HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 458 CERTIFICATION
I, Marcia McClure Torgerson, C.M.C., City Clerk of the City of
Atascadero, hereby certify that the foregoing is the true and correct original of
Ordinance No. 458 adopted by the Atascadero City Council at a regular meeting
thereof held on September 14, 2004 and that it has been duly published
pursuant to State Law.
DATED:
Marcia McClure Torgerson, C.M.
City Clerk
City of Atascadero, California
ORDINANCE NO. 458
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF ATASCADERO,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 8 (BUILDING REGULATIONS)
OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO MUNICIPAL CODE IN ITS
ENTIRETY AND ADOPTING CERTAIN UNIFORM MODEL
CODES RELATING TO BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND
MAINTENANCE AS FOLLOWS:
1. 1997 Uniform Administrative Code
2. 2001 California Building Code,Volume I(including Appendix Chapter 4;
Appendix Chapter 15; Appendix Chapter 31 Division I and Division III; and
Appendix Chapter 33 except Section 3310), and Volume II;
3. 2001 California Electrical Code;
4. 2001 California Plumbing Code;
5. 2001 California Mechanical Code;
6. 1997 Uniform Housing Code;
7. 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings;
8. California Building Standard Commission Emergency Standards
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022, et seq. and California Health & Safety Code
Section 17922 empower the City of Atascadero ("City") to adopt by reference the California Building
Standards Code (the "California Building Standards Code") as provided in Titles 24 and 25 of the
California Code of Regulations and other codes, including, without limitation, the Uniform Housing
Code, Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings and Uniform Administrative Code;
and
WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Commission ("Commission") recently adopted
new amendments to the California Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, California Health & Safety Code, Section 17958.5 authorizes cities to modify the
California Building Standards Code by adopting more restrictive standards and modifications if such
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 2 of 52
standards and modifications are accompanied by express findings that they are reasonably necessary
because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Atascadero ("City Council") finds that local
climatic, geological or topographical conditions exist within the City, which include, but are not
limited to,the following:
FINDING 1
That the City of Atascadero is situated at the base of a watershed of the Santa Lucia
Mountains and that flooding of Atascadero Creek, Graves Creek, and Salinas River
results in conditions rendering fire department vehicular traffic unduly burdensome or impossible as
witnessed in major floods that occurred in 1952, 1961, 1969, 1973, 1978, 1982, and 1995.
Furthermore, flood conditions described above create the potential for overcoming the ability of the
fire department to aid or assist in fire control, evacuations, rescues and other emergency task demands
inherent in such situations. The resulting overburdening of fire department personnel may cause a
substantial or total lack of protection against fire for the buildings and structures located in the City of
Atascadero. The afore-described conditions support the imposition of fire protection requirements
greater than those set forth in the California State Building Standards Code and, in particular, support
the imposition of greater requirements than set forth in Sections 601.5.9, 705, 904.2.2, and 1503, and
Appendix Sections 3104.2, 3106, and 3107.2 of the 1998 California Building Code, Article 230-70 of
the 1998 California Electrical Code, and Sections 902.2.4.3, 902.3.4, 903.3, 1001.9, 1002.1, 1003.2,
1003.3.1, 1006.1, 1007.3.3.6.1, 1102.3.1, 1102.4.1, 5202.3.6, 7802.3, 7902.2.2.1, and 8204.2 and
Appendix II-F Sections 1 and 4.3 of the 2001 California Fire Code.
FINDING 2
That the City of Atascadero is situated near three major faults each capable of generating
earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.5. These are the San Andreas to the east of the City, the
Nacimiento-Rinconada that crosses Hwy 101 north of the City then parallels the City to the east, and
the Hosgri to the South West. Other faults of importance are the Huasna and West Huasna to the
Southeast of the City, the San Simeon to the Northwest. In as much as these faults are included as
major California earthquake faults, which are subject to becoming active at any time, the City
Atascadero is particularly vulnerable to devastation should such an earthquake occur. The potential
effects include isolating the City of Atascadero from the North and South due to the potential for
collapsing of freeway overpasses or a slide on both the Cuesta and Ontario Grades and the potential for
horizontal or vertical movement of the Edna fault rendering surface travel across the southern
extremities of the city unduly burdensome or impossible. Additional potential situations inherent in
such an occurrence include broken natural-gas mains causing structure and other fires, leakage of
hazardous materials, the need for rescues from collapsed structures, and the rendering of first aid and
other medical attention to large numbers of people. The protection of human life and the preservation
of property in the event of such an occurrence support the imposition of fire protection requirements
greater than those set forth in the California State Building Standards Code and in particular support
the imposition of greater requirements than set forth in Sections 601.5.9, 705, 904.2.2, and 1503 of the
1998 California Building Code, Article 230-70 of the 2001 California Electrical Code, and Sections
902.2.4.3, 902.3.4, 903.3, 1001.9, 1002.1, 1003.2, 1003.3.1, 1006.1. 1007.3.3.6.1, 1102.3.1. 1102.4.1.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 3 of 52
5202.3.6, 7802.3, 7902.2.2.1, and 8204.2 and Appendix II-F Sections 1 and 4.3 of the 2001 California
Fire Code.
FINDING 3
That the central commercial area in the City of Atascadero consists of mixed conditions
that create the potential for possible conflagration, including congested streets during the business day,
numerous older buildings without adequate internal fire-resistance, and contemporary low-rise
buildings. Significant spread of fire in said area will actually exceed the fire suppression capabilities of
regional firefighting personnel. The continued development of the Atascadero commercial area and the
current and potential development of high-rise buildings pose a substantial threat of fire to human life,
public safety, and the preservation of property and support the imposition of fire protection
requirements greater than those set forth in the California State Building Standards Code, and in
particular, support the imposition of greater requirements than set forth in Sections 601.5.9, 705,
904.2.2, and 1503 of the 2001 California Building Code, Article 230-70 of the 1998 California
Electrical Code, and Sections 902.2.4.3, 902.3.4, 903.3,1001.9, 1002.1,1003.2, 1003.3.1,
1006.1.1007.3.3.6.1, 1102.3.1, 1102.4.1, 5202.3.6, 7802.3, 7902.2.2.1, and 8204.2 and Appendix II-F
Sections 1 and 4.3 of the 2001 California Fire Code.
FINDING 4
That the City of Atascadero is bisected by a major freeway (Hwy 101), traversing in the north/south
direction and a major highway (Hwy 41) traversing in an east/west direction. The City is also
transected by a mainline railroad that traverses in the north/south direction. It is a frequent occurrence
for the aforementioned highways and railway to support the transportation of hazardous materials. The
potential for release or threatened release of a hazardous material along one of these routes is highly
probable given the volume transported daily. Incidents of this nature will normally require all available
emergency response personnel to prevent injury and loss of life, and to prevent as far as practicable,
property losses. Emergency personnel responding to said incidents may be unduly impeded and
delayed in accomplishing an emergency response as a result of this situation, with the potential result
of undue and unnecessary risk to the protection of life and public safety, particularly in those buildings
or structures without the protection of automatic fire sprinklers. The above-described problems support
the imposition of fire protection requirements greater than those set forth in the California State
Building Standards Code, and in particular support the imposition of greater requirements than set
forth in Sections 601.5.9, 705,904.2.2, and 1503 of the 2001 California Building Code, Article 230-70
of the 1998 California Electrical Code, and Sections 902.2.4.3, 902.3.4, 903.3, 1001.9, 1002.1, 1003.2,
1003.3.1, 1006.1, 1007.3.3.6.1, 1102.3.1, 1102.4.1,
FINDING 5
That seasonal climatic conditions during the late summer and fall create numerous serious difficulties
in the control and protection against fire situations in the City of Atascadero. The hot, dry weather in
combination with Santa Ana winds frequently results in wildland fires in the brush-covered slopes on
the Santa Lucia Mountains and several areas surrounding. The aforementioned areas completely
surround the City. When a fire occurs in said areas, such as occurred in 1994, the Highway 41 fire
burned for several days and entered the City, the entirety of local fire department personnel is required
to control, monitor, fight and protect against such fire situations in an effort to protect life and preserve
property and watershed land. The same climatic conditions may result in the concurrent occurrence of
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 4 of 52
one or more fires in the more populated areas of the City without adequate fire department personnel to
protect against and control such a situation. Therefore, the above-described findings support the
imposition of fire-protection requirements greater than those set forth in the California State Building
Standards Code, and in particular support the imposition of greater requirements than set forth in
Sections 601.5.9, 705, 904.2.2, and 1503 of the 2001 California Building Code, Article 230-70 of the
2001 California Electrical Code, and Sections 902.2.4.3, 902.3.4, 903.3, 1001.9, 1002.1, 1003.2,
1003.3.1, 1006.1, 1007.3.3.6.1, 1102.3.1, 1102.4.1, 5202.3.6, 7802.3, 7902.2.2.1, and 8204.2 and
Appendix II-F Sections 1 and 4.3 of the 2001 California Fire Code.
FINDING 6
That for the most part, the soils in the City of Atascadero are medium to highly expansive in nature,
and such soils may cause damage to foundations, structures and underground utilities if not properly
mitigated through known construction techniques. Furthermore, a significant part of the City lies on
hills and rolling topography subject to earth slides and movements and present problems to
developments constructed in such areas due to surface water drainage and disposal. The above-
described conditions support the imposition of requirements greater than those set forth in the
California State Building Standards Code and, in particular, support the imposition of greater
requirements than those set forth in Sections 1804.7, 1806.1, and 1900.4.4, Table 18-I-C, 3102.7.2, and
Appendix Sections 421, 3305, 3306, 3307, 3308, 3309.3, 3309.4, 3309.8, 3309.10, 3309.11, 3311,
3316.1, and 3318.3 of the 2001 California Building Code and Section 315.4 of the 2001 California
Plumbing Code.
FINDING 7
That the more-restrictive modifications requiring automatic fire-sprinkler systems in buildings
evidenced by the afore-described findings allow a trade-off for, and reduction of, other less effective
fire-resistive components of a building support the acceptance of requirements lesser than those set
forth in the California State Building Standards Code and, in particular, support the imposition of
lesser requirements than those set forth in Section 709.4.1 of the 2001 California Building Code and
Sections 902.2.1 and 903.2 of the California Fire Code.
WHEREAS,based upon the recommendations of the Building Official and Fire Chief, the City
Council finds that the proposed amendments to the California Building Standards Code
("amendments") are more restrictive than the standards adopted by the California Building Standards
Commission, would decrease the potential incidence of property damage, injury and death due to fires
and earthquakes, and are reasonable and necessary to mitigate the aforementioned local climatic,
geologic or topographical conditions.
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that each of the local amendments to the California
Building Standards Code are supported by the local climatic, geologic and/or topographic conditions
described herein.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 5 of 52
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council hereby adopts the recitals contained in this Ordinance as findings
to support the modifications to the California Building Standards Code.
