreement relieving the City
and all officers and employees thereof of any liability for any damage or loss which may result from the issuance of
such permit. This agreement shall provide that it is binding on all successors in interest of the owner and shall continue
in effect until the Building Official records in the Department of Registrar -Recorder a statement that he finds such
hazard no longer exists.
d. When the work involves the alteration or minor repair of existing structures and the cost of such
alteration or repair does not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the value of the existing structure, such value to be
based on assumed continuation of the established legal use. Before a permit is issued, the owner shall record in the
office of the Department of Registrar -Recorder (1) a statement that he is aware that the records of the Building Official
indicate that the property is subject to a physical hazard of a geological nature and (2) an agreement relieving the City
and all officers and employees thereof of any ability for any damage or loss which may result from issuance of such a
permit. This agreement shall provide that it is binding on all successors in interest of the owner and shall continue in
effect until the Building Official records in the office of the Department of Registrar -Recorder a statement that he finds
such hazard no longer exists. The repair work shall consist of restoring the original construction. Provision may be
made for adjustment of the floor in anticipation of future settlement. For the purposes of this subsection "alteration'
does not include an addition or additions.
e. When the work involves an addition or additions to an existing structure but is not a change in use or
occupancy and such work does not increase the area of the structure more than twenty-five (25) percent of the area of
the structure existing on July 6, 1968. Before a permit is issued, the applicant shall submit a geological and/or
engineering report or reports complying with the provisions of subsection F of this section which report or reports
contain a finding that the proposed increased use of the site will not be geologically unsafe, and the owner shall record
in the office of the Department of Registrar -Recorder (l) the finding of such report or reports and (2) an agreement
relieving the City and all officers and employees thereof of any liability for any damage or loss which may result from
the issuance of such a permit. This agreement shall provide that it is binding on all successors in interest of the owner
and shall continue in effect until the Building Official records in the office of the Department of Registrar -Recorder a
statement that he finds a hazard no longer exists.
f. When the work involves a one-story, light -frame accessory structure not intended or used for human
occupancy and not exceeding four hundred (400) square feet in area nor twelve (12) feet in height.
When the work involves the repair of single-family residences and accessory buildings where the
cost of such repair exceeds twenty-five (25) percent of the value of the existing building or involves the replacement of
such structures where the loss to be replaced was due to causes other than landslide, settlement or slippage. Before a
permit is issued the owner shall
( I ) Record in the office of the Department of Registrar -Recorder (1) a statement that he is the owner
and that he is aware that the records of the Building Official indicate that the property is subject to a physical hazard of
a geological nature and (2) an agreement relieving the City and all officers and employees thereof of any liability for
any damage or loss which may result from issuance of such a permit. This agreement shall provide that it is binding on
all successors in interest of the owner and shall continue in effect until the Building Official records in the office of the
Department of Registrar -Recorder a statement that he finds such hazard no longer exists.
(2) Submit calculations and plans for the proposed reconstruction prepared by a registered civil
engineer and designed to minimize damage while accommodating the amount of vertical and horizontal displacements
which he determines are probably or which have occurred since the original structure was built, whichever is the
,greater.
h. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this subsection, the Building Official may, at his discretion,
deny a permit for any building, structure or grading subject to a hazard of a geological nature which cannot be
mitigated and may endanger the health or safety of the occupants, adjoining property or the public.
C. Fills Containing Decomposable Material. Permits shall not be issued for buildings or structures regulated
by this code within one thousand (1,000) feet of fills containing rubbish or other decomposable material unless the fill
is isolated by approved natural or man-made protective systems or unless designed according to the recommendation
contained in a report prepared by a licensed civil engineer. Such report shall contain a description of the investigation,
study and recommendation to minimize the possible intrusion, and to prevent the accumulation of explosive
concentrations of decomposition gases within or under enclosed portions of such building or structure. At the time of
the final inspection, the civil engineer shall furnish a signed statement attesting that the building or structure has been
constructed in accordance with his recommendations to decomposition gases required herein.
D. Conditional Use. Work required by this section as a condition for the use of the site shall be performed prior
to the connection of the utilities or occupancy of the building.
E. Methane Gas Hazard Sites..Permits shall not be issued for buildings or structures regulated by this code on,
adjacent to, or within twenty-five (25) feet of active, abandoned or idle oil or gas well(s) unless designed according to
recommendations contained in a report prepared by a licensed civil engineer and approved by the Building Official. In
addition, permits shall not be issued for a building or structure regulated by this code located between twenty-five (25)
feet and two hundred (200) feet from active, abandoned or idle oil or gas well(s) unless designed according to the
recommendations contained in a report prepared by a licensed civil engineer and approved by the Building Official or
all active, abandoned or idle oil or gas well(s) between twenty-five (25) feet and two hundred (200) feet from said
building or structure are examined by a licensed petroleum engineer to evaluate whether, in accordance with the
current rules and regulations of the Division of Oil and Gas of the State of California, such wells are being properly
operated, maintained, or abandoned. No permits shall be issued until certification of proper operations, maintenance, or
abandonment or re -abandonment, as determined by the Division of Oil and Gas, is submitted to the Building Official.
This requirement is not applicable to active, abandoned or idle oil or gas well(s) located more than two hundred (200)
feet from the proposed buildings or structures.
As used in this section, "well' shall mean any well as defined by Section 3008, subdivisions (a) and (b) of the
California Public Resources Code.
F. Geology and Engineering Reports. The Building Official may require an engineering geology or
geotechnical engineering report, or both, where in his opinion such reports are essential for the evaluation of the safety
of the site. The engineering geology or geotechnical engineering report or both shall contain a finding regarding the
safety of the building site for the proposed structure against hazard from landslide, settlement or slippage and a finding
regarding the effect that the proposed building or grading construction will have on the geologic stability of property
outside of the building site. Any engineering geology report shall be prepared by a certified engineering geologist
licensed by the State of California. Any geotechnical engineering report shall be prepared by a civil engineer qualified
to perform this work, such as a geotechnical engineer experienced in soil mechanics. When both an engineering
geology and geotechnical engineering report are required for the evaluation of the safety of a building site, the two (2)
reports shall be coordinated before submission to the Building Official.
G. Earthquake Faults.
I. General. The construction of a building or structure near a known active earthquake fault and regulated
by this code shall be permitted as set forth in this section.
2. Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply only to permits for buildings or structures on individual
lots or parcels and are not intended to be supplementary to geologic investigations required to qualify divisions of land
as set forth in the Uniform Development Code of the City of Santa Clarita.
3. Definition. For the purpose of this section, a "geologist" shall be a registered geologist, licensed by the
California State Board of Registration for Geologists and Geophysicists to practice geology in California.
4. Known Active Earthquake Faults. For the purpose of this section, known active earthquake faults are
those faults which have had displacement within Holocene time (approximately the last eleven thousand (11,000)
years) as defined in the most current issue of Special Publication 42 of the California Division of Mines and Geology.
5. Earthquake Fault Maps. Special studies zone maps within the City of Santa Clarita prepared under
Sections 2622 and 2623 of the California Resources Code which show traces of earthquake faults are declared to be,
on the date of official issues, a part of this code, and may be referred to elsewhere in this code. Special studies zones
maps revised under the above sections of the California Resources Code shall, on the date of their official issue,
supersede previously issued maps which they replace.
Copies of each of the above maps shall be available for examination by the public at the Building and
Engineering Services Department offices.
The Department shall maintain maps available to the public showing the location of known active earthquake
faults. In the absence of additional information, the location of known active earthquake faults shall be as shown on
special studies zones maps.
6. Construction Limitations. No building or structure shall be constructed over or upon the trace of a
known active earthquake fault which is shown on maps maintained by the City Engineer.
The absence of a known active earthquake fault trace at the proposed building location shall be determined by
the Building and Engineering Services Department in the following cases:
a. When the proposed building is within fifty (50) feet of that line designated by the City Engineer as
the assumed location of a known active earthquake fault on the aforementioned maps.
b. When the proposed building is within fifty (50) feet of the most probable ground location of the trace
of a known active earthquake fault shown on the aforementioned maps.
In these cases when a geologist has not otherwise made such a determination, the City may require the
excavation of a trench, as a subsurface exploration for the purpose of determining the absence of a known active
earthquake fault. Such a trench will be required if a lack of distinguishable fault features in the vicinity prevents the
City Engineer from determining by a site examination, review of available aerial photographs, or by other means that
the fault trace does not underlie the proposed building. The trench shall he approximately perpendicular to the most
probable direction of the fault trace, at least one and one-half (11/2) feet wide, and at least five (5) feet in depth
measured from natural grade, or to a depth satisfactory to the City.
The trench must be accessible for mapping and inspection by the City, when requested, and meet the
requirements of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations, Construction Safety Orders. The trench need not extend
further than the full width of the proposed structure plus five (5) feet beyond the traversed exterior walls. A known
active earthquake fault shall be presumed nonexistent if an exposure is not found by the City Engineer or a geologist in
the walls or floor of the trench. The City Engineer may require a more extensive investigation by a geologist as
evidence to the absence of a known active earthquake fault prior to the issuance of a permit for Groups A, E, I, H and
R -I Occupancies and B, F, M, and S Occupancies over one story in height.
EXCEPTION: The provisions of this subsection do not apply to:
I. One-story, light -Name buildings not intended or used for human occupancy and not exceeding one
thousand (1,000) square feet in area or twelve (12) feet in height.
2. Alterations or repairs to an existing building provided that the aggregate value of such work within any
twelve month period does not exceed fifty (50) percent of the value of the existing building.
3. Swimming pools, retaining walls, fences and minor work of a similar nature.
7. Special Studies Zones. Work within the special studies zones established under Sections 2622 and 2623 of
the California Public Resources Code shall comply with State laws, policies, criteria, rules and regulations applicable
to such work. Fees established by Chapter 7.5 of Division 2 of the California Public Resources Code shall be collected
and disbursed as required by State law.
In addition to the State regulations, the provisions of this section shall apply when geologic investigations,
mapping, aerial photographs, other acceptable data or Special Studies Zones Maps show the location of a known active
earthquake fault as described by Section 18.03.100,6,4. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.110 Violations and Penalties.
A. Compliance with Code. A person shall not erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove,
convert, demolish, equip, use, occupy or maintain any building or structure or perform any grading in the City of Santa
Clarita, or cause the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
B. Penalties. Every person who violates any of the provisions of this Code is guilty of a misdemeanor
punishable by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months,
or by both such fine and imprisonment, (see Section 17995 of the State Health and Safety Code), unless such violation
is otherwise declared to be an infraction in subsection C of this section. Such person shall be guilty of a separate
offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this code is
committed, continued, or permitted to remain.
Further, violators of this code are subject to civil fines as provided for in Section 1.02 of Title 1 of the Santa
Clarita Municipal Code.
Section 18.03.120 Notices of Building Code Violation.
A. General. The Building Official may record a notice with the County Recorder's office that a property,
building or structure, or any part thereof, is in violation of any provision of this code provided the provisions of this
section are followed. The provisions of this section are cumulative with other provisions of this code and any other
enforcement actions permitted by this code.
A notice of violation may be placed upon the title of a property when violation of the building codes have been
verified and documented to exist on the site.
B. Recordation of Notice of Violation. If (1) the Building Official determines that any property, building or
structure, or any part thereofis in violation of any provision of this code; and if (2) the Building Official gives written
notice as specified below of said violation; and if (3) within forty-five (45) days of said notice, the property, buildings,
or structures thereon are not brought into compliance with this code, then the Building Official may, in his sole
discretion, at any time thereafter record with the County Recorder's office a notice that the property and/or any
building or structure located thereon is in violation of this code.
C. Notice. Notice shall be provided in writing in accordance with the following:
I. The notice shall be mailed registered, certified or first-class mail, or may be posted at the site if the site is
occupied;
2. The notice shall be addressed to the owner as indicated on the last equalized county roll;
3. The notice shall specify what violations are being investigated or have been observed or verified;
4. The notice shall indicate what mitigation action is required by the property owner and the time frame in
which to commence and complete such mitigation,
5. The notice shall indicate that notices may be recorded and when such recording may be filed by the
Building Official.
D. Termination of Notice. When the property owner has demonstrated to the Building Official that violations of
the building code no longer exist, and all fees to cover the cost of the investigation of the violations have been paid to
the City, as established by the City Council, the Building Official shall terminate the notice of violation. (Ord. 96-3,
1/23/96)
Section 18.03.130 Organization and Enforcement.
A. Building and Safety Division. There is established within the City Of Santa Clarita, a division in the
Building and Engineering Services Department to be known as the "Building and Safety Division" under the
administrative and operational control of the City Building Official hereafter referred to as the "Building Official."
B. Powers and Duties of the Building Official.
I. General. The Building Official is authorized and directed to enforce all of the provisions of this code,
Title 19, the Electrical Code, Title 20, the Plumbing Code, and Title 21, the Mechanical Code, and to make inspections
pursuant to the provisions of each of the codes. For such purposes the Building Official shall have the powers of a law
enforcement officer.
The Building Official shall have the power to render interpretations of these codes and to adopt and enforce
rules and supplemental regulations in order to clarify the application of their provisions. Such interpretations, rules and
regulations shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of these codes.
2. Deputies. In accordance with the procedure and with the approval of the appointing authority, the
Building Official may appoint such number of technical officers and inspectors and other employees as shall be
authorized from time to time. The Building Official may deputize such technical officers, inspectors or other
employees or persons as may be necessary to tarty out the functions of the Building and Safety Division.
3. Right of Entry.
a. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any
duty imposed by this code or other applicable law, or whenever the Building Official or an authorized representative
has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such
building or premises hazardous, unsafe or dangerous for any reason specified in this code or other similar law, the
Building Official or an authorized representative is authorized to enter such property at any reasonable time and to
inspect the same and perform any duty imposed upon the Building Official by this code or other applicable law;
provided that (i) if such property is occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant, an explanation of the
reasons for the inspection given, and a request for entry made therefor; and (ii) if such property is unoccupied, then
reasonable effort shall first be made to locate the owner or other person having charge of the property to explain the
reasons for the inspection and to request entry therefor. If such entry cannot be obtained because the owner or other
person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after due diligence or if entry is refused, the Building
Official or an authorized representative shall have some recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure lawful
entry and inspect the property.
b. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Building Official or an authorized representative has
reasonable cause to believe that the building or premises is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate
inspection to safeguard the public health or safety, the right to immediate entry by any reasonable means to inspect the
building or premises, whether occupied or unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been granted, is
authorized; provided that if the property is occupied, the Building Official or authorized representative shall first
present credentials to the occupant and offer an explanation of the purpose of the inspection.
C. "Authorized representative" shall include the officers named in subsection (B)(2) of this section and
authorized inspection personnel.
d. No person shall fail or refuse, after proper demand has been named upon him as provided in
subsection (B)(3) of this section, to promptly permit the Building Official or an authorized representative to make any
inspection provided for by subsection (B)(3)(b) of this section. Any person violating subsection (B)(3) of this section
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
4. Stop Work Orders. Whenever any building or grading work is being done contrary to the provisions of
this code, the Building Official may order the work stopped by written notice served on any persons engaged in the
doing or causing such work to be done, and any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the
Building Official to proceed with the work. Any person failing to stop work after being served with such notice shall
he guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to the penalties provided for in Section 18.03.110.
5. Occupancy Violations. Whenever any building or structure or equipment therein regulated by this code
is being used contrary to the provisions of this code, the Building Official may order such use discontinued and the
structure, or portion thereof, vacated by written notice served on any person causing such use. Such person shall
discontinue the use within the time prescribed by the Building Official after receiving such notice or shall obtain a
permit and complete the needed work so that the structure, or portion thereof, complies with the requirements of this
code; however, that in the event of an unsafe building, the building shall remain vacant until such time as it is
demonstrated to the Building Official that all permits have been obtained and all unsafe conditions removed.
6. Liability. The liability and indemnification of the Building Official and any subordinates are governed by
the provisions of Division 3.6 of Title 1 of the Government Code.
7. Modifications and Determinations of Hardship Exemptions.
a. General. Request(s) for modifications or determination(s) of hardship exemptions shall be made on a
form prescribed by the Building Official and shall be submitted with a fee as specified by the City Council. The details
of any action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the Building and Safety Division of
the City. The Building Official may require that any conditions of approval associated with the granting of a
modification be recorded on the title of the property with the County Recorder's office.
h. Modifications. When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this
code, the Building Official may grant modifications for individual cases. The Building Official shall first find that a
special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and that the modification is in conformance
with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen any fire -protection requirements or
any degree of structural integrity. The details of any action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the
flies of the code enforcement agency. The request shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the City Council.
c. Determination of Hardship Exemption or Equivalent Facilitation. When authorized by Title 24, State
Code of Regulations, the Building Official may grant a hardship exemption from an accessibility requirement of the
code or make a determination that equivalent facilitation is being provided. Prior to granting a hardship exemption or
determining that equivalent facilitation is provided, the applicant shall demonstrate to the Building Official, in writing
on a form approved by the Building Official and accompanied with a fee as established by the City Council, that an
unreasonable financial hardship exists in accordance with the provisions of the State Accessibility Standards.
8. Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction. The provisions of this code are not intended to
prevent the use of any material or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided any such
alternate has been approved.
The Building Official may approve any such alternate, provided, it is determined that the proposed design is
satisfactory and complies with the technical provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is,
for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire
resistance, durability, safety and sanitation.
The Building Official shall require that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted in writing to substantiate
any claim that may be made regarding its use.
A written application shall be submitted for a proposed alternate material or method of construction together
with a fee established by the City Council. The details of any action granting an alternate material or method of
construction shall be noted in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
9. Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with any of the provisions of this code or
evidence that any material or construction does not conform to the requirements of this code, the Building Official may
require testing as proof of compliance to be made at no expense to the City.
Test methods shall be as specified by this code or by other recognized test standards. If there are no
recognized and adopted test methods for the proposed alternate, the Building Official shall determine test procedures.
A fee, determined by the Building Official and as approved by the City Council, shall be paid by the applicant for the
development of any testing procedure by Building and Safety and/or for the review of the testing results submitted to
Building and Safety.
All tests shall be made by an approved testing agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained in the files of the
Building and Safety Division of the City.
10. Cooperation of Other Officials and Officers. The Building Official may request and shall receive the
assistance and cooperation of other officials of the City of Santa Clarita so far as is required in the discharge of the
duties required by this code or other pertinent laws or ordinances.
11. Investigation. The Building Official may investigate any construction or work regulated by this code,
and issue such notices and orders as deemed appropriate.
