ORDINANCE 1681ORDINANCE NO. 1681
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA
FIRE CODE (PART 9 OF TITLE 24 OF THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF
REGULATIONS) WITH CERTAIN APPENDICES AND AMENDMENTS
AND AMENDING THE EL SEGUNDO MUNICIPAL CODE TO REFLECT
SUCH ADOPTION.
The City Council of the city of El Segundo does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings.
A. Government Code § 50022.9 authorizes the City of El Segundo (the "City") to
adopt, by reference, codes from another governmental entity as the City's own;
B. The California Building Standards Codes (the "California Building Codes")
established statewide codes and regulations for building construction and fire
safety and is published every three years by order of the California Legislature;
C. The 2025 California Building Codes are based upon the International Code
Council's 2024 International Building Code;
D. The 2025 California Building Codes were published on July 1, 2025 and will
become effective on January 1, 2026;
E. California Health & Safety Code §§ 17958.5 and 18941.5 authorize cities and
counties to modify the California Building Code by adopting more restrictive
standards and modifications if such standards and modifications are
accompanied by express findings that they are reasonably necessary because
of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions; and
F. In accordance with Health & Safety Code § 17958.7, the City Council finds that
there are local climatic, geographic, and topographical conditions justifying the
various local amendments to the California Building Code Standards Code as
set forth in attached Resolution No. 5573. which is adopted by the City Council
and incorporated herein by this reference.
SECTION 2. Sections 13-9-1 and 13-9-2 of Chapter 9 of Title 13 of the ESMC are repealed
and replaced by the following to read as follows:
CHAPTER 9
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FIRE CODE
13-9-1: ADOPTION OF CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, 2025 EDITION.
Pursuant to California Government Code sections 50022.1 to 50022.8, the California Fire
Code ("CFC"), 2025 Edition, published as Title 24, Part 9, of the California Code of
Regulations, including Appendices B, C, P, BB, and CC, is adopted by reference, subject
to the amendments, additions and deletions set forth below. One true copy of the CFC is
on file in the office of the Fire Code Official and is available for public inspection as
required by law.
Section 13-9-2: AMENDMENTS TO THE FIRE CODE:
Section 1.11.4.1 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
1.11.4.1 Fees. The fire department is authorized to collect fees for permits, fire
inspections and other services, including the review of plans, annual fire inspections and
new business inspections. Fees shall be paid by the applicant prior to issuance of permits.
Fire department fees shall be subject to change based upon the producer's price index.
Section 104.1.1 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief and Fire Department.
1. The Fire Chief is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and
provisions of this ordinance and to perform such duties as directed by the El Segundo
City Council.
2. The Fire Chief is authorized to administer, interpret, and enforce this ordinance. Under
the Fire Chiefs direction, the El Segundo Fire Department is authorized to enforce
ordinances of the City of El Segundo pertaining to the following:
2.1. The prevention of fires.
2.2. The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires.
2.3. The storage, use, and handling of hazardous materials.
2.4. The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual, and other private fire
alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.
2.5. The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.
2.6. The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in
buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction.
2.7. The maintenance of means of egress.
2.8. The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized
releases of hazardous materials.
3. The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions
of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law:
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3.1. The Fire Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the El Segundo Fire
Department.
3.2. The Police Chief and any police officer serving the city of El Segundo.
3.3.Officers of the California Highway Patrol.
3.4. Code Officers of El Segundo Code Enforcement Department.
Section 104.1.2 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
104.1.2 Operating Guidelines. The El Segundo Fire Department Fire Prevention
Standard Operating Guidelines has been created and adopted to serve as instructions
and interpretations of the adopted Fire Code. The El Segundo Fire Department Fire
Prevention Standard Operating Guidelines shall be a published document, amended from
time to time to provide current instruction and interpretation.
Section 104.1.4 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
104.1.4 Financial Responsibility. Any person who personally, or through another,
willfully, negligently, or in violation of law, sets a fire, allows a fire to be set, or allows a
fire kindled or attended by him/her to escape from his/her control, allows any hazardous
material to be handled, stored, disposed of or transported in a manner not in accordance
with this Code, State law or nationally recognized Standards, allows any hazardous
material to escape from his/her control, allows continuation of a violation of this Code is
liable for the expense of fighting the fire or for the expenses incurred during a hazardous
materials incident, and such expense will be a charge against that person.