Section 2. Title 8 of the Atascadero Municipal Code is hereby amended to read in full as
follows:
INDEX
CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATIVE
8-1.101 Administrative
8-1.102 Purpose
8-1.103 Authority
8-1.104 Applicability
CHAPTER 2 ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
8-2.101 Creation of Division of Building Services
8-2.102 Powers and Duties of Building Official
8-2.103 Appointing Authority
8-2.104 Custodian of Records
8-2.105 Permits, Inspections, and Fees
8-2.106 Establishment of Board of Appeals
8-2.107 Adoption of Uniform Administrative Code
8-2.108 Modifications of Certain Parts of the Uniform Administrative Code
8-2.109 Right of Entry
8-2.110 Violations and Enforcement
8-2.111 Cargo Containers and Railroad Cars
8-2.112 Temporary Toilet Facilities
CHAPTER 3 PRIMARY BUILDING CODE
8-3.101 Adoption of California Building Code
8-3.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the California Building Code
8-3.103 Soils Reports
8-3.104 Roof Covering Limitations
8-3.105 Fire Sprinkler Systems
8-3.106 Special Building Construction Requirements Based on Fire Zones
8-3.107 Sign Permits
CHAPTER 4 PRIMARY ELECTRICAL CODE
8-4.101 Adoption of National Electrical Code
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 6 of 52
8-4.102 Authority to Disconnect
CHAPTER 5 PRIMARY PLUMBING CODE
8-5.101 Adoption of California Plumbing Code
8-5.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of California Plumbing Code
8-5.103 Building Sewers
CHAPTER 6 PRIMARY MECHANICAL CODE
8-6.101 Adoption of the California Mechanical Code
8-6.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the California Mechanical Code
CHAPTER 7 SWIMMING POOL BARRIERS
8-7.101 Barriers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
CHAPTER 8 PRIMARY HOUSING CODE
8-8.101 Adoption of Uniform Housing Code
8-8.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the Uniform Housing Code
CHAPTER 9 UNIFORM CODE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS
8-9.101 Adoption of the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings
CHAPTER 10 UNREINFORCED MASONRY
8-10.101 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings
8-10.102 Scope
8-10.103 Definitions
8-10.104 Rating Classifications
8-10.105 General Requirements
8-10.106 Administration
8-10.107 Analysis and Design
8-10.108 Materials of Construction
8-10.109 Information Required on Plans
8-10.110 Glossary of Symbols and Notations
CHAPTER 11 PRIMARY ENERGY CODE
8-11.101 Adoption of the California Building Standards Commission Emergency Standards
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 7 of 52
Title 8 of the City of Atascadero Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATIVE
8-1.101 Title
A. This Title shall be known as the City of Atascadero Building Code, Title 8 of the
Atascadero Municipal Code.
8-1.102 Purpose
A. The City Council expressly finds that the purpose of this Code is to provide
minimum standards to safeguard life, limb, health, property and public welfare
by regulating and controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use
and occupancy, location and maintenance of buildings and structures within the
City of Atascadero.
8-1.103 Authority
A. This Code is adopted pursuant to the authority granted by Section 7 of Article XI
of the State constitution to a City to make and enforce such local, police,
sanitary and other regulations as are not in conflict with the general laws of the
State. It is further adopted pursuant to the applicable provisions of the State
Housing Laws (Health and Safety Code Section 17910 et seq., and particularly
Sections 17922 and 17958 thereof) and applicable rules and regulations
promulgated pursuant thereto as Title 24 and 25 of the California Code of
Regulations.
8-1.104 Applicability
A. The provisions of this Code shall apply to the construction, alteration, moving,
demolition, repair, maintenance and use of buildings and structures located
within the incorporated territory of the City of Atascadero.
EXCEPTIONS: Public projects located in a public way and not subject to County
land use regulations; public utility towers and poles; mechanical equipment not
specifically regulated in this Code; hydraulic flood control structures; and buildings
and structures owned and constructed by a Federal, State, or other agency whose
authority preempts that of City government. It shall be unlawful for any person,
firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve,
remove, convert, demolish, equip, use, occupy, or maintain any building or structure
in the County, or cause the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of, any of
the provisions in this Code, and Title 8 of the City of Atascadero Municipal Code,
the Uniform Housing Code, the California Building Code, the California Plumbing
Code, the California Mechanical Code, the California Electrical Code and any
other codes as adopted by this Code and the State Housing Law.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 8 of 52
CHAPTER 2 ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT; ADOPTION OF PRIMARY
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
8-2.101 Creation of Division of Building and Safety
A. There is hereby contained within the City governmental structure the 'Division
of Building Services" of Community Development, herein referred to as the
"Building Division", which shall be under the administrative jurisdiction of the
Building Official as designated by the appointing authority.
8-2.102 Powers and Duties of the Building Official
A. The Building Official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions
of this Code and of the codes adopted by reference herein. For such purpose, the
Building Official shall have the power of a law enforcement officer. The
Building Official is hereby authorized to consult experts qualified in fields
related to the subject matter of this Code and codes adopted by reference herein
as necessary to assist him/her in carrying out his/her duties. The decisions of the
Building Official in enforcing, interpreting, or in exercising the authority
delegated by the provisions of this Code and of the codes adopted hereby shall
be deemed final, subject to appeal as provided in Section 10-2.106 of this Code.
8-2.103 Appointing Authority
A. The Director of Community Development of the City of Atascadero shall appoint
the Building Official and shall authorize the Building Official to appoint such
number of officers, inspectors, assistants and other employees for the Building
Division as shall be authorized by the City Council from time to time. The
Building Official may deputize such employees as may be necessary to carry out
the functions of the Building Division.
8-2.104 Custodian of Records
A. The Building Official shall cause a record to be kept of all permits and all other
pertinent transactions of the Building Division under this Code and the codes
adopted hereby.
8-2.105 Permits,Inspections and Fees
A. Permits Required. No person, firm, or corporation shall erect, construct,
enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish any building
or structure regulated by this Code, or cause the same to be done, without first
obtaining the necessary permits for each separate building or structure from the
Building Official.
B. Permits Required/Grading or Waste Disposal Not Separate.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 9 of 52
1. Grading and or waste disposal system permits for residential sites shall not
be issued separately from the residence permit without the specific approval
of the Building Official and City Planner.
2. Grading permits are required for earth movement of over 50 cubic yards
and/or for cuts or fills in excess of 3 feet.
C. Expiration of Permit. Section 106.4.4 is replaced with the following:
1. Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of this code
shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the building or work
authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date
of issuance of such permit, or if the building or work authorized by such
permit is suspended,or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced
for a period of 180 days.
2. Failure to request and receive a recorded inspection by the Administrative
Authority within the 180-day period constitutes a condition of suspension or
abandonment.
3. Before such abandoned or suspended work can be recommenced, a new
permit shall be obtained to do so, and the fee therefore shall be one half the
amount required for a new permit for such work, but in no case less than
$84.00, provided no changes have been made or will be made in 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 after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit
fee.
4. 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 180 days on
written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond the
control of the permittee have prevented action from being taken. No permit
shall be extended more than once.
D. Expiration of Plan Review. Section 106.4.4 is replaced with the following:
Applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days following date of
notification of approval/ready for issuance by the Building Division, or
applications within 180 days following date of notification of permit corrections
to be picked up or returned, 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. In order to renew action on an application after expiration,
the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. No extension
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 10 of 52
is allowed except by written appeal to the Building Official. No application shall
be extended more than once.
E. Permit Fees. Section 107.2 is replaced with the following:
Permit fees shall be established by City Council resolution as may be necessary
from time to time. The value to be used in computing the building permit and
building permit plan review fees shall be 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 conditions, elevators, site work, fire-
extinguishing systems and any other permanent equipment, The regional
modifier shall be 1.0.
F. Emergency Permits. Emergency permits may be issued by the Building
Official for any area of work regulated by this Code when it is determined that
the work is of an emergency nature and failure to perform the work may be
detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of the occupants, public, or the
environment. Applications for emergency permits shall be filed no later than 10
days from the date of commencement of emergency work. An emergency permit
may also require a land use permit.
G. Exempted Work. Exempted work shall be as described in Section 106.2 of the
California Building Code.
8-2.106 Establishment of Board of Appeals
The City Council shall constitute the Board of Building Anneals.
8-2.107 Adoption of Uniform Administrative Code
A. Certain documents marked and designated as the "Uniform Administrative
Code", 1997 Edition are hereby adopted for establishing technical codes that
regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition,repair,
use and occupancy of buildings. Regulations, provisions, conditions and terms
of such "Uniform Administrative Code", 1997 Edition on file in the Building
Division, are hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this
Chapter, except as otherwise provided in this Chapter."
8-2.108 Modifications of Certain Parts of the Uniform Administrative Code. The following
portions of the Uniform Administrative Code are hereby amended:
A. Section 104.2.3 (Right of Entry).
8-2.109 Right of Entry. The following replaces Section 104.2.3 of the Uniform Administrative
Code:
During the course of exercising the duties delegated to the Building Official in
Section 8-2.102 this Code, and when, in the opinion of the Building Official, there
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 11 of 52
exists a reason to believe that a violation of this Code or due cause exists to inspect
a property, the Building Official, or designee, is hereby authorized to enter such
property or premises at any reasonable times and to inspect and perform any duty
imposed on him/her by the provisions of Section 8-2.102 of this Code or by other
applicable law. If such property or premises is occupied, the Building Official or
designee shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry,
explaining his/her reasons therefore. If such entry is refused or cannot be obtained
because the owner or person having charge or control of the property cannot be
located after due diligence, the Building Official shall seek judicial authorization for
entry pursuant to an inspection warrant in accordance with the procedures set forth
in the California Code of Civil Procedure sections 1822.50-1822.57.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Building Official or designee has reasonable
cause to believe that there exists an unsafe, substandard, or dangerous condition
within the building or premises as to require immediate inspection to safeguard the
public health or safety, he/she shall have the right to immediately enter and inspect
such property and may use any reasonable means required to secure such entry and
make such inspection, whether such property is occupied or unoccupied and
whether or not permission has been sought or obtained."
8-2.110 Violations, Enforcement, Compliance Official. The following is added to the
Uniform Administrative Code:
A. Purpose. This section establishes procedures for enforcement of violations of
this Code. The enforcement procedures set forth are intended to assure due
process of law in the abatement or correction of violations and substandard, or
otherwise noncompliant conditions subject to the jurisdiction of this Code.
B. Violations. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to erect,
construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish,
equip, use, occupy or maintain any building, structure or building service
equipment or cause or permit the same to be done in violation of this code and
any adopted model code.
C. Enforcement Responsibility. The responsibility for the enforcement of the
provisions of this Code shall be per Title 12 of the Atascadero Municipal Code.
D. Cost of Abatement or Compliance; Tax Lien.
1. Liability for Costs of Enforcement. Any person who maintains any
premises in violation of any provision of this Code, or any adopted model
code, or the State Housing Law shall be liable for and obligated to pay to the
City of Atascadero all costs incurred by the City of Atascadero in obtaining
abatement or compliance that is attributable to or associated with the
enforcement or abatement action, whether the action is administrative,
injunctive, or legal, and for all damages suffered by the City of Atascadero,
its agents, officers, and employees as a result of such violation or efforts to
abate the violation.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 12 of 52
2. Failure to Pay. If the owner of the property involved in such abatement or
compliance action fails to pay for the costs of such abatement or compliance
action upon demand by the City of Atascadero, the City Council by
resolution may order the cost of the abatement to be specially assessed
against the parcel. Such assessment shall be collected at the same time and in
the same manner as ordinary City taxes are collected and shall be subject to
the same penalties and the same procedure and sale in case of the
delinquency as are provided for ordinary City taxes.
E. Notice of Noncompliance.
1. When Determined by the Building Official that work has been done without
required permits, or has not been completed in accordance with the
requirements of this Code, the State Housing Laws, or any other code
adopted herein, the Building Official may cause a Notice of Noncompliance
to be recorded with the County Recorder and shall notify the owner of the
property of such action. The Notice of Noncompliance shall describe the
property, shall set forth the non-complying conditions, and shall state that
the owner of such property has been duly notified. The Building Official
shall record a notice of release of the Notice of Noncompliance with the
County Recorder when it has been determined by the Building Official that
the non-complying conditions have been corrected.
