HomeMy WebLinkAboutFD-060 - Ordinance ORDINANCE NO. FD-060
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE RANCHO
CUCAMONGA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT ADOPTING BY
REFERENCE THE 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND- URBAN
INTERFACE CODE, WITH ERRATA, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN
CHANGES, MODIFICATIONS, AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS,
DELETIONS,AND EXCEPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF
PERMITS AND COLLECTION OF FEES; AND APPROVING A CEQA
EXEMPTION DETERMINATION
The Board of Directors of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District hereby ordains as follows:
SECTION 1. Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adopted
The Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District(hereinafter District or Fire District) hereby adopts by
reference as the District's Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the 2025 California Wildland-Urban
Interface Code as published by the California Building Standards Commission, with errata, including
Appendix A, and Referenced Standards, with the changes, modifications, amendments, additions,
deletions, and exceptions prescribed in Section 4 of this ordinance, and the same are hereby adopted
for safeguarding of life, property, and the community from wildfire by establishing the minimum
requirements through the use of performance and prescriptive measures for the construction and
development in designated high and very high fire hazard severity zones; providing for the issuance of
permits and collection of fees. Each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties, conditions, and
terms of said Wildland-Urban Interface Code, a copy of which is on file in the office of the Secretary of
the Board of Directors of the Fire District, are hereby referred to, adopted, and made a part hereof as
if fully set out in this ordinance, subject only to the amendments and deletions herein.
1.1 Definitions. As used in the Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the terms set forth below are defined
as follows:
1.1.1 The terms "Board of Directors" and "Directors" shall mean the governing body of the District.
1.1.2 The terms "department", "Department", "district", "District", "fire department", "fire district", "Fire
District", "jurisdiction", and "Jurisdiction"where used in the Wildland-Urban Interface Code and
this ordinance to identify the local fire authority shall mean the Rancho Cucamonga Fire
Protection District.
1.1.3 The term "governing body" shall mean the Board of Directors of the Fire District.
1.1.4 The term "jurisdiction" shall mean all of the territory, land, buildings, structures, and premises
within the legal boundary of the District.
1.1.5 The term "Municipal Code" shall mean the Municipal Code of the City of Rancho Cucamonga.
1.2 Fees
1.2.1 Reasonable fees, not to exceed fully burdened actual costs, may be collected by the code
official for fire protection planning, fire prevention services, inspections, permit issuance,
standby personnel, and emergency operations as allowed by the Wildland-Urban Interface
Code, this ordinance, and as prescribed by any and all District fee resolutions.
1.3 Distinguishing Between Model Code Language; California Amendments; and Fire
District Additions, Amendments, Deletions, and Other Changes
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 1 of 21
1.3.1 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code and California Code of Regulations Title 14 model
code language appears in regular type.
1.3.2 California amendments to the model code language appear in italics.
1.3.3 Fire District additions and amendments are identified by the use of underlining.
1.3.4 Subsections where the text of the model code and/or California amendments has been deleted
are identified by the > symbol preceding the subsection number.
1.3.5 Code sections that have not been amended or changed in any manner are occasionally
included in this ordinance to keep the additions, amendments, deletions, and other changes in
context.
SECTION 2. Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adoption Matrix
The following Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adoption Matrix is provided as a single reference
showing which chapters and appendices of the 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are
adopted by this Ordinance and which chapters and appendices have been amended by this
Ordinance.
Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adoption Matrix — Divisions and Chapters
Adopt
Adopt Adopt IFC
A
Division/ CaliforniaA California Model Code Not Adopted
Chapter! Title Code without Code with with State/ Reference
Appendix Amendments Fire District District Only
Amendments Amendments
Ch.I Division I California Administration X
Ch.IDivision II Scope and Administration x
Ch.2 Definitions x
Ch.3 Wlldiand-Urban Interface Areas X
Ch.4 Wiidiand.Urban Interface Area Requirements x
Ch.5 Special Building Construction Regulations x
Ch.6 Fire Protection Requirements x
Ch.I Referenced Standards x
Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adoption Matrix—Appendices
Adopt Adopt Appendix Adopt IFC Model Not Adopted
Appendix Title Appendix with Fire District Code with State/ -Reference
without Amendments District Only
Amendments Amendments
App.A General Requirements X
SECTION 3.
Local Amendments to the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Except as modified by an
express change, modification, amendment, addition, deletion, or exception in this section, and as
reflected in the Wildland-Urban Interface Code Adoption Matrix in Section 2, above, all sections,
subsections, tables, chapters and appendices as published in the 2025 California Wildland-Urban
Interface Code are adopted by reference and made part of the Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Only
those sections, subsections, tables, chapters and appendices so modified are set forth below in
Section 4.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 2 of 21
SECTION 4.
DIVISION II
ADMINISTRATION
PART 1 —GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 101 -GENERAL
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be collectively known as the California Wildland-Urban Interface
Code of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District(District or Fire District), hereinafter referred to
as"this code."
>101.3.1 Application. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zones or Wildland-Urban
Interface (WUI) Fire Area designated by the enforcing agency constructed after the application shall
comply with the provisions of this code. This shall include all new buildings with residential, commercial,
educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use, which shall be referred to in this code as
"applicable buildings,"as well as new buildings and structures accessory to those applicable buildings.
Exceptions:
1. Group U occupancy accessory buildings of any size located at least 50 feet from an applicable
building on the same lot.
2. Group U occupancy agricultural buildings, as defined in Section 202 of the California Building
Code of any size located at least 50 feet from an applicable building.
3. Group C occupancy special buildings conforming to the limitations specified in Section 450.4.1
of the California Building Code.
4. New accessory buildings and miscellaneous structures specified in Section 504.11 shall comply
only with the requirements of that section.
>101.3.1.1 Application date and where required. New buildings for which an application for a building
permits submitted on or after July 1, 2008, located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland-Urban
Interface Area shall comply with this code, including all of the following areas:
1. All unincorporated lands designated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as State
Responsibility(SRA) including:
a. Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
b. High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
c. Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
2. Land designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by cities and other local agencies.
3. Land designated as a midland-urban interface area by cities and other local agencies.
Exception:
1. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a State Responsibility Area, for
which an application for a building permit is submitted on or after January 1, 2008, shall
comply with this code.