Section 104.11.4 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
104.11.4 Authority of Peace Officers. In enforcing the provisions of the California Fire
Code, California Building Code, California Health & Safety Code, California Penal Code,
California Vehicle Code and the El Segundo Municipal Code and such laws, orders, rules
and regulations, variances and standards in connection therewith, the Fire Marshal and
Fire Prevention Specialist are hereby given the powers of peace officers.
Section 105.2 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
105.2 Application for Permit. Applications for permits will be made to the fire prevention
office in such form and detail as prescribed by the fire code official. Applications for
permits must be accompanied by such plans as required by the fire code official. Any
applicable permit and/or plan check fees must be paid at the time of application for the
permit and/or plan review.
Section 108.4 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
108.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. A person who commences any work
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before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a fee in addition the normally
established plan check fee, equal to 100% of such normally established permit fee, or as
otherwise determined by the fire code official.
Section 108.7 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
108.7 Cost Recovery. Fire suppression, investigation, rescue, or emergency medical
costs are recoverable in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and
13009.1, as may be amended from time to time. Additionally, any person who negligently,
intentionally or in violation of law causes an emergency response, including, but not
limited to, a traffic accident, spill of toxic or flammable fluids or chemicals is liable for the
costs of securing such emergency, including those costs pursuant to Government Code
Section 53150 et seq., as may be amended from time to time. Any expense incurred by
the El Segundo Fire Department for securing such emergency shall constitute a debt of
such person and shall be collectable by the city of El Segundo in the same manner as in
the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied.
Section 109.2.1 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
109.2.1 Inspection requests. It is the duty of the holder of the permit or their duly
authorized agent to notify the fire code official when work is ready for inspection. It is the
duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for inspection of such work that
are required by this code. Every request for inspection must be filed not less than three
working days before such inspection is desired. Such request must be in writing and all
inspection fees paid prior to requesting.
Section 112.5 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
112.5 Filing fee and application. The City will assess a fee in an amount set by
resolution at the time that an appellant files an appeal of any order, decisions, or
determination made by the fire code official relative to the application and interpretation
of this Code. The fee is refundable should the appellant prevail in a decision by the Board.
The appeal must be taken by filing a written notice of appeal, in letterform, to the Board
of Appeals. The Board's decision constitutes the City's final decision.
Section 113.4 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or fail to
comply with any of its requirements or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in
violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or
of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 dollars or by imprisonment
not exceeding 6 months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation
continues after due notice has been served constitutes a separate offense.
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Section 202, definition of "Fire Chief' in the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
FIRE CHIEF. The Fire Chief of the El Segundo Fire Department or the Fire Chiefs
designee.
Section 202, definition of "Low -Rise Building" is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
LOW-RISE BUILDING. Is any building that is less than four stories in height from the
lowest level of fire department access.
Section 202, definition of "Mid -Rise Building" is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
MID -RISE BUILDING. A building four or more stories high but not exceeding 75 feet in
height and not defined as a high-rise building by section 202 of the California Building
Code. Height measurements shall be made from the underside of the roof or floor above
the topmost space that may be occupied to the lowest fire apparatus access road level.
Section 311.5, "Placards" of the 2025 California Fire Code is deleted in its entirety.
Section 503.6.1 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
503.6.1 Automatic opener. New motorized gates shall be provided with means to be
automatically opened remotely by emergency vehicle in accordance with El Segundo Fire
Department Guidelines, as may be amended from time to time.
Exception: Gates serving individual one- and two-family dwelling parcels.
Section 507.2.1 of the 2025 CFC to amended to read as follows:
507.2.1 Private fire hydrants. When required, private on -site fire hydrants shall be in
accordance with the location and spacing specified for public streets and hydrants for
similar occupancies. All private hydrants shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 24,
Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and their Appurtenances, unless required to
meet public standards. Private hydrants shall be painted red. When alternate materials or
methods of protection, as approved by the chief are provided, these requirements may
be modified or waived.
Section 510.4.2.10 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
510.4.2.10 Building conduit and pathway survivability. All new buildings shall be
constructed with not less than a two inch (2") dedicated conduit raceway or other method
approved by the fire code official for future expandability, or the installation of an
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System. The raceway shall meet pathway
survivability requirements in NFPA 1221 and shall be installed from the lowest floor level
to the roof.