F. Public Nuisance.
1. Nuisance Defined. Buildings or structures, or portions thereof, regulated by
this Code that are unsafe, or not provided with adequate egress, or that
constitute a fire hazard, or that are determined substandard under the
provisions of the Uniform Housing Code, the Uniform Code for the
Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, or the State Housing Law, or that are
otherwise dangerous to human life, or that constitute a hazard to health,
safety or public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation,
damage, obsolescence, or abandonment as specified in this Code, or any
other effective ordinance, shall be declared unsafe buildings and shall be
declared public nuisances and shall be ordered abated by repair,
rehabilitation, removal, or demolition pursuant to the provisions of this code.
8-2.111 Cargo Containers and Railroad Cars. The following is added to the Uniform
Administrative Code:
A. Relocation. When proposed use is other than originally designed and/or
intended as determined by the Building Official, railroad cars, cabooses,
shipping containers, mobile homes, and similar assemblies, etc., may not be
moved into or relocated within the City limits without his/her approval.
B. Not Conventional Construction. Railroad cars, cabooses, shipping containers,
mobile homes, and similar assemblies, etc, do not qualify as conventional
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 13 of 52
construction; therefore, all design/engineering work, plans, calculations, etc.,
must be accomplished by a California licensed architect or engineer.
8-2.112 Temporary Toilet Facilities Required. The following is added to the Uniform
Administrative Code:
A. No person shall initiate or proceed with construction, erection, alteration, repair,
or razing a project without first having provided an adequate number of suitable
sanitary job toilet facilities for the use of workers on the project in a ration of 1
toilet per 30 workers. Toilets must be within two hundred (200) feet of each
work area within the project site.
CHAPTER 3 PRIMARY BUILDING CODE
8-3.101 Adoption of California Building Code
A. Certain documents marked and designated as the "California Building Standards
Code", 2001 Edition are hereby adopted for establishing technical codes that
regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair,
use and occupancy of buildings. Regulations, provisions, conditions and terms
of such "California Building Standards Code", 2001 Edition on file in the
Building Division, are hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set
out in this Chapter, except as otherwise provided in this Chapter."
8-3.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the California Building Code. The following
portions of the "California Building Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby deleted:
(a) Section 101 (Section, Scope, and General)
(b) Section 103 (Violations)
(c) Sections 104.1 (Organization and Enforcement), 104.2 (Powers and Duties
of the Building Official), 104.2.3 (Right of Entry).
(d) Section 105 (Board of Appeals)
(e) Sections 106.1 (Permits Required), 106.4.4 (Expiration).
(f) Sections 107.2 (Permit Fees), 107.3 (Plan Review Fees), 107.4 (Expiration of
Plan Review)
8-3.103 Soils Reports. The following is added to Section 106.3.2:
A. Soils reports are required for all new single and multi-family dwellings, new
commercial buildings, commercial additions, swimming pools, residential
additions and detached accessory structures over 1000 sq. ft., and other
structures as determined by the Building Official, to determine soil
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 14 of 52
characteristics. The soils report shall include foundation recommendations for
the proposed structure based upon the determined soil characteristics.
EXCEPTION: When determined by the Building Official that a soils report is not
necessary due to the minor scope of the project, or evidence observed by site
investigation, or substantive information provided by project owner or authorized
agent.
B. An expansive index test is required for all structures not included in Section A
above to determine foundation design.
EXCEPTION:
1. When determined by the Building Official that an Expansive Index Test is
not necessary due to the minor scope of work, or evidence observed by site
investigation, or substantive information provided by project owner or
authorized agent.
2. In lieu of providing an expansive index test, a foundation design meeting the
requirements of 91 — 130 High weighted expansion tests may be used.
8-3.104 Roof Covering Limitations. Roofing Materials. The following is added to Section
1503:
A. Installation of wood roofing materials is prohibited.
B. Roof covering for all new buildings, and for any re-roofing of existing buildings,
shall be no less than Class "A" rating, regardless of building type or occupancy.
Any reference to the approved use of roofing materials with less than Class "A"
rating is hereby deleted.
EXCEPTION:
1. Roof coverings on additions to existing wood shingle roofs amounting to no
greater than twenty-five percent (25%) of the existing roof area may be
Class "B" rating.
2. Repairs to existing wood roofs not exceeding 25% of existing roof area per
calendar year may be Class "B" ratings.
8-3.105 Fire Sprinkler Systems. In addition to the requirements of Section 904.2.1 of the
California Building Code, an automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed in
the occupancies and locations as set forth below:
A. New Construction. An automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed
and maintained in all new buildings in "A," "B," "E," "F," "H," "I," "M," "R",
"S" and "U" (when "U" structure is attached to an "R") occupancies as defined
by the Uniform Building Code, regardless of type of construction or floor area,
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 15 of 52
for which any Building Permit is issued after the effective date of this
Ordinance.
EXCEPTIONS:
Detached Group B or M occupancies not exceeding 500 square feet and located
at least 10 feet from adjacent buildings and 5 feet from adjacent property lines;
Note: "U" occupancies converted to conditioned habitable space will be
required to install an automatic fire extinguishing system.
a. Existing Construction. Unless the California Fire Code is more restrictive,
n automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed in all existing
buildings or structures where proposed or ongoing additions exceed 10% of
the total floor area of the existing building or structure, and which meet one
or more of the following:
(i) Have a total floor area exceeding two thousand(2,000) square feet,
(ii) When a second story or higher is added.
(iii)When occupancy change increases fire risk or hazard
EXCEPTIONS
(iv)Additions to single-family residences resulting in a total floor area of less
than 3,000 square feet.
Regardless of additions, alterations or repairs in existing sprinklered
buildings, sprinkler coverages shall remain as per the National Fire
Protection Association 13, 13R, or 13D standards, whichever are applied by
the Fire Chief.
8-3.106 Special Construction Requirements Based on Fire Severity Zones
A. General: The provisions of this article shall apply within the boundaries of Fire
Hazard Zones as defined herein and shown on a map entitled "Fire Hazard Map
of Atascadero", on file in the office of the Chief of the City Fire Department and
adopted hereby as part of this Code.
B. Definitions: For the purpose of this article, certain terms are defined as follows:
1. Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone: Are those areas of the City of
Atascadero designated by the Chief of the City Fire Department as having a
very high propensity for wild fire due to the existence of excessive wild
brush fuel, lack of adequate water for fire suppression, or lack of adequate
access to fire fighting equipment.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 16 of 52
2. High Fire Hazard Severity Zone: Are those areas of the City of Atascadero
designated by the Chief of the City Fire Department as having a high
propensity for wild fire due to the existence of excessive wild brush fuel,
lack of adequate water for fire suppression, or lack of adequate access to fire
fighting equipment.
3. Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zone: Are those areas of the City of
Atascadero designated by the Chief of the City Fire Department as having a
moderate propensity for wild fire due to the existence of excessive wild
brush fuel, lack of adequate water for fire suppression, or lack of adequate
access to fire fighting equipment.
C. Construction in Very High, High, and Moderately High Fire Hazard Zones shall
be per the 2000 Edition of the Urban-Wildland Interface Code, and Title 4 of the
Atascadero Municipal Code.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Accessory structures not exceeding 120 square feet in floor area when
located at least 50 feet from buildings containing habitable spaces.
2. Agricultural buildings at least 50 feet from buildings containing habitable
spaces.
D. Objective. The objective of this chapter is to establish minimum standards to
locate, design and construct buildings and structures or portions thereof for the
protection of life and property, to resist damage from wildfires, and to mitigate
building and structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels. The minimum
standards set forth in this chapter vary with the critical fire weather, slope and
fuel type to provide increased protection, above the requirements set forth in the
Building Code, from the various levels of hazards.
E. Fire hazard severity maps. The fire hazard severity of building sites for all
buildings hereafter constructed, modified or relocated into urban-wildland
interface areas shall be established in accordance with the Wildland Fire Hazard
Maps on file with the City of Atascadero Fire Department.
F. Construction in very high severity fire zones. Construction in very high
severity fire zones shall be as described for Class 1 ignition-resistant
construction in the 2000 edition of the Urban-Wildland Interface Code and Title
4 of the Atascadero Municipal Code.
1. Roof Covering. Installation of wood roofing products shall be per Section
802.104 of the Atascadero Municipal Code. For roof coverings where the
profile allows a space between the roof covering and roof decking, the space
at the eave ends shall be fire stopped to preclude entry of flames or embers.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 17 of 52
2. Protection of Eaves. Eaves and soffits shall be protected on the exposed
underside by materials approved for a minimum of one-hour-rated fire-
resistive construction. Fascias are required and must be protected on the
backside by materials approved for a minimum of one-hour-rated fire-
resistive construction or 2-inch(51 mm)nominal dimension lumber.
3. Gutters and Downspouts. Gutters and downspouts shall be constructed of
noncombustible material.
4. Exterior Walls. Exterior walls of buildings or structures shall be
constructed with materials approved for a minimum of one-hour-rated fire-
resistive construction on the exterior side or constructed with approved
noncombustible materials.
EXCEPTION: Heavy timber or log wall construction. Such material shall
extend from the top of the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing.
5. Unenclosed Underfloor Protection. Buildings or structures shall have all
underfloor areas enclosed to the ground with exterior walls in accordance
with Section 8-3.106.F.4.
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-rated fire-resistive
construction or heavy timber construction.
6. Appendages and Projections. Unenclosed accessory structures attached to
buildings with habitable spaces and projections, such as decks, shall be a
minimum of one-hour-rated fire-resistive construction, heavy timber
construction or constructed of approved noncombustible materials.
When the attached structure is located and constructed so that the structure
or any portion thereof projects over a descending slope surface greater than
10 percent, the area below the structure shall have all underfloor areas
enclosed to within 6 inches of the ground, with exterior wall construction in
accordance with Section 8-3.106.F.4.
7. Exterior Glazing. Exterior windows, window walls and glazed doors,
windows within exterior doors, and skylights shall be tempered glass,
multilayered glazed panels, glass block or have a fire-protection rating of not
less than 20 minutes.
8. Exterior Doors. Exterior doors shall be approved non-combustible
construction, solid core wood not less than 1-3/4 inches (45 mm) thick, or
have a fire-protection rating of not less than 20 minutes. Windows within
doors and glazed doors shall be in accordance with Section 8-3.106.F.7.
EXCEPTION: Vehicle access doors.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 18 of 52
9. Vents. Attic ventilation openings shall not be located in soffits, in eave
overhangs, between rafters at eaves, or in other overhang areas. Gable end
and dormer vents shall be located at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from property
lines. Underfloor ventilation openings shall be located as close to grade as
practical.
10. Detached Accessory Structures. Detached accessory structures located
less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from a building containing habitable space
shall have exterior walls constructed with materials approved for a minimum
of one-hour-rated fire-resistive construction, heavy timber, log wall
construction or constructed with approved noncombustible materials on the
exterior side.
When the detached structure is located and constructed so that the structure
or any portion thereof projects over a descending slope surface greater than
10 percent, the area below the structure shall have all underfloor areas
enclosed to within 6 inches of the ground, with exterior wall construction in
accordance with Section 8-3.106.F.4 or underfloor protection in accordance
with Section 8-3.106.F.5.
EXCEPTION: The 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-rated fire-resistive
construction or heavy timber construction.
See Section 8-3.106.F.I for roof requirements.
G. Construction in high severity fire zones. Construction in high severity fire
zones shall be as described for Class 2 Ignition-resistance construction in the
2000 edition of the Urban-Wildland Interface Code and Title 4 of the
Atascadero Municipal Code.
