Resolution No. 2016-064RESOLUTION NO. 2016-64
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON MAKING EXPRESS FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS
THAT MODIFICATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING CALIFORNIA
BUILDINGS STANDARDS CODE: THE 2016 CALIFORNIA FIRE
CODE, 24 CCR PART 9; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
CODE, 24 CCR PART 2; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL
CODE, 24 CCR PART 3; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL
CODE, 24 CCR PART 4; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING
CODE, 24 CCR PART 5; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA EXISTING
BUILDING CODE, 24 CCR PART 10; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
RESIDENTIAL CODE, 24 CCR PART 2.5; THE 2016
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE ALSO
CALLED THE CALGREEN CODE, 24 CCR PART 11, AND; THE
2016 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 24 CCR PART 6; AND THE
2006 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
ELECTRICAL CODE ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS; AND THE
2015 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE ARE
REASONABLY NECESSARY BECAUSE OF LOCAL CLIMATIC,
GEOLOGICAL OR TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958 provides that
the City of Vernon may adopt ordinances and regulations imposing the
same or modified requirements as are contained in the regulations
adopted by the State pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17922;
and
WHEREAS, the State of California is mandated by Health and
Safety Code Section 17922 to impose the same requirements as are
contained in the most recent edition of the California Fire Code, the
California Building Code, the California Electrical Code, the
California Mechanical Code, the California Plumbing Code, the
California Existing Building Code, the California Residential Code, the
California Green Building Standards Code, the California Energy Code,
the California Administrative Code, the California Historical Building
Code, and the California Reference Standards Code (hereinafter referred
to collectively as "Codes"); and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958.5 permits the
City to make modifications or changes to the Codes, which are
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or
topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7(a) requires
that the City Council, before making any modifications or changes to
the Codes, shall make an express finding that such changes or
modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic,
geological or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, modification to administrative sections of the Codes
are proposed to be made in order to clarify the responsibility of the
permittee, permit fees, Appeals Board and other provisions which do not
modify the Building Standards pursuant to Health and Safety Code
Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7; and
WHEREAS, the City of Vernon is also adopting the 2006 ICC
Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015 International
Existing Building Code with modifications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon desires to
express its finding that such changes or modifications to the Codes are
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or
topographical conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon finds
that this action is exempt under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA), because it is not considered a "project" under CEQA which
is defined as an action directly undertaken by a public agency which
has the potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in
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the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in
the environment. Guidelines section 15378(a); Cal. Pub. Res. Code
section 21065. Under the proposed resolution, no such activity is
being undertaken. Even if the resolution were to be considered a
"project" under CEQA, which is not the case, the resolution would be
covered by the general rule set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section
15061(b)(3) which provides that CEQA applies only to projects which
have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that
the activity in question may have a significant effect on the
environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Here, the resolution
involves making express findings and determinations that modifications
to each Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic,
geological, or topographical conditions and will not have any effect on
the environment.
SECTION 2: The Fire Department and the Public Works, Water
and Development Services Department have recommended that changes and
modifications be made to the Codes and have advised that certain said
changes and modifications to the 2016 Editions of the California
Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing Building,
Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and the 2006
ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions, and the 2015
International Existing Building Code are reasonably necessary to
clarify administrative provisions or due to local conditions in the
City of Vernon as described below:
A. Climatic Conditions. Adverse climatic conditions and
strong winds such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one building to
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another.
B. Geological Conditions. Geological conditions in the
City of Vernon are affected by the nearby location of earthquake faults
that can create tremendous loss of life and property in the City.
C. Topographical Conditions. Topographical conditions of
the City of Vernon coupled with the density of buildings, limited
setbacks, narrow access to buildings and narrow streets potentially
create a problem for governmental agencies to respond to emergency
conditions.
SECTION 3: Amendments to the 2016 Editions of the
California Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing
Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and
the 2006 ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015
International Existing Building Code as contained in City of Vernon
Ordinance No. 1237, are found reasonably necessary based on the
climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions cited above in
Paragraphs A, B and C of Section 1 of this Resolution and for
administrative clarification are listed in Exhibit A of this
resolution.
SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
expresses its finding that such changes or modifications to the
California Fire Code, the California Building Code, the California
Electrical Code, the California Mechanical Code, the California
Plumbing Code, the California Existing Building Code, the California
Residential Code, the California Green Building Standards Code, the
California Energy Code, the California Administrative Code, the
California Historical Building Code, and the California Reference
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Standards Code, are reasonably necessary because of local climatic,
geological or topographical conditions.
SECTION 5: This Resolution shall take effect upon the
effective date of Ordinance No. 1237.
SECTION 6: The City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the
City of Vernon shall certify to the passage, approval and adoption of
this resolution, and the City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the City
of Vernon shall cause this resolution and the City Clerk's, or Deputy
City Clerk's, certification to be entered in the File of Resolutions of
the Council of this City.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of November, 2016.