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510.4.2.9.10.1 Identification. The raceway and junction boxes shall be labeled
"Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System use only."
Section 511 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
Section 511 Mid -Rise Buildings.
Section 511.1 General.
511.1.1 Scope. In addition to other applicable provisions of this code, other laws and
regulations, and any policies of the fire code official, the provisions of this article applies
to every mid -rise building, of any type construction, newly constructed after the adoption
of this Code, or which undergoes a complete renovation that requires the complete
vacancy of the building.
Exceptions: The following structures, while defined as mid -rise buildings, are not subject
to this article:
1. Buildings used exclusively as open parking garage;
2. Buildings where all floors above the third floor (9,144 mm) level are used
exclusively as open parking garage;
3. Buildings such as power plants, lookout towers, steeples, grain houses, and similar
structures with non -continuous human occupancy, when so determined by the fire
code official;
4. Buildings used exclusively for jails, prisons, and hospitals.
511.1.2 Definitions. For definitions of MID -RISE BUILDING and BUILDING ACCESS,
see Section 202.
511.2 Building Access.
511.2.1 Building Access. Building access must be provided and approved by the fire
code official.
511.3 Fire and Life Safety Requirements.
511.3.1 Automatic Fire Sprinklers. Every mid -rise building must be protected
throughout by an automatic fire sprinkler system that is designed and installed in
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conformance with NFPA 13. A shut-off valve and a water flow alarm device must be
provided for each floor.
511.3.2 Standpipes. Every mid -rise building must be provided with a class I standpipe
system in each required stairway. The standpipe system must be interconnected with the
fire sprinkler system. The system must consist of 2 Y2-inch hose valves provided for each
floor level above or below grade. Two hose outlets must also be located on the roof,
outside of each stair shaft enclosure that penetrates the roof. Hose connections must be
located in the exit vestibule, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
511.3.3 Smoke Detection. Smoke detectors must be provided in accordance with this
section. Smoke detectors must be connected to an automatic fire alarm system installed
in accordance with NFPA 72. The actuation of any detector required by this section will
operate the emergency voice alarm signaling system and will place into operation all
equipment necessary to prevent the circulation of smoke through air return and exhaust
ductwork.
511.3.3.1 Location. Smoke detectors must be located as follows:
In every elevator machinery room and in all elevator lobbies. Elevator lobby
detectors must be connected to an alarm verification zone or be listed as a
releasing device.
2. In the main return -air and exhaust -air plenum of each air- conditioning system.
Such device must be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct
inlet.
3. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a
return -air duct or plenum of an air conditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2
Occupancies, an approved smoke detector may be used in each return -air riser
carrying not more than 5,000 cubic feet per minute and serving not more than 10
air inlet openings.
4. For Group R-1 and R-2 Occupancies, in all corridors serving as a means of egress
for an occupant load for 10 or more.
511.3.4 Smoke Control. A passive or active smoke control system must be provided for
all mid -rise buildings whenever a complete floor is in excess of 55 feet (16.764 mm) from
the lowest point of Fire Department access. Such system must be mechanical and must
be designed, installed, and tested to be in compliance with Section 909.
511.3.5 Fire Alarm System. An approved and listed, automatic and manual, fully
addressable and electronically supervised fire alarm system must be provided in
conformance with this code and any policies of the Fire Prevention Division.
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511.3.6 Emergency voice alarm signaling system. The operation of any automatic or
manual fire alarm initiating device must automatically sound an alert tone followed by a
pre-recorded voice instruction giving appropriate information and direction on a general
or selective basis to the entire building, occupied and normally non -occupied areas.
511.3.6.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication must
be provided for all paging zones.
511.4 Central Control Station.
511.4.1 General. A central control station room for fire department -operations must be
provided. The location and accessibility of the central control station room must be
approved by the fire department. The room must be separated from the remainder of the
building by not less than one -hour, fire resistive occupancy separation. The room must
be a minimum of 200 square feet with a minimum dimension of 8 feet. It must contain the
following as a minimum:
1. The voice alarm and public address panels.
2. The fire alarm graphic annunciator panel.
3. Elevator annunciator panel when the building exceeds 55 feet in height.
4. Status indicators and controls of air handling systems.
5. Controls for unlocking stairwell doors.
6. Annunciator panels for emergency and stand-by power status.
7. Annunciator panels for fire pump status.
8. Complete building plans set.
9. Work table.
10. Elevator control switches for switching of emergency power.
511.4.2 Annunciation identification. Control panels in the central control station must
be permanently identified as tofunction. Water flow, automatic fire detection and manually
activated fire alarms, supervisory and trouble signals must be monitored by an approved
central monitoring station and annunciated in the central control station by means of an
audible and visual indicator. For the purposes of annunciation, zoning must be in
accordance with the following:
1. When the system serves more than one building, each building must be
considered separately.