1. Roof Covering. Installation of wood roofing products shall be per Section
802.104 of the Atascadero Municipal Code. For roof coverings where the
profile allows a space between the roof covering and roof decking, the space
at the eave ends shall be fire stopped to preclude entry of flames or embers.
2. Protection of Eaves. Combustible eaves, fascias and soffits shall be
enclosed with solid materials with a minimum thickness of 3/4 inch. No
exposed rafter tails shall be permitted unless constructed of heavy timber
materials.
3. Gutters and Downspouts. Gutters and downspouts shall be constructed of
noncombustible material.
4. Exterior Walls. Exterior walls of buildings or structures shall be
constructed with materials approved for a minimum of one-hour-rated fire-
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 19 of 52
resistive construction on the exterior side of constructed with approved
noncombustible materials.
EXCEPTION: Heavy timber or log wall construction. Such material shall
extend from the top of the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing.
5. Unenclosed Underfloor Protection. Buildings or structures shall have all
underfloor areas enclosed to the ground, with exterior walls in accordance
with Section 8-3.106.F.4.
EXCEPTION: Complete enclosure may be omitted where the underside of
all exposed floors and all exposed structural columns, beams and supporting
walls protected as required for exterior one-hour-rated fire-resistive
construction or heavy timber construction.
6. Appendages and Projections. Unenclosed accessory structures attached to
buildings with habitable spaces and projections, such as decks, shall be a
minimum of one-hour-rated fire-resistive construction, heavy timber
construction or constructed with approved noncombustible materials.
When the attached structure is located and constructed so that the structure
or any portion thereof projects over a descending slope surface greater than
10 percent, the area below the structure shall have all underfloor areas
enclosed to within 6 inches (152 mm) of the ground, with exterior wall
construction in accordance with Section 8-3.106.F.4.
7. Exterior Glazing. Exterior windows, window walls and glazed doors,
windows within exterior doors, and skylights shall be tempered glass,
multilayered glazed panels, glass block or have a fire-protection rating of not
less than 20 minutes.
8. Exterior Doors. Exterior doors shall be approved non-combustible
construction, solid core wood not less than 1-3/4-inch thick, or have a fire-
protection rating of not less than 20 minutes. Windows within doors and
glazed doors shall be in accordance with Section 8-3.106.G.7.
EXCEPTION: Vehicle access doors.
9. Vents. Attic ventilation openings, foundation or underfloor vents or other
ventilation openings in vertical exterior walls and vents through roofs shall
not exceed 144 square inches each. Such vents shall be covered with
noncombustible corrosion-resistant mesh with openings not to exceed '/4
inch.
Attic ventilation openings shall not be located in soffits, in eave overhangs,
between rafters at eaves, or in other overhang areas. Gable end and dormer
vents shall be located at least 10 feet from property lines. Underfloor
ventilation openings shall be located as close to grade as practical.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 20 of 52
10. Detached Accessory Structures. Detached accessory structures locate less
than 50 feet from a building containing habitable space shall have exterior
walls constructed with materials approved for a minimum of one-hour-rated
fire-resistive construction, heavy timber, log wall construction, or
constructed with approved noncombustible material on the exterior side.
When the detached structure is located and constructed so that the structure
or any portion thereof projects over a descending slope surface greater than
10 percent, the area below the structure shall have all underfloor areas
enclosed to within 6 inches of the ground, with exterior wall construction in
accordance with Section 8-3.106.G.4 or underfloor protection in accordance
with Section 8-3.106.G.5.
EXCEPTION: The 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-rated fire-resistive
construction or heavy timber construction
See Section 8-3.106.G.1 for roof requirements.
H. Construction in moderate severity fire zones. Construction in moderate
severity fire zones shall be as described for Class 2 Ignition-resistance
construction in the 2000 edition of the Urban-Wildland Interface Code and Title
4 of the Atascadero Municipal Code.
1. Roof Covering. Installation of wood roofing products shall be per Section
802.104 of the Atascadero Municipal Code. For roof coverings where the
profile allows a space between the roof covering and roof decking, the space
at the eave ends shall be fire stopped to preclude entry of flames or embers.
2. Unenclosed Underfloor Protection. Buildings or structures shall have all
underfloor areas enclosed to the ground with 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-rated fire-resistive
construction or heavy timber construction.
3. Vents. Attic ventilation openings, soffit vents, foundation or underfloor
vents or other ventilation openings in vertical exterior walls and vents
through roofs shall not exceed 144 square inches each. Such vents shall be
covered with noncombustible corrosion-resistant mesh with openings not to
exceed 1/4 inch.
I. Replacement or repair of roof coverings
1. Roof coverings on buildings or structures in existence prior to the adoption
of this code that are replaced or have 25 percent or more replaced in a 12-
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 21 of 52
month period shall be replaced with roof covering required for new
construction as described in Section 8-3.104 of this Code.
Roof coverings for repairs less than 25 percent in a 12-month period shall be
replaced with not less than Class A fire-treated materials.
8-3.107 Sign Permits. The following signs shall not require a building permit:
A. These exemptions shall not be construed as relieving the owner of the sign from
the responsibility of its erection and maintenance, and its compliance with the
provisions of this code or any other law or ordinance regulating the same.
1. Changing the advertising copy or message on a painted, printed, or
nonstructural sign face. Including theater marquees and similar signs
specifically designed for the use of replaceable copy. Sign changes that
require structural or electrical modifications shall not be included in this
exception.
2. Painting, repairing or cleaning of an advertising structure or the changing of
the advertising copy or message thereon shall not be considered an erection
or alteration that requires a sign permit unless a structural change is made.
CHAPTER 4 PRIMARY ELECTRICAL CODE
8-4.101 Adoption of National Electrical Code: Certain documents marked and designated as
the "California Electrical Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby adopted for establishing
administrative, organizational and enforcement rules and regulations for technical codes
that regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair,
use and occupancy of buildings. Regulations, provisions, conditions, and terms of such
"California Electrical Code", 2001 Edition, on file in the Building Division, are hereby
referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this Chapter, except as otherwise
provided in this Chapter.
8-4.102 Authority to Disconnect. The building official is hereby authorized to disconnect any
wire or electrical conductor in case of an emergency where necessary to safeguard life
or property, or where such wire may interfere with the work of the Fire Department.
The building official is further authorized to disconnect or order the discontinuance of
electrical service to any electrical wiring, device, appliance, apparatus, or equipment
found to be dangerous to life or property, or where illegally connected. When such
equipment or installation is to be disconnected, a notice shall be given to the owner or
tenant listing the causes for such action. The building official shall provide written
notice to the occupant or property owner at least 24 hours in advance of such
disconnection, stating the reasons therefore. In cases of immediate danger to life and
property, the building official shall notify the serving utility in writing of the order to
discontinue service and request that the service be disconnected. It shall be unlawful for
any person, firm, corporation or utility company t supply electrical service to any
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 22 of 52
electrical device, apparatus, appliance or equipment that has been disconnected or has
been ordered disconnected by the building official until a verification of approval has
been granted by the building official
CHAPTER 5 PRIMARY PLUMBING CODE
8-5.101 Adoption of California Plumbing Code: Certain documents marked and designated
as the "California Plumbing Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby adopted for establishing
administrative, organizational and enforcement rules and regulations for technical codes
that regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair,
use and occupancy of buildings. Regulations, provisions, conditions, and terms of such
"California Plumbing Code", 2001 Edition, on file in the Building Division, are hereby
referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this Chapter, except as otherwise
provided in this Chapter.
8-5.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the California Plumbing Code. The following
portions of the "California Building Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby amended:
1. Pursuant to Section 103.4 of the California Plumbing Code (Permit Fees)
plumbing fees shall be by the current fee resolution as adopted by the City
Council for the City of Atascadero.
8-5.103 Building Sewers. The California Plumbing Code, as adopted by Section 8-1.101 of this
title, is amended as follows:
A. The following requirements shall apply to building sewers and related drainage
piping:
1. All building sewers shall be constructed with pipe of internal diameter not
less than four (4) inches, unless a pipe of internal diameter not less than
three(3) inches is approved by the Administrative Authority.
2. A cleanout shall be placed in every building sewer within five (5) feet of
each building, at all changes in alignment or grade in excess of one hundred
thirty five (135) degrees, within five (5) feet of the junction with the public
sewer, and at intervals not to exceed one hundred (100) feet in straight runs.
The cleanout shall be made by inserting a "Y" fitting in the line and fitting
the cleanout in the "Y" branch in an approved manner. In the case of a
cleanout near the junction of the public sewer, the "Y" branch riser shall be
extended to a depth of not more than one (1) foot. All other cleanouts shall
be extended to finish grade.
3. Drainage piping serving fixtures located at an elevation of less than one (1)
foot above the nearest upstream manhole cover in the main sewer serving
said fixtures shall drain by gravity into the main sewer, and shall be
protected from backflow of sewage by installing an approved backwater
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 23 of 52
valve. Each such backwater valve shall be installed only in that branch or
section of the drainage system that receives the discharge from fixtures
located less than one (1) foot above the nearest upstream manhole cover.
B. Private Sewage Disposal Systems. The design, installation operation and
maintenance of private sewage disposal systems shall be in conformance with
Appendix K of the Uniform Plumbing Code and with standards specified in this
section. Where specific standards are not provided within this section or where
the Administrative Authority determines that higher requirements are necessary
to maintain a safe and sanitary condition, the "Water Quality Control Plan,
Central Coast Basin" (adopted by the Regional Water Quality Control Board of
the Central Coast Region) or other recognized industry standards may be used as
a guideline by the Administrative Authority.
C. Percolation Test. An on-site investigation shall be made by a registered
engineer competent in sanitary engineering in order to determine the suitability
of a particular site for a private sewage disposal system and to provide the data
necessary to design a private sewage disposal system. A percolation test shall be
required prior to issuance of a permit for all new or enlarged private sewage
disposal systems.
D. Test Procedures. The following percolation test procedure shall be used in
performing percolation tests, except that other accepted test procedures may be
used when approved by the Administrative Authority:
1. Number and Location of Test Holes. A minimum of three separate test
holes spaced uniformly through and located in the immediate vicinity of the
proposed leach field site are to be made.
2. Type of Test Holes. The test hole shall have horizontal dimensions between
four (4) and twelve (12) inches and vertical sides to the depth of the
absorption trench.
3. Preparation of Test Holes. Smeared soil surfaces shall be removed from
the sides and bottom of the test hole to provide a natural soil interface. All
loose material shall be removed from the test hole. Two (2) inches of coarse
sand or fine gravel shall be added to the test hole to protect the bottom from
scouring and sediment.
4. Soil Saturation and Swelling. The test hole is to be carefully filled to a
depth of one (1) foot above the gravel or sand with clear water, which is to
be kept in the hole for at least four (4) hours but preferably overnight. This
step may be omitted in sandy soils containing little or no clay.
5. Measurement of Percolation Rate. The percolation rate shall be
determined twenty-four (24) hours after water is first added to the test holes;
except, in sandy soils containing little or no clay, the percolation rate shall
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 24 of 52
be determined after the water from one (1) filling, of the test hole has
completely seeped away.
(i) If water remains in the test hole after the overnight swelling period,
adjust the depth to approximately six (6) inches over the gravel or
sand and, from a fixed referenced point, measure the drop in water
level over a thirty(30)minute period to calculate the percolation rate.