EST:
1'
Maria E aAyala
City lerk / rim
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brian By , Deputy ity Attorney
Name: William J. Davis
Title: Mayor /"
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )
I Maria E . Ayala � City Clerk of the City
of Vernon, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being
Resolution No. 2016-64, was duly passed, approved and adopted by the
City Council of the City of Vernon at a regular meeting of the City
Council duly held on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, and thereafter was
duly signed by the Mayor or Mayor Pro-Tem of the City of Vernon.
Executed this �t day of November, 2016 at Vernon, California.
(SEAL)
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M ria E. yala
City Clerk / u y 1 y
EXHIBIT A
EXHIBIT A
FINDINGS AND JUSTIFICATIONS FOR AMENDMENTS TO THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
The Fire Department and Public Works, Water and Development Services Department have recommended
that changes and modifications be made to the Codes and have advised that certain said changes and
modifications to the 2016 Editions of the California Fire, Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing,
Existing Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Code are reasonably necessary due
to local conditions in the City of Vernon as described below. Although findings are not necessary for the
2006 ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015 International Existing Building Code,
they are also set forth herein to further clarify that they are reasonably necessary due to local conditions in
the City of Vernon.
Key to Justifications for Amendments to
The 2016 California Building Standards Code
A) Administrative. Amendments are necessary for administrative clarification. They do not modify a
Building Standard pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5, and 17958.7 of the California Health and
Safety Code. This amendment establishes administrative standards for the effective enforcement of
building standards throughout the City of Vernon.
B) Climatic. Amendments are justified on the basis of a local climatic conditions. The seasonal
climatic conditions during the late summer and fall create severe fire hazards to the public health
and welfare in the City of Vernon. The hot, dry weather in combination with Santa Ana winds
results in extreme fire conditions for the community and increase the likelihood of fire spreading
(conflagration) from one building to another. The aforementioned conditions combined with the
geological characteristics of the county and near the City create hazardous conditions for which
departure from the California Building Standards Code is required.
C) Geological. Amendments are justified on the basis of local geological conditions. The City of
Vernon is subject to earthquake hazards caused by its location in an active seismic activity area.
Faults which potentially cause seismic activity in the City include the Whittier Fault to the east, the
Raymond Fault to the north, and the Newport -Inglewood Fault to the west. Said faults are
generally considered major Southern California earthquake faults which may experience rupture at
any time. Such geological conditions can create tremendous loss of life and structures in the City.
Thus, because the City is within seismic area which includes the aforementioned earthquake faults
within the County of Los Angeles and near the City, the modifications and changes cited herein are
designed to better limit property damage as a result of seismic activity and to establish criteria for
repair of damaged property following a local emergency.
D) Topographical. This amendment is justified on the basis of local topographical conditions. The
City of Vernon is coupled with the density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings, narrow streets potentially create a problem for governmental agencies to respond to
emergency conditions. Additionally, long periods of dry, hot weather, combined with unpredictable
seasonal winds (Santa Ana wind conditions) result in increased exposure to fire risk. The heavy
rains tend to over -saturate the soil for a short time period during the year, having a detrimental
effect on in -ground structures affected by varying moisture conditions.
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
104.7.2
Administrative
This amendment provides investigation assistance
when the fire code official requires reinforcement and
validation of origin, cause, and circumstances of an
emergency event or explanations to the threat or risk of
an identified problem. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
104.12
Administrative
Fire apparatus and personnel respond to numerous
false alarm responses due to owner/occupants not
maintaining their fire alarm and/or fire protection
systems. The time taken to respond to these non -
emergency incidents can limit the ability of emergency
responders to be available for response to legitimate
emergencies and calls for assistance. The City should
have the ability to collect for this additional work with
the rationale that the owner or responsible party will
maintain their fire alarm and/or fire protection systems
if a penalty is incurred for the false alarm. This change
was previously adopted and included in ordinance
1217.
104.13
Administrative,
At times, vehicles are left positioned on thoroughfare
Climatic, Geological,
locations that restrict and block access to emergency
Topographical
vehicles. This act can impede the ability of emergency
responders to arrive, investigate, and function at the
scene of the incident on a timely basis, potentially
causing more harm, damage, and property loss.
Operators have the responsibility to position their
vehicles in locations that will not hamper emergency
responders from doing they're job. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
104.14
Climatic, Geological,
At times, stock, product, materials, and vehicles are
Topographical
left at sites that restrict and block access to emergency
vehicles or obstruct ingress/egress to emergency
personnel. This act can impede the ability of
emergency responders to safety and quickly function at
the scene of the incident, potentially causing more
harm, damage, and property loss. Owners, occupants,
and operators have the responsibility to position their
product, materials, and vehicles in locations that will
not hamper emergency responders from doing they're
job. This change was previously adopted and included
in Ordinance 1217.
104.15
Administrative
Occasionally scheduled activities endorsed by property
owners, their agents, and production companies occur
at locations and facilities in the City that require
guidance and service in the preservation of life and
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
property. Approving fire safety personnel, trained to
recognize and eliminate unsafe acts, prevent fires, and
other hazardous actions will save life and property in
the City. This change was previously adopted and
included in ordinance 1217.
105.1.7
Administrative
The City Council shall set forth the permit and plan
review fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient
funds are collected for services provided. From time
to time occupants construct and/or modify the
structure, building, facility or operation without
providing plans or obtaining a permit for the changes.