2. Each floor must be considered a separate zone.
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3. When one or more risers serve the same floor, each riser must be considered a
separate zone.
511.5 Elevators.
511.5.1 Standards. Elevators and elevator lobbies must be provided and must comply
with the California Building Code and the following:
511.5.2 General. At least one elevator cab must be assigned for Fire Department use,
which serves all floors of the building. All provisions hereinafter are in reference to said
elevator cab(s).
511.5.2.1 Size. The size of the elevator cab must have dimensions as specified in Section
915.5.2.1.1.
511.5.2.1.1 Ambulance Stretcher. The elevator cab must be provided with adequate
dimensions to accommodate an ambulance type stretcher in accordance with the
provisions of Section 3002.4a.1 of California Building Code.
511.6 Standby Power.
511.6.1 General. An on -site standby power system conforming to the City of El Segundo
Electrical Code must be provided. In the event of failure of the normal power source, the
standby power system must provide an alternate source of electrical power to serve at
least the designated loads as set forth in Section 511.6.2 at full power. The system may
consist of an on -site generator or a system of batteries, or both. The installation must be
in accordance with this code, nationally recognized standards, and any policies of the fire
code official.
511.6.2 Loads. The power load requirements for sizing the standby power system must
include, without limitation to the following:
1. Exit signs and exit path illumination;
2. Fire alarm system;
3. Elevator(s) assigned for fire department use,
4. Electrically driven fire pumps (if provided);
5. Smoke control systems;
6. Stairwell pressurization;
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7. Lighting circuits supplying all elevator cabs, elevator lobbies, generator room, fire
pump room, and other areas designated by the fire code official.
511.6.3 Fuel Supplies. On -site fuel supplies for prime movers of a standby power
generator must be sufficient for at least 12 hours at the generator's listed full load. Where
fuel supplies require automatic transfer into a primary tank from a secondary fuel storage
tank, the fuel transfer system must be provided with redundant fuel pumps to insure
reliability. The fuel supply tank provided must be capable of storing at least 200% of the
calculated amount of fuel needed.
511.7 Emergency Electrical System.
511.7.1 General. Electrical systems and equipment specified in Section 915.6 are
classed as emergency systems and must be installed in accordance with this code, NFPA
110, NFPA 111 and policies of the fire code official. Such systems must operate within
10 seconds of failure to normal power supply. Such emergency power supply may be
separate from the standby power required for fire pumps and elevators assigned for fire
department use.
511.7.2 Emergency Systems. The following are classed as emergency systems:
1. Exit signs and means of egress illumination.
2. Fire alarm system.
3. Fire detection system.
4. Sprinkler alarm system.
5. Elevator cab lighting.
6. Smoke control systems.
511.8 Means of Egress.
511.8.1 General. Means of egress must comply with the provisions of Section 915.8.
511.8.1 Stairway enclosures. All stairways used for exiting must be protected by an exit
enclosure designed in accordance with the California Building Code, Section 1020.1 and
this Section.
511.8.2.1 Construction. Construction of stairway enclosures must be in accordance with
the California Building Code, Section 1023.
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511.8.2.2 Extent of Enclosure. Stairway enclosures must be continuous and must fully
enclose all portions of the stairway. Exit enclosure must exit directly to the exterior of the
building or include an exit passageway on the ground floor, leading to the exterior of the
building. Each exit enclosure must extend completely through the roof and be provided
with a door that leads onto the roof.
511.8.2.3 Openings and Penetrations. Openings and penetrations must be as specified
in the California Building Code, Section 1023.4 and 1023.5.
511.8.2.4 Pressurized Enclosures. A pressurized stairway enclosure must be provided
for all mid -rise buildings whenever a complete floor is in excess of 55 feet (16.764 mm)
from the lowest point of Fire Department access. The pressurized stairway must be
designed and pressurized as specified in the California Building Code, Section 909.20.