(ii) If no water remains in the test hole after the overnight swelling
period, add clear water to bring the depth of water in the test hole to
approximately six (6) inches over the gravel or sand. From a fixed
reference point, measure the drop in water level at approximately
thirty(30) minute intervals over four(4)hours refilling six (6) inches
over the gravel or sand as necessary. The drop that occurs during the
final thirty (30) minute period is used to calculate the percolation
rate. The drops during prior periods provide information for possible
modification of the test procedure to suit local conditions.
(iii) In sandy soils (or in other soils in which the first six (6) inches of
water seeps away in less than thirty (30) minutes after the overnight
swelling period), the time interval between measurements shall be
taken as ten (10) minutes and the test shall run for one (1) hour with
the drop during the final ten (10) minutes being used to calculate the
percolation rate.
6. Deep Boring. A soil boring, to a minimum depth of ten (10) feet below the
bottom of the absorption trench or pit, shall be made in order to determine
the presence of impermeable bedrock and/or ground water.
7. General Design Standards. The following standards shall be used in the
design of new or enlarged private sewage disposal systems where the
percolation rate does not exceed one hundred twenty(120) minutes per inch.
(i) Determination of Size of Absorption Area. The absorption area,
measured in lineal feet of absorption trench, shall be calculated as set
forth in this section. Tables 4-1 (Absorption Area Requirements) and
4-2 (Standard Trench Adjustment Factors), included in this chapter,
shall be referred to as necessary. (absorption area per bedroom.) x
(no. of bedrooms.) X adjustment factor
(ii) Location of Private Sewage Disposal Systems. The minimum
distance between components of a private sewage disposal system
and other site features shall be as set forth in Table 4-3 (Horizontal
Distance Separation) and Table 4-4 (Vertical Distance Separation).
Where physical limitations on a site preclude conformance with
distance separation requirements, the Administrative Authority may
approve a lesser separation when the design is prepared by a
registered engineer competent in sanitary engineering and when
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 25 of 52
adequate substantiating data is submitted with the design. The
Administrative Authority shall not approve a separation less than that
set forth in the "Water Quality Control Plan--Central Coast Region"
unless the Regional Water Quality Control Board or its designated
representatives have previously approved the design.
8. Additional Standards:
(i) Existing legal building sites that are served by an individual on-site
well may be approved for a private sewage disposal system only if
the site meets lot size standards for private sewage disposal systems.
(ii) Private sewage disposal systems proposed to be installed on slopes of
twenty percent (20%) or more shall be designed by and have their
installation inspected and certified by a registered civil engineer. The
design shall minimize grading disruption associated with access for
installation and maintenance. Such systems shall be prohibited on
slopes of thirty percent (30%) or more, unless approved by both the
Administrative Authority and the Regional Water Quality Control
Board.
(iii) When the percolation rates is more then thirty (30) minutes/inch, a
private sewage disposal system shall be designed, inspected, and
certified to work by a registered civil engineer.
(iv) When the percolation rates exceeds one hundred twenty (120)
minutes/inch, a private sewage disposal system, using solely
dependent upon soil absorption, shall not be allowed.
(v) The design of private sewage disposal systems shall incorporate an
approved filtering device to remove solids from effluent at the outlet
of septic tanks.
(vi) When the percolation rate exceeds thirty (30) minutes/inch, a private
sewage disposal system using a seepage pit shall not be allowed.
(vii) Expansion area shall be provided on all building sites, shall be
identified on all plans submitted for private sewage disposal systems,
and shall remain available for system expansion. If areas reserved for
system expansion are not accessible for future installation, then the
expansion area shall be installed with the original system.
(viii) Inspection risers with four (4) inches minimum diameter shall be
installed at the ends of each absorption trench or bed.
(ix) Septic tank manholes more than twenty-four (24) inches below
grade, valves, distribution boxes, and pumps shall be permanently
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 26 of 52
accessible to the surface in a manner acceptable to the Building
Official.
9. Special Design Standards. The following standards shall be used in the
design of new or enlarged private sewage disposal systems where the
percolation rate exceeds sixty (60) minutes per inch. Designs for alternate
types of private sewage disposal systems shall be by a registered civil
engineer and may be approved by the Administrative Authority when the
design engineer submits adequate substantiating data with the design.
(i) Determination of Size of Disposal Field. The size of the disposal
field shall be determined by the design engineer using methods of
accepted engineering practice including manuals and documents
specified in this chapter or as otherwise approved by the
Administrative Authority.
(ii) Location of Private Sewage Disposal System. The minimum
distance between components of a private sewage disposal system
and other site features shall be as set forth in Table 4-3 (Horizontal
Distance Separation) and Table 4-4 (Vertical Distance Separation)
using the column entitled "Leach Field or Seepage Bed."
(iii) When private sewage disposal systems are designed pursuant to this
section, the design engineer shall provide the owner with information
on the location, design operation and maintenance of the private
sewage disposal system.
(iv) Existing legal building sites that are served by an individual on-site
well may be approved for a private sewage disposal system only if
the site is one acre or larger in size and meets other regulations and
requirements regarding distance separation.
(v) Expansion area shall be provided on all building sites.
10. Replacement of Existing Private Sewage Disposal System. Where an
existing private sewage disposal system has failed, the replacement system
shall be designed in conformance with this chapter and shall be designed,
inspected and certified to work by a registered civil engineer. In the event
that the replacement system cannot be designed to conform with this chapter,
the Administrative Authority may approve a system designed to lesser
standards when it is designed, inspected and certified to work by a registered
civil engineer.
(i) A private sewage disposal system shall not be replaced by another
system if sewers are available.
(ii) The Administrative Authority shall not approve a replacement
system that does not conform with prohibitions set forth in the
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 27 of 52
"Water Quality Control Plan--Central Coast Basin," unless the
Regional Water Quality Control Board or its designed representative
has previously approved the design. The Administrative Authority
may authorize a temporary means of sewage disposal pending such
approval. (Ord. 360 § 3 (part), 1999)
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 28 of 52
Table 4-1. Absorption Area Requirements
-- Absorption
Percolation Area Per=
Rate Bedroom
(Minutes/Inch) (Square
Feet)
0--9 — 150 —
__
10 ----- 165.. ....... ......
___
11--15 190
16--20 215 —
21--25 1230
26--30 250
31--35 270
36--40 285
41--45 — 300
46--50 315
151--60 330 —
61 70
__ _ X380
71--80 — '430
81--90 1520
191--100 1660
101--110 —830
= 111--120— 11250
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 29 of 52
Table 4-2. Standard Trench Adjustment Factor
Depth of Gravel Trench Width (in inches)
Below Pipes
(in Inches)
_ - 12 18.. ,24..._ 30 _. 36 42 48 54 60
12 .75 .78 ., .80. . ._82 83 85 .86 .87 . .87
18 60 .64 j .66..._69 ° .71 73 75 .77 __ 78 _
24 50 .54 57 60 62 .64 .66 .68 .70
_ _
30 _ 43 .47 : .50.. . _53 E 55 '*7F60 62 _ 64
36... _ 37 .417l.44 47 597F-627F 54 56 58
42 _ 33 37 .., .40 43. 45 417,[60 . .52 54-
48. 30 .33 E .36 39 ` 42 . [447[46—F 48 50
Note 1. For trenches not shown in Table 4-2, the standard trench adjustment factor may be
computed as follows:
Where W=width of trench(in feet)
D =depth of gravel below pipe (in feet)
W+2
W+ 1 +2D
Table 4-3. Horizontal Distance Separation (In Feet)
Building Septic Leach Seepage
Sewer Tank Field or Pit
Seepage
Bed
Buildings or structures, including 2 5 8(')
porches, steps, breezeways,
patios, and carports whether
covered or not
_ _ I� _
Property bine Clear �I� 5 10.
Water supply well 50 50 100 _ 1.50_. _..
Streams, when shown 7 1/2 minute 50 50 100 100
USGS Map and when a defined
channel with definite bed and:
banks exists
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 30 of 52
Swales, ephemeral draws or other 50 50 50 50
natural watercourses with drainage
areas larger than 10 acres
Trees *. ____T�.� tI W
Seepage.pits . V7,F5 �.? .
Leach field or seepage bed - 5
On-site domestic water servicee 1
linc4) 5 515
Distribution box -- - 55
- — —
Pressure public water main10(5) j 10 10 10
Sloping ground, cuts, or other 1 --
embankments
Reservoirs, including ponds, lakes, 200 200 i 200(7) 200(7)
tanks, basins, etc. for storage,;
regulation and control of water
I recreation, power, flood control or...
linking
Springs 100 100 100 100
Notes:
(1) Distance separation shall be increased to twenty (20) feet when building or structure is
located on a downward slope below a leach field, seepage bed or seepage pit.
(2) See Section 315 (c) of Uniform Plumbing Code.
(3) Distance separation may be reduced to twenty-five (25) feet when the drainage piping is
constructed of materials approved for rise within a building.
(4) See Section 1108 of Uniform Plumbing Code.
(5) For parallel construction or crossings, approval by the Health Department shall be
required.
(6) Distance is measured as horizontal distance to daylight. This distance may be reduced
where it is demonstrated that favorable geologic conditions and soil permeability exist
based on a report and analysis prepared by a licensed geologist or soils engineer.
(7) Distance is measured at spillway elevation.
(*) See tree protection guidelines.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 31 of 52
Table 4-4.Vertical Distance Separation (In Feet)
Leach Field or Seepage
Seepage Bed Pit
Fwnd 5 5
ate
_..
Bedrock 10
Note: Distance is measured from bottom of
trench or pit.
CHAPTER 6 PRIMARY MECHANICAL CODE
8-6.101 Adoption of California Mechanical Code: Certain documents marked and designated
as the "California Mechanical Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby adopted for establishing
administrative, organizational and enforcement rules and regulations for technical codes
that regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair,
use and occupancy of buildings_. Regulations, provisions, conditions and terms of such
"California Mechanical Code", 2001 Edition, on file in the Building Division, are
hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this Chapter, except as
otherwise provided in this Chapter.
8-6.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the California Mechanical Code. The following
portions of the "California Mechanical Code", 2001 Edition, are hereby deleted:
1. Pursuant to Section 115.1 and 115.2 of the California Mechanical Code (Permit
Fees) mechanical fees shall be by the current fee resolution as adopted by the
City Council for the City of Atascadero.
CHAPTER 7 SWIMMING POOL BARRIERS
8-7.101 Barriers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs. All swimming pools, spas and
hot tubs within the City shall conform to the requirements as specified in sections
115920 through 115927 of the California Health and Safety Codes and Appendix
Chapter 4 of the 2001 Edition of the California Building Code.
CHAPTER 8 PRIMARY HOUSING CODE
8-8.101 Adoption of Uniform Housing Code. Certain documents marked and designated as
the "Uniform Housing Code", 1997 Edition, published by the International Code
Council, are hereby adopted for establishing administrative, organizational and
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 32 of 52
enforcement rules and regulations for technical codes that regulate site preparation and
construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, use and occupancy of buildings,
regulations, provisions, conditions and terms of such "Uniform Housing Code", 1997
Edition, published by the International Code Council, on file in the Building Division,
are hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this Chapter, except as
otherwise provided in this Chapter.
8-8.102 Modifications of Certain Parts of the Uniform Housing Code. The following
portions of the "Uniform Housing Code", 1997 Edition, are hereby deleted:
A. Section 203.1 (Appeals Board)
B. Section 302 (Fees)
8-8.103 The following replaces Section 302 of the Uniform Housing Code:
A. Whenever work is required to be done under the provisions of this Code, a
building, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit may be required by the
building official prior to the commencement of work. Appropriate fees shall be
assessed by the building official pursuant to permit fee resolutions as adopted by
the City Council. In the event that abatement proceedings must be initiated
against a property in order to gain compliance with the provisions of this Code,
all costs associated with the abatement shall be paid by the property owner
pursuant to the provisions of Section 8-2.110.D.1 of this Code.