12. Emergency Powers. The Building Official, with the approval of the City Manager of the City of Santa
Clarita, is authorized to make and enforce such guidelines and policies for the safeguarding of life, limb, health or
property as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the purpose of this code. A copy of said regulations and
policies shall be filed with the office of the City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita and shall be effective immediately
thereafter.
13. Standard Reference Documents. The codes, standards and publications adopted and set forth in this
code, including other codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by title and date of publication, adopted
as standard reference documents of this code.
When this code does not specifically cover any subject relating to building design and construction,
recognized fire -prevention engineering practices shall be employed. The National Fire Codes and the Fire Protection
Handbook of the National Fire Protection Association may be used as authoritative guides in determining recognized
fire -prevention engineering practices.
When new information on structural design is published which would make the existing technical provisions
of this code less conservative in its application, the Building Official may implement the more restrictive regulations
based upon the published reports provided that the amendments to the provisions, along with the back-up
documentation, are made available by the Building Official to the public for review. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.140 Board of Appeals.
A. General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the Building
Official relative to the application and, interpretation of this code, and to act as the Building Appeals Board, there shall
he and is created a Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals shall consist of the members of the Planning Commission
of the City of Santa Clarita. The decision of the Planning Commission with respect to any matter or interpretation or
suitability of alternate materials and types of construction shall be made by a majority vote of the Commission.
B. Limitations of Authority. The Board shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative
provisions of this. code nor shall the board be empowered to waive requirements of this code.
C. Filing of Appeals. All appeals shall be made in writing and shall state specifically the order, decision or
determination made by the Building Official which is being appealed and wherein the Building Official erred in
making the order, decision or determination. The appeal shall be accompanied with a fee as established by the City
Council. If, after reviewing the information submitted, the Building Official determines that the appeal does not merit a
change in his or order, decision, or determination, then the Building Official shall schedule a hearing by the Board of
Appeals and the appellant shall be notified of the date and time of the hearing. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.150 Permits --Required.
No person, firm or corporation shall erect, construct, enlarge, repair, improve, connect or demolish any building,
structure, or fire -protection system regulated by Chapter 9, or perform any grading or cause the same to be done,
without first obtaining a separate permit for each such building, structure, automatic fire -extinguishing system or
grading from the Building Official. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.160 Permits --Work Exempted.
A building permit will not be required for the following structures unless the structure is regulated by the Uniform
Development Code of the City, however this shall not be deemed to grant authorization of any work done in violation
of the technical provisions of this code or any other law or ordinance of the City of Santa Clarita, or of the State of
California.
A. One-story detached accessory buildings used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided
that the projected roof area does not exceed one hundred twenty (120) square feet, the floor is not more than thirty (30)
inches above the adjoining grade, the height is not more than fourteen (14) feet and it is not constructed on a hillside
slope steeper than 2.5:1.
B. Wire fences not over twelve (12) feet in height, wood fences not over eight (8) feet in height, and other fences
not over forty-two (42) inches in height and not constructed within a Floodplain.
C. Platforms, walks and driveways not more than thirty (30) inches above grade and not over any basement or
story below.
D. Canopies or awnings attached to a Group R, Division 3, or Group M occupancy and extending not more than
fifty-four (54) inches from the exterior wall of the building, and not within twelve (12) inches of a property line.
E. Retaining walls not more than four (4) feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the
wall, unless supporting a surcharge, constructed on a hillside, constructed within a floodplain or impounding
Flammable liquids.
F. A tree house provided that:
I. It does not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet in area nor eight (8) feet in height from the floor to the roof.
2. The ceiling height as established by the door height or plate line does not exceed six (6) feet.
3. Is not constructed on an oak tree.
G. Prefabricated swimming pools, accessory to a Group R, Division 3 Occupancy in which the pool walls are
entirely above the adjacent grade and if the capacity does not exceed five thousand (5,000) gallons. (Note: Pool
fencing is required to comply with this code.)
H. Playground equipment.
I. Painting, papering and similar work.
J. Drywall or storage cabinets within M-1 garages associated with R-3 occupancies, when not required [o be part
of a fire rated separation.
K. Closet organizers.
L. Flagpoles not erected on any building and not more than fifteen (15) feet in height.
M. Movable cases, counters and partitions not over five (5) feet nine (9) inches high.
N. Sheds, office or storage buildings, and other structures incidental to work authorized by a valid grading or
building permit. Such structures must be removed upon expiration of the permit or completion of the work covered by
the permit.
O. The following work when conducted in association with an operating oil field:
I. Oil derricks;
2. Installation and relocation of process vessels and tanks;
3. Construction, installation and relocation of process piping and pipe supports;
4. Construction, installation and relocation of ladders, stairs, and catwalks;
5. Installation of foundations for process vessels, pipe supports, generators, tanks, pumps, and uninhabited
buildings located more than twenty (20) feet from a property line;
6. Construction, installation, and relocation of uninhabited buildings;
7. Road maintenance;
S. Grading of new and existing well pads, provided the grading does not affect an adjoining property;
9. Grading and construction for erosion control, provided it does not effect an adjoining property;
10. Debris basin maintenance;
(Note: The waiver of a building permit shall not be deemed as a waiver from the oil field operator from obtaining
the required clearances from other public agencies.)
P. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery not vertically supported by a building
roof or floor structure except for slabs on grade.
Q. Light standards which do not exceed thirty (30) feet in height on commercially owned property. (Note:
Electrical permits are required.)
R. Radio and television antennae towers which do not exceed forty-five (45) feet in height and ground supported
dish antennas not exceeding fifteen (15) feet in height above finished grade in any position.
S. Gantry cranes and similar equipment.
T. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed five thousand (5,000) gallons and
the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed one and one-half (11/2) to one.
U. The replacement of panes of glass within existing frames or supports unless required to be tempered glass as
stipulated by Chapter 24 of this code.
Unless otherwise exempted, separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits will be required for the above
exempted items. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.170 Permits. -Application.
A. Application. Prior to the issuance of a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing
on a form furnished by the City for that purpose. Every application shall:
I. Identify and describe the proposed work covered by the permit for which application is made;
2. Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done, by legal description, street address, or
similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building or work;
3. Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended;
4. Indicate the applicant's name and address and the owner's name and address if different from the
applicant;
5. Provide other information required by section 19825 of the California Health and Safety Code;
6. Be accompanied by the plans, diagrams, computations and specifications and other data as required by
subsection B of this section;
7. Slate the valuation of the proposed work;
8. Be signed by the applicant;
9. Give such other data and information as may be required by the Building Official. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
B. Submittal Documents. Plans, specifications, engineering calculations, diagrams, soils investigation reports,
special inspection and structural observation programs and other data shall constitute the submittal documents and
shall be submitted in one or more sets with each application for a permit. When such plans are not prepared by a design
professional, the Building Official may require an applicant submitting such plans or other data to demonstrate that
State law, Article 3, Chapter 7, Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, does not require that the plans be
prepared by a licensed design professional. The Building Official may require plans, computations and specifications
to be prepared and designed by an engineer or architect licensed by the State of California to practice as such even if
not required by state law.
EXCEPTION: The Building Official may waive the submission of plans, calculations, construction inspection
requirements, etc., provided it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of plans is not
necessary to obtain compliance with this code.
All plans and calculations required to be prepared by a licensed professional, pursuant to Article 3, Chapter 7,
Division 3, shall bear the approved stamp and signature of the person authorized to use the title of civil engineer,
structural engineer, or architect as required by law.
C. Information on Plans and Specifications. Plans and specifications shall be drawn to scale upon substantial
paper or cloth of a size established by the Building Official or submitted via an electronic medium approved by the
Building Official and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature of the work proposed and show in detail that it
will conform to the provisions of this code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. The first sheet of
each plan shall give the street address of the work, the name and address of the owner and the name and address of the
person who prepared them. Plans shall include a plot plan showing the location of the proposed building and of every
existing building on the property. In lieu of detailed specifications, the Building Official may approve references on the
plans to a specific section or part of this code or other ordinances or laws.
Plans for buildings more than two (2) stories in height of other than Group R, Division 3 and Group U-1
Occupancies shall indicate how required structural and fire -resistive integrity will be maintained where a penetration
will be made for electrical, mechanical, plumbing and communications conduit, pipes, and similar systems.
When proposed construction will affect site drainage, existing and proposed drainage patterns shall be shown on
the plot plan. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.180 Design Professional of Record.
A. General. When it is required that documents be prepared by an architect or engineer, the Building Official
may require the owner to engage and designate on the building permit application an architect or engineer who shall
act as the architect or engineer or record. If the circumstances require, the owner may designate a substitute architect or
engineer of record who shall perform all of the duties required of the original architect or engineer of record. The
Building Official shall be notified in writing by the owner if the architect or engineer of record is changed or is unable
to continue to perform the duties.
The design professional of record shall be responsible for reviewing and coordinating all submittal documents
prepared by others, including deferred submittal items, for compatibility with the design of the building.
B. Deferred Submittals. For the purpose of this section, deferred submittals are defined as those portions of the
design which are not submitted at the time of the application and which are to be submitted to the Building Official
within a specified period.
Deferral of any submittal items shall have prior approval of the Building Official. The design professional of
record shall list the deferred submittals on the plans and shall submit the deferred submittal documents for review by
the Building Official.
Submittal documents for deferred submittal items shall be submitted to the design professional of record who shall
review them and forward them to the Building Official with a notation indicating that the deferred submittal documents
have been reviewed and that they have been found to be in general conformance with the design of the building. The
deterred submittals items shah not be installed until their design and submittal documents have been approved by the
Building Official. (Ord. 96-3. 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.190 Inspection and Observation Program.
When special inspection is required by Section 1701 of the Building Code, the design professional of record shall
prepare an inspection program which shall be submitted to the Building Official for approval prior to issuance of the
building permit. The inspection program shall designate the portions of the work that require special inspection and the
name or names of the individuals or firms who are to perform the special inspections, and indicate the duties of the
special inspectors.
The special inspector shall be employed by the owner, the design professional of record, or an agent of the owner,
but not the contractor or any other person responsible for the work.
When structural observation is required by Section 1702 of the Building Code, the inspection program shall name
the individuals or firms who are to perform structural observation and describe the stages of construction at which
structural observation is to occur. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.200 Standard Plans.
The Building Official may approve a set of plans for a building or structure as a "standard plan," provided that the
applicant has made proper application, submitted complete sets of plans as required by this section, and paid the plan
checking fee as established by the City Council.
Plans shall reflect laws and ordinances in effect at the time of issuance of a permit except as provided herein
below in this subsection. Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit modifying the permit set of plans to reflect changes
in laws and ordinances which have become effective since the approval of the standard plans. The standard plans shall
become null and void where the work required by such changes exceeds 5 percent of the value of the building or
structure shown on the plans.
When it is desired to use an approved "standard plan' for an identical structure, two plot plans and one duplicate
plan shall be submitted and a plan checking fee as required by Section 18.03.220 B and as approved by the City
Council shall be paid at the time application is made for such identical structure. Such duplicate plans shall be
compared, stamped and kept at the project site.
In case of deviation from this standard plan, except as permitted in this subsection, complete plans, together with a
full plan checking fee, shall be submitted for the proposed work.
Standard plans shall be valid immediately upon approval and shall remain valid until the regulations of this code
ur other laws and ordinances applicable to the design of the structure are amended. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.210 Permits --Issuance.
A. Issuance. The application, plans and specifications, geological or soil reports and other required data filed by
an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Building Official. Such plans may be reviewed by other public
agencies, utilities, departments of the City and other divisions of the Planning and Building Services Department of the
City for compliance with the laws and ordinances under their jurisdiction.
The Building Official shall issue a permit to the applicant for the work described in the application and plans filed
therewith, when it is determined that all of the following items comply:
I . The work conforms to the requirements of this code.
2. The work described conforms to the requirements of other pertinent laws and ordinances.
3. The required clearances from all other agencies have been obtained.
4. The fees specified by this code and the municipal code have been paid.
5. The applicant has obtained a permit pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 30600 et seq., if such permit
is required.
When a permit is issued and plans and/or specifications have been required to be provided, the Building Official
shall endorse in writing or stamp upon the plans and/or specifications "APPROVED." Such approved plans and
specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorizations from the Building Official, and design
professional of record when applicable, and all work regulated by this code shall be done in accordance with the
approved plans, however the approval of the plans shall not be construed as a waiver of any requirement of this code,
or any other law or ordinance, unless specific documentation such as that required by Section 18.03.130(B)(7) is
provided. The issuance of a permit shall not be deemed to certify that the site of the described work is safe. The
Building Official may issue a permit for the construction of part of a building or structure before the entire plans and
specifications for the whole building or structure have been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and
detailed statements have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit
shall proceed at his own risk without assurance that the permit for the entire building or structure will be granted. The
Building Official may require in writing a statement from the owner acknowledging potential risks.
B. Retention of Plans. One set of approved plans, specifications and computations shall be retained by the
Building Official until the work has been completed and one set of approved plans and specifications shall be returned
to the applicant and shall he kept on the site of the building or work at all times during which the work authorized is in
progress.
Structural plans for buildings shall be maintained by the City as required by State law.
C. Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not
be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other
laws or regulations. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or any other
laws or regulations shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorized is lawful.
The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications and other data shall not prevent the Building Official
from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications and other data, or from preventing
building operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of the City of
Santa Clarita provided that notice is provided of the violations pursuant to Section 19870 of the State of California
Health and Safety Code.
D. 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:
I. Is not commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date such permit was issued by the
City.
2. Is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of six (6) months.
3. Has exceeded a period of two (2) years and six (6) months from the date the permit was issued regardless
of whether or not the work has stopped.
Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained, and a fee therefor shall not exceed
one half the amount required for a new permit for such work, (except in the case of subsection (13)(3) of this section
wherein the fee may be based on the amount of the work remaining to be completed), provided no changes have been
made or will be made to the original plans and specifications for such work; and provided further that such suspension
or abandonment has not exceeded one year. In order to renew action on a permit which has been abandoned or
suspended for more than one year, the permittee shall pay an amount not exceeding that originally paid for the permit.
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply for an extension of the time within which work may
commence under that permit when the permittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this section
for good and satisfactory reasons. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the permittee for a period
not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond
the control of the permittee have prevented action from being taken and upon payment of an extension fee as
established by the City Council. No permit shall be extended more than once.
E. Suspension or Revocation. The Building Official may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under
the provisions of this code whenever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or
when it is determined that it is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.
F. Combination Building Permits. Combination permits may be issued when it is determined that the same
contractor is licensed so as to perform all of the work proposed by a project and it is reasonable to combine the permit
into a single permit. The following permits may be combined:
1. A combination building permit may be issued for new one -family or two-family dwellings, or additions
thereto, which will include all building, electrical, plumbing, heating; ventilating and air-conditioning work but will
not include grading, (which requires a permit as specified in the Uniform Development Code), fire sprinkler
installations, or sewer connections. The combined building permit shall be subject to the requirements of this code, the
Electrical Code, the Plumbing Code and the Mechanical Code, except that the fee for the combined building permit
shall be as provided in Section 18.03.220 of this code.
2. A combination building permit for a swimming pool shall include excavation and finish grading for
construction of the pool and for related hardscaping and landscaping, construction of the pool structure, plumbing and
electrical work for the pool.
3. A combination permit for a sign shall include all structural and electrical for the sign.
G. Cancellation or Surrender of Permit. If no portion of the work or construction covered by a permit issued
by the Building Official under the provisions of this code has been commenced, the person to whom such permit has
been issued may deliver such permit to the Building Official with the request that such permit be canceled. The
Building Official shall thereupon stamp or write on the face of the permit the words "Canceled at the request of the
permittee." Thereupon such permit shall be void and of no effect. Refund of fees for canceled permits shall be made as
established by Section I8A3.220(J).
H. Transfer of Permits. Permits are not transferable from one person to another or from one location to another.
(Ord. 96-3. 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.220 Fees.
A. Valuation. The determination of value or "valuation" under any of the provisions of this code shall be made
by the Building Official and shall be determined based on rational methods. The valuation to be used in computing the
permit and plan check fees shall he the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued, as well as all
finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire -extinguishing systems and
any other permanent work or permanent equipment. The Building Official shall update the valuation standards as
needed.
B. Permit Issuance Fees. As established by the City Council.
C. Building Permit Fees. As established by the City Council.
D. Combination Building Permits. Fees for combination permits as defined in Section 18.03.210(F) shall be as
established by the City Council.
E. Use of Land Permit. A land use permit shall be required for all commercial and residential uses located on
private property which would not otherwise require a building permit, such as but not limited to parking lots, storage
yards or playgrounds. A fee as established by the City Council shall be collected for each use of land permit.
F. Plan Review Fees.
I . General. When a plan or other data are required to be submitted by Section 18.03.170, a plan review fee
shall be paid at the time of submitting plans and specifications for review. Said plan review fee shall be as established
by the City Council.
2. Supplemental Fees. When substantial changes, not related to initial plan review corrections, are made to
the plans or when alteration to the plans are proposed after the permit is issued, a supplemental plan review fee may be
assessed as provided for by the City Council.
3. Preliminary Plan Review. Whenever a preliminary plan review is requested, a fee as established by the
City Council may be assessed. The Building Official may credit the amount paid for the preliminary review to the plan
review fee at the time of formal submittal to the City for plan review.
G. Grading Permit and Plan Review Fees. As established by the City Council.
H. Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no building permit or grading permit is issued within one
hundred eighty (180) days following the date of application, shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data
submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building
Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on
request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from
being taken. The Building Official may collect a fee for any application for extension of plan review in accordance
with the City's fee schedule. No application shall be extended more than twice. In order to renew action on an
application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.
I. Investigation Fees.
1. Work Without a Permit. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been
commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for
such work.
2. Fee. An investigation fee shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this code and shall be in addition to any
fees for permits issued in connection with the work investigated. The minimum investigation fee shall be as established
by the City Council. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other
provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.
J. Refund. In the event that any person shall have obtained a permit and no portion of the work or construction
covered by such permit shall have been commenced and such permit shall have been canceled and a request for
cancellation having been approved by the Building Official, the applicant/permittee may request a refund for a
maximum of eighty (80) percent of the permit fees paid, excluding issuance fees or plan review fees.
The applicant for the refund shall present all necessary documentation to the Building Official to prove that they
are entitled to receive the refund of the amounts paid for the permit. No refund shall be made for a permit which was
obtained by falsification or misrepresentation and which was subsequently revoked for such cause.
K. Administrative Fees. As established by the City Council. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.230 Inspections.
A. General. All construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the
Building Official and all such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until
approved by the Building Official. In addition, certain types of construction shall have continuous inspection as
specified in Section 1701.5 of the Building Code.
Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of
this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction nor for work which was not available for inspection at the time the
inspection was performed. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or of
other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection
purposes. Neither the Building Official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or
replacement of any material required to allow inspection.
A survey of the lot may be required by the Building Official to verify that the structure is located in accordance
with the approved plans.
A site inspection may be required prior to plan check of building plans for lots or parcels in areas having slopes of
five (5) horizontal to one vertical (5:1) or steeper when the Building Official finds that a visual inspection of the site is
necessary to establish drainage requirements for the protection of property, existing buildings or the proposed
construction. The fee for such inspection shall be as established by the City Council. Such a pre -inspection shall not
be. required for a building pad graded under the provisions of the Uniform Development Code.
B. Inspection Record Card. Work requiring a building permit shall not be commenced until the permit holder
or the permit holder's agent have posted or otherwise made available an inspection record card so as to allow the
Building Official to conveniently make the required entries thereon regarding inspection of the work. This card shall
continue to be posted or otherwise made available by the permit holder until a final approval of the building or
structure has been granted by the Building Official.
C. Inspection Requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by a permit to notify the
Building Official that such work is ready for inspection. The Building Official may require that every request for
inspection be filed at least one working day before such inspection is desired. Such request may be in writing or by
telephone at the option of the Building Official.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspections required by this code to clearly indicate what work the
inspection request is being made for and to provide access to and means for the inspection of such work.
D. Approvals Required. No work shall be done on any part of the building or structure beyond the point
indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the written approval of the Building Official. The
Building Official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate that portion of the
construction which is satisfactory as completed or shall notify the permit holder or the permit holder's agent wherein
the same fails to comply with this code. Any portions which do not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall
not he covered or concealed until authorized by the Building Official.
There shall be a final inspection and approval on all buildings or structures when completed and ready for
occupancy.
E. Required Inspections.
1. General. Reinforcing steel or structural framework of any part of any building or structure shall not be
covered or concealed without first obtaining the approval of the Building Official.
2. The Building Official, upon notification from the permit holder or the agent of the owner shall make the
following inspections:
a. Foundation inspection. To be made after trenches are excavated and forms erected, any required
reinforcing steel is in place and when all materials for the foundation are delivered on the job. Where concrete from a
central mixing plant (commonly termed "transit mix") is to be used, materials need not be on the job.
b. Concrete slab or under -floor inspection. To be made after all in -slab or under -floor building
service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place but before any concrete
is poured or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.
c. Frame inspection. To be made after the roof sheathing has been nailed, all framing, fire blocking
and bracing are in place and all pipes, chimneys and vents are complete.
d. Insulation. To be made after all insulation and caulking which will be covered by lath or wallboard
have been installed.
e. Lath inspection and/or wall board. To be made after all lathing and/or wallboard, interior and
exterior is in place, but before any plastering is applied or before wallboard joints and fasteners are taped and finished.
f. Final inspection. To be made after all finish grading and the building is complete and ready for
occupancy, and the site has been cleaned of all debris.
3. Failure to Request Inspections. It shall be a violation of this code to use or occupy any building or
structure prior to a final inspection and final approval when required by this code.
F. Special Inspection. For special inspections see Chapter 17 of the Building Code.
G. Other Inspections. In addition to the called inspections specified above, the Building Official may make or
require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other
laws which are enforced by Building and Safety or coordinated with other agencies.
H. Reinspection. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or reinspection when such portion of
work for which inspection is called is not complete or when corrections called for are not made.
This subsection is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is
ready for such inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the inspection record card is not posted or otherwise available on the
work site, the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector for failure to provide access on the date for
which inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of the Building Official.
1. Inspections During Declared Emergencies. The Building Official may authorize the performance of
inspections required under this section to be performed by registered design professionals or by registered deputy
inspectors, for repair work during a declared emergency. The persons performing the inspections shall submit a report,
to the satisfaction of the Building Official, demonstrating that the work they inspected conformed to the requirements
of the Building Code. The report will be similar to those required by Section 1701 of this code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.240 Certificate of Occupancy.
A. Use and Oecupancy. No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing
occupancy classification of a building or structure or portion thereof shall be made until the Building Official has
issued a Certificate of Occupancy therefor as provided herein.
EXCEPTION: Group R. Division 3 and Group U- I Occupancies.
Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this
code or of other ordinances of the City of Santa Clarita or be deemed as the final inspection approval of any permit.
Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code of other ordinances of the City
shall not be valid.
B. Change in Use. Changes in the character or use of a building shall not be made except as specified in Section
3405 of the Building Code.
C. Certificate Issued. After the Building Official inspects the building or structure, and finds no violations of
the provisions of this code or other laws which are enforced by the City, the Building Official shall issue a certificate
of occupancy which shall contain the following information:
I. The building permit number; and
2. The address of the building; and
3. The name and address of the owner; and
4. A description of that portion of the building for which the certificate is issued; and
5. A statement that the described portion of the building has been inspected for compliance with the
requirements of the Santa Clarita Building Code for the group and division of occupancy and the use for which the
proposed occupancy is classified; and
6. The name of the Building Official; and
7. The date the certificate was issued; and
8. The edition of the code under which the work was permitted.
D. Temporary Certificate. If the Building Official finds that no substantial hazard will result from the
occupancy of any building or portion thereof before the same is completed, a temporary certificate of occupancy may
be issued for the use of a portion or portions of a building or structure prior to the completion of the entire building or
structure.
E. Posting. The certificate of occupancy shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises and shall not be
removed except by the Building Official.
F. Revocation. The Building Official may, in writing, suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy issued under
the provisions of this code whenever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied,
or when it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of any ordinance or regulation
or any provisions of this code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 18.03.250 Disaster Response.
A. Intent. The intent of this section is to establish the standards for response to a natural or man-made disaster as
declared by the City Council or City Manager.
B. Definitions.
"Architect" is an individual registered by the State of California to practice architecture as defined in the State of
.�. California Business and Professions Code.
"Civil engineer" is an individual registered by the State of California to practice civil engineering as defined in the
State of California Business and Professions Code.
"Engineering evaluation" is an evaluation of a damaged building or structure, or suspected damaged building or
structure, performed under the direction of a licensed design professional retained by the owner of the building or
structure. An engineering evaluation shall, at a minimum, contain the address of the property of the building or
structure, a description of the damage observed, the date the building or structure was inspected, a statement as to
whether the building is habitable or not, recommendations for repair of the buildings or structures with appropriate
opinion of construction cost for those repairs.
"Essential service facility" shall mean those buildings or structures which have been designated by the City
Council to house facilities which are necessary for the emergency operations subsequent to a disaster.
"Event" shall mean any natural or man-made occurrence which results in the declaration of a disaster and shall
include wind storms, earthquakes. floods, etc.
"Historic building or structure" shall be any building or structure included on the National Register of Historic
Places, the State Register of Historic Places or points of interest, or as listed in the General Plan as a historic structure.
Historic buildings and structures shall also include those buildings and structures within a recognized historic district
wherein the specific building has historic significance.
"Licensed design professional" is an architect, civil engineer, or structural engineer.
"Replacement value" is the dollar value, as determined by the Building Official, of replacing the damaged
structure with a new structure of the same size, construction material and occupancy on the same site.
"Safety assessment" is a visual, nondestructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of
determining the condition for continued occupancy following a natural or man-made disaster.
"State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)" is the individual appointed by the Governor, pursuant to Section
101(b)(1) of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, to administer the State Historic Preservation
Program.
"Structural engineer" is an individual registered by the State of California to practice civil engineering and to use
the title structural engineer as defined in the State of California Business and Professions Code.
"Value of repair" is the dollar value, as determined by the Building Official, of making the necessary repairs to the
damaged structure.
C. Placards.
1. The following are verbal descriptions of the official City of Santa Clarita placards used to designate the
condition for continued occupancy of buildings or structures following an event.
a. Safe is to be posted on any building or structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been
found at the time it was inspected. This placard is not intended to mean that there is no damage to the building or
structure.
b. Habitable --Repairs Necessary is to be posted on any building or structure wherein architectural or
minor structural damage has occurred but where the amount of damage is not sufficient to cause the building or
structure to be restricted in use or in occupancy.
c. Limited Use is to be posted on each building or structure that has received damage to such an extent
that normal use of the building or a portion of the building could be potentially unsafe. Residential building posted
limited entry shall not be used for sleeping purposes. An engineering evaluation shall be required for all buildings
posted as limited entry.
d. Unsafe --Do Not Enter or Occupy is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged
such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life safety or is endangered by a geological condition or threat from
another structure so as not to be safe for occupancy. Buildings or structures posted with this placard shall not be
entered under any circumstance except as authorized in writing by Building and Safety and its damage assessment
team, This placard is not to he determined to be an order for demolition, however, an engineering evaluation will be
required for all repair work to buildings or structures posted as unsafe.
2. This municipal code section, the name of the 'Planning and Building Services Department' and the
"Building and Safety Division." the address of City Hall, and the designated phone number of Building and Safety
shall be affixed to each placard as well as the date and time of inspection as well as name, signature and identification
number of the inspector.
3. Once a building or structure has been inspected following an event, the placard shall not be removed,
altered or covered until authorized to do so by the Building Official.
D. Demolition Criteria.
I. Any building or structure determined by the Building Official to represent an imminent hazard to public
health and safety, or to pose an imminent threat to the public right-of-way, shall be condemned and immediately
demolished. Such condemnation and demolition shall be performed in the interest of public health and safety without
condemnation hearings otherwise required by the municipal code.
2. If, after fifteen (15) days, any building or structure is determined by the building official to represent a
hazard to the health and safety of the public, or to pose a threat to the public right of way, the Building Official shall
duly notify the building owner and proceed with a condemnation hearing within forty-eight (48) hours after the notice
has been received if by personal delivery or ten (10) days after being sent by registered mail.
3. For any building or structure wherein the owner has decided to demolish rather than repair, the owner, or
owner's representative, shall follow the established procedures to secure a demolition permit.
E. Demolition of Historic Buildings.
I. Within fifteen ( 15) days after the event, any historic building or structure determined by the Building
Official to represent an imminent hazard to the health and safety of the public, or to pose an imminent threat to the
public right of way, the Building Official shall notify the State and or local Historic Preservation Officer that one of the
following actions will be taken:
a. Whenever possible, within reasonable limits as determined by the Building Official, the building or
structure shall be braced or shored in such a manner as to mitigate the hazard to public health and safety or the hazard
to the public right of way.
b. Whenever bracing or shoring is determined not to be reasonable, the Building Official shall cause the
building or structure to he condemned and immediately demolished. Such condemnation and demolition shall be
performed in the interest of public health and safety without a condemnation hearing as otherwise required by this
code. Prior to commencing demolition, the Building Official shall photographically record the entire building or
structure.
2. If, after the specified time frame noted in subsection (E)(1) of this section and less than thirty (30) days
after the event, a historic building or structure is determined by the Building Official to represent a hazard to the health
and safety of the public or to pose a threat to the public right of way, the Building Official shall duly notify the
building owner of the City's intent to proceed with a condemnation hearing within two (2) business days of the notice
in accordance with Sections 18.03.050 through 18.03. 100 of this code. The Building Official shall also notify the State
and/or local Historic Preservation Officer and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in accordance with the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, of its intent to hold a condemnation hearing.
3. For any historic building or structure wherein the Building Official and the owner have agreed to
demolish the building or structure within thirty (30) days after the event, the Building Official shall submit to the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as
amended, a request to demolish. Said request shall include all substantiating data.
4. If after thirty (30) days from the event, the Building Official and the owner of a historic building or
structure agree that the building or structure should be demolished, such action will be subject to the review process
established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended.
F. Repair and Reconstruction Criteria. Buildings and structures of all Occupancies which have been damaged
as a result of a disaster, except as otherwise noted, shall be repaired in accordance with the following criteria:
1. When the estimated value of repair does not exceed ten (10) percent of the replacement cost of the
structure, the damaged portion(s) may be restored to their pre -event condition.
EXCEPTION: When the damaged elements include suspended ceiling systems, the ceiling system shall be
repaired and all bracing required by the current code shall be installed.
2. When the estimated value of repair is greater than ten (10) percent but less than fifty (50) percent of the
replacement value of the structure, the damaged elements, as well as all critical structural ties, supported elements and
supporting elements associated with the damaged elements, shall be repaired and/or brought into conformance with the
-structural requirements of the current code.
3. When the estimated value of repair is fifty (50) percent or more of the replacement value of the structure,
the entire structure shall be brought into conformance with the structural requirements of the current code.
4. In group R, Division 3 occupancies, the repair value of damaged chimneys shall be excluded from the
computation of percentage of replacement value. Damaged chimneys shall be repaired in accordance with subsection
G of this section.
G. Repair Criteria for Chimneys. All damaged chimneys must be repaired or reconstructed to comply with the
requirements of Section 3102 of the current code. Damaged portions of chimneys shall be removed in accordance with
the following criteria:
1. When the dammed portion of the chimney is located between the roof line and the top of the chimney,
the damaged portion shall be removed to the roof line provided the roof and ceiling anchorage are in sound condition.
The reconstructed portion of the chimney shall be braced to the roof structure.
2. For a single -story structure, in which the damaged portion of the chimney is below the roof line or the
damaged portion extends from the roof line to below the roof line, the chimney shall be removed to the top of the
fireplace.
3. For a multistory structure, the damaged portion of the chimney shall be removed from the top to a Floor
line where sound anchorage is found.
4. In any structure where the firebox has been damaged, the entire chimney and firebox shall be removed to
the foundation. If the foundation is in sound condition, the firebox and chimney may be reconstructed using the
existing foundation. If the foundation has been damaged, the foundation shall be removed and replaced.
5. Alternatives to the above criteria may be presented to the Building Official for review by a design
professional provided plans and substantiating calculations are prepared. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Title 19
ELECTRICAL CODE
Chapters:
19.01
Adoption Of Electrical Code
19.02
Amendments To Certain Sections
19.03
Administrative Provisions
Chapter 19.01
ADOPTION OF ELECTRICAL CODE
Sections:
19.01.010 Adoption of Electrical Code.
Section 19.01.010 Adoption of Electrical Code.
There is adopted by reference that certain electrical code known and designated as the "National Electrical Code,
1996 Edition' prepared by the National Fire Protection Association including all appendices and including those
sections of the California Electrical Code requiring enforcement by the local Building Department. Such code shall be
and become the Electrical Code for the City, regulating and controlling the design, construction, installation, quality of
materials, location, operation and maintenance of electrical systems, equipment and appliances.
At least one copy of the National Electrical Code, 1996 Edition, has been deposited in the office of the City Clerk
and shall be at all times maintained by the Clerk for use and examination by the public. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Chapter 19.02
AMENDMENTS TO CERTAIN SECTIONS
Sections:
19.02.010 Amendments to Certain Code Sections.
Section 19.02.010 Amendments to Certain Code Sections.
The following sections of the National Electrical Code, as adopted in Section 19.01.010 hereof, are added or
amended as follows:
A. Article 100 amended—Definitions. Article 100 of the National Electrical Code is amended to add the
following definitions and declarations:
For the purpose of this Code, certain terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as set out
in this Section. Words used in the singular include the plural and the plural the singular.
Apartment House is any building or portion thereof, which is designed, built, rented, leased, let or hired out
to be occupied, or which is occupied as the home or residence of three or more families living independently of each
other and doing their own cooking in the said building, and shall include flats and apartments.
Approved means acceptable to the Building Official.
Building is any structure built for the support or shelter of persons, animals, chattels or property of any kind.
Dwelling is any building or any portion thereof which is not an "Apartment House" or a "Hotel' as defined in
this Code, which contains one or more "Apartments" or "Guest Rooms," used, intended or designed to be built, used,
rented, leased, let or hired out to he occupied, or which are occupied for living purposes.
Dwelling Unit is one or more habitable rooms which are occupied or which are intended or designed to be
occupied by one family with facilities for living, sleeping, cooking and eating.
Electric or electrical wiring means the installation or the alteration of any material, fixture, device, appliance
or equipment in or on any building, structure or premises, used or designed or intended to be used to generate,
transmit, transform or utilize electric energy.
Grade (adjacent Ground Elevation) is the lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground,
paving or sidewalk within the area between the building and the property line or, when the property line is more than
five feet from the building, between the building and a Zine five feet from the building.
Hotel is any building containing six or more rooms intended or designed to be used, or which are used, rented
or hired out to be occupied, or which are occupied for sleeping purposes by guests.
Person is an individual human being, a firm, partnership or corporation, his or their heirs, executors,
administrators, assignees, officers or agents; the City of Santa Clarita, and any local agency as defined in Section
53090 of the Government Code, or officer thereof.
Service. For purposes of interpreting the National Electrical Code (NEC), each service drop or lateral to a
building shall be considered one service. For purposes of determining the fees to be paid, each service and piece of
service equipment shall be subject to the fees set forth in section 19.03.107.
Service Equipment includes one or more fused switches, enclosed circuit breakers, panelboards,
switchboards, and/or switchgear supplied by one service and intended to constitute the main control and means of cut-
off of the electrical supply. One service may include several pieces of service equipment. Permit fees shall be paid for
each piece of service equipment.
Special Permission is the written consent of the Building Official.
Tenant Improvement (Electrical) means electrical work altering or adding to the wiring system of an
existing tenant space, whether previously occupied or not, in a building that has previously passed final electrical
inspection regardless of whether the building is a fully developed building or only a shell.
(Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
B. Article 305-8 Added—Temporary Service Poles and Associated Feeder Poles. Article 305-8 is hereby
added to the National Electrical Code as follows:
305.8 - TEMPORARY SERVICE POLES AND ASSOCIATED FEEDER POLES.
A. The minimum size of a wood pole used to support service equipment, distribution equipment and/or
conductors shall be 6 inches by 6 inches (nominal) if square, or have a top diameter of at least 5 inches if round, and be
of sufficient length to maintain all required overhead clearances as specified in the National Electrical Code, Section
225-18, but not less than 20 feet long. The lower end shall be embedded not less than 4 feet in the ground. An
approved self-supporting pole of a material other than wood, if of equivalent strength, may be used. See Electrical
Service Requirements of the Serving Agency or Serving Utility for poles exceeding more than 16 feet above grade.
EXCEPTION: A 4 -inch by 4 -inch (nominal) wood pole, or equivalent, embedded 4 feet in the ground, shall be
permitted. For distribution poles used to support temporary wiring for other than construction power in conformance
with Article 305 of the N.E.C. and located in areas accessible to pedestrians only,
B. Provisions for Temporary Services.
I. Service Equipment. The service equipment including meter enclosures shall be identified for the
purposes.