511.8.2.4.1 Vestibules. Pressurized stairway enclosures, serving Mid -Rise buildings
must be provided with a pressurized entrance vestibule on each floor that complies with
the California Building Code, Section 909.20.
511.8.2.4.1.1 Vestibule Size. Vestibule size must be not less than 44 inches in width and
not less than 72 inches in the direction of travel.
511.8.2.4.1.2 Vestibule Construction. Vestibules must have walls, ceilings and floors of
not less than two-hour fire resistive construction.
511.8.2.4.1.3 Vestibule Doors. Vestibule doors must comply with California Building
Code, Section 909.20.
511.8.2.4.1.4 Pressure Differences. The minimum pressure difference within a vestibule
must comply with California Building Code, Section 909.20.
511.8.2.4.1.5 Standpipes. Fire Department standpipe connections and valves serving
the floor must be within the vestibule and located in a manner so as not to obstruct egress
when hose lines are connected and charged.
511.8.2.5 Locking of Stairway doors. All stairway doors that are locked to prohibit
access from the stairway side must have the capability of being unlocked simultaneously,
without unlatching, upon a signal from the fire control room. Upon failure of normal
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electrical service, or activation of any fire alarm, the locking mechanism must
automatically retract to the unlocked position. Hardware for locking of stairway doors must
be State Fire Marshal listed and approved by the fire code official by permit before
installation. Stairway doors located between the vestibules and stairway shaft must not
be locked.
511.8.2.6 Communications. A telephone or other two-way communications system
connected to an approved emergency service which operates continuously must be
provided at not less than every third floor in each required exit stairway vestibule.
Section 901.4.8 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
901.8 Partial fire sprinkler systems. Where in this Code or the Building Code a partial
fire sprinkler system is required, the fire sprinkler system must be installed, modified or
extended to protect the entire building or structure.
Section 901.11 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
901.11 Problematic systems. In the event of a failure of a fire protection system or 2 or
more alarms in a week where the fire code official finds no evidence of a situation
requiring a response, the fire code official is authorized to require the building owner or
occupant to provide a fire watch until the system is repaired. Fire watch personnel must
be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the Fire Department and
their only duty is to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch
for fires.
Section 901.12 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
901.12 Firewatch. Per Section 901.11 the Fire Chief is authorized to require the building
owner or occupant to provide a fire watch with personnel acceptable to the Fire Chief until
documentation is provided that the system is repaired and is operational. Such individuals
shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department
and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises, keep
and maintain a log and keep watch for fires.
Section 903.2 of the 2025 CFC is amended as follows:
903.2 Where required.
New Buildings. Unless otherwise prohibited by law, an approved automatic
sprinkler system in new buildings and structures shall be required for all
occupancies.
Exception: New detached buildings under one thousand (1,000) square feet
subject to approval of the Fire Official.
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2. Existing Buildings. Unless otherwise prohibited by law, any work to an existing
building which removes more than fifty percent (50%) of the exterior perimeter wall
height as defined in ESMC 15-1-6 for additions and alterations will require the
existing building to be fully sprinklered throughout.
Section 903.2.1 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.2 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.3 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.4 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.5 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.6 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.7 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.8 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety.
Section 903.2.9 of the 2025 CFC is deleted in its entirety..
Section 903.2.10 of the 2025 CFC is deleted.
Section 903.2.10.2 of the 2025 CFC is deleted.
Section 903.2.11.1 of the 2025 CFC is deleted.
Section 903.2.11.3 of the 2025 CFC is deleted.
Section 903.2.22 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
903.2.22 Structures in the Smoky Hollow Specific Plan Area. An automatic sprinkler
system must be provided throughout every facility or building hereafter constructed within
the Smoky Hollow Specific Plan Area.
903.2.22.1 Existing Buildings. Unless otherwise prohibited by law, any work to an
existing building which removes more than fifty percent (50%) of the exterior perimeter
wall height as defined in ESMC 15-1-6 for additions and alterations will require the existing
building to be fully sprinklered throughout.
Section 903.3.5.3 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire
sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.
Section 903.3.8 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
903.3.8 Limited Area Sprinkler Systems. When a fire sprinkler system is required it
shall be provided throughout the building.