CHAPTER 9 UNIFORM CODE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS
BUILDINGS
8-9.101 Adoption of Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings. Certain
documents marked and designated as the "Uniform Code for the Abatement of
Dangerous Buildings", 1997 Edition, published by the International Code Council, are
hereby adopted for establishing administrative, organizational and enforcement rules
and regulations for technical codes that regulate site preparation and construction,
alteration, moving, demolition, repair, use and occupancy of buildings, regulations,
provisions, conditions and terms of such "Uniform Code for the Abatement of
Dangerous Buildings", 1997 Edition, published by the International Code Council, on
file in the Building Division, are hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set
out in this Chapter, except as otherwise provided in this Chapter.
CHAPTER 10 UNREINFORCED MASONRY
8-10.101 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 33 of 52
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to promote public safety and welfare by
reducing the risk of death or injury that may result from the effects of
earthquakes on unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings. Such buildings
have been widely recognized as posing a threat to life because of a history of
poor performance, i.e. partial or complete collapse, during moderate to strong
earthquakes.
B. Provisions. The provisions of this chapter are intended as minimum standards
for structural seismic resistance established primarily to reduce the risk of life
loss or injury. Compliance with these standards will not necessarily prevent loss
of life or injury or prevent earthquake damage to rehabilitated buildings. This
chapter does not require alteration of existing electrical, plumbing, mechanical
or fire safety systems (unless they constitute a hazard to life or property).
C. This chapter provides systematic procedures and standards for identification and
classification of unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings based on their
present use. Priorities, time periods and standards are also established under
which these buildings are required to be structurally analyzed and anchored.
Where the analysis finds deficiencies, this chapter requires the buildings to be
strengthened or demolished.
Qualified Historical Buildings shall comply with the State Historical Building Code
(SHBG) established under Part 8, Title 24 of the California Administrative Code.
(Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1 (part), Exh. A(part), 1991)
8-10.102 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all unreinforced masonry buildings.
A. This chapter shall not apply to detached one- or two-family dwellings and
detached apartment houses containing less than five dwelling units and used
solely for residential purposes.
B. This chapter shall not apply to warehouses and similar buildings used for
emergency services or supplies. (Warehouses that have been converted to retail,
office, commercial, or residential occupancies are not exempt.)
C. This chapter shall not apply to buildings owned by the Federal or State
Government. (Buildings owned by local jurisdictions are not exempt.)
All conforming and legal nonconforming buildings that are required to be
strengthened by alteration as a result of this chapter shall not be required to comply
with current site improvement standards of the City zoning ordinance, including
parking and landscaping.
In the event a building owner does not agree with zoning or signage conditions, he
or she may seek relief through appeal to the Planning Commission. (Ord. 360 § 2
(part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1 (part), Exh. A(part), 1991)
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 34 of 52
8-10.103 Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the applicable definitions in Sections
2302 and 2312 of the Uniform Building Code shall apply:
A. 'Essential building" means any building housing a hospital or other medical
facility having surgery or emergency treatment areas; fire and police stations;
municipal government disaster operation and communication centers.
B. "High-risk building" means any building not classified as an essential building.
Exception: A high-risk building shall not include the following:
1. Any building having exterior walls braced with masonry crosswalls or wood
frame crosswalls spaced less than forty(40) feet apart in each story.
2. Crosswalls shall be full story height with a minimum length of one and one-
half(1 1/2)times the story height.
C. "Unreinforced masonry bearing wall" means a masonry wall having all of the
following characteristics:
1. Provides the vertical support for a floor or roof.
2. The total superimposed load is over two hundred (200) pounds per lineal
foot.
3. The area of reinforcing steel is less than fifty(50) percent of that required by
Section 8-3.107 of this chapter. (Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1
(part), Exh. A(part), 1991)
8-10.104 Rating classifications. The rating classifications shown in Table No. 8-10.104A of this
section are established and each building within the scope of this chapter shall be placed
in one such rating classification by the Building Official.
Table No. 8-10.104A
Rating Classifications
Type of Building Class
Essential Building I
High Risk Building II
Exception: For the purpose of this chapter, portions of buildings constructed to act
independently when resisting seismic forces may be placed in separate rating
classifications.
(Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1 (part), Exh. A(part), 1991)
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 35 of 52
8-10.105 General requirements.
A. The owner of each building within the scope of this chapter shall cause a
structural analysis of the building to be made by a civil or structural engineer or
architect licensed by the State of California. If the building does not meet the
minimum earthquake standards specified in this chapter, the owner shall either
cause it to be structurally altered to conform to such standards; or cause the
building to be demolished.
B. The owner of each building within the scope of this chapter shall comply with
the requirements set forth above by submitting to the Building Official for
review within the stated time limits:
1. On or before January 1, 2005, a structural analysis, which is subject to
approval by the Building Official, and which shall demonstrate that the
building meets the minimum requirements of this chapter; or
2. On or before January 1, 2005, a structural analysis and plans for the proposed
structural alterations of the building necessary to comply with the minimum
requirements of this chapter; or
3. On or before January 1, 2005,plans for the demolition of the building.
C. After plans are submitted and approved by the Building Official, the owner shall
obtain a building permit, commence and complete the required construction
within the time limits set forth in Table No. 8-10.105A of this section.
Table No. 8-10.105A
Time Limits for Compliance
Rating Occupant Deadline for Building Permit From Date of Permit
Classification Load Submission Issuance Issuance
of Deadline for Commence
Rehabilitation Strengthening Within Complete
Plans or Demolition Within
I Any January 1, January 1, 180 days 3 years
2005 2005
11 Any January 1, January 1, 180 days 3 years
2005 2005
(Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 356 §§ 1, 2, 1999; Ord. 280 § 1, 1994: Ord. 226 § 1 (part), Exh. A
(part), 1991)
8-10.106 Administration.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 36 of 52
A. Service of Order. The Building Official shall issue an order, as provided in
subsection (b) of this section, to the owner of each building within the scope of
this chapter within sixty(60) days from the effective date of these regulations.
B. Contents of Order. The order shall be in writing and shall be served either
personally or by certified or registered mail upon the owner as shown on the last
equalized assessment, and upon the person, if any, in apparent charge or control
of the building. The order shall specify that the building has been determined by
the Building Official to be within the scope of this chapter and, therefore, is
required to meet the minimum, seismic standards of this chapter. The order shall
specify the rating classification of the building and shall be accompanied by a
copy of Section 8-10.105 of this chapter, which sets forth the owner's
alternatives and time limits for compliance.
C. Appeal Form Order. The owner or person in charge of or in control of the
building may appeal to the Board of Appeals the Building Official's initial
determination that the building is within the scope of this chapter. Such appeal
shall be filed with the Board in accordance with Section 2-12.02 of this Code.
Appeals or request for slight modifications from any other determinations, order
or actions by the Building Official pursuant to this chapter, shall be made in
accordance with the normal appeal procedures established in this Code.
D. Recordation. At the time that the aforementioned order is served, the Building
Official shall file with the Office of the County Recorder a certificate stating
that the subject building is within the scope of Chapter 3, Earthquake Hazard
Reductions in Existing Unreinforced Masonry Buildings. The certificate shall
also state that the owner thereof has been ordered to structurally analyze the
building and to structurally alter or demolish it where it is not found to comply
with Chapter 3.
If the building is found not to be within the scope of this chapter, or as a result
of structural alterations or an analysis is found to be structurally capable of
resisting minimum seismic forces required by this chapter, or is demolished the
Building Official shall file with the Office of the County Recorder a certificate
terminating the status of the subject building as being classified within the scope
of Chapter 3 Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Unreinforced Masonry
Buildings.
E. Enforcement. If the owner or other person in charge or control of the subject
building fails to comply with any order issued by the Building Official pursuant
to this chapter within any of the time limits set forth in Section 8-10.105, the
Building Official shall order the entire building vacated and remain vacated until
such order has been complied with. If compliance with such order has not been
accomplished within ninety (90) days after the date the building has been
ordered vacated, or by such additional time as may have been ordered vacated,
or by such additional time as may have been granted by the Appeals Board, the
Building Official may order the demolition of the building in accordance with
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 37 of 52
the Abatement of Dangerous Building provisions in this Code. (Ord. 360 § 2
(part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1 (part), Exh. A(part), 1991)
8-10.107 Analysis and design.
A. General. Every structure within the scope of this division shall be analyzed and
constructed to resist minimum total lateral seismic forces assumed to act
nonconcurrently in the direction of each of the main axes of the structure in
accordance with the following equation:
V=ZCIW_RW
The value of ZCURW need not exceed the values set forth in Table 8-10.107A.
Exception: The Building Official, upon receipt of adequate justification
prepared by a civil or structural engineer or architect licensed by the state,may
accept structural analysis and design in accordance with the latest edition of the
Uniform Code for Building Conservation, published by the International
Conference of Building Officials, as an alternate method of compliance with the
provisions of this chapter.
B. Lateral Forces on Elements of Structures. Parts or portions of structures shall
be analyzed and designed for lateral loads in accordance with Section 8-
10.107(a) of this chapter and 2312(g) of the Uniform Building Code but not less
than the value from the following equation:
Fp =ZICp Wp (UBC 2312)
Exception: Unreinforced masonry walls in buildings that are not of a Class I
rating may be analyzed in accordance with Section 8-10.108.
The value of Cp need not exceed the values set forth in Table 8-10.107C.
C. Anchorage and Interconnection. Anchorage and interconnection of all parts,
portions and elements of the structure shall be analyzed and designed for lateral
forces in accordance with Table No. 8-10.107C of this code and the equation Fp
= ZECp Wp as modified by Table No. 8-10.107B. Minimum anchorage of
masonry walls to each floor or roof shall resist a minimum force of two hundred
(200) pounds per lineal foot acting normal to the wall at the level of the floor or
roof.
D. Level of Required Repair. Alterations and repairs required to meet the
provisions of this chapter shall comply with all other applicable requirements of
the Uniform Building Code unless otherwise specifically provided for in this
chapter.
E. Required Analysis.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 38 of 52
1. General. Except as modified in this chapter, the analysis and design relating
to the structural alteration of existing structures within the scope of this
chapter shall be in accordance with the analysis specified in Chapter 23 of
the UBC.
2. Continuous Stress Path. A complete, continuous stress path from every part
or portions of the structure to the ground shall be provided for the required
horizontal forces.
3. Positive Connections. All parts,portions or elements of the structure shall be
interconnected by positive means.
F. Analysis Procedures.
1. General. Stresses in materials and existing construction utilized to transfer
seismic forces from the ground to parts or portions of the structure shall
conform to those permitted by the Uniform Building Code and those
materials and types of construction specified in Section 8-10.108.
2. Connections. Materials and connectors used for interconnection of parts and
portions of the structures shall conform to the Uniform Building Code. Nails
may be used as part of an approved connector.
Table No. 8-10.107A
Horizontal Force Factors Based
on Rating Classification
Rating
Classification ZCl/RW
I 0.229
II 0.183
Table No. 8-10.107B
Horizontal Force Factors "ZI"
for Parts or Portions of Structures
Rating
Classification ZCl/RW
I 0.50
II 0.40
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 39 of 52
3. Unreinforced Masonry Walls. Except as modified in this chapter,
unreinforced masonry walls shall be analyzed as specified in UBC Sections
2406, 2407 and 2408 to withstand all vertical loads as specified in Chapter
23 of the Uniform Building Code in addition to the seismic forces required
by this chapter. The fifty percent (50%) increase in the seismic force factor
for shear walls as specified in Section 2407 (h) 4F of the Uniform Building
Code may be omitted in the computation of seismic loads to existing shear
walls.