SECTION 102 -APPLICABILITY
102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 7 and Fire District standards approved by the code official. Such
codes and standards shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed
extent of each such reference and as further regulated by Sections 102.4.1 through 102.4.3.
102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and
standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a
referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 3 of 21
of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or
standard.
102.4.3 Intent of the Code. Where the intent of the code is unclear due to differences that may occur
between the provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the code official shall determine
which requirement meets the intent of this code.
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
>SECTION 103 -CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
Deleted
SECTION 104- DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
104.1 General. The code official is hereby authorized to implement, administer, and enforce the
provisions of this code. The code official is also authorized to implement, administer, and enforce
provisions of the Municipal Code where such authority has been granted.
104.1.1 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the fire chief and shall hold the position
in accordance with the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District Rules and Regulations.
104.1.2 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the
concurrence of the appointing authority, the code official shall have the authority to appoint deputy
code officials, other related technical officers, inspectors, and other employees.
104.1.3 Other enforcement officers. The following persons are hereby authorized, during the course
of their official duties, to enforce the provisions of this code and to make arrests and issue citations as
authorized by law:
1. The San Bernardino County Sheriff and any Deputy Sheriff
2. Officers of the United States Forest Service
3. The State Forest Ranger and Peace Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire
Protection (Cal Fire)
4. Officers of the California Highway Patrol
5. Law enforcement and authorized members of fire agencies operating under automatic or mutual
aid agreements within the boundaries of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District
6. Employees of the City of Rancho Cucamonga's Building and Safety Department and Community
Improvement Division who have been expressly designated by their appointing authority as
having the power of arrest or the authority to issue administrative citations.
104.2. Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties in carrying out the provisions of this code,
the code official shall have the authority to grant modification for individual cases, provided that the
code official shall first find that one or more special individual reasons make the strict letter of his code
impractical, that the modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code, and that
such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of the written
request and action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered into the files of the Fire
District.
104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals, or employee charged with the
enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the
discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be
rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability
for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act required or permitted by this
code or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 4 of 21
104.8.1 Legal defense.Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee
because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under
the provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal representative of the jurisdiction until the
final termination of the proceedings. The code official, any subordinate or hired agent of the District
shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit, or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the
provisions of this code- and any officer of the District, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be
free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in
the performance of official duties in connection therewith.
104.11 Cost recovery generally. Inspection costs are recoverable in accordance with the Districts Fee
Resolution.
104.12 Cost recovery for nuisance abatement. All costs actually incurred by the District in any action
administrative proceeding or special proceeding to abate a violation of this code, which constitutes a
nuisance, may be recovered by the District by any means authorized by law, including but not limited, to
lien or special assessment according to the requirements of law, and there shall be a right to appeal
pursuant to Section 112 of this code. An "action" or"proceeding" means any civil or administrative
proceeding or appeal therefrom. Attorney's fees incurred by the District in such proceedings may be
recovered by the prevailing party if the District elected at the initiation of the action or proceeding to
recover its own fees. In no action or proceeding of any type shall an award of attorney's fees to a
prevailing party exceed the amount of reasonable attorney's fees.
104.13 Subpoenas. The District shall have the power to issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum.
This power shall be exercised and enforced in the manner provided by the Government Code, and such
powers shall extend only to business of the District in investigating and enforcing violations of this code
and other laws enforceable by the District. Subpoenas shall be signed by the chair or clerk of the
District Board. Any member of the Board, or any person otherwise so empowered may administer oaths
to, or take affirmations from, witnesses before the Board.
SECTION 105- PERMITS
105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirement of the California Building Code or
California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with this section.
>105.2 Construction permits required. Buildings or structures and vegetation regulated by this code
or Fire District Standard for Permits for Construction and Installations shall not be erected,
constructed, altered, repaired, moved, converted, demolished, or changed in use of occupancy, or
planted, propagated or germinated unless a separate permit for each building or structure or
vegetation has first been obtained from the code official.
Note: the remainder of section 105.2 is deleted.
>105.8 Expiration. On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the
work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced in accordance with the policies, procedures,
and ordinances of the Building and Safety Department having jurisdiction, which shall be either the
City of Rancho Cucamonga or the County of San Bernardino. The building official is authorized to
grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time in accordance with the applicable policies
procedures, and/or ordinances. (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6 for
reference.) Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy, or
ownership shall require that a new permit be issued.
105.11 Non-payment of permit fee. The code official is authorized to revoke a permit issued under the
provisions of this code when the permittee fails to pay permit fees in accordance with the terms of the
Permit Application or when a check or credit/debit card transaction submitted for payment of the permit
fee(s)is returned or declined.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 5 of 21
SECTION 106- CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
>106.1 General. Plans, engineering calculations, diagrams and other data shall be submitted in
accordance with the policies and procedures, and in such form and detail, as required by the code
official and/or the building official with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall
be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the code official. Where special
conditions exist, the code official is authorized to require additional documents to be prepared by a
registered design professional.
Exception: Submission of plans, calculations, construction inspection requirements ad other data,
if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of plan is not necessary
to obtain compliance with this code.
106.2 Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications are generally required to
be drawn to scale, are generally required to be submitted in a digital format with document settings
and formatting in accordance with the policies and procedures of the District and the Building
Department. Plans and specifications shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature, and
extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and
relevant laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations as determined by the code official and/or the building
official.
106.8 Retention of plans. Plans and specifications shall be retained by the code official in
accordance with the City of Rancho Cucamonqa's Retention Schedule. One set of approved plans,
specifications shall be returned to the applicant and said set shall be kept on the site of the building,
use or work at all times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress. At the conclusion of
the work, construction documents are required to be kept on the site or at another location where the
documents are readily accessible to the building owner.
SECTION 108 - FEES
108.1 Payment of Fees. A permit shall not be valid until the fees prescribed by law, if any, have been
paid. An amendment to a permit shall not be released until the additional fee, if any, has been paid.