The City should have the ability to collect for this
investigational work. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
105.1.1
Administrative
Certain activities historically have been hazardous at
work locations. Operational permits annually regulate
these activities to reduce or eliminate the risks,
whereas construction permits direct the building or
installation of specific operational systems or
functions. Permits must be posted conspicuously,
either permanently or for a limited time, for view by
inspectors. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
105.6.26
Climatic, Geological,
Large amounts of loose wood products are a fire
Topographical
hazard. Currently, this permit does not incorporate
pallet storage. This addition will standardize storage
practices at facilities that store substantial amounts of
pallets in the City. This change was previously adopted
and included in ordinance 1217.
105.6.50
Climatic, Geological,
Currently, some activities or operations occur at
Topographical
locations that increase the potential for loss of life or
property. This permit addresses these activities and
operations by regulating safer practices at facilities in
the City. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
105.7.19
Administrative,
Currently, this permit is not listed in the CFC. The
Climatic, Geological,
addition of this construction permit will standardize
Topographical
the installation of high -piled combustible storage in
racks along with the requirement of providing a floor
plan. The addition of this requirement will direct safer
storage within buildings and facilities. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
105.8
Administrative
The permittee and/or its agents shall be held
responsible to ensure its work complies with the code
and with other regulations or laws adopted by the State
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
and this responsibility should not be shifted in any way
to the City or its employees. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.6
Administrative
This amendment provides the Fire Department with
administrative provisions for the establishment and
review of fees for services. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.7
Administrative
Certain business operations create additional potential
hazards at the workplace. These hazards are regulated
by the fire code, and may require a specialized
inspection. The City Council shall set forth the permit
fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient funds
are collected for services provided. The City should
have the ability to collect for this additional work. This
change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
113.8
Administrative
The City Council shall set forth the permit and plan
review fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient
funds are collected for services provided. From time
to time permittees call for an inspection when the work
has not been completed or is not performed in
conformance with the plans causing the City to re-
inspect the work. The City should have the ability to
collect for this additional work. This change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.9
Administrative
From time to time permittees call for an inspection
when the work has not been completed or is not
performed in conformance with the plans causing the
City to re -inspect the work. The City should have the
ability to collect for this additional work. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
114
Administrative,
The owner, occupant and/or its agents shall be held
Climatic, Geological,
responsible to ensure that safety and preventative
Topographical
measures are provided for employees, visitors, and
emergency responders by maintaining fire prevention
within its buildings, facilities, storage and processes.
If the owner or occupant does not comply with the
established codes and regulations, fees and/or penalties
can be imposed. The City should have the ability to
recover the costs of these expenses from the
violator(s). This change was previously adopted and
included in ordinance 1217.
202
Administrative
Definitions for fire chief and fire code official are
imprecise. These modifications are specific to Vernon
Fire Department. The definitions for awning, false
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
alarm, fire safety officer and safety container were not
included in section 2 of the CFC and are referenced in
the adoptions, so by including them, the terms are
identified. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
304.1.1.1
Administrative,
Unregulated installations of solar photovoltaic
Climatic, Geological,
systems, garden, and landscaping located on the roofs
Topographical
of buildings can create conditions which severely
hinder firefighting ventilation operations. Firefighting
ventilation allows the escape of heat, smoke, and gases
from the interior compartments of a building, reduces
the chances of flashover condition, and greatly helps
restore and maintain a tenable interior environment in
a building during a fire.
In many firefighting situations, roof top vertical
ventilation is the only form of ventilation that can be
employed to meet the need to quickly and effectively
ventilate a building's interior. Rapid ventilation is
often a critical element in allowing firefighters to enter
a burning building to search for and rescue occupants,
control the spread of fire, and create a tenable
environment to extend the time a person could survive
within a burning building.
In order to traverse a roof to place an effective
ventilation opening near a fire, it is required that
firefighters have access to the roof surface of a
building. Firefighters utilize techniques including
"sounding" roofs with tools such as a rubbish hook,
cutting small inspection holes with power saws in
roofs to check for extension, and by using infrared
cameras to check for heat concentrations on the
surface of a roof. Installing roof obstructions without
regard for firefighting ventilation operations may
prevent firefighters from safely traveling along strong
underlying roof structural members. Installing layers
of waterproofing, building material, soil, and
vegetation to the surface of a roof will very likely
delay or preclude firefighting roof top ventilation
operations unless consideration for ventilation
operations were incorporated into the layout design of
the roof obstruction. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
311.2.2
Climatic, Geological,
Vacant premises that have fire protection systems
Topographical
installed must be required to maintain the systems to
function in case of a fire. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
312.2
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
trucks, tractor -trailers, and heavy equipment moving
on public and private roadways and property.
Occasionally large vehicles strike protective guard
posts bending, breaking and pushing them against fire
protection equipment, hazardous materials containers,
and other specialized appliances the posts are designed
to protect. This code modification increases the
requirements of the guard posts, thus providing better
protection of the equipment. This change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.3
Climatic, Geological,
Large amounts of loose wood products are a fire
Topographical
hazard. This addition will standardize storage
practices at facilities that store substantial amounts of
pallets in the City, and provide the fire department
avenues to access the product piles if a fire occurs.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4
Climatic, Geological,
Significant volume pallet storage increases the
Topographical
potential for loss due to the increased fire load.