No allowable tension stress will be permitted in unreinforced masonry walls.
Walls not capable of resisting the required design forces specified in this
chapter shall be strengthened or shall be removed and replaced.
Exception:
(i) Unreinforced masonry walls in buildings not rated as a Class I
building pursuant to Table No. 8-10.104 may be analyzed in
accordance with Section 8-10.108.
(ii) An unreinforced masonry wall that carries no design loads other than
its own weight may be considered as veneer if it is adequately
anchored to new supporting elements.
G. Combination of Vertical and Seismic Forces.
1. New Materials. All new materials introduced into the structure to meet the
requirements of this section that are subjected to combined vertical and
horizontal forces shall comply with Section 2303 of the Uniform Building
Code.
2. Existing Materials. When stresses in existing lateral force resisting elements
are due to a combination of dead loads plus live loads plus seismic loads, the
allowable working stress specified in the Uniform Building Code may be
increased one hundred percent (100%). However, no increase will be
permitted in the stresses allowed in Section 8-10.108, and the stresses in
members due only to seismic and dead loads shall not exceed the values
permitted by Section 2303 (d) of the Uniform Building Code.
3. Allowable Reduction of Bending Stress by Vertical Load. In calculating
tensile fiber stress due to seismic forces required by this chapter, the
maximum tensile fiber stress may be reduced by the full direct stress due to
vertical dead loads.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 40 of 52
Table No. 8-10.107C
Horizontal Force Factor Cp Applicable to Rigid Items
Elements of Structures and
Nonstructural Components Value of Cp*
A. Part of Portion of Structure
1. Walls, including the following:
a. Unbraced(cantilevered)parapets......................................................... 2.00
b. Other exterior walls above the ground floor.............................................. 0.75
c. All interior bearing and nonbearing walls and partitions.............................. 0.75
d. Masonry or concrete fences over 6 feet high........................................... 0.75
2. Penthouse (except where framed by an extension of the building frame)............... 0.75
3. Connections for prefabricated structural elements other than walls, with force
applied at center of gravity.................................................................... 0.75
4. Diaphragms ........................................................................................ --
B. Nonstructural Components
1. Exterior and interior ornamentations and appendages.................................... 2.00
2. Chimneys, stacks,trussed towers and tanks on legs
a. Supported on or projecting as an unbraced cantilever above the roof more than one-
half its total height......................................................................... 2.00
b. All others, including those supported below the roof with unbraced
projection above the roof less than one-half its height, or braced
or guyed to the structural frame at or above its center of mass...................... 0.75
3. Signs and billboards........................................................................... 2.00
4. Mechanical, plumbing and electrical equipment and machinery and
associatedpiping............................................................................... 0.75
5. Tanks and vessels (plus contents), including support systems and anchorage......... 0.75
6. Storage racks (include contents).............................................................. 0.75
7. Anchorage for permanent floor-supported cabinets and bookstacks more
than 5 feet in height(includes contents)..................................................... 0.75
8. Anchorage for suspended ceilings and light fixtures (See also Section 4701(e))...... 0.75
9. Access floor systems........................................................................... 0.75
* See Section 8-10.107(b) for use of Cp.
See UBC C Table No. 23-P (1988) for footnote references.
(Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1, Exh. A(part), 1991)
8-10.108 Materials of construction.
A. General. All materials permitted by the Uniform Building Code including their
appropriate allowable stresses and those existing configurations of materials
specified in this chapter may be utilized to meet the requirements of this chapter.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 41 of 52
B. Existing Materials.
1. Unreinforced Masonry Walls. Unreinforced masonry walls analyzed in
accordance with this section may provide vertical support for roof and floor
construction and resistance to lateral loads. The facing and backing of such
walls shall be bonded so that not less than four (4) percent of the exposed
face area is composed of solid headers extending not less than four (4)
inches into the backing. The distance between adjacent full-length headers
shall not exceed twenty-four (24) inches vertically or horizontally. Where
the backing consists of two or more wythes, the header shall extend not less
than four (4) inches into the most distant wythe, or the backing wythes shall
be bonded together with separate headers whose area and spacing conform
to the foregoing.
Tension stresses due to seismic forces normal to the wall may be neglected if
the walls do not exceed the height to thickness ratio in Table 8-13.108A and
the in-plane shear stresses due to seismic loads as set forth in Table No. 8-
10.108B.
If the wall height-thickness ratio exceeds the specified limits, the wall may
be supported by vertical bracing members designed in accordance with this
section. The deflections of such bracing member at design loads shall not
exceed one-tenth of the wall thickness.
Table No. 8-10.108A
Allowable Value of Height-Thickness Ratio of Unreinforced Masonry
Walls with Minimum Quality Mortar 1,2
Buildings with Crosswalks All Other
Wall Location as Defined by Section AC2403 Buildings
Walls of One Story Buildings 16 13
First Story Wall of Multi-Story Buildings 16 15
Walls in Top Story of Multi-Story Buildings 14 9
All Other Walls 16 13
(1) Minimum quality mortar shall be determined by laboratory testing in accordance with
Section 8-10.108(e).
(2) Table No. 8-10.108A is not applicable to buildings of rating Classification I. Walls of
buildings within rating Classification I shall be analyzed in accordance with 8-
10.107(f).
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 42 of 52
Table No. 8-10.108B
Allowable Shear Stress for Tested Unreinforced Masonry Wall
Eighty Percent of Seismic In-plane
Test Results of PSI Average Test Results Shear Based on
Not Less Than of Cores in PSI Gross Areal
30 plus axial stress 20 3 psi
40 plus axial stress 27 4 psi
50 plus axial stress 33 5 psi
100 plus axial stress 67 or more 10 psi max
or more
1 Allowable shear stress may be increased by addition of 10% of the axial stress due to the weight
of the wall directly above.
Exception: The wall may be supported by flexible vertical bracing members
designed in accordance with Section 8-10.107, if the deflection at design
loads is not less than one-quarter nor more than one-third of the wall
thickness.
All vertical bracing members shall be attached to floor and roof construction
for their design loads independently of required wall anchors. Horizontal
spacing of vertical bracing members shall not exceed one-half the
unsupported height of the wall nor ten(10) feet.
The wall height may be measured vertically to bracing elements other than a
floor or roof. Spacing of the bracing elements and wall anchors shall not
exceed six (6) feet. Bracing elements shall be detailed to minimize the
horizontal displacement of the wall by components of vertical displacements
of the floor or roof.
2. Existing Roof, Floors, Walls, Footings and Wood Framing. Existing materials
including wood shear walls utilized in the described configuration may be
used as part of the later load resisting system, provided that the stresses in
these materials does not exceed the value shown in Table No. 8-10.108C.
C. Strengthening of Existing Materials. New materials including wood shear walls
may be utilized to strengthen portions of the existing seismic resisting systems
in the described configurations provided that the stresses do not exceed the
values shown in Table No. 8-10.108D.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 43 of 52
Table No. 8-10.108C
Values for Existing Materials
Existing Materials or Configuration of Materials) Allowable Values
1. Horizontal Diaphragms.
a. Roofs with straight sheathing and roofing 100 lbs. per foot for seismic shear
applied directly to the sheathing.
b. Roofs with diagonal sheathing and roofing 400 lbs. per foot for seismic shear
applied directly to the sheathing.
c. Floors with straight tongue and groove sheathing. 150 lbs. per foot
d. Floors with straight sheathing and finished wood flooring. 300 lbs. per foot for seismic shear
e. Floors with diagonal sheathing and finished wood flooring. 450 lbs. per foot for seismic shear
f, Floors or roofs with straight sheathing and plaster Add 50 lbs. per foot
sheathing and plaster applied to the joist or rafters.2 to the allowable values
for Items 1 a and 1 c.
2. Shear Walls. Wood stud walls with lath and plaster. 100 lbs. per foot each side for seismic shear
3. Plain Concrete Footings. f = 1500 psi unless otherwise shown by tests.
4. Douglas Fir Wood. Allowable stress same as no. 1 DT.3
5. Reinforcing Steel. f= 18,000 lbs. per square inch maximum.3
6. Structural Steel. f=20,000 lbs. per square inch maximum.3
1 Material must be sound and in good condition.
2 The roof lath and plaster must be reattached to existing joists or rafters in a manner approved by the
Building Official.
3 Stresses given may be increased for combinations of loads as specified in Section 8-10.107.G.2.
Table No. 8-10.108D
Allowable Values of New Materials Used in Conjunction
with Existing Construction
Existing Materials or Allowable Values
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 44 of 52
Configuration of Materials' From UBC Tables
1. Horizontal Diaphragms. Plywood Same as specified in Tables No. 25-J of
sheathing applied directly over UBC.
existing straight sheathing with ends
of plywood sheets bearing on joists or
rafters and edges of plywood located
on center of individual sheathing
boards.
2. Shear Walls.
a. Plywood sheathing applied directly Same as values specified in Tables 25--
over existing wood studs. No value K of the UBC.
shall be given to plywood applied over
existing plaster or wood sheathing.
b. Drywall or plaster applied directly 75% of the values specified in Table No.
over the existing wood studs. 47-1 of the UBC.
3. Shear Bolts. Shear bolts and shear 100% of the values for solid masonry
dowels embedded a minimum of 8 specified in Table No. 24E of UBC. No
inches into unreinforced masonry values larger than those given for 1/4
walls, bolt centered in a 2-1/2 inch inch bolts shall be used.
diameter hold with dry-pack or non-
shrink grout around circumference of
bolt or dowel.'
4. Tension Bolts. Tension bolts and 1200 lbs. per bolt or dowel.
tension dowels extending entirely
through unreinforced masonry walls
secured with bearing plates on far side
of wall with at least 20 sq. inches of
area.2
5. Wall Anchors (8-10.109(2)(a)).
a. Bolts extending to t he exterior face 600 lbs. per bolt.
of the wall with a 2-1/2 inch round
plate under the head. Installed as
specified for shear bolts. Spaced not
closer than 12 inches on centers.' 2
b. Bolts or dowels extending to the 1200 lbs. per bolt or dowel.
exterior face of the wall with a 2-1/2
inch round plate under the head and
drilled at an angle of 22-1/2 degrees to
the horizontal. Installed as specified in
shear bolts.1,2
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 45 of 52
Table No. 8-10.108D (Continued)
Allowable Values of New Materials Used in Conjunction
with Existing Construction
Existing Materials or Allowable Values
Configuration of Materials' From UBC Tables
6. Infilled Walls. Reinforced masonry Same as values specified for
infilled openings in existing unreinforced masonry walls.
unreinforced masonry walls with keys
or dowels to match reinforcing.
7. Reinforced Masonry. Masonry piers Same values as specified in Chapter
and walls reinforced per Section 2407 24, UBC.
of the UBC.
8. Reinforced Concrete. Concrete Same values as specified in Chapter
footings, walls, and piers reinforced as 26, UBC.
specified in Chapter 26 of the UBC
and designed for tributary loads.
9. Existing Foundation Loads. Calculated existing foundation loads
Foundation loads for structures due to maximum dead load plus live
exhibiting no evidence of settlement. load may be increased 25% for dead
load and may be increased 50% dead
load plus seismic load required by this
Division.