>108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for inspections and permits shall be established by a fee
schedule approved by the Board. Assessed fees shall be due and payable in accordance with the
policies of the District.
108.2.1 Collection of fees. The collection of previously approved fees can be waived, or the amount
collected can be reduced, by a resolution of the Board without affecting the approved fees.
108.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. A person who commences any work, before
obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a citation with a fine or an additional fee
established by the Board, which shall be in addition to the required permit fees.
108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal, or demolition of
work done in connection to or concurrently with the work or activity authorized by a construction
permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the construction, alteration, removal, or demolition
permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed by law. The payment of the fee for a permit
for a conditional or temporary use approved by the City or County shall not relieve the applicant or
holder of the conditional or temporary use permit from the payment of other fees prescribed by law.
The payment of the fee established by the Board for an inspection or permit shall not relieve the
recipient of inspection services or the applicant or holder of a permit from the payment of other fees
duly prescribed by the Board and any other governmental or regulatory entity.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 6 of 21
108.6 Refunds. The District is authorized to establish a policy allowing for refunds, reductions, or
cancellations of fees that have been assessed or paid.
SECTION 109-INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT
109.3.6 Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code
official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate
proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct, or abate such violation or to require removal or
termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of
the order or direction made pursuant hereto. In addition to, or in place of, any other remedy which is
allowed by law, administrative penalties may be imposed in connection with any violation of this code
or District ordinance.
109.3.7 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply
with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair, or do work in violation of
the approved construction documents or directive of the code official, or of a permit or certificate used
under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a public nuisance and misdemeanor, punishable by a
fine of not more than the maximum allowed by law or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or
both such fine and imprisonment. The code official, with the concurrence of the chief and the district
attorney or District prosecutor, is authorized to issue administrative citations and fines as allowed by
an ordinance of the Board of Directors in place of, or in addition to, the violation penalties contained in
this section. Each day that a violation continues after notice has been served shall be deemed a
separate offense.
In addition to, or in place of, the foregoing penalties, administrative penalties pursuant to the District's
Administrative Citation Ordinance may be imposed in connection with any violation of this code or any
District ordinance. Any person violating or who has violated any section of this code or District
ordinance may be issued an administrative citation in accordance with the Administrative Citation
Ordinance. In addition, violations of this code may be abated by any other means authorized by law
including iniunctive relief. These remedies are intended to be cumulative and not exclusive and may
be used in addition to or in lieu of each other.
109.3.7.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful and a public nuisance for a person, firm, or corporation
to erect, construct, alter, repair, move, remove, demolish, occupy, or plant, propagate or germinate
any building, structure or equipment, or premises regulated by this code, or cause same to be done,
in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code, District ordinance or resolution, or
other lawful order of the fire chief, code official, or their designees.
109.3.7.2 Notice of Violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation nor order
on the person responsible for violation of the provision of this code, or in violation of a permit or
certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the
illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
Violations that are deemed to be immediately dangerous to life, health, or the environment will be
subject to stop work or similar orders in accordance with Section 113 and Fire District Standard for
Unsafe Structures, Equipment, and Operations prosecution, and/or any and all penalties in
accordance with this code.
>SECTION 112 -MEANS OF APPEALS
112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by
the code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby
created policies and procedures for appeals. Appeals shall be in accordance with Fire District
Standard for Appeals.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 7 of 21
Note: The remainder of Section 112 is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for
Appeals.
>SECTION 113 - STOP WORK ORDER
113.1 Authority. A stop work order is authorized to be issued in accordance with Fire District
Standard for Unsafe Structures, Equipment, and Operations where the code official finds any
operation, process, procedure, equipment, building. or work regulated by this code, any other code
adopted by the City of Rancho Cucamonga or the County of San Bernardino, or any State or Federal
law, statute, or regulation. being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of the applicable
code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner.
Note: The remainder of Section 113 is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for Unsafe
Structures, Equipment, and Operations.
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 201 - GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter and Fire District Standard for
Definitions.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes and standards. Where terms are not defined in the California
Wildland-Urban Interface Code but are defined in the California Building Code, California Existing
Building Code, California Fire Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code, California
Plumbing Code, standards and publications of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), FM
Global Data Sheets, Fire District standards, other standards referenced in this code, or other
nationally recognized fire and life safety standards, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to
them in those codes and standards.
CHAPTER 4
WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 401-GENERAL
401.1 Scope. Wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with emergency vehicles access and
water supply in with Fire District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads and Fire District Standard
for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems and this chapter.
SECTION 402—APPLICABILITY
402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire
apparatus access roads in accordance with the California Fire Code; the California Code of
Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 2; Fire District Standard for Fire
Apparatus Access Roads; and access requirements in accordance with Section 403.
402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with
water supply in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code; the California Code of
Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 4; Fire District Standard for Fire
Protection Water Supply Systems; and access requirements in accordance with Section 404.
402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban
interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the California Fire
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Code; the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Subsection
1273; Fire District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads; and Section 403.
402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-
urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with Section
507 of the California Fire Code;the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7,
Subchapter 2, Article 4; Fire District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems; and Section
404.
402.3 Existing conditions. Existing buildings, roads and fire protection equipment shall be provided
with address markers in accordance with Fire District Standard for Building Signage.
>402.4 Residential tracts and buildings. A minimum of two points of access and egress are
required when a residential tract or multi-unit residential building is capable of containing more than
30 dwelling units, including accessory dwelling units, that could be constructed and occupied under
the State laws, codes, and requlations existing at the time the protect or tract map is submitted for
approval.
>402.5 Other buildings. A minimum of two points of access and egress are required with an
occupiable building or grouping of buildings that consists of more than 50,000 square feet or gross
floor area.
>402.6 Additional access and egress. The code official is authorized to require additional points of
access and/or egress depending on the design and size of the tract or development project and the
findings of the fire hazard and risk assessment required to be included in the fire protection plan in
Section 602.
>402.7 Other access as emergency use only. The code official is authorized to approve points of
access and/or egress other than the main access point as emergency use only and allow such
designated points of access and/or egress to be secured against normal, regular use. The manner of
securing and opening points of access and/or egress is the sole discretion of the code official.