Keeping pallet stacks organized and orderly will assist
in limiting the potential for pallets falling over and
restricting fire spread. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4.1
Climatic, Geological,
Combustible rubbish tends to accumulate around pallet
Topographical
stacks. These light fuels allow combustion to occur
more readily if not cleaned up. Large amounts of
pallet materials add to the fire hazard. This addition
will standardize storage practices at facilities that
stockpile substantial amounts of pallets in the City, and
provide the fire department avenues to access the
product piles if a fire occurs. This change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4.2
Climatic, Geological,
Climatic, geologic, and topographic events or
Topographical
conditions may cause pallets to fall onto a
structure/awing potentially causing serious injury or
death & extensive property damage. This change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
503.2.1
Administrative,
The Fire Department emergency vehicles are very
Topographical
large and difficult to maneuver when restrictions are
placed on them during incidents. Additionally, some
vehicles have outrigger supports that extend the
footprint of the vehicle beyond the prescribed access
road dimensions in the current fire code. This code
modification increases the requirements of the fire
apparatus access roads, thus providing sufficient space
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
for movement and placement of emergency equipment.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
505.1
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
industrial building which may be set back from the
public right-of-way, also with large trucks, tractor -
trailers and heavy equipment moving on public and
private roadways and on property. The increase in the
address numbers will provide better visibility for
emergency response. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
507.5
Administrative,
The City of Vernon has established standards for the
Climatic, Geological,
spacing of fire hydrants. This change was previously
Topographical
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
507.5.5
Administrative,
The City of Vernon has established standards for
Climatic, Geological,
regulating the clear space around fire hydrants. This
Topographical
spacing standard assists in providing fire department
apparatus direct access to fire hydrants. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
901.4.7
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
trucks, tractor -trailers, and heavy equipment moving
on public and private roadways and property.
Occasionally large vehicles strike protective guard
posts bending, breaking and pushing them against fire
protection equipment, hazardous materials containers,
and other specialized appliances the posts are designed
to protect. This code modification increases the
requirements of the guard posts, thus providing better
protection of the equipment. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
2404.2
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to include regulations for
Topographical
spray finishing operations that may occur outside. This
change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
5601.1
Climatic, Geological,
Allowing explosive materials in or near densely
Topographical
positioned structures along with a sizeable general
population creates an untenable potential for the City
and its business activities. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
5604.2.9.6.1
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to address storage and the
Topographical
separation from schools, and to define the volume of
product stored. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
6101.4
Climatic, Geological,
Inside storage or use of LP -gas creates problems that
Topographical
can compromise workplace safety and potentially
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
cause or add to the danger of fire department personnel
fighting fires. LP -gas cylinders have been struck,
fallen over and been damaged, leaked and rocketed
around, and exploded when exposed to heat and fire.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
6103.2.2.1
Climatic, Geological,
Inside storage or use of LP -gas creates problems that
Topographical
can compromise workplace safety and potentially
cause or add to the danger of fire department personnel
fighting fires. LP -gas cylinders have been struck,
fallen over and been damaged, leaked and rocketed
around, and exploded when exposed to heat and fire.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
6104.1
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to address storage and the
Topographical
separation from schools, and to define the volume of
product stored. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
6104.3.3
Climatic, Geological,
Improperly positioned containers of pressurized
Topographical
flammable gas pose a significant fire and safety hazard
to facilities, employees, and emergency responders.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
Table B 105.2 of
Administrative,
Appendix B of the California Fire Code provides fire
Appendix B
Topographical
flow requirements for buildings. The City of Vernon as
an industrial city, density of buildings and narrow
streets, the modification of the code increases the fire
flow requirements, thus providing, better protection for
an industrial city, therefore it is recommended that
Table B 105.2 of Appendix B of the California Fire
Code be amended.
Appendix C
Administrative
Appendix C of the California Fire Code provides
requirements for the locations and distribution of fire
hydrants. The City of Vernon currently establishes
standards for Fire Hydrant Location and Distribution.