2. Wiring Methods. Raceways on temporary service poles shall be rigid metal conduit, electrical metallic
tubing or schedule 80 rigid nonmetallic conduit. The raceways shall be supported at intervals not to exceed 3 feet.
Metallic raceways shall be enclosed by wood molding or nonmetallic conduit not less than 8 feet below the service
head.
3. Protective Wood Block. A 4 -inch by 4 -inch protective wood block shall be through bolted to wooden
poles immediately above metallic service heads or open uninsulated grounded conductors. The block shall be placed
in a 2 -inch gain on round wood poles.
4. Receptacle Outlets. 120 -volt, single-phase, 15- and 20 -ampere receptacle outlets shall have ground -fault
interrupters for personnel protection. Receptacles of different voltage and current ratings shall not be interchangeable.
See the National Electrical Code, Article 240 for Overcurrent Protection of Conductors and Article 250 for
Grounding and Bonding requirements.
If a made pipe or rod electrode is used for grounding, it shall be driven at least 8 feet into the earth and spaced at
least 18 inches from the pole.
C. Article 370-30 Added—Underground concrete Vaults and Handholes. Article 370-30 is hereby added to
the National Electrical Code as follows:
370-30 - UNDERGROUND CONCRETE VAULTS AND HANDHOLES.
A. Scope: The following requirements apply to the use of specially constructed underground concrete vaults,
when a building permit is required and handholes.
B. Definitions:
I. Vault. A chamber in an underground conduit distribution system containing sufficient working space and
an entrance for personnel.
2. Handhole. A chamber smaller than a vault in an underground conduit distribution system having a
removable cover and used in lieu of a listed pull box.
C. Concrete Vault Provisions:
1. The inside dimensions of an underground concrete vault shall be not less than 4 feet in width and 4 feet in
length.
2. The inside height shall be not less than 5 feet between the floor and the top or ceiling.
3. Circular access openings shall be not less than 26 inches in diameter; and rectangular access openings
shall be not less than 24 inches by 26 inches.
4. Vaults shall be installed only in permanently accessible locations outside of buildings.
5. Where exposed to vehicular traffic, theenclosures and their related covers shall be designed for that
purpose.
6. Where subject to inundation, covers shall be suitably sealed.
7. Conduits shall enter the vault in a manner consistent with the type of wiring method used in accordance
with the following:
a. Conduits shall enter the enclosure through the walls and be terminated in a manner that provides
suitable protection for the type of wiring method used.
h. Conduits entering the enclosure walls shall terminate not less than 2 inches from the bottom or one
foot from the top.
C. Direct burial conductor shall enter the enclosure by means of conduit nipples which shall be suitably
sealed.
8. Suitable wall supports or racks shall be provided to secure open conductors in a fixed position 2 inches or
more above the floor.
9. Walls and floors shall be of concrete having a minimum thickness of 6 inches. Ceilings shall be of
concrete havine a minimum thickness of 8 inches. Vault dimensions shall be not less than set forth in
Article 370 of the N.E.C.
10. Exposed noncurrent -carrying metal parts of equipment, conductor supports or racks, conduits and other
metal appurtenances, including any metal cover and its supporting ring shall be bonded together and connected to a
common ground. The size of the grounding means shall be as prescribed in Section 250-95 of the N.E.C. Where run
exposed, the grounding conductor shall be not smaller than # 8 AWG.
D. Handhold Provisions:
Except as modified by this subsection, the provisions of Subsection (c)-4 through (c)-10 for vaults shall apply
to handholes.
I. The handhold shall be so designed that the conductors may be pulled, spliced or otherwise handled
without requiring a person to enter the enclosure.
2. The minimum depth shall be of 18 inches and the width shall not be less than half the depth.
Handholes shall not exceed three foot in depth from finish grade to the bottom of the handhold.
3. Covers for handholes shall be full opening, of carbon steel floor plate or equal, with a minimum
thickness of 1/4 -inch, except where not subjected to vehicular traffic.
E. Prefabricated concrete boxes and their covers that are designed for the purpose, having dimensions less than
set forth in Subsections (c) and (d) of this section, may be used as vaults and handholes where specifically approved by
the City.
Chapter 19.03
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Sections:
19.03.010
General.
19.03.020
Title.
19.03.030
Purpose.
19.03.040
Scope.
19.03.050
Unsafe Installations, Authority to Disconnect.
19.03.060
Violations and Penalties.
19.03.070
Organization and Enforcement.
19.03.080
Appeals.
19.03.090
Permits --Required.
19.03.100
Permits --Work Exempted.
19.03.110
Permits --Application.
19.03.120
Permits --Issuance.
19.03.130
Fees.
19.03.140
Inspection.
19.03.150
Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials.
Section 19.03.010 General.
Title 19 of the municipal code of the City of Santa Clarita, "Electrical Code," may be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this code." (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.020 Title.
The regulations contained in this chapter shall be known as the Administrative Provisions of the Santa Clarita
Electrical Code and shall be used in Conjunction with the technical provisions of Title 19 and the provisions of Title
24, California Code of Regulations, mandated by the State of California to be enforced by the local Building
Department, all of which may be cited herein as "this code." (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this code is to provide minimum standards to safeguard the public's safety and welfare by
regulating the design, construction, installation, quality of materials, use, location, operation and maintenance of
electrical systems, equipment and appliances as specifically set forth herein. Consistent with this purpose, the
provisions of this Code are intended and always have been intended to confer a benefit on the community as a whole
and are not intended to establish a duty of care toward any particular person.
This code shall not be construed to hold the City or any officer, employee, or agent thereof responsible for any
damage to persons or property by reason of any inspection authorized herein or by reason of the issuance or
nonissuance of any permit authorized herein, and/or for any action or omission in connection with the application
and/or enforcement of this code. By adopting the provisions of this code, the City does not intend to impose on itself,
its employees or agents any mandatory duties of care toward persons and property within its jurisdiction so as to
provide a basis of civil liability for damages.
This section is declaratory of existing law and is not to be construed as suggesting that such was not the purpose
and intent of previous code adoptions. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.040 Scope.
The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving, repair and use of any electrical
wiring on any premises within the City of Santa Clarita.
The provisions of this code shall not apply to public utilities, including clearances for service conductors; or to
electrical wiring for street lighting or traffic signals located primarily in a public way; or to mechanical equipment not
specifically regulated in this code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.050 Unsafe Installations, Authority to Disconnect.
The Building Official is empowered to disconnect or to order in writing the discontinuance of electrical service to
wiring, devices or materials found to be dangerous and a hazard to life, health and property until the installation of
such wiring device or material has been made safe as directed by the Building Official.
Any person, firm, corporation, public utility, political subdivision or governmental agency ordered to discontinue
such electrical service shall do so within twenty-four (24) hours after the receipt of such written notice and shall not
reconnect such service or allow or cause the same to he reconnected until notified to do so by the Building Official.
Refusal or failure or neglect to comply with any such notice or order shall be considered by the Building Official a
violation of this code. The Building Official may then institute any appropriate action or proceeding to prevent,
restrain, correct or abate the refusal to comply with any such notice or order. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.060 Violations and Penalties.
A. Compliance with Code. A person shall not install, alter, reconstruct or repair any electrical wiring, devices,
appliances, apparatus, or equipment, within or on any premises in the City of Santa Clarita, or cause the same to be
done, contrary to, or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
B. Penalties. Every person who violates any of the provisions of this code is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable
by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or by both
such fine and imprisonment, (see Section 17995 of the State Health and Safety Code), unless such violation is
otherwise declared to be an infraction by the City Council. Such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each
and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this code is committed,
continued, or permitted to remain.
C. Infractions. See section 18.03.110(C) of the municipal code.
D. Notice of Violations. See Section 18.03.1 10(D) of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.070 Organization and Enforcement.
A. Building and Safety Division. There is established within the City of Santa Clarita, a division in the Building
and Engineering Services Department to be known as the Building and Safety Division under the administrative and
operational control of the Building Official.
B. Powers and Duties of the Building Official.
I. General. The Building Official is authorized and directed to enforce all of the provisions of this code, Title
18, the Building Code, Title 20, the Plumbing Code, and Title 21, the Mechanical Code, and to make inspections
pursuant to the provisions of each of the codes. For such purposes the Building Official shall have the powers of a law
enforcement officer.
The Building Official shall have the power to render interpretations of these codes and to adopt and enforce rules
and supplemental regulations in order to clarify the application of their provisions. Such interpretations, rules and
regulations shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of these codes.
Whenever the term 'Building Official' or "Administrative Authority" is used in any section of this code such term
shall be construed to mean the Building Official of the City of Santa Clarita.
2. Deputies. In accordance with the procedure and with the approval of the appointing authority, the Building
Official may appoint such number of technical officers and inspectors and other employees as shall be authorized from
time to time. The Building Official may deputize such technical officers, inspectors or other employees or persons as
may be necessary to carry out the functions of the Building and Safety Division.
3. Right of Entry.
a. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any duty
imposed by this code or other applicable law, or whenever the Building Official or an authorized representative has
reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such
building or premises hazardous, unsafe or dangerous for any reason specified in this code or other similar law, the
Building Official or an authorized representative is authorized to enter such property at any reasonable time and to
inspect the same and perform any duty imposed upon the Building Official by this code or other applicable law;
provided that (i) if such property is occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant, an explanation of the
reasons for the inspection given, and a request for entry made therefor; and (it) if such property is unoccupied, then
reasonable effort shall first be made to locate the owner or other person having charge of the property to explain the
reasons for the inspection and to request entry therefor. If such entry cannot be obtained because the owner or other
person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after due diligence or if entry is refused, the Building
Official or an authorized representative shall have some recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure lawful
entry and inspect the property.
b. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Building Official or an authorized representative has reasonable cause to
believe that the building or premises is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate inspection to
,�. safeguard the public health or safety, the right to immediate entry by any reasonable means to inspect the building or
premises, whether occupied or unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been granted, is hereby
authorized; provided that if the property is occupied, the Building Official or authorized representative shall first
present credentials to the occupant and offer an explanation of the purpose of the inspection.
c. "Authorized representative" shall include the officers named in subsection (B)(2) of this section and
authorized inspection personnel.
d. No person shall fail or refuse, after proper demand has been named upon him as provided in subsection (B)(3)
of this section, to promptly permit the Building Official or an authorized representative to make any inspection
provided for by subsection (B)(3)(b) of this section. Any person violating subsection (B)(3) of this section shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor.
4. Stop Work Orders. Whenever any building or grading work is being done contrary to the provisions of this
code, the Building Official may order the work stopped by written notice served on any persons engaged in the doing
or causing such work to be done, and any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the Building
Official to proceed with the work. Any person failing to stop work after being served with such notice shall be guilty
of an infraction or misdemeanor as noted in Section 19.03.060.
5. Changes in Building Occupancy. Electrical systems which are a part of any building or structure undergoing
a change in use or occupancy, as defined in the Building Code, shall comply to all requirements of this code which
may be applicable to the new use or occupancy.
6. Liability. The liability and indemnification of the Building Official and any subordinatesare governed by the
provisions of Division 3.6 of Title I of the Government Code.
7. Modifications.
a. General. Request(s) for modifications shall be made on a form prescribed by the Building Official and shall
be submitted with a fee as specified by the City Council. The details of any action granting modifications shall be
recorded and entered in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City. The Building Official may require
that any conditions of approval associated with the granting of a modification be recorded on the title of the property
with the County Recorder's office.
--- b. Modifications. When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the
Building Official may grant modifications for individual cases. The Building Official shall first find that a special
individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and that the modification is in conformance with the
intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen any fire -protection requirements or any
degree of structural integrity. The details of any action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the flies
of the code enforcement agency. The request shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the City Council.
8. Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction. Nothing in this code is not intended to prevent the use
of any material appliance, installation, device, arrangement or method of construction not specifically prescribed,
provided any such alternate has been approved by the Building Official.
The Building Official may approve any such alternate, provided, it is determined that the proposed design is
satisfactory and complies with the technical provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is,
for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire
resistance, durability, safety and sanitation.
Such approval shall be based upon submittal of substantiating data including but not limited to, performance
characteristics, measurements, calculations, diagrams, equipment and construction factors where applicable.
A written application shall be submitted for a proposed alternate material or method of construction together with
a fee established by the City Council. The details of any action granting an alternate material or method of construction
shall be noted in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
9. Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with any of the provisions of this code or
evidence that any material or construction does not conform to the requirements of this code, the Building Official may
require testing as proof of compliance to be made at no expense to the City.
Test methods shall be as specified by this code or by other recognized test standards. If there are no recognized
and adopted test methods for the proposed alternate, the Building Official shall determine test procedures. A fee,
determined by the Building Official and as approved by the City Council, shall be paid by the applicant for the
development of any testing procedure by Building and Safety and/or for the review of the testing results submitted to
Building and Safety.
All tests shall be made by an approved testing agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained in the files of the
Building and Safety Division of the City.
10. Cooperation of Other Officials and Officers. The Building Official may request and shall receive the
assistance and cooperation of other officials of the City of Santa Clarita so far as is required in the discharge of the
duties required by this code or other pertinent laws or ordinances.
1 I. Investigation. The Building Official may investigate any construction or work regulated by this code, and
issue such notices and orders as deemed appropriate.
12. Emergency Powers. The Building Official, with the approval of the City Manager of the City of Santa
Clarita, is authorized to make and enforce such guidelines and policies for the safeguarding of life, limb, health or
property as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the purpose of this code. A copy of said regulations and
policies shall be filed with the office of the City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita and shall be effective immediately
thereafter.
13. Standard Reference Documents. The codes, standards and publications adopted and set forth in this code,
including other codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by title and date of publication, adopted as
standard reference documents of this code.
When this code does not specifically cover any subject relating to building design and construction, recognized
engineering practices shall be employed. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.080 Appeals.
Appeals of determination made by the Building Official for this code shall be made in accordance with Section
18.03.140 of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.090 Permits --Required.
Except as otherwise provided in Sections 18.03.210(A) and (F) of the municipal code, a person, whether acting as
principal, servant, agent or employee, shall not do or cause or permit to be done any electrical work regulated by this
code without first securing a permit form the Building Official authorizing such work. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.100 Permits --Work Exempted.
No person shall install, alter, reconstruct or repair any electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or
equipment, within or on any building, structure or premises without first obtaining a permit therefor from the Building
Official, except as follows:
I . Minor repair work such as the replacement of lamps, switches, receptacle devices, sockets, taping bare joints
and the like, or the connection of portable motor and appliances to suitable receptacles which have been permanently
installed.
2. The wiring for temporary theater, motion picture or television stage sets.
3. The repair or replacement of fixed motors, transformers, apparatus, or appliances of the same type and rating
in the same location.
4. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus, or equipment operating at less than twenty-five (25) volts
and not capable of supplying more than fifty (50) watts of energy.
5. Low-energy power, control, and signal circuits that are not an integral part of an appliance and in which the
power is limited from a source having a rated output of not more than thirty (30) volts and one thousand (1,000) volt-
amperes.
6. Temporary holiday decorative lighting.
7. The installation of temporary wiring for testing or experimental purposes within suitable facilities.
8. Repair or replacement of overcurrent devices.
9. Portable generators, motors, appliances, tools, power outlets, and other portable equipment connected by
means of a cord or cable having an attachment plug.
10. The installation by Southern California Edison Company of radio -controlled relays on privately owned air
conditioning and agricultural irrigation pumping equipment in the company's pilot program of energy conservation
through electrical load management, entitled "Air Conditioner Cycling and Agricultural and Pumping interruptible
Programs": provided, that
a. The relays shall be tested and labeled by Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.
b. The Building Official shall approve of specifications for the installation of the relays.
c. The relays shall be installed and maintained by Southern California Edison Company or its
contractors.
d. The Southern California Edison Company shall make available for random inspection, upon request
of and by the City, designated relay installations to ensure code compliance.
11. Private telephone, intercom, sound and communication systems; provided, however, that a permit shall be
obtained for the power supplies required by the above systems.
12. Exemption for Utilities. The provisions of this code shall not apply to any electrical work performed by or for
any electrical corporation, telephone corporation, telegraph corporation, railroad corporation or street railroad
corporation on or with any electrical equipment owned or controlled and operated or used by, and for the exclusive
benefit of, such corporation in the conduct of its business as a public utility, or to any other work which any such
corporation shall be entitled by law to perform without payment of any local tax; but all provisions of this code shall
apply insofar as they may cons istently.with the above be applicable to all other electrical work performed by or for any
such corporation.
The terms "electrical corporation," "telephone corporation," "telegraph corporation," "railroad corporation," and
"Street railroad corporation." are herein used as said terms are respectively defined in the Public Utility Code of the
State of California; and such terms shall also be deemed to include similar utilities which are municipally or
governmentally owned and operated.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, all electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with Section 19.03.150 of this
code.
The provisions of this code shall cover, govern and control the installation, alteration or repair of any electrical
wiring, connection, fixtures, sockets, appliances, apparatus, machinery or other electrical devices by or on behalf of the
City of Santa Clarita or any department or officer thereof or by or on behalf of any school district or any quasi public
or political corporation or governmental agency or body, on said premises not owned by a public school district within
the City of Santa Clarita. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.110 Permits --Application.
A. Application. Applications for an electrical permit shall describe the work to be performed on the form
provided and shall give the location either by street and house number, by lot, block and tract, or similar description
that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed work. A separate application Shall be required for each
building or structure.
The applicant for electrical permits for work exceeding two hundred dollars ($200.00) in value shall be a licensed
contractor, homeowner or authorized governmental representative.
EXCEPTION: When determined that there is an urgent necessity, the Building Official may consider an
application for an electrical permit prepared by persons other than those specified above.
The Building Official may refuse to issue a permit for temporary or permanent service when there is no apparent
legally permitted use for the service. In determining whether a proposed use is legally permitted, the Building Official
may consider not just the provisions of the Electrical Code but all applicable statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations.
I. Licensed Contractor. A licensed contractor is a person who is engaged in the business of installing or
repairing electrical wiring or equipment or who does, or who holds themselves out as willing to do personally or
through their employees any work or services in connection with the installation, alteration or repair of any electrical
wiring or equipment or part thereof and who possesses an appropriate contractor's license pursuant to Chapter 9,
Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California when such license includes within its
classification limitations the activities set forth on the application for permit and entitles the licensee to perform
personally or through their employees all such activities, without personal local qualification or registration.
A permit may be issued to a firm, partnership, or corporation, any officer or member of which is a licensed
contractor, in the event that all construction or work is done under the direct personal supervision of such officer or
member.
2. Homeowner. A homeowner is the owner and resident of a single family residence including common
accessory and minor poultry, animal or agricultural buildings, A permit may be issued to such homeowner, provided
that work authorized under any such permit shall be done by the person to whom the permit is issued, or by a member
of his immediate family.