>402.8 Evacuation Planning and Assessment. When a project requires an Environmental Impact
Report or a Traffic Analysis, an evacuation assessment is required to be prepared by a qualified
Traffic Engineer or equivalent design professional. The evacuation assessment will use as its basis
the most recent Evacuation Analysis completed for the City of Rancho Cucamonga or the Fire District.
_The Fire District is authorized to deny, to the extent allowed by law, projects that have a demonstrably
adverse impact on evacuation.
Means of reducing or eliminating adverse impacts in evacuation include:
1. Wider streets.
2. Fewer cul-de-sacs and increased connection of interior streets.
3. Adding edge roads to the project.
4. Other designs and concepts approved by the code official.
SECTION 403—ACCESS
>403.1 General. Roads and driveways, whether public or private, unless exempted under 14 CCR§
1270.03(d), shall provide for safe access for emergency wildfire equipment and evacuation
concurrently, and shall provide unobstructed traffic circulation during a wildfire emergency. Fire
apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access
Roads unless the specific, more restrictive requirements of this section apply.
>403.1.2 Width. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 26
feet and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 14 feet 6 inches. Street widths are to be
measured from top face of curb to top face of curb on streets with curb and gutter, from flowline to
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 9 of 21
flowline on streets with rolled curbs, from the edges of drivable surfaces capable of supporting the
weight of fire apparatus where curbs are not provided.
Exceptions:
1. Gates shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Access Gates.
2. Roads at entry medians constructed for private commercial, industrial, or residential
developments shall be a minimum of 20 feet on each side. The road shall not be part of a
radius turn. This exception does not apply to public streets.
3. Dimensions may be reduced when in the opinion of the code official there are practical
difficulties with providing the required dimensions.
4. Dimensions may be increased when in the opinion of the code official required dimensions are
not adequate to provide fire apparatus access or when dimensions are not adequate to
concurrently provide fire apparatus access and evacuation.
403.1.3 Road surfaces. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support
the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all weather driving
capabilities. Permanent fire apparatus access roads utilizing surface material other than concrete or
asphalt shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads and
approved by the code official. Temporary fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with Fire
District Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
403.1.4 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be in accordance with Fire District
Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
>403.1.5 Radius.
(a) Roads or road structures shall have a minimum horizontal inside radius of curvature of 50 feet.
An additional surface width of four feet shall be added to curves of 50-100 feet radius; two feet
to those from 100-200 feet. Roads or road structures shall have a minimum horizontal outside
radius of curvature of 76 feet.
(b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches and drainage structures
designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred feet.
>403.1.6 Turnarounds.
(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads.
(b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be 46 feet, not including parking. If a
hammerhead or"T-style"is used instead the top of the "T"shall be a minimum of 120 feet in
length.
(c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout
near the midpoint of the driveway. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be
provided not more than 400 feet apart.
(d)A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within 50 feet
of the building.
(e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are
zone five acres or larger, turnarounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals.
403.1.7 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of 12 feet wide and 32 feet long with a minimum of
25-foot taper on each end.
>403.2.4 Addresses identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved
address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible
from the street or road to which the building is addressed. Where required by the code official
address numbers shall be provided in additional locations to facilitate emergency response. Address
identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic
numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Addressing of multi-family
residential buildings shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard for Building Signage.
Addressing of commercial and industrial buildings shall be in accordance with Fire District Standard
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 10 of 21
for Building Signage. For all other buildings, each character shall be not less than 4 inches high with a
minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch. Acceptable dimensions of address numbers and letters will be
determined by the code official to ensure that they are plainly legible and visible. Where access is by
means of a private road or drive aisle and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a
monument, pole, or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification
shall be maintained.
>403.2.5 Identification during construction. When permanently installing the address of a building
under construction is not practical, the address of the construction site is required to be temporarily
installed or displayed in a manner, location, and duration acceptable to the code official.
SECTION 404—WATER SUPPLY
404.2 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow
for structural fire protection and midland fire exposure shall be provided to the premises on which
facilities, buildings or portions of building are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the
jurisdiction in accordance with Section 507 and Appendix B of the California Fire Code, and Fire
District Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems.
Note: The remainder of Section 404 is deleted and replaced with Fire District Standard for Fire
Protection Water Supply Systems.
CHAPTERS
SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS
SECTION 501 —GENERAL
501.1 Scope. This chapter applies to building materials, systems and/or assemblies used in the
exterior design and construction of buildings, including one- and two-family dwellings, located within
the following areas:
1. Any State Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zone
2. Very High or High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in Local Responsibility Area
3. Very High or High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
SECTION 503—IGNITION-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIAL
>503.1 General. Buildings or structure hereafter constructed, modified or relocated into or within
wildland-urban interface areas shall meet the construction requirements in accordance with Chapter
5. Materials required to be ignition-resistant building material shall comply with the requirements of
Section 503.2.
Exceptions:
1. New accessory buildings and miscellaneous structures complying with section 504.11.
2. Group C occupancy special buildings conforming to the limitations specified in Section 450.4.1
of the California Building Code.
SECTION 504—IGNITION-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
504.2.3 Roof debris. Roofs shall be maintained free and clear of vegetative and combustible debris.
504.4.1 Gutter covers. Gutter covers shall be constructed of noncombustible material.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 11 of 21
504.4.2 Gutter debris. Gutters and downspouts shall be maintained free and clear of vegetative and
combustible debris under the gutter cover.
504.6 Underfloor enclosure. Buildings or structures shall have underfloor areas enclosed to the
ground with exterior walls in accordance with Section 504.5.
Exception: Complete enclosure shall not be required where the underside of exposed floors and
exposed structural columns, beams, and supporting walls are protected as required for exterior 1-
hour fire-resistance-rated construction or heavy timber construction, or fire-retardant-treated wood.
The fire-retardant-treated wood shall be labeled for exterior use and meet the requirements of
Section 2303.2 of the California Building Code. Open underfloor shall be protected with 1/8-inch
corrosion-resistant, noncombustible mesh screen.