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Exception: Protection for specific appliances and/or hazards.
Section 903.3.10 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
903.3.10 Floor Control valves. Floor control valves and waterflow detection assemblies
shall be installed at each floor where any of the following occur:
1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
2. Buildings that are three or more stories in height.
3. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department
access.
Exception: Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies floor control valves and waterflow
detection assemblies shall not be required.
Section 909.11 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
909.11 General. The smoke -control system shall be supplied with two sources of power.
Primary power shall be from the normal building power systems. Secondary power shall
be from an approved standby source complying with Section 1203 of this code. The
standby power source and its transfer switches shall be in a room separate from the
normal power transformers and switchgear and ventilated directly to and from the exterior.
The room shall be enclosed with not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in
accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with
Section 712, or both.
Transfer to full standby power shall be automatic and within 60 seconds of failure of the
primary power. The systems shall comply with the Electrical Code.
Exception: The secondary power is not required for pressurized enclosures in buildings
of less than 5 floors used for human occupancy
Section 1207.11.3 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
1207.11.3 Location. ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
1. Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
2. Deleted.
3. Outdoors or on the exterior side of the exterior walls located not less than 3 feet
(914mm) from doors and windows directly entering the dwelling unit.
4. Deleted.
ESS shall not be installed in any attached structure to a dwelling unit.
Section 1207.11.4 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
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1207.11.4 Energy Ratings.
TABLE 1207.11.4—MAXIMUM AGGREGATE RATINGS OF ESS
LOCATION
MAXIMUM
AGGREGATE
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
RATINGS (kWh)
t�Tar�
garages
80
On or within 3 feet ofexterior walls of dwellings and attached garages
100
On or within 3 feet of exterior walls of dwellings and attached garages
200
Exterior walls and eaves are constructed with
noncombustible surfaces.°
in detached garages and detached accessory structures
200
Detached garage or detached accessory structure is
in detached garages and detached accessory structures
600
a minimum 10 feet away from property lines and
dwellings.
Outdoors on the ground
200
ESS is a minimum 3 feet away from property lines
and dwellings.
Outdoors on the ground
600
ESS is a minimum I0 feet away from property lines
and dwellings.
ForSl: !foot = 309.8 mm
a Noncombustible wall surface shall ertendin accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS
7. A minimum of] foot vrrb'cally below the bottom edge of the £SS
I A minimum of8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to o noncombustible eave, whichever is less
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on larq*�,Vdali, It?ao tellOguomphrviy
wdh rttoil 12011, i.
ESS installations exceeding the permitted
individual
or aggregate ratings shall be
installed in accordance with Sections 1207.1
through 1207.9. (Material based on NFPA
855 2023 Ed.)
Section 1207.11.6 "Fire Detection" of the 2025 CFC is deleted.
Section 5601.1.3 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of
fireworks is prohibited. The possession, sale, use, and/or discharge of "Safe and Sane"
fireworks is prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed by Section 5604.
2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as allowed in Section 5605 and
Health and Safety Code Division 11.
3. The use of fireworks for fireworks displays, pyrotechnic before a proximate
audience and pyrotechnic special effects in motion pictures, television, theatrical
or group entertainment productions are allowed in Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 6
Fireworks reprinted in Section 5608 and Health and Safety Code Division 11.
Section 5601.7 of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 1681
Page 15 of 19
5601.7 Seizure. All fireworks including "State approved" shall be illegal in the City of El
Segundo. The fire code official and police officers shall have the authority to seize, take
and remove fireworks and/or safe and sane fireworks stored, sold, offered for sale, used
or handled in violation of the provisions of Title 19 CCR, Division 1, Chapter 6 and Health
and Safety Code, Chapter 9.
Exception: When permits are issued for such use.
Section 5601.7.1 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
5601.7.1 Financial Responsibility. See section 104.11.4 Financial Responsibility for
cost recovery of enforcement of section 5609.1. Fireworks may be identified as hazardous
waste by the State of California; violators shall be responsible for any disposal fees.
Section 5801.1.1 is added to the 2025 CFC to read as follows:
5801.1.1 Methane Soil Gas. All sources of methane soil gas, including petrogenic and
biogenic, are subject to methane soil gas testing, passive or active mitigation, and
methane detection and alarm system per El Segundo Fire Departments Guidelines.