3. Government Representative. A government representative is a person who is employed by and who has
been authorized by a governmental agency to supervise or control electrical work on the premises of such agency.
4. Special Permission. When there appears to the Building Official an urgent necessity, an electrical permit may
be issued to other persons by special permission.
B. Submittal Documents. The Building Official may require the submission of plans and specifications,
drawings, descriptions and diagrams as, in the judgment of the Building Official, are appropriate to show clearly the
character, kind and extent of electrical work covered by an application for a permit.
Plans are required for the following:
1. Any installation where one or more services, switchboard, motor control centers or feeders have a rating of
four hundred (400) amperes or larger at six hundred (600) volts or less;
2. Any installation rated above six hundred (600) volts;
3. Theaters or motion picture theaters;
4. Assembly rooms or similar places having an assemblage or seating capacity exceeding five hundred (500)
persons;
5. A hospital or other health care facility with surgical operating rooms falling within the scope of Article 517 of
the National Electrical Code;
6. Installations in locations classed as hazardous locations by the provisions of Chapter 5 of the National
Electrical Code, unless otherwise satisfactory to the Building and Safety Division. When the installation is designed
and/or supervised by an electrical engineer who is duly registered by the State of California Board of Registration for
Civil and Professional Engineers, and/or supervised by a qualified maintenance electrician or supervisor registered
with the City of Santa Clarita as per Section 82-4(b) of this code, plans need not be approved unless otherwise required
by subsections (B)( I ) through (5) of this section.
7. Installation of lighting fixtures weighing more than three hundred (300) pounds.
8. Tenant improvement installations submitted within six (6) months of the approval date of shell building
electrical plans.
9. Tenant improvement installations requiring review to verify compliance with the State's Electrical Energy
Conservation requirements (Title 24). This energy plan check is in addition to the plan check required in subsection
(13)(8) of this section.
EXCEPTION: The above requirements do not apply to minor additions or alterations where satisfactory to the
Building and Safety Division.
Approval of a plan and/or the issuance of a permit shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the
provisions of this code or of other laws. Plans or permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions
of this code or of other laws are not valid, except insofar as the work therein authorized is lawful.
C. Information Required on Plans.
1. Every plan required by subsection B of this section shall be a print or other type approved by the Building and
Safety Division. The information contained on the plans shall be drawn in a professional manner, be clearly legible and
contain the information required in subsection (C)(2) of this section. The plans for the electrical wiring in a building
shall be of a scale no smaller than one-eighth inch per foot. Reasonable symbols satisfactory to the Division shall be
used in all plans.
EXCEPTION: A scale less than one-eighth inch per foot may be used when acceptable to the Division as
established by prior approval to use a smaller scale.
2. The following is required to be shown on the plans for the wiring installations described in subsection B of
this section:
a. A complete single line diagram;
b. The type, location and capacity of all service equipment;
c. The size of all raceways and the length of all feeder raceways;
d. The dimensions of all pull or junction boxes larger than four (4) inches trade size;
e. The number. size and type of all conductors to be installed in wiring enclosures;
f. The location of every proposed outlet and switch in all parts of the building or structure, including all
fixed showcases, wall -cases, office furnishings, and similar wiring;
g. The location, voltage and HP rating of every motor and the KW rating of every generator;
h. The type and code letter of every AC motor unless an alternate specification is otherwise satisfactory
to the Building Official;
i. The location and KVA or equivalent rating of each transformer, capacitor, ballast, converter,
frequency changer and similar equipment; and the location and ampere or wattage rating of other appliances of the
noninductive type;
j. Details of panelboard, switchboard and motor control center schedules, showing wattage and
amperage, the number of active branch circuits to be installed, and the number of spare branch circuits for future use.
This shall include identifying the circuits to which the outlets are connected and listing the number and type of outlets;
k. A lighting fixture schedule;
1. The existing load, as calculated in accordance with Articles 210 and 220 of the NEC or by other
methods satisfactory to the Building Official shall be indicated for existing installations have alterations or additions
made thereto;
m. Other additional information as the Building Official may consider necessary for proper enforcement
of this code.
D. Design Professional of Record. Each application for electrical permit shall be accompanied by plans,
specifications, diagrams, or calculations, as required by the Building Official. When a plan checking fee or other fees
are required by this chapter or any related ordinance or statute, such fees shall be collected at the time plans are filed.
Plans may be filed by a registered electrical engineer, licensed contractor, government representative or authorized
owner's representative. The plans shall bear the designer's signature as required by State of California Regulations. The
person who's signature appears on the plans shall be the design professional of record. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.120 Permits --Issuance.
�— A. Issuance. The application, plans and specifications and other required data filed by an applicant for a permit
shall be revised by the Building Official. Such plans may be reviewed by other public agencies, utilities, departments
of the city and other divisions of the city for compliance with the laws and ordinances under their jurisdiction.
The Building Official shall issue a permit to the applicant for the work described in the application and plans filed
therewith, when it is determined that all of the following items comply:
I. The work conforms to the requirements of this code.
2. The work described conforms to the requirements of other pertinent laws and ordinances.
3. The required clearances from all other agencies have been obtained.
4. The fees specified by this code and the municipal code have been paid.
5. The applicant has obtained a permit pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 30600 et seq., if such permit
is required.
When a permit is issued and plan and/or specifications have been required to be provided, the Building Official
shall endorse in writing or stamp upon the plans and/or specifications "APPROVED." Such approved plans and
specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorizations from the Building Official, and design
professional of record when applicable, and all work regulated by this code shall be done in accordance with the
approved plans, however the approval of the plans shall not be construed as a waiver of any requirement of this code,
or any other law or ordinance, unless specific documentation such as that required by Section 19.03.070(B)(8) is
provided. The issuance of a permit shall not be deemed to certify that the site of the described work is safe.
B. Retention of Records. The Building Official shall keep a complete record of all essential transactions in the
offices of the Building and safety Division and plans and specifications as required by the State of California.
C. Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not
be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other
laws or regulations. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or any other
laws or regulations shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorized is lawful.
The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications and other data shall not prevent the Building Official
from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications and other data, or from preventing
—^ building operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of the City of
Santa Clarita provided that notice is provided of the violations pursuant to Section 19870 of the State of California
Health and Safety Code.
D. 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:
I. Is not commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date such permit was issued by the
City; or
2. Is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of six (6) months;
or
3. A period of two (2) years and six (6) months from the date the permit was issued regardless of
whether work has stopped; or
4. As specified elsewhere in this code.
Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained, and a fee therefor shall not
exceed one half the amount required for a new permit for such work, (except in the case of subsection (D)(3) of this
section wherein the fee may be based on the amount of the work remaining to be completed), provided no changes
have been made or will be made to the original plans and specifications for such work; and provided further that such
suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one year. In order to renew action on a permit which has been abandoned
or suspended for more than one year, the permittee shall pay an amount not exceeding that originally paid for the
permit.
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply for an extension of the time within which work
may commence under that permit when the permittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this
section for good and satisfactory reasons. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the permittee for a
period not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on written request by the permittee showing that circumstances
beyond the control of the permittee have prevented action from being taken, and upon payment of an extension fee as
established by the City Council. No permit shall be extended more than once.
E. Suspension or Revocation. The Building Official may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the
provisions of this Code whenever the permit is issued in error, or is issued on the basis of incorrect information
supplied, or has been obtained by falsification or misrepresentation, or when work is being done thereunder in
violation of this chapter or any related ordinance or regulation.
F. Cancellation or Surrender of Permit. If no portion of the work or construction covered by a permit issued
by the Building Official under the provisions of this code has been commenced, the person to whom such permit has
been issued may deliver such permit to the Building Official with the request that such permit be canceled. The
Building Official shall thereupon stamp or write on the face of the permit the words "Canceled at the request of the
permittee." Thereupon such permit shall be void and of no effect. Refund of fees for canceled permits shall be made as
established by Section 19.03.1300).
G. Transfer of Permits. Permits are not transferable from one person to another or from one location to another.
(Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.130 Fees.
A. General. The City shall collect such fees as are required by this code and issue receipts therefor, copies of
which shall be maintained as record in the office of Building and Safety.
B. Cost of Permit. The cost of the electrical permits shall be as established by the City Council.
C. Plan Review Fees. Plan review fees shall be paid when the plans are submitted for review. No wiring shall be
installed, nor any other work for which a permit is required shall be done, until the plans have been approved. Only
after the plans have been approved may the applicant apply for an electrical permit for such work. The cost of the
electrical plan review shall be as established by the City Council.
D. Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no electrical permit has been issued within one hundred
eighty (180) days following the date of application, shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for
review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building Official may
extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on request by the
applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action form being taken. The
Building Official may collect a fee for any application for extension of plan review in accordance with the City's fee
schedule. No application shall he extended more than twice. In order to renew action or an application after expiration,
the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.
E. Refund. In the event that any person shall have obtained an electrical permit and no portion of the work
covered by such permit been commenced and such permit shall have been canceled and a request for cancellation
having been approved by the Building Official, the applicant/permittee may request a refund from the City for a
maximum of eighty (80) percent of the permit fees paid excluding issuance fees or plan review fees.
The applicant for the refund shall present all necessary documentation to the Building Official to prove that they
are entitled to receive the refund of the amounts paid for the permit. No refund shall be made for a permit which was
obtained by falsification or misrepresentation and which was subsequently revoked for such cause.
F. Investigation Fees.
I. Work Without a Permit. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been
commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for
such work.
2. Fee. An investigation fee shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this code and shall be in addition to any
fees for permits issued in connection with the work investigated. The minimum investigation fee shall be as established
by the City Council. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other
provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.140 Inspection.
A. General. All new electrical work, and such portions of existing systems as may be affected by new work or
any changes, shall be inspected by the Building Official to insure compliance with all the requirements of this code.
It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by the permit to notify the Building Official that said
work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the work is to
be inspected.
The Building Official shall have the authority to remove, or to require the removal of any obstruction which
prevents proper inspection of any electrical equipment.
Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of
this code or other laws. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other
laws shall not be valid, except insofar as the work therein is lawful.
B. Certificates of Approval. Upon the completion of the electrical wiring in or on any building or structure of
any nature, or tent, or premises, except as otherwise exempted in this code, the person, firm or corporation installing
the same shall notify the Building Official, who shall inspect such installation prior to concealment, and if it is found
by the Building Official to be fully in compliance with the provisions of this code, and all other laws and ordinances
applicable thereto issue, as provided for herein, the certificate of inspection or approval notice authorizing connection
of the electrical service and the energizing of the installation. The Building Official shall issue upon request a
certificate of approval for any work approved by him or her.
C. Approvals Required.
I. Permission to Cover Work. It shall be unlawful for any person to lath over, seal, cover or conceal any
electrical wiring or other electrical equipment, for the installation of which a permit is provided herein, until such
electric wiring or other electrical equipment shall have been inspected and approved by the Building Official.
2. Connection. It shall be unlawful to energize or cause or permit to be energized any electrical wiring
coming under the provisions of this code, until such electrical wiring has been inspected and approved by the Building
Official. Provided, however, that temporary permission may be given to furnish electric current to, or the use of
electric current through any electrical wiring for a length of time not exceeding thirty (30) days or other reasonable
period, if it appears to said Building Official that such electrical wiring may be used safely for such purpose, and that
there exists an urgent necessity for such use.
3. Corrections. All defects shall be corrected within ten (10) days after inspection and notification or within
such other reasonable time as is permitted by the Building Official
4. Special Inspection. Special inspections may be required on work involving special hazards or conditions
and on work requiring extensive, unusual or constant inspection. Special inspections, when necessary, shall be
accomplished by the means set forth in Title 18 entitled 'Building Code," except that the special inspector shall be a
qualified person approved, registered by and reporting to, the Building Official.
5. Reinspection. The Building Official is authorized and empowered to make at such times and as often as
in his discretion it may seem necessary, thorough reinspection of the installation in or on any building, structure or
premises of all electrical wiring, electrical devices and electrical material now installed or that may hereafter be
installed.
When the installation of any such wiring device or material is found to be in violation of this code, the
person, firm, corporation or governmental agency owning, using or operating the same shall be notified in writing and
shall make the necessary repairs or changes required to place such wiring, device or material in compliance with this
code and to have such work completed within a period of ten (10) days after such notice, or within such other
reasonable period specified by the Building Official in said notice and shall pay such fees as are required by this code.
Whenever an inspection has been requested for work which is either incomplete or is not ready to passed
the required test, Building and Safety may assess a reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
This provision is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for
failure to comply with the requirements of this Code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before
the job is ready for inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for
failure to provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the
approval of the Building Official
To obtain reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing upon a form furnished for
that purpose and pay the reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of work will be
performed until the required fees have been paid. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 19.03.150 Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials.
A. Installation. All electrical installations shall be in conformity with the provisions of this code, and shall be in
conformity with approved standards for safety to life and property. Where no specific type or class of material, or no
specific standards are prescribed by this code, or by the National Electrical Code, conformity with a standard
designated by the Building Official shall be prima facie evidence of conformity with an approved standard for safety to
life and property.
B. Materials. All electrical materials, devices, appliances and equipment shall be in conformity with the
provisions of this code, and with approved safety standards.
Listing, labeling or marking, as conforming to the standards of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., the American
National Standards Institute, Inc., the United States Bureau of Mines, Factory Mutual Laboratory, ERTL, or other
nationally recognized organizations, when the individual organization issuing the listing, labeling or marking is
approved by the Building Official, shall be prima facie evidence of conformity with the applicable provisions of this
code.
C. Used Material. Previously used construction materials shall not be reused in any work without special
permission.
Previously used industrial apparatus and processing equipment may be reinstalled provided it complies with all
applicable provisions of this code.
D. Existing Installations. No provision of this code shall be deemed to require a change in any portion of
electrical systems or any other work regulated by this code in or on an existing building or lot when such work was
installed and is maintained in accordance with law in effect prior to the effective date of this code, except when such
electrical systems or other work regulated by this code is determined by the Building Official to be in fact dangerous,
unsafe, or a nuisance, and a menace to life, health or property.
E. Additions, Alterations, Renewals and Repairs. Additions, alterations, renewals and repairs to existing
installations shall be made in accordance with the provisions of this code.
EXCEPTION: Minor additions, alterations, renewals and repairs to existing installations when approved by the
Building Official may be installed in accordance with the law in effect prior to the effective date of this code. (Ord. 96-
3, 1/23/96)
Title 20
PLUMBING CODE
Chapters:
20.01
Adoption Of The Plumbing Code
20.02
Amendments To Certain Sections
20.03
Administrative Provisions
Chapter 20.01
ADOPTION OF THE PLUMBING CODE
Sections:
20.01.010 Adoption of the Plumbing Code.
Section 20.01.010 Adoption of the Plumbing Code.
There is adopted by reference that certain plumbing code known and designated as the "The Uniform Plumbing
Code, 1997 Edition' prepared by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, including all
appendices and including those sections of the California Plumbing Code requiring enforcement by the local Building
Department. Such code shall be and become the Santa Clarita Plumbing Code, regulating plumbing and drainage
systems, house sewers, private sewage disposal, drainage systems, and prescribing conditions under which such work
may be carried on within the City and providing for the issuance of permits and the collection of fees therefor.
At least one copy of the Uniform Plumbing Code, 1997 Edition, with amendments has been deposited in the office
of the City Clerk and shall be at all times maintained by the Clerk for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 20.02
AMENDMENTS TO CERTAIN SECTIONS
Sections:
20.02.010 Amendments to Certain Sections.
Section 20.02.010 Amendments to Certain Sections.
The following sections of the Uniform Plumbing Code, as amended, adopted by section 20.02.010 hereof, are
amended to read as follows:
A. Section 1018.0 Added—Water Softener Using Dry Wells for Discharges. Section 1018.0 is added to the
Uniform Plumbing Code to read as follows:
Section 1018.0 Water Softener Using Dry Wells for Discharge.
Water softener systems using dry wells for the discharge of effluents are prohibited.
EXCEPTION: Systems with regeneration cycles discharging quantities of total dissolved solids that do not
exceed those stipulated in the water quality objectives set by the Regional Water Quality Control Board when
approved by the Building Official.
C. Section 1104.3 Deleted—Combinine Storm with Sanitary Drainaee. Section 1104.3 of the Uniform
Plumbing Code is deleted.
D. Appendix K Amended—Private Disposal Systems. Appendix K of the Uniform Plumbing Code is amended
as follows:
Private Sewage Disposal - General
Private sewage disposal systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the Los Angeles County Health
Department.
E. Appendix W Added --Gray Water Systems for Sinele Family Dwellings. Appendix W is added to the
Uniform Plumbing Code to read as adopted by the Department of Water Resources for the State of California. (Ord.
96-3, 1/23/96)
Chapter 20.03
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Sections:
20.03.010
General.
20.03.020
Title.
20.03.030
Purpose.
20.03.040
Scope.
20.03.050
Dangerous and Insanitary Construction.
20.03.060
Violations and Penalties.
2(1.(13.1170
Organization and Enforcement.
20.03.080
Appeals.
20.03.090
Permits --Required.
20.03.100
Permits --Work Exempted.
20.03.110
Permits --Application.
20.03.120
Permits --Issuance.
20.03.130
Fees.
20.03.140
Inspection.
20.03.150
Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials.
20.03.160
Sewage Disposal Systems in Geological Unstable Areas.
Section 20.03.010 General.
Title 20 of the municipal code of the City of Santa Clarita, "Plumbing Code," may be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this code." (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.020 Title.
The regulations contained in this chapter shall be known as the Administrative Provisions of the Santa Clarita
Plumbing Code and shall be used in conjunction with the technical provisions of Title 20 and the provisions of Title
24, California Code of Regulations, mandated by the State of California to be enforced by the local Building
Department, all of which may be cited herein as "this code." (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this code is to provide minimum standards to safeguard the public's safety and welfare by
regulating the design, construction, quality of material, and the installation of plumbing. Consistent with this purpose,
the provisions of this Code are intended and always have been intended to confer a benefit on the community as a
whole and are not intended to establish a duty of care toward any particular person.
This code shall not be construed to hold the City or any officer, employee, or agent thereof responsible for any
damage to persons or property by reason of any inspection authorized herein, and/or for any action or omission in
connection with the application and/or enforcement of this code. By adopting the provisions of this code the City does
not intend to impose on itself, its employees or agents any mandatory duties of care toward persons and property
within its jurisdiction so as to provide a basis of civil liability for damages.
This section is declaratory of existing law and is not to be construed as suggesting that such was not the purpose
and intent of previous code adoptions. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.040 Scope.
The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving, repair and use of any plumbing or
drainage work on any premises within the City of Santa Clarita.