The requirements within the Fire Code would conflict
with the City's requirements; therefore it is
recommended that Appendix C of the California Fire
Code be deleted. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
D103.1
Administrative
Appendix D of the California Fire Code provides
requirements for fire apparatus access roads. Previous
City Codes have been amended to establish City
regulations for Fire Access Road Turnarounds. The
requirements within the Fire Code would conflict with
the City's requirements; therefore it is recommended
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Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
that Section D103.1 of Appendix D of the California
Fire Code be amended to be in accordance with the
City of Vernon standard. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
Amendments to the 2016 Editions of the California Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing
Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and the 2006 ICC Electrical Code
Administrative Provisions and the 2016 International Existing Building Code, are found reasonably
necessary based on the climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions cited above and for
administrative clarification are listed as follows:
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
105.8
Administrative
Rationale — Section 105.8 establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
110.7
Administrative
Rationale — This section permits the City to charge a
reinspection fees for specific instances where the permittee
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created
the need for an additional site inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
111.1
Climatic,
Rationale — Many buildings within the City are left in unsafe
Geological,
condition when they are vacated by the prior tenant. In order
Topographical
to ensure the safety of the next occupant the City must
inspect the building to determine if is safe to occupy in its
current condition or if illegal work has been performed that
must be properly permitted. In addition due to the
uniqueness of business that operate in Vernon the City must
ensure that the structure complies with the requirements of
the code for the proposed occupancy. This may include
proper number of plumbing fixtures, appropriate storage
heights, proper fire systems and appropriate facilities to store
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
or utilize hazardous materials. Because of these factors the
City requires each new occupant to obtain a certificate of
occupancy for its specific use.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
1505.1
Climatic
Rationale — Section 1505.1 is amended to allow only certain
classes of roofs to be installed to the City. Due the tight
spacing of large industrial buildings it appropriate that only
roofs with fire resistive properties be installed in the city to
reduce the potential of the spread of fire in a wind storm.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
1507.3.1
Geological
Rationale - Section 1507.3.1 is amended to require concrete
and clay tiles to be installed only over solid structural
sheathing boards. The change is necessary because there
were numerous observations of tile roofs pulling away from
wood framed buildings following the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. The SEAOSC/LA City Post Northridge
Earthquake committee findings indicated significant
problems with tile roofs was due to inadequate design and/or
construction. Therefore, the amendment is needed to
minimize such occurrences in the event of future significant
earthquakes.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.2
Geological
Rationale - The inclusion of the importance factor in this
equation has the unintended consequence of reducing the
minimum seismic separation distance for important facilities
such as hospitals, schools, police and fire stations from
adjoining structures. The proposal to omit the importance
- 16 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
factor from Equation 12.12-1 will ensure that a safe seismic
separation distance is provided. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.3
Geological
Rationale - Observed damages to one and two family
dwellings of light frame construction after the Northridge
Earthquake may have been partially attributed to vertical
irregularities common to this type of occupancy and
construction. In an effort to improve quality of construction
and incorporate lesson learned from studies after the
Northridge Earthquake, the proposed modification to ASCE
7-10 Section 12.2.3.1 Exception 3 by limiting the number
of stories and height of the structure to two stories will
significantly minimize the impact of vertical irregularities
and concentration of inelastic behavior from mixed
structural systems. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous
loss of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.4
Geological
Rationale — A joint Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC), Los Angeles County and
Los Angeles City Task Force investigated the performance
of concrete and masonry construction with flexible wood
diaphragm failures after the Northridge earthquake. It was
concluded at that time that continuous ties are needed at
specified spacing to control cross grain tension in the
interior of the diaphragm. Additionally, there was a need to
limit subdiaphragm allowable shear loads to control
combined orthogonal stresses within the diaphragm.
Recognizing the importance and need to continue the
recommendation made by the task force while taking into
consideration the improve performances and standards for
diaphragm construction today, this proposal increases the
continuous tie spacing limit to 40 ft in lieu of 25 ft and to
use 75% of the allowable code diaphragm shear to
determine the depth of the subdiaphragm in lieu of the 300
plf and is deemed appropriate and acceptable. Due to the
frequency of this type of failure during the past significant
earthquakes, various jurisdictions within the Los Angeles
- 17 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findinas
Section
region have taken this additional step to prevent roof or
floor diaphragms from pulling away from concrete or
masonry walls. This proposed amendment is a continuation
of an amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.5
Geological
Rationale — Amendment in the California Building Code is
made to be consistent with ASCE 7-16 and is further
amended herein to be consistent with ASCE 7-16
Supplement 1. The modification is necessary to avoid
misinterpretation on the intent of the five story limit for
which the SDS cap is applicable where there is flexible
structure above a rigid podium base. The addition of "grade
plane" clarifies the intent that the base is measured from the
lowest structure in those instances where there is a vertical
combination of two systems. Many of such combinations of
systems will not satisfy exclusion 1, in which the structure
must meet the definition of "regular" based on ASCE 7
Section 12.3.2. This modification provides safe design
requirements in the selection of building period to calculate
seismic base shear in building design accounting for
dynamic story mass distribution throughout the inelastic
range of ground motion. This amendment does not prevent
designing of five levels of light frame wood construction on
top of a concrete podium by using the calculated SDS
without the 70% cap.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.8
Geological
Rationale - The California Building Code has little to no
information regarding the safe design and construction
requirements for ceiling suspension systems subject to
seismic loads. It is through the experience of prior
earthquakes, such as the Northridge Earthquake, that this
amendment is proposed so as to minimize the amount of
bodily and building damage within the spaces in which this
type of ceiling will be installed. This proposed amendment
complements ASCE 7-10 Chapter 13 Section 13.5.6.2.2 and
the cited reference to ASTM E580. The amended
requirements retained herein are a continuation of portions
�t,
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
of an amendment adopted during the previous code
adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1704.6
Geological
Rationale — The language in Section 1704.6 of the
California Building Code permits the owner to employ any
registered design professional to perform structural
observations with minimum guideline. However, it is
important to recognize that the registered design
professional responsible for the structural design has
thorough knowledge of the building he/she designed. By
requiring the registered design professional responsible for
the structural design or their designee who were involved
with the design to observe the construction, the quality of
the observation for major structural elements and
connections that affect the vertical and lateral load resisting
systems of the structure will greatly be increased.