504.6.1 Combustible material in underfloor enclosure. Storage of combustible materials, including
firewood, lumber, outdoor equipment, tools, and vegetation is prohibited in underfloors that are not
enclosed with exterior walls in accordance with Section 504.5.
504.7.1.1 Enclosure of projections. Projections that are not fully enclosed in accordance with
Section 504.7.1 shall be enclosed with 1/8-inch corrosion-resistant, noncombustible mesh screen.
504.7.1.2 Combustible material under projections. Storage of combustible materials, including
firewood, lumber, outdoor equipment, tools, and vegetation is prohibited under decks and projections
that are not enclosed with exterior walls in accordance with Section 504.5.
504.8 Exterior glazing. Exterior windows, window walls and glazed doors, windows within exterior
doors, and skylights shall be constructed of any of the following:
1. Multilayered glazed panels with two panes of tempered glass complying with Section 2406 of
the California Building Code.
2. Glass block.
3. Glazing with a fire-protection rating of not less than 20 minutes when tested according to
NFPA 257 or UL 9 and shall be exempt from the hose stream test.
4. Glazing meeting the performance requirements of SFM Standard 12-7A-2.
504.8.2 Operable skylights. Operable skylights shall be constructed with multilavered glazed panels
with two panels of tempered glass and the opening shall be protected by a noncombustible mesh
screen with openings not exceeding 1/8 inch.
504.9 Exterior doors. Exterior doors shall be constructed in accordance with any of the following:
1. Noncombustible construction.
2. Solid-core wood not less than 1 % inches thick.
3. The exterior door shall be constructed of solid core wood that complies with the following:
3.1 Stiles and tails shall not be less than 1 3/8 inches thick
3.2 Raised panels shall not be less than 1 % inches thick, except for the exterior perimeter of
the raised panel that shall be permitted to taped to tongue not less than 3/8 inch thick.
4. Have a fire protection rating of not less than 20 minutes when tested according to NFPA 252,
UL 10B or UL 10C.
5. The exterior surface or cladding meeting the performance requirements of SFM Standard 12-
7A-1.
6. All side-hinged exterior doors are required to be self-closing and positive latching, including
the main entry door for single-family and multi-family residential buildings.
504.9.1 Garage doors. Automatic garage door openers for vehicle doors serving a residential
building shall be equipped with a battery backup function. Automatic garage door openers are
required to include a time-out feature that will automatically close the garage door after 20 minutes of
inactivity.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 12 of 21
504.10.4 Forced exhaust air vent. Forced exhaust vents shall be constructed of noncombustible
material and incorporate a functional louver or flap.
504.11 Accessory buildings and miscellaneous structures. Accessory buildings and
miscellaneous structures that have the potential to pose a significant exterior fire exposure hazard
during wildfires shall be constructed to conform to the ignition-resistance requirements of Section
504.1 through Section 504.11.2
504.11.1 Applicability. Section 504.11 applies to buildings accessory to an applicable building on the
same lot and attached or detached miscellaneous structures that require a building permit, including
but not limited to trellises, arbors, patio covers, gazebos, and similar structures.
Exceptions:
1. Decks shall comply with the requirements of Section 504.7.3.
2. Awnings and canopies shall comply with the requirements of Section 3105 of the California
Building Code.
504.11.2 Roof construction. Roof assemblies and roof coverings of accessory buildings required to
be constructed entirely of noncombustible materials or of ignition-resistant building materials shall
comply with Sections 504.2 and 504.2.1. Roofs shall have a roofing assembly installed in accordance
with its listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Roof assemblies in Fire Hazard Severity
Zones shall comply with a Class A fire classification when test in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL
790.
CHAPTER 6
FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 601 —GENERAL
601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter establish general requirements for new and existing
buildings, structures and premises located within the following area:
1. Any State Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zone
2. Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in Local Responsibility Area
3. Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
SECTION 602— FIRE PROTECTION PLANS
602.1 General. The code official is authorized to require the owner or owner's authorized agent to
provide a fire protection plan. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability
of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented
for the property under consideration.
The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape
architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall
analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.
The code official is authorized to require a preliminary fire protection plan prior to the submission of a
final fire protection plan.
Approved fire protection plans are required to be recorded on the parcel or parcels to which the plan
pertains by filing the fire protection plan with the County Recorder as an agreement between the
property owner and the Fire District that runs with the land.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 13 of 21
>602.2 Contents. The fire protection plan shall be based on a project-specific wildfire hazard
assessment that include considerations of location, topography, aspect and climatic and fire history.
The plan shall identify conformance with all applicable state wildfire protection regulations, statutes
and applicable local ordinances, whichever are more restrictive.
The fire protection plan shall include the following;
1. The fire protection plan is required to be formatted as a text report that includes a plan sheet
exhibit of these elements.
2. A fire apparatus and emergency vehicle access plan that conforms to Fire District Standard for
Fire Apparatus Access Roads, this ordinance, and the street standards of the City of Rancho
Cucamonga and/or the County of San Bernardino as applicable.
3. A fire protection water supply plan that conforms to Fire District Standard for Fire Protection
Water Supply Systems and the standards of the water purveyor(Cucamonga Valley Water
District or Fontana Water Company).
4. Design criteria for automatic fire sprinklers, standpipes, or other fire suppression or protection
systems that are in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards
13, 13D, and 13R; the CBC, CFC, and CRC; Fire District Standard for Automatic Fire Sprinkler
Systems; and this ordinance.
5. An on-site and off-site fire hazard and risk assessment that includes all land, roads, structures.
and infrastructure within a 300-foot radius of the project. A project is defined as a single
structure such as a single detached home, all structures proposed for construction on a single
parcel such as a main home and accessory structures, the boundaries of a residential
subdivision. campus-style clustering of structures, or a commercial building or grouping of
commercial buildings that form a commercial center or commerce district.
6. A comprehensive review of the local climate to include the climate generally, annual rainfall
information, the occurrence and history of droughts, temperature extremes, low humidity
prevailing and seasonal winds, and fire weather conditions.