The provisions of this code shall not apply to any work located primarily in a public way: to work consisting of
public utility service piping; or to work otherwise specifically exempted elsewhere in this code.
Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or
other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a
specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.
Wherever in this code reference is made to the appendix, only the UPC appendix sections adopted in Section
20.01.010 of the municipal code shall apply. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.050 Dangerous and Insanitary Construction.
Whenever it is brought to the attention of the Building Official that any construction or work regulated by this
code is dangerous, unsafe, insanitary or a menace to life, health or property or is in violation of this code, the Building
Official shall make an investigation and upon determining such information to be fact, shall order any person, firm or
corporation using or maintaining any such condition or responsible for the use or maintenance thereof to discontinue
the use of or maintenance thereof or to repair, alter, change, remove or demolish same, as deemed appropriate by the
Building Official for the proper protection of life, health or property, and in the case of any gas piping or gas appliance
may order any person. firm or corporation supplying gas to such piping or appliance to discontinue supplying gas
thereto until such gas piping or gas appliance is made safe to life, health and property.
Every such order shall he in writing addressed to the owner, agent or person responsible for the premises in which
.such condition exists and shall specify the date or time when such order shall be complied with, which time shall allow
a reasonable period which such order can be complied with by the person receiving such order but shall never exceed
the maximum period of time for which such construction can safely be used or maintained in the judgment of the
Building Official. Refusal or failure or neglect to comply with any such notice or order shall be considered a violation
of this code and punishable as noted in Section 20.03.050 of this code.
Nothing in this chapter of the municipal code shall limit the ability of the Building Official to utilize Section
18.03.130 of the municipal code to obtain compliance on a site. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.060 Violations and Penalties.
A. Compliance with Code. A person shall not erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove,
convert, demolish, or maintain any water piping, gas piping, or drainage system in the City of Santa Clarita, or cause
the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
B. Penalties. Every person who violates any of the provisions of this code is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable
by a tine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or by both
such fine and imprisonment, (see Section 17995 of the State Health and Safety Code), unless such violation is
otherwise declared to be an infraction by the City Council. Such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each
and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this code is committed,
continued, or permitted to remain.
C. Infractions. See Section 18.03.110(C) of the municipal code.
D. Notice of Violations. See Section 18.03. l 10(D) of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.070 Organization and Enforcement.
A. Building and Safety Division. There is established within the City of Santa Clarita, a division in the Building
and Engineering Services Department to be known as the Building and Safety Division under the administrative and
operational control of the Building Official.
B. Powers and Duties of the Building Official.
I. General. The Building Official is authorized and directed to enforce all of the provisions of this code,
Title 18, the Building Code, Title 19, the Electrical Code, and Title 21, the Mechanical Code, and to make inspections
pursuant to the provisions of each of the codes. For such purposes the Building Official shall have the powers of a law
enforcement officer.
The Building Official shall have the power to render interpretations of these codes and to adopt and enforce
rules and supplemental regulations in order to clarify the application of their provisions. Such interpretations, rules and
regulations shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of these codes.
Whenever the term "Building Official" or "Administrative Authority" is used in any section of this code such
term shall be construed to mean the Building Official of the City of Santa Clarita.
2. Deputies. In accordance with the procedure and with the approval of the appointing authority, the
Building Official may appoint such number of technical officers and inspectors and other employees as shall be
authorized from time to time. The Building Official may deputize such technical officers, inspectors or other
employees or persons as may be accessary to carry out the functions of the Building and Safety Division.
3. Right of Entry.
a. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any
duty imposed by this code or other applicable law, or whenever the Building Official or an authorized representative
has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such
building or premises hazardous, unsafe or dangerous for any reason specified in this code or other similar law, the
Building Official or an authorized representative is authorized to enter such property at any reasonable time and to
inspect the same and perform any duty imposed upon the Building Official by this code or other applicable law;
provided that (i) if such property is occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant, an explanation of the
reasons for the inspection given, and a request for entry made therefor; and (ii) if such property is unoccupied, then
reasonable effort shall first he made to locate the owner or other person having charge of the property to explain the
reasons for the inspection and to request entry therefor. If such entry cannot be obtained because the owner or other
person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after due diligence or if entry is refused, the Building
Official or an authorized representative shall have some recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure lawful
entry and inspect the property.
b. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Building Official or an authorized representative has
reasonable cause to believe that the building or premises is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate
inspection to safeguard the public health or safety, the right to immediate entry by any reasonable means to inspect the
building or premises. whether occupied or unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been granted, is
authorized; provided, that if the property is occupied, the Building Official or authorized representative shall first
present credentials to the occupant and offer an explanation of the purpose of the inspection.
C. "Authorized representative" shall include the officers named in subsection (B)(2) of this section and
authorized inspection personnel.
d. No person shall fail or refuse, after proper demand has been named upon them as provided in
subsection (B)(3) of this section, to promptly permit the Building Official or an authorized representative to make any
inspection provided for by subsection (B)(3)(b) of this section. Any person violating subsection (B)(3) of this section
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
4. Stop Work Orders. Whenever any building or grading work is being done contrary to the provisions of
this code, the Building Official may order the work stopped by written notice served on any persons engaged in the
doing or causing such work to be done and any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the
Building Official to proceed with the work. Any person failing to stop work after being served with such notice shall
be guilty of an infraction or misdemeanor as noted in Section 18.03.110 of the municipal code.
5. Changes in Building Occupancy. Electrical systems which are a part of any building or structure
undergoing a change in use or occupancy, as defined in the Building Code, shall comply with all requirements of this
code which may be applicable to the new use or occupancy.
6. Liability. The liability and indemnification of the Building Official and any subordinates are governed by
the provisions of Division 3.6 of Title I of the Government Code.
7. Modifications.
a. General. Requests) for modifications shall be made on a form prescribed by the Building Official
and shall be submitted with a fee as specified by the City Council. The details of any action granting modifications
shall be recorded and entered in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City. The Building Official may
require that any conditions of approval associated with the granting of a modification be recorded on the title of the
property with the County Recorder's office.
b. Modifications. When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this
code, the Building Official may grant modifications for individual cases. The Building Official shall first find that a
special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and that the modification is in conformance
with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen any fire -protection requirements or
any degree of structural integrity. The details of any action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the
flies of the code enforcement agency. The request shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the City Council.
8. Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction. Nothing in this code intended to prevent the use of
any material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, or method of construction not specifically prescribed,
provided any such alternate has been approved by the Building Official.
The Building Official may approve any such alternate, provided, it is determined that the proposed design
is satisfactory and complies with the technical provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is,
for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire
resistance. durability, safety and sanitation.
Such approval shall be based upon submittal of substantiating data and including, but not limited to,
performance characteristics, measurements, calculations, diagrams, equipment and construction factors, where
applicable.
A written application shall be submitted for a proposed alternate material or method of construction
together with a fee established by the City Council. The details of any action granting an alternate material or method
of construction shall be noted in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
9. Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with any of the provisions of this code or
evidence that any material or construction does not conform to the requirements of this code, the Building Official may
require testing as proof of compliance to be made at no expense to the City.
Test methods shall be as specified by this code or by other recognized test standards. If there are no
recognized and adopted test methods for the proposed alternate, the Building Official shall determine test procedures.
A fee, determined by the Building Official and as approved by the City Council, shall be paid by the applicant for the
development of any testing procedure by Building and Safety and/or for the review of the testing results submitted to
Building and Safety.
All tests shall be made by an approved testing agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained in the files
of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
10. Cooperation of Other Officials and Officers. The Building Official may request and shall receive the
assistance and cooperation of other officials of the City of Santa Clarita so far as is required in the discharge of the
duties required by this code or other pertinent laws or ordinances.
11. Investigation. The Building Official may investigate any construction or work regulated by this code,
and issue such notices and orders as deemed appropriate.
12. Emergency Powers. The Building Official, with the approval of the City Manager of the City of Santa
Clarita, is authorized to make and enforce such guidelines and policies for the safeguarding of life, limb, health or
property as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the purpose of this code. A copy of said regulations and
policies shall be filed with the office of the City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita and shall be effective immediately
thereafter.
13. Standard Reference Documents. The codes, standards and publications adopted and set forth in this
code, including other codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by title and date of publication, adopted
as standard reference documents of this code.
When this code does not specifically cover any subject relating to plumbing or gas system design and
construction, recognized engineering practices shall be employed. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.080 Appeals. .
Appeals of determination made by the Building Official for this code shall be made in accordance with Section
18.03.140 of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.090 Permits --Required.
Except as otherwise noted in Sections 18.03.210(A) and (F) of the municipal code, a person, whether acting as
principal, servant, agent or employee, shall not do or cause or permit to be done any gas piping, plumbing, drainage,
house sewer or private sewage disposal work regulated by this code without first securing a permit from the Building
and Safety authorizing such work.
A. House sewers in New Developments. When a written agreement covering partial inspection and inspection
fees has fist been made between the Building Official and the principals involved, house sewers constructed in new
developments may be extended form the main line sewer to the approximate point on the lot of their future connection
with the house drain or drains. Each such house sewer shall conform to the requirements of this code and shall
terminate at a proper depth and location for future connection to the building drain or drains. No connection shall be
made between such house sewer and any building drain until a house sewer permit as required by this code has first
been obtained.
B. Other Permits. In addition to the permits required by this section and as a prerequisite to obtaining them any
person desiring to connect to a trunk sewer, to construct a public sewer, to connect to the public sewer at a point where
no branch fitting has been provided in such sewer or to discharge industrial liquid waste shall obtain permits from the
City Engineer to do so. No permit shall be issued to connect to a public sewer not under the jurisdiction of the City
Engineer until the applicant for such connection has first obtained written permission from the authority controlling
such sewer and has filed a copy of such permission with the Building Official.
C. Work in Public Highway. No person shall install, remove, alter or repair any house sewer or part thereof
which is located in any public way in the City without having first obtained a permit from the City Engineer or the
State Department of Transportation, (CALTRANS), whichever agency may have jurisdiction over the particular
thoroughfare affected.
D. Decorative Gas Lighting Devices and Appliances. No permit shall be issued for decorative gas lighting
devices or exterior decorative gas appliances. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.100 Permits --Work Exempted.
No person shall be required in the case of any repair work as follows: The stopping of leaks in drains, soil, waste
or vent pipe, provided however that should any trap, drainpipe, soil, waste or vent pipe be or become defective and it
becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material in any part or parts, the same shall be considered
as new work and a permit shall be procured and inspection made as herein provided. No permit shall be required for
the clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures when such repairs do not involve or
require the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
No permit, test or inspection shall be required where a plumbing system or part thereof is set up for exhibition
purposes and has no connection with a water or drainage system. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.110 Permits --Application.
A. General. Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall make such application on forms
provided for that purpose. They shall give a description of the character of the work proposed to be done and the
location ownership, and use of the premises in connection therewith. The Building Official may require plans,
specifications or drawings and such other information as may be deemed necessary and pertinent by the Building
Official prior to the granting of a permit.
When the Building Official requires submission of, examination of and checking of plans and specifications,
drawings, descriptions and diagrams necessary to show clearly the character, kind and extent of plumbing work
covered by applications for a permit the Building Official shall review the information for compliance with the
provisions of this code.
B. Submittal Documents. The Building Official may require the submission of plans and specifications,
drawings, descriptions and diagrams as, in the judgment of the Building Official, are appropriate to show clearly the
character, kind and extent of plumbing or gas piping work covered by an application for a permit.
Plans are required only when a project (building or premises) taken as a whole has any of the following:
I . More than two hundred sixteen (216) waste fixture units;
2. Potable water supply piping required to be two (2) inches or larger; or
3. Fuel gas piping required to be two (2) inches or larger or containing medium- or high-pressure gas.
The Building Official may require that calculations be submitted to show that a project is under the amounts noted
above.
Approval of a plan and/or the issuance of a permit shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the
provisions of this code or of other laws. Plans or permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions
of this code or of other laws are not valid, except insofar as the work therein authorized is lawful.
C. Information Required on Plans.
I. Every plan required by Section 20.03.110(B) shall be a print or other type approved by the Building and
Safety Division. The information contained on the plans shall be drawn in a professional manner, be clearly legible and
contain the information required in subsection (C)(2) of this section. The plans for the plumbing and gas systems in a
building shall be of a scale no smaller than one-eighth inch per foot. Reasonable symbols satisfactory to the Division
shall be used in all plans.
EXCEPTION: A scale less than one-eighth inch per foot may be used where acceptable to the Division.
2. The following is required to be shown on the plans for the work described in subsection B of this section:
a. The size and location of all piping to be installed;
b. Material specifications;
c. Design assumptions regarding pipe pressures;
d. Location and size of all valves;
e. Location and type of all plumbing fixtures;
f. Information on the occupancy and occupant load when appropriate;
g. Other additional information as the Building Official may consider necessary for proper enforcement
of this code.
D. Design Professional of Record. Each application for a plumbing permit shall be accompanied by plans,
specifications, diagrams, or calculations, as required by the Building Official. When a plan checking fee or other fees
are required by this chapter or any related ordinance or statute, such fees shall be collected at the time plans are filed.
Plans may be filed by a registered mechanical engineer, licensed contractor, government representative or authorized
owner's representative. The plans shall bear the designer's signature as required by State of California Regulations. The
person who's signature appears on the plans shall be the design professional of record. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.113.120 Permits --Issuance.
A. Issuance. The application, plans and specifications, geological or soil reports and other required data filed by
an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Building Official. Such plans may be reviewed by other public
agencies, utilities, departments of the City and other divisions of the Building and Engineering Services of the City for
compliance with the laws and ordinances under their jurisdiction.
The Building Official shall issue a permit to the applicant for the work described in the application and plans filed
therewith, when it is determined that all of the following items comply:
I. The work conforms to the requirements of this code.
2. The work described conforms to the requirements of other pertinent laws and ordinances.
3. The required clearances from all other agencies have been obtained.
4. The fees specified by this code and the municipal code have been paid.
5. The applicant has obtained a permit pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 30600 et seq., if such permit
is required.
When a permit is issued and plan and/or specifications have been required to be provided, the Building Official
shall endorse in writing or stamp upon the plans and/or specifications "APPROVED." Such approved plans and
specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorizations from the Building Official, and design
professional of record when applicable, and all work regulated by this code shall be done in accordance with the
approved plans, however the approval of the plans shall not be construed as a waiver of any requirement of this code,
or any other law or ordinance, unless specific documentation such as that required by Section 20.03.070(B)(7) is
provided. The issuance of a permit shall not be deemed to certify that the site of the described work is safe.
The Building Official may issue a permit for the construction of part of a building or structure before the entire
plans and specifications for the whole building or structure have been submitted or approved, provided adequate
information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holder
of such permit shall proceed at his own risk without assurance that the permit for the entire building or structure will be
granted. The Building Official may require in writing a statement from the owner acknowledging potential risks.
B. Retention of Records. The Building Official shall keep a complete record of all essential transactions in the
offices of the Building and Safety Division and plans and specifications as required by the State of California.
C. Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not
be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other
laws or regulations. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or any other
laws or regulations shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorized is lawful.
The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications and other data shall not prevent the Building Official
from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications and other data, or from preventing
building operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of the City of
Santa Clarita provided that notice is provided of the violations pursuant to Section 19870 of the State of California
Health and Safety Code.
D. 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:
I. Is not commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date such permit was issued by the
City.
2. Is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of six (6) months.
3. Has exceeded a period of two (2) years and six (6) months from the date the permit was issued regardless
of whether or not the work has stopped.
Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained, and a fee therefor shall not exceed
one half the amount required for a new permit for such work, (except in the case of subsection (D)(3) of this section
wherein the fee may be based on the amount of the work remaining to be completed), provided no changes have been
made or will be made to the original plans and specifications for such work; and provided further that such suspension
or abandonment has not exceeded one year. In order to renew action on a permit which has been abandoned or
suspended for more than one year, the permittee shall pay an amount not exceeding that originally paid for the permit.
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply for an extension of the time within which work may
commence under that permit when the permittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this section
for good and satisfactory reasons. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the permittee for a period
not exceeding one hundred eighty ( I80) days on written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond
the control of the permittee have prevented action from being taken and upon payment of an extension fee as
established by the City Council. No permit shall be extended more than once. See Section 20.03.140(A) for expiration
of permits for repair and maintenance work.
E. Suspension or Revocation. The Building Official may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the
provisions of this code whenever the permit is issued in error, or is issued on the basis of incorrect information
supplied, or has been obtained by falsification or misrepresentation, or when work is being done thereunder in
violation of this chapter or any related ordinance or regulation.
F. Cancellation or Surrender of Permit. If no portion of the work or construction covered by a permit issued
by the Building Official under the provisions of this code has been commenced, the person to whom such permit has
been issued may deliver such permit to the Building Official with the request that such permit be canceled. The
Building Official shall thereupon stamp or write on the face of the permit the words "Canceled at the request of the
permittee." Thereupon such permit shall be void and of no effect. Refund of fees for canceled permits shall be made as
established by Section 20.03.130(E).
G. Transfer. Permits are not transferable from one person to another or from one location to another. (Ord. 96-3,
1/23/96)
Section 20.03.130 Fees.
�— A. General. The City shall collect such fees as are required by this code and issue receipts therefor, copies of
which shall be maintained as record in the office of Building and Safety.
B. Cost of Permit. The cost of the plumbing permits shall be as established by the City Council.
C. Plan Review Fee. Plan review fees shall he paid when the plans are submitted for review. No plumbing or
piping shall be installed, nor any other work for which a permit is required shall be done until the plans have been
approved. Only after the plans have been approved may the applicant apply for a plumbing permit for such work. The
cost of the plumbing permits shall be as established by the City Council.
D. Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no building permit or grading permit is issued within one
hundred eighty (180) days following the date of application, shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data
submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building
Official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on
request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from
being taken. The Building Official may collect a fee for any application for extension of plan review in accordance
with the City's fee schedule. No application shall be extended more than twice. In order to renew action on an
application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.
E. Refund. In the event that any person shall have obtained a permit and no portion of the work or construction
covered by such permit shall have been commenced and such permit shall have been canceled and a request for
cancellation having been approved by the Building Official, the applicant/permittee may request a refund for a
maximum of eighty (80) percent of the permit fees paid, excluding issuance fees or plan review fees.
The applicant for the refund shall present all necessary documentation to the Building Official to prove that they
are entitle to receive the refund of the amounts paid for the permit. No refund shall be made for a permit which was
obtained by falsification or misrepresentation and which was subsequently revoked for such cause.
F. Investigation Fees.
I. Work Without a Permit. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been
commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for
such work.