Additional requirements are provided to help clarify the
role and duties of the structural observer and the method of
reporting and correcting observed deficiencies to the
building official. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1704.6.1
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, the language in
Section 1704.6.1 of the California Building Code would
permit many low-rise buildings and structures with
complex structural elements to be constructed without the
benefit of a structural observation. By requiring a registered
design professional to observe the construction, the quality
of the observation for major structural elements and
connections that affect the vertical and lateral load resisting
systems of the structure will greatly be increased. An
exception is provided to permit simple structures and
buildings to be excluded. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1705.3
Geological
Rationale — Results from studies after the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake indicated that a lot of the damage was attributed
to a lack of quality control during construction resulting in
poor performance of the building or structure. Therefore,
the proposed amendment requires special inspection for
concrete with a compressive strength greater than 2,500
pounds per square inch. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1705.12
Geological
Rationale - In Southern California, very few detached one -
or two-family dwellings not exceeding two stories above
grade plane are built as "box -type" structures, especially
those in hillside areas and near the oceanfront. Many steel
moment frames or braced frames and/or cantilevered
columns within buildings can still be shown as "regular"
structures by calculations. With the higher seismic demand
placed on buildings and structures in this region, the
language in Section 1705.12 Exception 3 of the California
Building Code would permit many detached one- or two-
family dwellings not exceeding two stories above grade
plane with complex structural elements to be constructed
without the benefit of special inspections. By requiring
special inspections, the quality of major structural elements
and connections that affect the vertical and lateral load
resisting systems of the structure will greatly be increased.
The exception should only be allowed for detached one- or
two-family dwellings not exceeding two stories above
grade plane assigned to Seismic Design category A, B and
C.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1807.1.4
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to
Geological
show that wood foundation systems are effective in
supporting buildings and structures during a seismic event
while being subject to deterioration caused by the combined
- 20 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
detrimental effects of constant moisture in the soil and
wood -destroying organisms. Wood foundation systems not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
performed very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most
contractors are typically accustomed to construction in dry
and temperate weather in the Southern California region
and are not generally familiar with the necessary
precautions and treatment of wood that makes it suitable for
both seismic events and wet applications. The proposed
amendment takes the precautionary steps to reduce or
eliminate potential problems that may result in using wood
foundation systems that experience relatively rapid decay
due to the fact that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth
and proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1807.1.6
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is deemed necessary
to take precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result by following prescriptive design
provisions that does not take into consideration the
surrounding environment. Plain concrete performs poorly in
withstanding the cyclic forces resulting from seismic events.
In addition, no substantiating data has been provided to show
that under -reinforced foundation walls are effective in
resisting seismic loads and may potentially lead to a higher
risk of failure. It is important that the benefit and expertise of
a registered design professional be obtained to properly
analyze the structure and take these issues into consideration.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.3
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result for under reinforced footings located on sloped
surfaces. Requiring minimum reinforcement for stepped
footings is intended to address the problem of poor
performance of plain or under -reinforced footings during a
seismic event. This proposed amendment is a continuation of
an amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.7 and Table
Geological
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
1809.7
that under -reinforced footings are effective in resisting
seismic loads and may potentially lead to a higher risk of
failure. Therefore, this proposed amendment requires
minimum reinforcement in continuous footings to address
the problem of poor performance of plain or under -
reinforced footings during a seismic event. With the higher
seismic demand placed on buildings and structures in this
region, precautionary steps are proposed to reduce or
eliminate potential problems that may result by following
prescriptive design provisions for footing that does not take
into consideration the surrounding environment. It was
important that the benefit and expertise of a registered design
professional be obtained to properly analyze the structure
and take these issues into consideration. This amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.12
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that timber footings are effective in supporting buildings and
structures during a seismic event, especially while being
subjected to deterioration caused by the combined
detrimental effects of moisture in the soil and wood -
destroying organisms. Timber footings, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
- 22 -
Buildinz Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
performed very poorly. Most contractors are typically
accustomed to construction in dry and temperate weather in
the Southern California region and are not generally familiar
with the necessary precautions and treatment of wood that
makes it suitable for both seismic event and wet applications.
The proposed amendment takes the precautionary steps to
reduce or eliminate potential problems that may result by
using timber footings that experience relatively rapid decay
due to the face that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth and
proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1810.3.2.4
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that timber deep foundation is effective in supporting
buildings and structures during a seismic event while being
subject to deterioration caused by the combined detrimental
effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Timber deep foundation, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, has
performed very poorly. Most contractors are typically
accustomed to construction in dry and temperate weather in
the Southern California region and are not generally familiar
with the necessary precautions and treatment of wood that
makes it suitable for both seismic event and wet applications.