7. A wildfire behavior prediction that includes fire spread and advancement rates and maximum
flame lengths for the existing and undisturbed native, non-native, and invasive vegetation at
mature growth under various weather conditions, especially extreme fire weather conditions.
The fire behavior prediction is required to be achieved by using wildfire modeling software that
is acceptable to the code official.
8. Information about the construction materials and methods that will be utilized with specific
references to the applicable California Building. Fire, and Residential codes.
9. Species listed in Section 603.4.5.1and specific notations where applicable if undesirable plants
are proposed for the project.
10. A comprehensive defensible space and landscaping plan that shows the vegetation
management zones in accordance with Section 603 and the exact locations proposed for all
trees, plants, shrubs, vines, and ground covers, including native vegetation in accordance with
Government Code 51182 and this section.
11. The plant palette proposed for the landscaping for the proiect inclusive of species notes
indicating that proposed plants, shrubs, and trees are appropriate for the climate zone and are
generally recognized to be fire resistant. Plant palette information for all trees, plants, shrubs
vines, and ground covers, including native vegetation, is required to include:
i. The common and botanical names.
ii. The maximum anticipated height.
Hi. The maximum anticipated spread or canopy diameter.
iv. Verification of appropriateness for the climate zone.
v. Verification of appropriateness for California Irrigation Management Information System
jCIMIS) Evapotranspiration Zone 9.
vi. The water use classification as determined by the 4'h Edition of Water Use Classification of
Landscape Species(WUCOLS).
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 14 of 21
12. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes.
13. Legally binding statements regarding responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zone
and included in the covenants, conditions, and restrictions regarding property owner
responsibility for vegetation management.
14. An application for Alternate Means and Methods for any aspect of the fire protection plan that
does not conform to the applicable codes and standards.
602.4 Approval required. A fire protection plan as required by this section shall be submitted and
approved in coniunction with the submittal and approval of plans for a grading or construction permit.
Approval of the fire protection plan and completion of vegetation management are required prior to
grading and/or construction permits being approved.
>SECTION 603—VEGETATION
603.1 General. Planting, propagating, and germinating of vegetation for new landscaping shall be
selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures.
603.3 Landscape plans. Landscape plans shall include development and maintenance requirements
for the vegetation management zone adjacent to structures and roadways and provide significant fire
hazard reduction benefits for public and firefighting safety. Prior to landscaping or construction
landscape plans shall be submitted to the code official for any of the following:
1. Construction of a new occupiable building or an addition to an existing occupiable building.
2. Construction of an addition to an existing habitable or occupiable building.
3. Construction or placement of a new accessory structure or an addition to an existing
accessory structure.
4. New vegetative landscape construction, installation, or planting.
5. Modifications to a previously approved Fire Protection Plan or defensible space landscape
plan.
603.3.1 Contents. Landscape plans shall contain the following:
1. Delineation of Combustible Exclusion Zone (Zone 0: 0-5 feet from the structure).
2. Delineation of the Fuel Modification Zone (Zone 1: 5-30 feet from the structure).
3. Delineation of the Fuel Reduction Zone (Zone 2: 30-100 feet from the structure).
4. Identification of existing vegetation to remain and proposed new vegetation.
5. Identification of irrigated areas.
6. Plant legend with botanical and common names and identification of plant material symbols.
7. Identification of ground coverings within the 30-foot Zone 0 and Zone 1.
603.4 Vegetation. All new vegetation shall be fire-smart vegetation in accordance with this section.
Exception: Trees classified as nonfire-smart vegetation complying with Section 603.4.5.1.
To be considered fire-smart vegetation, vegetation must meet at least one of the following:
1. Be identified as fire-smart vegetation in an approved book,journal or listing from an approved
organization.
2. Be identified as fire-smart vegetation by a licensed landscape architect with supporting
documentation.
3. Plants considered fire-smart vegetation and approved by the local enforcing agency.
>603.4.1 Combustible Exclusion Zone 0(0-5 feet from the structure). Combustible materials are
prohibited within 5 feet from a structure, combustible projection, attached accessory structure, or a
detached accessory structure within 10 feet of an occupiable building. Combustible materials that
could be ignited by embers produced during a wildfire event include:
1. All vegetation.
2. Natural fiber, wood, and rubber mulch.
3. Artificial turf
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 15 of 21
4. Wood, vinyl, or other combustible fences and gates.
5. Combustible decorative items and outdoor furniture.
6. Firewood piles regardless of the diameter or dimension of the wood stored.
7. Yard maintenance equipment.
8. Vehicles of any kind.
9. Exercise or fitness equipment with combustible components.
10. Any item that in whole or in part has an ignition temperature less than 900 degrees F or 500
degrees C.
>603.4.2 Fuel Modification Zone 1 (5-30 feet from the structure). Fuel modification within 5 to 30
feet from a structure, combustible projection, attached accessory structure, or a detached accessory
structure within 10 feet of an occupiable building, shall be designed and landscaped to be less
vulnerable to vegetation ignition by embers during a wildfire event. Landscaping and vegetation within
the Fuel Modification Zone 1 shall include:
1. Generally level or level-graded area around the structure.
2. Complete removal of fire-prone, undesirable plant species is required. See Appendix A for the
complete Undesirable Plants and Trees list.
3. Xeriscape TM designs, where compatible, and hardscape such as concrete, rock, pavers, and
similar non-combustible features.
4. Ground covers and lawns are maintained at a height that does not exceed 4 inches.
5. Plants that are low-growing and well-irrigated and not included in Section 603.4.5.1 and
arranged and selected such that:
i. Plants are single specimens or a grouping not exceeding 3 plants that will have a mature
diameter or linear measurement that does not exceed 5 feet.
it Mature height of plants is not to exceed 18 inches.
iii. At mature growth, single plants or groupings of plants are required to be separated from
each other by at least 15 feet.
iv. Plants are not located under the canopies anticipated for mature trees.
6. Trees are to be planted such that the mature canopies will be spaced in accordance with the
following:
i. At least 10 feet from any building, structure, or projection, including chimney or stovepipe.
it At least 20 feet from other tree canopies of single specimens or the mature combined
canopy of a grouping.
iii. Single specimens of trees or groupings of not more than 3 that are appropriate for the
climate zone and not included in Section 603.4.5.