2. Fee. An investigation fee shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this code and shall be in addition to any
fees for permits issued in connection with the work investigated. The minimum investigation fee shall be as established
by the City Council. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other
provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.140 Inspection.
A. General. All construction work for which a permit is required by this code shall be subject to inspection and
approval by the Building Official, The Building Official shall administer and enforce the provisions of this code in a
manner consistent with the intent thereof and shall inspect all plumbing and drainage work authorized by any permit to
assure compliance with provisions of this code or amendments thereto, approving or condemning said work in whole
or in part as conditions require. The Building Official may inspect portions of the existing systems to ensure the new
work is safe.
It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by the permit to notify the Building Official that said
work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the work is to
be inspected and shall not be covered prior to approval by the Building Official.
Request for inspection of maintenance and repair items, such as but not limited to, water heater replacement,
repiping or water lines, addition of gas outlets, etc. shall be made within ten ( 10) days of their installation and any and
all corrections made within ten (10) days of the inspection or the permit shall expire by default and a new permit shall
be required. The Building Official may request that information be produced to verify the installation time frame when
the existence of the work leads the Building Official to believe that the work was allowed to remain uninspected for a
time period greater than that specified in this section.
The Building Official shall have the authority to remove, or to require the removal of any obstruction which
prevents proper inspection of any plumbing or gas piping system.
Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of
this code or other laws. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other
laws shall not be valid, except insofar as the work therein is lawful.
B. Certificates of Approval. Upon the completion of the plumbing or gas piping system in or on any building or
structure of any nature, or tent, or premises, except as otherwise exempted in this code, the person, firm or corporation
installing the same shall notify the Building Official, who shall inspect such installation prior to concealment, and if it
is found by the Building Official to be fully in compliance with the provisions of this code, and all other laws and
ordinances applicable thereto issue, as provided for herein, the certificate of inspection or approval notice authorizing
connection of the gas service.
The Building Official shall issue upon request a certificate of approval for any such work approved by Building
and Safety.
C. Approvals Required.
I. Permission to Cover Work. It shall be unlawful for any person to lath over, seal, cover or conceal any
plumbing, gas, drainage, or ventilation system for which a permit is required, until such plumbing, gas, drainage, or
ventilation system has been tested, inspected and approved by the Building Official.
2. Connection. It shall be unlawful to energize or cause or permit to be energized any gas piping system
coming under the provisions of this code, until such gas piping system shall have been inspected and approved by the
Building Official.
It shall be unlawful to connect to any public sewer system until such waste piping system has been
inspected and approved by the Building Official.
It shall be unlawful to connect to any potable water supply until such water piping system has been
inspected and approved by the Building Official.
3. Corrections. The Building Official shall order changes in workmanship or materials, or both, essential to
obtain compliance with the provisions of this code. All defects shall be corrected within ten (10) days after inspection
and notification or within such other reasonable time as permitted by the Building Official.
D. Testing of Systems.
I. General. All plumbing systems shall be tested and approved as required by this code or the Building
Official.
2. Testing. Water piping shall be tested and approved as provided in subsection (D)(4) of this section, gas
piping shall be tested per Chapter 12 of the plumbing code.
3. Test. Tests shall be conducted in the presence of the Building Official or duly appointed deputy.
4. Water Piping. Upon completion of a section or of the entire hot and cold water supply system, it shall be
tested and proved tight under a water pressure not less than the working pressure under which it is to be used. The
water used for tests shall be obtained from a potable source of supply. A fifty (50) pound per square inch air pressure
may be substituted for the water test. In either method of test, the piping shall withstand the test without leaking for a
period of not less that fifteen (15) minutes.
5. Exceptions. In cases where it would be impractical to provide the aforementioned water or air tests, or
for minor installations and repairs, the Building Official, at the Building Official's discretion, may make such
inspection as deemed advisable in order to be assured that the work has been performed in accordance with the intent
of this section.
6. Protectively Coated Pipe. Inspection and repair shall conform to IAPMO Installation Standard IS -13,
listed in Table 14-1 or other approved standard.
7. Tightness. Joints and connections in the plumbing system shall be gas tight and watertight for the
pressures required by test.
8. Responsibility. It shall be the duty of the holder of the permit to make sure that the work will stand the
test prescribed before giving the notification for inspection.
The equipment, material and labor necessary for inspection or tests shall be furnished by the person to
whom the permit is issued or by whom inspection is requested.
E. Special Inspection. Special inspections may be required on work involving special hazards or conditions and
on work requiring extensive, unusual or constant inspection. Special inspections, when necessary, shall be
accomplished by the means set forth in Title 18 entitled Building Code, except that the special inspector shall be a
qualified person approved, registered by and reporting to, the Building Official.
F. Reinspection. The Building Official is authorized and empowered to make at such times and as often as in his
discretion it may seem necessary, thorough reinspection of the installation in or on any building, structure or premises
of all plumbing or gas system now installed or that may hereafter be installed.
When the installation of any such plumbing or gas system or material is found to be in violation of this code, the
person, firm, corporation or governmental agency owning, using or operating the same shall be notified in writing and
shall make the necessary repairs or changes required to place such plumbing or gas system or material in compliance
with this code and to have such work completed within a period of ten (10) days after such notice, or within such other
reasonable period specified by the Building Official in said notice and shall pay such fees as are required by this code.
Whenever an inspection has been requested for work which is either incomplete or is not ready to passed the
required test, Building and Safety may assess a reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
This provision is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is
ready for inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for failure to
provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of
the Building Official.
To obtain reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing upon a form furnished for that
purpose and pay the reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of work will be performed until
the required fees have been paid. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.150 Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials.
A. Installation. All plumbing and gas systems shall be in conformity with the provisions of this code, and shall
be in conformity with approved standards for safety to life and property. Where no specific type or class of material, or
no specific standards are prescribed by this code, conformity with a standard designated by the Building Official shall
be prima facie evidence of conformity with an approved standard for safety to life and property.
All openings into a drainage or vent system, excepting those openings to which plumbing fixtures are properly
connected or which constitute vent terminals, shall be permanently plugged or capped in an approved manner, using
the appropriate materials required by code.
B. Materials. All plumbing or gas system materials, devices, appliances and equipment shall be in conformity
with the provisions of this code, and with approved safety standards.
Listing, labeling or marking, as conforming to the standards of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., the American
National Standards Institute, Inc., the United States Bureau of Mines, Factory Mutual Laboratory, ERTL, or other
nationally recognized organizations, when the individual organization issuing the listing, labeling or marking is
approved by the Building Official, shall be prima facie evidence of conformity with the applicable provisions of this
code.
C. Used Material. Previously used construction materials shall not be reused in any work without special
permission.
Previously used industrial apparatus and processing equipment may be reinstalled provided it complies with all
applicable provisions of this code. -
D. Existing Installations. No provision of this code shall be deemed to require a change in any portion of
plumbing or gas system or any other work regulated by this code in or on an existing building or lot when such work
was installed and is maintained in accordance with law in effect prior to the effective date of this code, except when
such plumbing or gas system or other work regulated by this code is determined by the Building Official to be in fact
dangerous, unsafe, or a nuisance, and a menace to life, health or property.
The plumbing and drainage system of any premises within the City of Santa Clarita shall be maintained in a
sanitary and safe operating condition by the owner or the owner's agent.
E. Additions, Alterations, Renewals and Repairs. Additions, alterations, renewals and repairs to existing
installations shall be made in accordance with the provisions of this code.
Exception: Minor additions, alterations, renewals and repairs to existing installations when approved by the
Building Official may be installed in accordance with the law in effect prior to the effective date of this code. (Ord. 96-
3, 1/23/96)
Section 20.03.160 Sewage Disposal Systems in Geological Unstable Areas.
A. Mandatory Connection to Public Sewer System.
I. All owners or persons in possession of improved real property in geologically unstable areas are required
to dispose of their sewage through a public sewer system, or through a public septic tank effluent pumping pressure
sewer system, whichever is available to their property.
2. The City Council may determine, based upon reliable geological information, that certain areas are
geologically unstable and, upon such determination, shall designate by resolution, by reference to street address or
parcel map, each parcel of property subject to the requirements of this section.
B. Compliance.
1. Upon notification by the. Building Official that the owner is subject to the provisions of this section, an
owner or possessor of improved real property shall make application for all necessary permits to perform the work
within thirty (30) days of notification or of the final resolution of appeals allowed by the code.
2. Notification of the requirements of this section shall be effected in the same manner as notification noted
in Title 18 of the municipal code.
C. Enforcement and Penalties. Any owner or possessor of real property who fails or refuses to comply with the
provisions of this section shall be considered in violation of this code, and subject to the penalties and remedied
provided for therein.
Any violation or threatened violation of this ordinance, or resolution, rule or regulation passed pursuant to this
chapter, may be enjoined by civil suit, and any affirmative duty created under this ordinance upon the owner or person
in possession of real property may be enforced by civil suit. Any property upon which such a violation exists may be
abated as a public nuisance.
D. Reconsideration.
L If an owner or person in possession of real property wishes to have the designation of their property
under this section reconsidered, they may file a written request for reconsideration with the Board of Appeals within
thirty (30) days of the service of the notification. The written request shall present the evidence or information upon
which the requesting party relies.
The Board may grant or deny the request, or refer it to a consultant to review the technical information
and report back to the Board with recommendations. (Ord. 96-3, 1/23/96)
Title 21
MECHANICAL CODE
Chapters:
21.01 Adoption Of The Mechanical Code
21.02 Amendments To Certain Sections (Reserved)
21.03 Administrative Provisions
Chapter 21.01
ADOPTION OF THE MECHANICAL CODE
Sections:
21.01.010 Adoption of the Mechanical Code.
Section 21.01.010 Adoption of the Mechanical Code.
There is adopted by reference that certain mechanical code known and designated as "The Uniform Mechanical
Code, 1997 Edition" prepared by the International Conference of Building Officials, including all appendices except
Appendix B, and including those sections of the California Mechanical Code requiring enforcement by the local
Building Department. Such code shall be and become the Santa Clarita Mechanical Code, regulating heating,
ventilating, comfort cooling, refrigeration systems and other miscellaneous heating appliances, prescribing conditions
under which such work may be performed within the City and providing for the issuance of permits and the collection
of fees therefor.
At least one copy of the Uniform Mechanical Code, 1997 Edition, with amendments has been deposited in the
office of the City Clerk and shall be at all times maintained by the clerk for use and examination by the public.
Chapter 21.02
AMENDMENTS TO CERTAIN SECTIONS
Sections;
21.01.010 Amendments to Certain Sections.
Section 21.01.010 Amendments to Certain Sections
The following section of the Uniform Mechanical Code, as amended, adopted buy section 21.02.010 hereof,
are amended to read as follows:
A. Section 507.3 Amended—Grease Dust Supports. Section 507.3 is of the Uniform Mechanical Code is
hereby amended to read as follows:
507.3 Grease Duct Supports. Duct bracing and supports shall be of noncombustible material securely attached
to the structure, not less than the gage required for grease duct construction and designed to carry gravity and lateral
loads within the stress limitations of the Building Code. Bolts, screws, rivets and other Mechanical fasteners shall not
penetrate duct walls.
B. Section 508.7.4 Amended—Low Temperature.
508.7.4 Low Temperature. Type I hoods where the cooking equipment includes low-temperature appliances
such as medium -to -low- temperature ranges, roasters, roasting ovens, pastry ovens, pizza ovens and equipment
approved for use under Type II hood:
Chapter 21.03
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Sections:
21.03.010
General.
21.113.1120
Title.
21.03.030
Purpose.
21.03.040
Scope.
21.03.050
Dangerous Construction.
21.03.060
Violations and Penalties.
21.03.070
Organization and Enforcement.
21.03.080
Appeals.
21.03.090
Permits --Required.
21.03.100
Permits --Work Exempted.
21.03.110
Permits --Application.
21.03.120
Permits --Issuance.
21.03.130
Fees.
21.03.140
Inspection.
21.03.150
Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials --Installation.
Section 21.03.010 General.
Title 21 of the Municipal Code of the City of Santa Clarita, "Mechanical Code," may be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this Code." (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.020 Title.
The regulations contained in this Section shall be known as the Administrative Provisions of the Santa Clarita
Mechanical Code and shall be used in conjunction with the technical provisions of Title 21 and the provisions of Title
24, California Code of Regulations, mandated by the State of California to be enforced by the local Building
Department, all of which may be cited herein as "this code." (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.030 Purpose.
The purpose of this code is to provide minimum standards to safeguard the public's safety and welfare by
regulating the design, construction, installation, quality of material, location, operation, and maintenance of heating,
ventilating comfort cooling, refrigeration systems and other miscellaneous heat -producing appliances. The design and
testing of equipment regulated by this code shall be subject to the approval of the Building Official. Consistent with
this purpose, the provisions of this code are intended and always have been intended to confer a benefit on the
community as a whole and are not intended to establish a duty of care toward any particular person.
This code shall not be construed to hold the City or an officer, employee, or agent thereof responsible for any
damage to persons or property by reason of any inspection authorized herein, and/or for any action or omission in
connection with the application and/or enforcement of this code. By adopting the provisions of this code the City does
not intend to impose on itself, its employees, or agents any mandatory duties of care toward persons and property
within its jurisdiction so as to provide a basis of civil liability for damages.
This section is declaratory of existing law and is not to be construed as suggesting that such was not the purpose
and intent of previous Code adoptions. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.040 Scope.
The provisions of this code shall apply to the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, addition to, use, or
maintenance of any heating, ventilating, comfort cooling, refrigeration systems or other miscellaneous heat -producing
appliance within the City of Santa Clarita.
Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or
other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between general requirement and a
specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.
Wherever in this code reference is made to the appendix, only the UMC appendix sections adopted in Section
21.01.010 of the municipal code shall apply. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.050 Dangerous Construction.
Whenever it is brought to the attention of the Building Official that any construction or work regulated by this
code is dangerous, unsafe, or a menace to life, health or property or is in violation of this code, the Building Official
shall make an investigation and upon determining such information to be fact, shall order any person, firm or
corporation using or maintaining any such condition or responsible for the use or maintenance thereof to discontinue
the use of or maintenance thereof or to repair, alter, change, remove or demolish same, as deemed appropriate by the
Building Official for the proper protection of life, health or property, and in the case of any gas appliance the Building
Official may order any person, firm or corporation supplying gas to such piping or appliance to discontinue supplying
"gas thereto until such gas piping or gas appliance is made safe to life, health and property.
Every such order shall be in writing addressed to the owner, agent or person responsible for the premises in which
such condition exists and shall specify the date or time when such order shall be complied with, which time shall allow
a reasonable period in which such order can be complied with by the person receiving such order but shall never
exceed the maximum period of time for which such construction can safely be used or maintained in the judgement of
the Building Official. Refusal or failure or neglect to comply with any such notice or order shall be considered a
violation of this code and punishable as noted in Section 21.03.060 of this code.
Nothing in this chapter of the municipal code shall limit the ability of the Building Official to utilize section of
Chapter 18.03 of the municipal code to obtain compliance on a site. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.060 Violations and Penalties.
A. Compliance with Code. A person shall not erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove,
convert, demolish, or maintain any heating, ventilating, comfort cooling, refrigeration systems or other miscellaneous
heat -producing appliance within the City of Santa Clarita, or cause the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of
any of the provisions of this code. Maintenance of equipment which was unlawful at the time it was installed and
which would be unlawful under this code if installed after the effective date of this code, shall constitute a continuing
violation of this code.
B. Penalties. Every person who violates any of the provisions of this code is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable
by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, or by both
such fine and imprisonment, (see Section 17995 of the State Health and Safety Code), unless such violation is
otherwise declared to be an infraction by the City Council. Such person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each
and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the provisions of this code is committed,
continued, or permitted to remain.
C. Infractions. See Section 18.03.110(C) of the municipal code.
D. Notice of Violations. See Section 18.03.110(D) of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.070 Organization and Enforcement.
A. Building and Safety Division. There is established within the City of Santa Clarita, a division in the Building
and Engineering Services Department to be known as the Building and Safety Division under the administrative and
operational control of the Building Official.
B. Powers and Duties of the Building Official.
I. General. The Building Official is authorized and directed to enforce all of the provisions of this code,
Title 18, the Building Code, Title 19, the Electrical Code, and Title 20, the Plumbing Code, and to make inspections
pursuant to the provisions of each of the codes. For such purposes the Building Official shall have the powers of a law
enforcement officer.
The Building Official shall have the power to render interpretations of these codes and to adopt and
enforce rules and supplemental regulations in order to clarify the application of their provisions. Such interpretations,
rules and regulations shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of these codes.
Whenever the term "Building Official" or "Administrative Authority" is used in any section of this code
such term shall be construed to mean the Building Official of the City of Santa Clarita.
2. Deputies. In accordance with the procedure and with the approval of the appointing authority the
Building Official may appoint such number of technical officers and inspectors and other employees as shall be
authorized from time to time. The Building Official may deputize such technical officers, inspectors or other
employees or persons as may be necessary to carry out the functions of the Building and Safety Division.
3. Right of Entry.
a. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any
duty imposed by this code or other applicable law, or whenever the Building Official or an authorized representative
has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such
building or premises hazardous, unsafe or dangerous for any reason specified in this code or other similar law, the
Building Official or an authorized representative is authorized to enter such property at any reasonable time and to
inspect the same and perform any duty imposed upon the Building Official by this code or other applicable law;
provided that (i) if such property is occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant, an explanation of the
reasons for the inspection given, and a request for entry made therefor; and (ii) if such property is unoccupied, then
reasonable effort shall first be made to locate the owner or other person having charge of the property to explain the
reasons for the inspection and to request entry therefor. If such entry cannot be obtained because the owner or other
person having charge or control of the property cannot be found after due diligence or if entry is refused, the Building
Official or an authorized representative shall have some recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure lawful
entry and inspect the property.
b. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Building Official or an authorized representative has
reasonable cause to believe that the building or premises is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate
inspection to safeguard the public health or safety, the right to immediate entry by any reasonable means to inspect the
building or premises, whether occupied or unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been granted, is
hereby authorized; provided that if the property is occupied, the Building Official or authorized representative shall
first present credentials to the occupant and offer an explanation of the purpose of the inspection.
C. "Authorized representative" shall include the officers named in subsection (13)(2) of this section and
authorized inspection personnel.
d. No person shall fail or refuse, after proper demand has been named upon them as provided in this
subsection, to promptly permit the Building Official or an authorized representative to make any inspection provided
for by subsection (13)(3)(b) of this section. Any person violating subsection (13)(3) of this section shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor.