The proposed amendment takes the precautionary steps to
reduce or eliminate potential problems that may result by
using timber deep foundation that experience relatively rapid
decay due to the face that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth and
proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findin s - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1905.1.7
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment requires minimum
reinforcement in continuous footings to address the
problem of poor performance of plain or under -reinforced
footings during a seismic event. This amendment reflects
the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1905.1 and 1905.1.9
Geological
Rationale — This amendment is intended to carry over critical
thru 1905.1.11
provisions for the design of concrete columns in moment
frames from the legacy 1997 Uniform Building Code.
Increased confinement is critical to the integrity of such
columns and these modifications ensure that it is provided
when certain thresholds are exceeded.
In addition, this amendment carries over from the legacy
1997 Uniform Building Code a critical provision for the
design of concrete shear walls. It essentially limits the use of
very highly gravity -loaded walls in being included in the
seismic load resisting system, since their failure could have
catastrophic effect on the building.
Furthermore, this amendment was incorporated in the code
based on observations from the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.
Rebar placed in very thin concrete topping slabs have been
observed in some instances to have popped out of the slab
due to insufficient concrete coverage. This modification
ensures that critical boundary and collector rebars are placed
in sufficiently thick topping slab to prevent buckling of such
reinforcements.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
- 24 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings — The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2304.10.1
Geological
Rationale - Due to the high geologic activities in the
Southern California area and the expected higher level of
performance on buildings and structures, this proposed local
amendment limit the use of staple fasteners in resisting or
transferring seismic forces. In September 2007, limited
cyclic testing data was provided to the ICC Los Angeles
Chapter Structural Code Committee showing that stapled
wood structural shear panels do not exhibit the same
behavior as the nailed wood structural shear panels. The test
results of the stapled wood structural shear panels appeared
much lower in strength and drift than the nailed wood
structural shear panel test results. Therefore, the use of
staples as fasteners to resist or transfer seismic forces shall
not be permitted without being substantiated by cyclic
testing. This proposed amendment is a continuation of a
similar amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2304.12.5
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood used in retaining or crib walls are effective in
supporting buildings and structures during a seismic event
while being subject to deterioration caused by the combined
detrimental effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -
destroying organisms. Wood used in retaining or crib walls,
when they are not properly treated and protected against
deterioration, have performed very poorly. Most contractors
are typically accustomed to construction in dry and
temperate weather in the Southern California region and are
not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result by using wood in retaining or crib
walls that experience relatively rapid decay due to the face
that the region does not experience temperatures cold enough
to destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles.
- 25 -
Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California
area and the expected higher level of performance on
buildings and structures, this proposed local amendment
limit the use of staple fasteners in resisting or transferring
seismic forces. In September 2007, limited cyclic testing data
was provided to the ICC Los Angeles Chapter Structural
Code Committee showing that stapled wood structural shear
panels do not exhibit the same behavior as the nailed wood
structural shear panels. The test results of the stapled wood
structural shear panels appeared much lower in strength and
drift than the nailed wood structural shear panel test results.
Therefore, the use of staples as fasteners to resist or transfer
seismic forces shall not be permitted without being
substantiated by cyclic testing. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of a similar amendment adopted during
previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
2305.4
Geological
Rationale - The overdriving of nails into the structural wood
panel still remains a concern when pneumatic nail guns are
used for wood structural panel shear wall nailing. Box nails
were observed to cause massive and multiple failures of the
typical 3/8-inch thick plywood during the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. The use of clipped head nails as allowed in
Table Al of AFPA SDPWS footnote referencing to ASTM
F 1667, continues to be restricted from being used in wood
structural panel shear walls where the minimum nail head
size must be maintained in order to minimize nails from
pulling through sheathing materials. Clipped or
mechanically driven nails used in wood structural panel
shear wall construction were found to perform much less in
previous wood structural panel shear wall testing done at the
University of California Irvine. The existing test results
indicated that, under cyclic loading, the wood structural
panel shear walls were less energy absorbent and less ductile.