7. Trees are required to be maintained such that the branches and limbs closest to the wound
are pruned to a height from the ground that is equal to 1/3 the overall height of the tree or 6
feet from the ground, whichever is higher. This provision does not apply to newly installed
trees that could be damaged by adherence to this provision.
8. An automatic irrigation system is required to be installed and extended to provide water to all
landscaping in the zone, except for areas inside the drip line of trees that could be damaged
by routine irrigation.
9. Continual maintenance including ongoing removal of seasonal grasses and invasive weeds
removal of dead woody material and dead and dry leaves from the plants, replacement of
dead or dying plantings, functional tests of the irrigation system, and regular trimming and
pruning to reduce fuel and to inhibit the creation of a fuel ladder are required in this zone.
603.4.3 Fuel Reduction Zone 2(30-100 feet from the structure). Fuel Reduction within 30-100 feet
from a structure, combustible projection, attached accessory structure, or a detached accessory
structure within 10 feet of an occupiable building, or to a property line, shall comply with the following::
1. Irrigated landscaping with trees and plants suitable for the climate zone. Distribution of trees
and plants should maintain an open arrangement.
2. Groupings of plants and shrubs cannot form an aggregate diameter or linear distance at
maturity that is more than 10 feet. Hedges and groupings of plants and shrubs are required to
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 16 of 21
be separated from other hedges, groupings of plants and shrubs, and tree canopies by a
minimum of 20 linear feet.
3. Mature trees cannot create a continuous canopy that is more than 30 feet in diameter or
spread in any direction.
4. Arrangement of plants, shrubs, and trees and selection of species cannot create fuel ladder
opportunities.
5. Mature coverage of all landscaping cannot exceed 50% of the ground. Turf grasses and mulch
are excluded from this limitation.
6. Native vegetation is allowed in this zone when it is maintained such that the overall ground
coverage produced by the mature or maintained plant growth does not exceed 50%and plants
are not located under tree canopies.
7. Plants, shrubs, and trees in Section 603.4.5.1 will be considered on a case-by-case basis for
use as landscaping in this zone when they are proposed to be installed more than 50 feet from
buildings, structures, and projections constructed with combustible materials.
8. Regular maintenance to include the removal of all dropped debris, dead or dying material,
seasonal grasses, and invasive weeds.
9. Where an undeveloped or vacant parcel abuts a mandated fuel modification zone, the property
owner of the undeveloped or vacant parcel is required to provide fuel modification and
reduction consistent with the requirements of Fuel Reduction Zone 2 for a distance of 50 feet
from the property line measured from the property line toward the interior of the parcel.
603.4.4 Site Specific Fuel Modification and Reduction (50-50-50).As approved by the code
official, site specific fuel modification and reduction of native fuels is allowed in accordance with this
section.
603.4.4.1 Site Specific Fuel Modification Zone 1, (5-50 feet from the structure). Requirements for
this zone include the following:
1. A plantpalette comprised primarily of selected native vegetation with a species mix that
supports the subterranean health of the plants in the zone.
2. Ground coverage that does not exceed 50% when plants reach maturity or are maintained in
accordance with the approved defensible space landscaping plan.
3. Plant species that can survive and remain healthy if irrigation is limited to the most severe
water use restrictions imposed in the past 10 years.
4. Regular complete removal of seasonal grasses and invasive weeds.
5. The use of selected trees that are not included in Section 603.4.5.1, but which are compatible
with the native plant species and anticipated reduced irrigation requirements for this vegetation
management option. Trees are limited to single specimens located such that the mature
canopies will be separated by at least 20 feet.
6. Plants are prohibited under the canopies of trees to prevent creating a fuel ladder.
7. The use of natural fiber or wood mulch to a depth of not more than 4 inches is allowed. The
use of rubber mulch is prohibited.
603.4.4.2 Site Specific Fuel Reduction Zone 2, (51-100 feet from the structure). Requirements for
this zone include Section 603.4.4.1 and the following modifications:
1. Ground coverage cannot exceed 70% when plants reach maturity or are maintained in
accordance with the approved defensible space landscaping plan.
2. The use of selected trees that are included in Section 603.4.5.1 and which are compatible with
the native plant species and anticipated reduced irrigation requirements for this vegetation
management option will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Trees are limited to single
specimens located such that the mature canopies will be separated by at least 20 feet.
3. Where an undeveloped or vacant parcel abuts a mandated fuel modification zone, the property
owner of the undeveloped or vacant parcel is required to provide fuel modification and
reduction consistent with the requirements of Fuel Reduction Zone 2 for a distance of 50 feet
from the property line measured from the property line toward the interior of the parcel.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 17 of 21
603.4.5 Non fire-smart vegetation. New trees not classified as fire-smart vegetation shall be
permitted provided the tree is planted and maintained in accordance with one of the following:
1. The tree is planted so that the trees drip line at maturity is a minimum of 30 feet from an
applicable building, chimney or stovepipe.
2. The tree is planted so that the tree's drip line at maturity is a minimum of 10 feet from any
combustible structure.
4. Branches and limbs closest to the around shall be pruned to a height from the around that is
equal to 1/3 the overall height of the tree or 6 feet from the ground, whichever is higher.
5. The mature canopy of a non-fire-resistant tree is required to be separated from the mature
canopy of all other trees by a distance of at least 30 feet.
6. Plants, shrubs, and groundcovers are prohibited within the drip line of the canopy to prevent
creating a fuel ladder.