4. Stop Work Orders. Whenever any mechanical work is being done contrary to the provisions of this
code, the Building Official may order the work stopped by written notice served on any persons engaged in the doing
or causing such work to be done, and any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the Building
Official to proceed with the work. Any person filing to stop work order being served with such notice shall be guilty of
an infraction or misdemeanor as noted in Section 18.03.110 of the municipal code.
5. Changes in Building Occupancy. Mechanical systems which are a part of any building or structure
undergoing a change in use or occupancy, as defined in the Building Code, shall comply with all requirements of this
code which may be applicable to the new use or occupancy.
6. Liability. The liability and indemnification of the Building Official and any subordinates are governed by
the provisions of Division 3.6 of Title I of the Government Code.
7. Modifications.
a. General. Requests) for modifications shall be made on a form prescribed by the Building Official
and shall be submitted with a fee as specified by the City Council. The details of any action granting modifications
shall be recorded and entered in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City. The Building Official may
require that any conditions of approval associated with the granting of a modification be recorded on the title of the
property with the County Recorder's office.
b. Modifications. When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this
code, the Building Official may grant modifications for individual cases. The Building Official shall first find that a
special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and that the modification is in conformance
with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen any fire -protection requirements or
any degree of structural integrity. The details of any action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the
files of the code enforcement agency. The request shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the City Council.
8. Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction. Nothing in this code is intended to prevent the use
of any material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement or method of construction not specifically prescribed,
provided any such alternate has been approved by the Building Official.
The Building Official may approve any such alternate, provided, it is determined that the proposed design
is satisfactory and complies with the technical provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is,
for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire
resistance, durability, safety and sanitation.
Such approval shall be based upon submittal of substantiating data and including, but not limited to,
performance characteristics, measurements, calculations, diagrams, equipment and construction factors, where
applicable.
A written application shall be submitted for a proposed alternate material or method of construction
together with a fee established by the City Council. The details of any action granting an alternate material or method
of construction shall be noted in the files of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
9. Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with any of the provisions of this code or
evidence that any material or construction does not conform to the requirements of this code, the Building Official may
require testing as proof of compliance to be made at no expense to the City.
Test methods shall be as specified by this code or by other recognized test standards. If there are no
recognized and adopted test methods for the proposed alternate, the Building Official shall determine test procedures.
A fee, determined by the Building Official and as approved by the City Council, shall be paid by the applicant for the
development of any testing procedure by Building and Safety and/or for the review of the testing results submitted to
Building and Safety.
All tests shall be made by an approved testing agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained in the files
of the Building and Safety Division of the City.
10. Cooperation of Other Officials and Officers. The Building Official may request and shall receive the
assistance and cooperation of other officials of the City of Santa Clarita so far as is required in the discharge of the
duties required by this code or other pertinent laws or ordinances.
1 1. Investigation. The Building Official may investigate any construction or work regulated by this code,
and issue such notices and orders as deemed appropriate.
12. Emergency Powers. The Building Official, with the approval of the City Manager of the City of Santa
Clarita, is authorized to make and enforce such guidelines and policies for the safeguarding of life, limb, health or
property as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the purpose of this code. A copy of said regulations and
policies shall be filed with the office of the City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita and shall be effective immediately
thereafter.
13. Standard Reference Documents. The codes, standards and publications adopted and set forth in this
code, including other codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by title and date of publication, hereby
adopted as standard reference documents of this code.
When this code does not specifically cover any subject relating to mechanical system design and
construction, recognized engineering practices shall be employed. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.080 Appeals.
Appeals of determination made by the Building Official for this code shall be made in accordance with Section
18.03.140 of the municipal code. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.090 Permits --Required.
Except as otherwise noted in Sections 18.03.210(A) and (F) of the municipal code, a person, whether acting as
principal, servant, agent or employee, shall not do or cause or permit to be done, any heating, ventilating, comfort
cooling, refrigeration systems or other miscellaneous heat -producing appliance within the City of Santa Clarita
regulated by this code without first securing a permit from Building and Safety authorizing such work. (Ord. 96-9,
3/12/96)
Section 21.03.100 Permits --Work Exempted.
No permit shall be required in the case of any repair work as follows:
A. A portable heating appliance, portable ventilating equipment, portable cooling unit or portable evaporative
cooler.
B. A closed system of steam, hot or chilled water piping within heating or cooling equipment regulated by this
code.
C. Replacement of any component part or assembly of an appliance which does not alter its original approval
and complies with other applicable requirements of this code.
D. Refrigeration equipment which is part of the equipment for which a permit has been issued pursuant to the
requirements of this code.
E. A unit refrigeration system.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be
done in violation of the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.110 Permits --Application.
A. General. Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall make such application on forms
provided for that purpose. They shall give a description of the character of the work proposed to be done and the
location ownership, and use of the premises in connection therewith. The Building Official may require plans,
specifications or drawings and such other information as may be deemed necessary and pertinent by the Building
Official prior to the granting of a permit.
When the Building Official requires submission of, examination of and checking of plans and specifications,
drawings, descriptions and diagrams necessary to show clearly the character, kind and extent of mechanical work
covered by an application for a permit the Building Official shall review the information for compliance with the
provisions of this code.
B. Submittal Documents. The Building Official may require the submission of plans and specifications,
drawings, descriptions and diagrams as, in the judgment of the Building Official, are appropriate to show clearly the
character, kind and extent of mechanical work covered by an application for a permit.
Plans are required only when a project (building or premises) taken as a whole has any of the following:
I. Comfort cooling systems with an aggregate BTU capacity is one million (1,000,000) BTUs or greater or
with air handling capacity of ten thousand (10,000) cubic feet per minute or more.
2. Comfort heating systems with an aggregate BTU capacity is one million (1,000,000) BTUs or greater or
with air handling capacity of ten thousand (10,000) cubic feet per minute or more.
3. Refrigeration systems.
4. Ventilation systems withairhandling capacity of ten thousand (10,000) cubic feet per minute or more.
5. Hoods for commercial food processing establishments.
Approval of a plan and/or the issuance of a permit shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation
of the provisions of this code or of other laws. Plans or permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the
provisions of this code or of other laws are not valid, except insofar as the work therein authorized is lawful. (Ord. 96-
9,3/12/96)
C. Information Required on Plans.
I. Every plan required by subsection B of this section shall be a print or other type approved by the Building
and Safety Division. The information contained on the plans shall be drawn in a professional manner, be clearly legible
and contain the information required in subsection (C)(2) of this section. The plans for the mechanical systems in a
building shall be of a scale no smaller than one-eighth inch per foot. Reasonable symbols satisfactory to the Division
shall be used in all plans.
EXCEPTION: A scale less than one-eighth inch per foot may be used where acceptable to the Division.
2. The following is required to be shown on the plans for the work described in subsection B of this section:
a. The size and location of all air handling, comfort cooling or comfort heating equipment to be
installed;
b. Material specifications and needed notes;
c. Design assumptions regarding temperature ranges;
d. Location, fire rating and size of all duct work, shafts, and pertinent building data;
e. Information on the occupancy and occupant load when appropriate;
f. Other additional information as the Building Official may consider necessary for proper enforcement
of this code.
D. Design Professional of Record. Each application for a mechanical permit shall be accompanied by plans,
specifications, diagrams, or calculations, as required by the Building Official. When a plan checking fee or other fees
are required by this chapter or any related ordinance or statute, such fees shall be collected at the time plans are filed.
Plans may be filed by a registered mechanical engineer, licensed contractor, government representative or authorized
owner's representative. The plans shall bear the designer's signature as required by State of California Regulations. The
person who's signature appears on the plans shall be the design professional of record. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.120 Permits --Issuance.
A. Issuance. The application, plans and specifications, and other required data filed by an applicant for a permit
shall be reviewed by the Building Official. Such plans may be reviewed by other public agencies, utilities, departments
of the City and other divisions of the Building & Engineering Services of the City for compliance with the laws and
ordinances under their jurisdiction.
The Building Official shall issue a permit to the applicant for the work described in the application and plans filed
therewith, when it is determined that all of the following items comply:
I . The work conforms to the requirements of this code.
2. The work described conforms to the requirements of other pertinent laws and ordinances.
3. The required clearances from all other agencies have been obtained.
4. The fees specified by this code and the municipal code have been paid.
5. The applicant has obtained a permit pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 30600 et seq., if such permit
is required.
When a permit is issued and plan and/or specifications have been required to be provided, the Building Official
shall endorse in writing or stamp upon the plans and/or specifications "APPROVED." Such approved plans and
specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorizations from the Building Official, and design
professional of record when applicable, and all work regulated by this code shall be done in accordance with the
approved plans, however the approval of the plans shall not be construed as a waiver of any requirement of this code,
.�, or any other law or ordinance, unless specific documentation such as that required by Section 21.03.070(B)(7) is
provided. The issuance of a permit shall not be deemed to certify that the site of the described work is safe.
The Building Official may issue a permit for the construction of part of a building or structure before the entire
plans and specifications for the whole building or structure have been submitted or approved, provided adequate
information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holder
of such permit shall proceed at his own risk without assurance that the permit for the entire building or structure will be
granted. The Building Official may require in writing a statement from the owner acknowledging potential risks.
B. Retention of Records. The Building Official shall keep a complete record of all essential transactions in the
offices of the Building and Safety Division and plans and specifications as required by the State of California.
C. Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not
be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other
laws or regulations. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or any other
laws or regulations shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorized is lawful.
The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications and other data shall not prevent the Building Official
from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications and other data, or from preventing
construction from being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of the City of
Santa Clarita provided that notice is provided of the violations pursuant to Section 19870 of the State of California
Health and Safety Code,
D. 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:
I. Is not commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date such permit was issued by the
City.
2. Is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of six (6) months.
3. Has exceeded a period of two (2) years and six (6) months from the date the permit was issued regardless
of whether or not the work has stopped.
Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained, and a fee therefor shall not exceed
�— one half the amount required for a new permit for such work, (except in the case of subsection (D)(3) of this section
wherein the fee may be based on the amount of the work remaining to be completed), provided no changes have been
made or will be made to the original plans and specifications for such work; and provided further that such suspension
or abandonment has not exceeded one year. In order to renew action on a permit which has been abandoned or
suspended for more than one year, the permittee shall pay an amount not exceeding that originally paid for the permit.
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply for an extension of the time within which work may
commence under that permit when the permittee is unable to commence work within the time required by this section
for good and satisfactory reasons. The Building Official may extend the time for action by the permittee for a period
not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond
the control of the permittee have prevented action from being taken and upon payment of an extension fee as
established by the City Council. No permit shall be extended more than once. See Section 21.03.140(A) for expiration
of permits for repair and maintenance work.
E. Suspension or Revocation. The Building Official may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the
provisions of this code whenever such permit is issued in error, or is issued on the basis of incorrect information
supplied, or has been obtained by falsification or misrepresentation, or when work is being done thereunder in
violation of this or any related ordinance or regulation.
F. Cancellation or Surrender of Permit. If no portion of the work or construction covered by a permit issued
by the Building Official under the provisions of this code has been commenced, the person to whom such permit has.
been issued may deliver such permit to the Building Official with the request that such permit be canceled. The
Building Official shall thereupon stamp or write on the face of the permit the words "Canceled at the request of the
permittee." Thereupon such permit shall be void and of no effect. Refund of fees for canceled permits shall be made as
established by Section 21.03.130(E).
G. Transfer. Permits are not transferable from one person to another or from one location to another. (Ord. 96-9,
3/12/96)
Section 21.03.130 Fees.
A. General. The City shall collect such fees as are required by this code and issue receipts therefor, copies of
which shall be maintained as record in the office of Building and Safety.
B. Cost of Permit. The cost of the mechanical permits shall be as established by the City Council.
C. Plan Review Fee. Plan review fees shall he paid when the plans are submitted for review. No mechanical
equipment shall be installed, nor any other work for which a permit is required shall be done, until the plans have been
approved. Only after the plans have been approved may the applicant apply for a mechanical permit for such work.
The cost of the mechanical permits shall be as established by the City Council.
D. Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no mechanical permit is issued within one hundred
eighty ( 180) days following the date of application, shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for
review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. The Building Official may
extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not exceeding one hundred eighty (180) days on request by the
applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from being taken. The
Building Official may collect a fee for any application for extension of plan review in accordance with the City's fee
schedule. No application shall be extended more than twice. In order to renewactionon an application after expiration,
the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.
E. Refund. In the event that any person shall have obtained a permit and no portion of the work or construction
covered by such permit shall have been commenced and such permit shall have been canceled and a request for
cancellation having been approved by the Building Official, the applicant/permittee may request a refund for a
maximum of eighty (80) percent of the permit fees paid, excluding issuance fees or plan review fees.
The applicant for the refund shall present all necessary documentation to the Building Official to prove that they
are entitled to receive the refund of the amounts paid for the permit. No refund shall be made for a permit which was
obtained by falsification or misrepresentation and which was subsequently revoked for such cause.
F. Investigation Fees.
I. Work without a Permit. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been
commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for
such work.
2. Fee. An investigation fee shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investitration fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this code and shall be in addition to any
fees for permits issued in connection with the work investigated. The minimum investigation fee shall be as established
by the City Council. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other
provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.140 Inspection.
A. General. All construction or work for which a permit is required by this code shall be subject to inspection
and approval by the Building Official. The Building Official shall administer and enforce the provisions of this code in
a manner consistent with the intent thereof and shall inspect all mechanical work authorized by any permit to assure
compliance with provisions of this code or amendments thereto, approving or condemning said work in whole or in
part as conditions require. The Building Official may inspect portions of the existing systems to ensure the new work is
safe.
It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by the permit to notify the Building Official that said
work is ready for inspection. Such notification shall be given not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the work is to
he inspected and shall not be covered prior to approval by the Building Official.
Neither the Building Official nor the City shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any
material required to permit inspection. When the installation of a mechanical system is complete, an additional and
final inspection shall be made. Mechanical systems regulated by this code shall not be connected to the energy fuel -
supply lines until authorized by the Building Official.
Request for inspection of maintenance and repair items, such as but not limited to, commercial need replacement,
or FAU replacement, shall be made within ten (10) days of their installation and any and all corrections made within
ten (10) days of the inspection or the permit shall expire by default and a new permit shall be required. The Building
Official may request that information be produced to verify the installation time frame when the existence of the work
leads the Building Official to believe that the work was allowed to remain uninspected for a time period greater than
that specified in this section.
The Building Official shall have the authority to remove, or to require the removal of any obstruction which
prevent proper inspection of any mechanical system.
Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of
this code or other laws. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other
laws shall not be valid, except insofar as the work therein is lawful.
B. Certificates of Approval. Upon the completion of the mechanical system in or on any building or structure
of any nature, or tent, or premises, except as otherwise exempted in this code, the person, firm or corporation installing
the same shall notify the Building Official, who shall inspect such installation prior to concealment, and if it is found
by the Building Official to he fully in compliance with the provisions of this code, and all other laws and ordinances
applicable thereto issue, as provided for herein, the certificate of inspection or approval notice authorizing connection
of energy supply lines.
The Building Official shall issue upon request a certificate of approval for any work approved by Building and
Safety.
C. Approvals Required.
1. Permission to Cover Work. It shall be unlawful for any person to lath over, seal, cover or conceal any
mechanical or ventilation system for which a permit is required, until such mechanical system has been tested,
inspected and approved by the Building Official.
2. Connection. It shall be unlawful to energize or cause or permit to be energized any mechanical system
coming under the provisions of this code, until such mechanical system shall have been inspected and approved by the
Building Official.
3. Corrections. The Building Official shall order changes in workmanship or materials, or both, essential to
obtain compliance with the provisions of this code. All defects shall be corrected within ten (10) days after inspection
and notification or within such other reasonable time as permitted by the Building Official.
D. Testing of Systems.
I. General. All mechanical systems shall be tested and approved as required by this code or the Building
Official.
2. Testing of Equipment and Systems. Refrigeration equipment regulated by this code shall be tested and
approved as required by Section 1122 of the UMC. Smoke control systems shall he tested as per the Building Code.
E. Special Inspection. Special inspections may be required on work involving special hazards or conditions and
on work requiring extensive, unusual or constant inspection. Special inspections, when necessary, shall be
accomplished by the means set forth in Title 18 entitled 'Building Code," except that the special inspector shall be a
qualified person approved, registered by and reporting to, the Building Official.
F. Reinspection. The Building Official is authorized and empowered to make at such times and as often as in his
discretion it may seem necessary, thorough reinspection of the installation in or on any building, structure or premises
of all mechanical system now installed or that may hereafter be installed.
When the installation of any such mechanical system or material is found to be in violation of this code, the
person, firm, corporation or governmental agency owning, using or operating the same shall be notified in writing and
.� shall make the necessary repairs or changes required to place such mechanical or gas system or material in compliance
with this code and to have such work completed within a period of ten (10) days after such notice, or within such other
reasonable period specified by the Building Official in said notice and shall pay such fees as are required by this code.
Whenever an inspection has been requested for work which is either incomplete or is not ready to passed the.
required test, Building and Safety may assess a reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
This provision is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice of calling for inspections before the job is
ready for inspection or reinspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the approved plans are not readily available to the inspector, for failure to
provide access on the date for which the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of
the Building Official.
To obtain reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing upon a form furnished for that
purpose and pay the reinspection fee as established by the City Council.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of work will be performed until
the required fees have been paid. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
Section 21.03.150 Requirements for Installation Methods and Materials --Installation.
All mechanical systems shall be in conformity with the provisions of this code, and shall be in conformity with
approved standards for safety to life and property. Where no specific type or class of material, or no specific standards
are prescribed by this code, conformity with a standard designated by the Building Official shall be prima facie
evidence of conformity with an approved standard for safety to life and property. (Ord. 96-9, 3/12/96)
S2uIIJee�ekr�J +hnunircn,U.nr
SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty days after its passage. A
summary of this Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper published and circulated in said
City at least five (5) days prior to the City Council meeting at which the proposed ordinance is to
be adopted. A certified copy of the full text of the proposed Ordinance shall be posted at City
Hall. Within fifteen (15) days after adoption of the Ordinance, the summary with the names of
those City Councilmembers voting for and against the Ordinance shall be published again and
the City Clerk shall post a certified copy of the full text of such adopted Ordinance.
PASSED AND APPROVED this , 3rr day of 7ni y , 1999.
ayor
ATTEST:
`e'�
City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )ss
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA )
1, ab ron Dav,, cr , City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 99-10 was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a
regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day of _Juni , 1999. That, thereafter,
said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at a regular meeting of the City Council on the
13th day of July , 1999, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
City Clerk
o,dm9-IO.doo
West.e, Klajic, ;ic�i8t, Ferry, Darcy
None
Non::