Section B105.2 of Appendix B of the 2025 CFC is amended to read as follows:
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4
buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire -flow and flow duration for buildings other
than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall
be as specified in Tables 13105.1.
Exception: A reduction in required fire -flow up to 50 percent, as approved, is allowed
when the building is protected with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.1.1, 903.1.2, or 903.3.1.3. The resulting fire -flow must not
be less than 1,500 gallons per minute (5678 U/min) for the prescribed duration as
specified in Table 13105.1.
SECI10N 3. Effect of Ordinance on Past Actions and Obligations. The adoption of this
Ordinance will not affect any civil action initiated or criminal prosecution for ESMC
violations committed prior to this Ordinance's effective date; will not waive any fee or
penalty due and unpaid prior to this Ordinance's effective date; and will not affect the
validity of any bond or cash deposit posted, filed, or deposited pursuant to the ESMC,
prior to this Ordinance's effective date.
SECTIQbJ 4. Consistency, Repeal of Prior Codes. Prior City ordinances in conflict with
this Ordinance, in whole or in part, are superseded and expressly repealed.
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SECTION 5. Environmental Assessment. The City Council determines that this ordinance
is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public
Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., "CEQA") and the regulations promulgated thereunder
(14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq., the "CEQA Guidelines") because it
consists only of minor revisions and clarifications to an existing code of construction -
related regulations and specification of procedures related thereto and will not have the
effect of deleting or substantially changing any regulatory standards or findings required
therefor, and therefore does not have the potential to cause significant effects on the
environment. In addition, this ordinance is an action being taken for enhanced protection
of the environment and is exempt from further review under CEQA Guidelines § 15308.
Also, there is no possibility that the ordinance may have a significant effect on the
environment (14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15061(b)(3)), and it will not result in a direct or
reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment (14 Cal. Code Regs.
§ 15060(c)(2)).
SECTION 6. Construction. This Ordinance must be broadly construed to achieve the
purposes stated in this Ordinance. It is the City Council's intent that the provisions of this
Ordinance be interpreted or implemented by the City and others in a manner that
facilitates the purposes set forth in this Ordinance.
SIN 7. Savings Clause. Repeal of any provision of the ESMC or any other city
ordinance herein will not affect any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred before, or
preclude prosecution and imposition of penalties for any violation occurring before, this
Ordinance's effective date. Any such repealed part will remain in full force and effect for
sustaining action or prosecuting violations occurring before the effective date of this
Ordinance.
aE_QTIK2N8. Severability. If any part of this Ordinance or its application is deemed invalid
by a court of competent jurisdiction, the city council intends that such invalidity will not
affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or applications and, to this end, the
provisions of this Ordinance are severable.
SECT'I'ON_9. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to certify the passage and adoption of
this Ordinance; cause it to be entered into the City of El Segundo's book of original
ordinances; make a note of the passage and adoption in the records of this meeting; and,
within fifteen 15 days after the passage and adoption of this Ordinance, cause it to be
published or posted in accordance with California law.
SECTION 10. Effective Date. This Ordinance will become effective on the 31st day
following its passage and adoption.
ORDINANCE NO. 1681
Page 17 of 19
SECTION 11. Filing with Building Standards Commission. The City Clerk is directed to
transmit a certified copy of this Ordinance with the California Building Standards
Commission.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 3rd day of December, 2025.
ATTEST:
Susan u , 8ity/iblerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Mark D. HeAsl'e , City Att6rn
Chris Pimentel, Mayor
ORDINANCE NO. 1681
Page 18 of 19
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO )
I, Susan Truax, City Clerk of the City of El Segundo, California, do hereby certify that the
whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 1681 was duly introduced by said City Council at a regular meeting held
on the 18th day of November, 2025, and was duly passed, and adopted by said City
Council, approved and signed by the Mayor, and attested to by the City Clerk, all at a
regular meeting of said Council held on the 3rd day of December, 2025, and the same
was so passed and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Pimentel, Mayor Pro Tern Baldino, Council Member Giroux, and
Council Member Keldorf
NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Boyles
ABSTAIN: None
WITNESS MY HAND THE OFFICIAL SEAL OF SAID CITY this 3rd day of Dember, 2025.
snruax, City Clerk
of the City of El Segundo,
California
ORDINANCE NO. 1681
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