Notes:
1 Bolts and dowels to be tested as specified in Section 8-3.107(f).
2 Bolts and dowels to be 1/2 inch minimum in diameter.
D. Alternate Materials. Alternate materials, designs and methods of construction
may be approved by the Building Official in accordance with the provisions of
the Uniform Building Code.
E. Minimum Acceptable Quality of Existing Unreinforced Masonry Walls:
1. General Provisions. All unreinforced masonry walls utilized to carry vertical
loads and seismic forces parallel and perpendicular to the wall plant shall be
tested as specified in this subsection. All masonry quality shall equal or
exceed the minimum standards established herein or shall be removed and
replaced by new materials. Alternate methods of testing may be approved by
the Building Official. The quality of mortar in all masonry walls shall be
determined by performing in-place shear tests or by testing eight (8) inch
diameter cores. Alternative methods of testing may be approved by the
Building Official. Nothing shall prevent pointing with mortar of all the
masonry wall joints before the tests are first made. Prior to any pointing, the
mortar joints must be raked and cleaned to remove loose and deteriorated
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 46 of 52
mortar. Mortar for pointing shall be Type S or N except that masonry
cements shall not be used. All preparation and mortar pointing shall be done
under the continuous inspection of a special inspector certified to inspect
masonry or concrete, and approved by the Building Official. At the
conclusions of the inspections of, the inspector shall submit a written report
to the licensed engineer or architect responsible for the seismic analysis of
the building setting forth the result of the work inspected. Such report shall
be submitted to the Building Official for approval as part of the structural
analysis. All testing shall be performed in accordance with the requirements
specified in this subsection by a testing agency approved by the Building
Official. An accurate record shall be kept of all such tests and of their
locations in the building, and these results shall be submitted to the Building
Official for approval as part of the structural analysis.
2. Number and Location of Tests. The minimum number of tests shall be two
per wall or line of wall elements resisting a common force, or one (1) per
fifteen hundred (1500) square feet of wall surface, with a minimum of eight
(8) tests in any case. The exact test or core location shall be determined at
the building site by the licensed engineer or architect responsible for the
seismic analysis of the subject building.
3. In-Place Shear Tests. The bed joints of the outer wythe of the masonry shall
be tested in shear by laterally displacing a single brick relative to the
adjacent bricks in that wythe. The opposite head joint of the brick to be
tested shall be removed and cleaned prior to testing. The minimum quality
mortar in eighty percent (80%) of the shear tests shall not be less than the
total of thirty (30) psi plus the axial stress in the wall at the point of the test.
The shear stress shall be based on the gross area of both bed joints and shall
be that at which movement of the brick is first observed.
4. Core Tests. A minimum number of mortar test specimens equal to the
number of required cores shall be prepared from the cores and tested as
specified in this chapter. The mortar joint of the outer wythe of the masonry
core shall be tested in shear by placing the circular core section in a
compression testing machine with the mortar bed joint rotated fifteen (15)
degrees from the axis of the applied load. The mortar joint tested in shear
shall have an average ultimate stress of twenty (20) psi based on the gross
area. The average shall be obtained from the total number of cores made. If
test specimens cannot be made from cores taken, then the shear value shall
be reported as zero.
F. Testing of Shear Bolts. One-fourth of all new shear bolts and dowels embedded
in unreinforced masonry walls shall be tested by a Special Inspector using a
torque calibrated wrench to the following minimum torques:
1/2" diameter bolts or dowels=40 foot-lbs.
5/8" diameter bolts or dowels= 50 foot-lbs.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 47 of 52
3/4" diameter bolts or dowels=60 foot-lbs.
No bolts exceeding three-fourths (3/4) of an inch shall be used. All nuts shall be
installed over malleable iron or plate washers when bearing on wood and heavy
cut washers when bearing on steel.
G. Determination of Allowable Stresses for Design Methods Based on Test
Results.
1. Design Shear Values. Design seismic in-plane shear stresses shall be
substantiated by tests performed as specified in subsections (e)(3) and (4) of
this section.
Design stresses shall be related to test results obtained in accordance with
Table No. 8-10.108B. Intermediate values between three (3) and ten (10) psi
may be interpolated.
2. Design Compressions for Tension Values. Compression stresses for
reinforced masonry having a minimum shear value of three (3) psi shall not
exceed one hundred (100) psi. Design tension values for unreinforced
masonry shall not be permitted.
H. Tests Required. Five percent (5%) of the existing rod anchors utilized as all or
part of the required wall anchors shall be tested in pullout by an approved testing
laboratory. The minimum number tested shall be four (4) per floor, with two (2)
tests at walls with joist framing into the wall and two (2)tests at walls with joists
framing into the wall and two tests at walls with joists parallel to the wall. The
test apparatus shall be supported on the masonry wall at a minimum distance of
the wall thickness from the anchor tested. The rod anchor shall be given a pre-
load of three hundred (300) lbs. prior to establishing a datum for recording
elongations. The tension test load reported shall be recorded at one-eighth (1/8)
inch relative movement of the anchor and the adjacent masonry surface.
Results of all tests shall be reported. The report shall include the test results as
related to the wall thickness and joist orientation. The allowable resistance value
of the existing anchors shall be forty percent (40%) of the average of those
tested anchors having the same wall thickness and joist orientation.
I. Test Procedures. Qualification tests for devices used for wall anchorage shall be
tested with the entire tension load carried on the enlarged head at the exterior
face of the wall. Bond on the part of the device between the enlarged head and
the interior wall face shall be eliminated for the qualification tests. The
resistance value assigned the device shall be twenty percent (20%) of the
average of the ultimate loads. (Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1, Exh. A
(part), 1991)
8-10.109 Information required on plans.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 48 of 52
A. General. In addition to the seismic analysis required elsewhere in this chapter,
the licensed engineer or architect responsible for the seismic analysis of the
building shall determine and record the information required by this section on
the approved plans.
B. Construction Details. The following requirements with appropriate construction
details shall be made part of the approved plans:
1. All unreinforced masonry walls shall be anchored at the roof level by tension
bolts through the wall as specified in Table 8-10.108D, or by approved
equivalent at a maximum anchor spacing of six (6) feet.
All unreinforced masonry walls shall be anchored at all floors with tension
bolts through the wall or by existing rod anchors at the maximum anchor
spacing of six (6) feet. All existing rod anchors shall be secured to the joists
to develop the required forces. The Building Official may require testing to
verify the adequacy of the embedded ends of existing rod anchors.
Tests when required shall conform to Section 8-10.108(h).
When access to the exterior face of the masonry wall is prevented by
proximity to an existing building, wall anchors conforming to Items 5 and 6
in Table 8-10.108D may be used.
Alternative devices to be used in lieu of tension bolts for masonry wall
anchorage shall be tested as specified in Section 8-10.108(i).
2. Diaphragm chord stresses of horizontal diaphragms shall be developed in
existing materials or by addition of new materials.
3. Where trusses and beams other than rafters or joists are supported on
masonry, ledgers or columns shall be installed to support vertical load of the
roof or floor members.
4. Parapets and exterior wall appendages not capable of resisting the forces
specified in this chapter shall be removed, stabilized or braced to ensure that
the parapets and appendages remain in their original position.
5. All deteriorated mortar joints in unreinforced masonry walls shall be pointed
with Type S or N mortar. (Masonry cements shall not be used.) Prior to any
pointing, the wall surface must be raked and cleaned to remove loose and
deteriorated mortar. All preparation and pointing shall be done under the
continuous inspection of a special inspector certified to inspect masonry or
concrete, and approved by the Building Official. At the conclusion of the
project, the inspector shall submit a written report to the Building Official
setting forth the portion of the work inspected.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 49 of 52
6. Repair details shall be prepared for any cracked or damaged unreinforced
masonry wall required to resist forces specified in this chapter.
C. Existing Construction. The following existing construction information shall be
made part of the approved plans:
1. The type and dimensions of existing walls and the size and spacing of floor
and roof members;
2. The extent and type of existing wall anchorage to floors and roof;
3. The extent and type of parapet corrections, if any, which were performed in
accordance with the Uniform Building Code;
4. Accurately dimensioned floor plans and masonry wall elevations showing
dimensioned openings,piers, wall thickness and heights;
5. The location of cracks or damaged portions of unreinforced masonry walls
requiring repairs;
6. The type of interior wall surfaces and whether reinstalling or anchoring of
ceiling plaster is necessary;
7. The general condition of the mortar joints and whether the joints need
pointing. (Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1, Exh. A(part), 1991)
8-10.110 Glossary of symbols and notations.
c = Numerical coefficient as specified in UBC Section 2312 (e) 2B.
cp = Numerical coefficient as specified in UBC Section 2312 (g) and given in
Table No. 23-P.
fc = Specified compressive strength of concrete,psi.
Fp = Lateral forces on a part of the structure.
fT = That portion of the base shear, V, considered concentrated at the top of
the structure in addition to Fn.
hN = Height in feet above the base to Level i,n or x respectively.
I = Importance Factor given in UBC Table No. 23-L.
RW = Numerical coefficient given in Tables 23-0 and 23-Q of UBC.
V = The total design lateral force or shear at the base.
W = The total seismic dead load as defined in UBC Section 2312(e)1.
Wp = The weight of an element or component.
Z = Numerical coefficient of 0.40 for Seismic Zone 4.
(Ord. 360 § 2 (part), 1999; Ord. 226 § 1, Exh. A(part), 1991)
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 50 of 52
CHAPTER 11 PRIMARY ENERGY CODE
8-11.101 Adoption of California Energy Code: Certain documents marked and designated as
the "California Energy Code", 2001 Edition, specifically including, without limitation,
the California Building Standards Commission's Emergency Standards "Building
Standards Bulletin 01-03", dated on or about August 1, 2003, are hereby adopted for
establishing administrative, organizational and enforcement rules and regulations for
technical codes that regulate site preparation and construction, alteration, moving,
demolition, repair, use and occupancy of buildings. Regulations, provisions, conditions
and terms of such "California Energy Code", 2001 Edition, on file in the Building
Division, are hereby referred to and made a part hereof as if fully set out in this Chapter,
except as otherwise provided in this Chapter.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 51 of 52
SECTION 3: The City Council finds that the changes made the uniform codes are enacted to mitigate
the threats posed to public peace, health and safety from earthquakes and fire. In this regard, the
recitals set forth in this Ordinance are incorporated herein by reference as findings. Moreover, it can
be seen with certainty that adoption of this Ordinance will not have a significant adverse effect on the
environment and is therefore exempt from California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section
15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. Staff is directed to file a notice of exemption within five (5)
days of the adoption of this Ordinance.
SECTION 4: If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase added by
this Ordinance, or any part thereof, is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid or
ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or
effectiveness of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby
declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or
phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses or phrases are declared unconstitutional, invalid or ineffective.
SECTION 5: A summary of this ordinance, approved by the City Attorney, together with the ayes
and noes, shall be published twice: at least five days prior to its final passage in the Atascadero News,
a newspaper published and circulated in the City of Atascadero, and; before the expiration of fifteen
(15) days after its final passage in the Atascadero News, a newspaper published and circulated in the
City of Atascadero. A copy of the full text of this ordinance shall be on file in the City Clerk's Office
on and after the date following introduction and passage and shall be available to any interested
member of the public.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No.458
Page 52 of 52
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on August 24, 2004, and PASSED and
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Atascadero, State of California, on September 14, 2004,
by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members Clay, O'Malley, Pacas, Scalise and Mayor Luna
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
CITY OFASCADERO
By:
Dr. I#rge Luna, Mayor
ATTEST:
Marcia McClure Torgerson, C.M.C., Ci Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Thomas R. Gibson, Interim City Attorney