603.4.5.1 Nonfire-smart species. The following species are considered non fire-smart:
1. Acacia (Acacia)
2. Bamboo (Bambusa)
3. Bottlebrush (Callistemon, Calliandra, others)
4. Broom (Baccharis, Cytisus, Spartium, others)
5. Camphor(Camphora)
6. Cedar(Cedrus)
7. Chemise (Adenostoma)
8. Common Buckwheat(Eriogonum fasciculatum)
9. Conifers
10. Cypress (Taxodium)
11. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus)
12. Fir(Abies)
13. Hemlock (Tsuga)
14. Honeysuckle (Anisacaanthus, Justice, Lonicera, others)
15. Jasmine (Jasminium)
16. Juniper(Juniperus)
17. Mustard (Brassica)
18. Palms (Palmae)
19. Pepper(Schinus)
20. Pine (Pious)
21. Red Shanks (Adenostoma)
22. Rosemary(Rosmarinus, others)
23. Spruce (Picea)
24. Tamarisk (Tamarix)
25. Thistle (Cirsium, Cynara, Salsola, Silybum)
26. Yew(Taxus)
603.5 Vegetation management before construction. Approved Zone 0 and Zone 1 vegetation
management shall be provided prior to combustible materials arriving on the site and shall be
maintained throughout the duration of construction. The code official is authorized to require additional
vegetation management and/or defensible space when warranted, in the opinion of the fire official, by
site-specific conditions.
>SECTION 605-OPEN FLAMES, OUTDOOR FIRES AND COOKING APPLIANCES
>605.1 Open burning. Open burning is required to be in compliance with Fire District Standard for
Open Burning, which generally requires a permit issued by the code official. Open burning is
prohibited during critical fire weather except as expressly allowed for the prevention or control of
wildfires.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 18 of 21
>605.2 Open flames. Open flames, including those associated with outdoor cooking, heating, and
decorative features are required to be in compliance with Fire District Standard for Open Flames.
>605.3 Fuel. The fuel for permanently installed, built-in-place outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and
barbecues as well as cooking appliances such as range tops and ovens are limited to natural gas or
propane.
>605.4 Location. Built-in-place outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and barbecues as well as cooking
appliances such as range tops and ovens are required to be constructed or installed a minimum of 15
feet from construction that utilizes combustible materials.
SECTION 606— LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS INSTALLATIONS
606.1 General. The storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) and the installation and maintenance
of pertinent equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code and this section.
>606.2 Location of containers or tanks. LP-gas containers or tanks shall be located within the
defensible space and 30 feet from a structure.
Exception: Containers or tanks may be located within 10 feet of a structure when provided with a
10-foot(0-10 feet) Combustible Exclusion Zone in accordance with Section 603.4.1 and an
additional 10 feet (10-20 feet) of irrigated ground covers less than 4 inches in height. Healthy
mature trees may be located 10-20 feet from a container or tank, but must be pruned or trimmed
at least 6 feet above the tank.
SECTION 607—STORAGE OF FIREWOOD, COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AND OTHER LARGE
ITEMS
607.3 Hot tubs. Hot tubs must be placed on a noncombustible surface at least 10 feet from an
occupiable structure and other combustible materials, including vegetation.
607.4 Combustible water storage tanks. Combustible water storage tanks shall be at least 5 feet
from an occupiable structure and other combustible materials, including vegetation.
Exception: Multiple tanks may be placed within 5 feet of each other.
CHAPTER 7
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Standards of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District
Standard Title
Standard for Appeals
Standard for Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems
Standard for Building Signage
Standard for Definitions
Standard for Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Standard for Fire Protection Water Supply Systems
Standard for Open Burning
Standard for Open Flames
Standard for Permits for Construction and Installation
Standard for Unsafe Structures, Equipment, and Operations
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 19 of 21
SECTION 5. Environmental Findings
The Board hereby finds that this Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section
15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Code
Amendments would have a significant impact on the environment. The Ordinance adopts the
California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, which will serve to provide for greater protection from fire
and fire hazards, and will thereby provide greater environmental protections.
SECTION 6. Violation Penalties
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, or corporation to violate any provision or to fail to
comply with any of the requirements of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby. In addition to
any other penalties set forth in this Ordinance, any person, firm, partnership, or corporation violating
any provision of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby or failing to comply with any of its
requirements shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished
by a fine not exceeding the maximum allowed by law or by imprisonment not exceeding six (6)
months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person, firm, partnership, or corporation shall
be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or any portion thereof during which
any violation of any provision of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby is committed, continued,
or permitted by such person, firm, partnership, or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable
therefore as provided in this Ordinance.
SECTION 7. Abatement of Nuisance
The violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance or the Codes adopted hereby shall constitute a
nuisance and may be abated by the Board through civil process by means of restraining order,
preliminary or permanent injunction, or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such
nuisances.
SECTION 6. Severability
The Board hereby declares that should any provision, section, paragraph, sentence, or word of this
Ordinance or the Code hereby adopted be rendered or declared invalid by any final court action in a
court of competent jurisdiction, or by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining provisions,
sections, paragraphs, sentences, and words of this Ordinance and the Codes hereby adopted shall
remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 9. Rights Reserved
Nothing in this Ordinance or in the Wildland-Urban Interface Code hereby adopted shall be construed
to affect any suitor proceeding pending in any court, or any rights acquired, or any liability incurred, or
any cause or causes of action, or any existing agreement under any ordinance hereby repealed as
cited in Section 1 of this Ordinance; nor shall any just or legal right or remedy of any character be lost,
impaired, or affected by this Ordinance.
SECTION 10. Publication
The Secretary of the District shall certify to the adoption of this ordinance and shall cause the same or
a summary thereof to be published and posted as required by law.
SECTION 11. Date of Effect
This Ordinance shall take effect at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, 2026.
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 20 of 21
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 19'h day of November, 2025.
n e B. Kennedy, ayor Tem
ATTEST:
, S retary
I, Kim Sevy, Secretary of the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance was introduced for first reading by the Board of Directors of the Rancho
Cucamonga Fire Protection District at a Regular Meeting of said Board held on the 15'h day of October,
2025, and was passed, approved, and adopted by the Board of Directors of the Rancho Cucamonga
Fire Protection District at a Regular Meeting of said Board held on the 19th day of November 2025.
AYES: Hutchison, Kennedy, Scott, Stickler
NOES: None
ABSENT: Michael
ABSTAINED: None
Executed this 20'h day of November 2025, at Rancho Cucamonga, California.
, S cretary
Ordinance No. FD 060 - Page 21 of 21