The panels reached ultimate load capacity and failed at
substantially less lateral deflection than those using same
size hand -driven nails. This amendment reflects the
- 26 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
recommendations by the Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the poor performance
observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2305.5
Geological
Rationale - ICC-ES AC 155 Acceptance Criteria for Hold-
downs (Tie -Downs) Attached to Wood Members is widely
used to establish allowable values for hold-down
connectors in evaluation reports. AC 155 uses monotonic
loading to establish allowable values. Yet, cyclic and
dynamic forces imparted on buildings and structures by
seismic activity cause more damage than equivalent forces
that are applied in a monotonic manner. However, the
engineering, regulatory and manufacturing industries have
not reached consensus on the appropriate cyclic or dynamic
testing protocols. This condition is expected to continue for
some time. In the interim, this proposed amendment
continues to limit the allowable capacity to 75% of the
evaluation report value to provide an additional factor of
safety for statically tested anchorage devices. Steel plate
washers will reduce the additional damage that can result
when hold-down connectors are fastened to wood framing
members. This amendment reflects the recommendations
by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern
California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task
Force that investigated the poor performance observed in
1994 Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles with additional editorial revisions for
clarification.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2306.2
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
- 27 -
BuildinE Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category D, E and F unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2306.3
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
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Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with stapled nails
are based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with stapled nails would exhibit the same
behavior as the wood structural panels fastened with
common nails. The test result revealed that wood structural
panel fastened with stapled nails appeared to be much lower
in strength and stiffness than wood structural panels fastened
with common nails. It was recommended that the use of
stapled nail as fasteners for wood structural panel shear walls
or diaphragms not be permitted to resist seismic forces in
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E and F
unless it can be substantiated by cyclic testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2307.2
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
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Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with stapled nails
are based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with stapled nails would exhibit the same
behavior as the wood structural panels fastened with
common nails. The test result revealed that wood structural
panel fastened with stapled nails appeared to be much lower
in strength and stiffness than wood structural panels fastened
with common nails. It was recommended that the use of
stapled nail as fasteners for wood structural panel shear walls
or diaphragms not be permitted to resist seismic forces in
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E and F
unless it can be substantiated by cyclic testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Table 2308.6.1
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment specifies minimum
sheathing thickness and nail size and spacing so as to
provide a uniform standard of construction for designers
and buildings to follow. This is intended to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands placed on buildings
or structure in this region. This proposed amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.5 and Figure
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick, 3 ply -plywood shear walls
2308.6.5.1
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail size
and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.5.2 and
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick, 3 ply -plywood shear walls
Figure 2308.6.5.2
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail size
and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
- 31 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.8.1
Geological
Rationale — With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, interior walls can
easily be called upon to resist over half of the seismic
loading imposed on simple buildings or structures. Without
a continuous foundation to support the braced wall line,
seismic loads would be transferred through other elements
such as non-structural concrete slab floors, wood floors, etc.
The proposed change is to limit the use of the exception to
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C
where lower seismic demands are expected. Requiring
interior braced walls be supported by continuous
foundations is intended to reduce or eliminate the poor
performance of buildings or structures. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.9
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment is intended to improve
the performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands placed on buildings or
structure in this region. This proposed amendment reflects
the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
2609
Climatic
Rationale - Light transmitting roof panel are dangerous to
fire fighters. Given the large size of buildings in Vernon,
smoke from a fire during windstorm event may mask the
location of these roof panels that may have been weaken by
a fire causing them to collapse if they were to be stepped on.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
2610.9
Climatic
Rationale - Skylights can be dangerous to fire fighters.
Given the large size of buildings in Vernon, smoke from a
fire during windstorm event may mask the location of
skylights that may have been weaken by a fire causing them
to collapse if they were to be stepped on. Therefore the
proposed amendment provides additional protections to
resolve these concerns
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
J101
Administrative
Rationale - This proposed amendment sets forth
administrative provisions for the issuance of grading permits
and provides safeguards for neighboring properties and the
public. It also establishes that all grading permits must also
comply with the provisions of Chapter 21 of the City code.
Chapter 21 set forth the NPDES provisions that must be met
in order to comply with the City's MS4 permit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standard
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Electrical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
110.14(A)
Climatic,
Rationale — Aluminum conductors expand and contract with
Geological,
heat. In order to ensure that proper connections are
Topographical
maintained for the life of the service compression terminals
are required.
- 33 -
Electrical Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon, increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
200.6
Climatic,
Rationale — Ground wiring coloring should be consistent to
Geological,
avoid confusion, potential hazards and permits electricians
Topographical
to easily recognize what type of system they are working on.
The color coding that is being amended is consistent with
industry standards.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
230.22
Climatic,
Rationale — The amendment increase's the physical integrity
Geological,
of the service entry greatly reducing the potential of a fire
Topographical
hazard from exposed cable.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
- 34 -
Electrical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
334.10(3), (4) and
Climatic,
Rationale — Romex is a substandard wiring method in
(5)
Geological,
commercial/industrial setting. The unprotected cable can
Topographical
easily be damaged creating a fire hazard. Therefore it should
only be permitted in dwelling occupancies.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
2006 ICC Electrical
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
303.1
Administrative
Rationale - Many buildings within the City are left in unsafe
condition when they are vacated by the prior tenant. In order
to ensure the safety of the next occupant the City must
inspect the building to determine if is safe to occupy in its
current condition or if illegal work has been performed that
must be properly permitted. In addition due to the
uniqueness of business that operate in Vernon the City must
ensure that the structure complies with the requirements of
the code for the proposed occupancy. This may include
proper number of plumbing fixtures, appropriate storage
heights, proper fire systems and appropriate facilities to store
or utilize hazardous materials. Because of these factors the
City requires each new occupant to obtain a certificate of
occupancy for its specific use.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
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2006 ICC Electrical
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.7
Administrative
Rationale — In order to ensure that the service connection has
sufficient power to supply to building and to avoid the
creation of hazardous condition, by overloading the service
entrance connection or transformer it is necessary for the
applicant to inform the utility of any load increase in load.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.8
Administrative
Rationale — In order to ensure that the electrical equipment
is safe to operate it should be inspected to ensure
conformance with the code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
404.2
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule based on
the actual cost of service.
Findin s - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1102
Administrative
Rationale — The City Council should establish the criteria for
members of the board of appeals and the terms of the
- 36 -
2006 ICC Electrical
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
members. Therefore this conflicting section of the code
should be removed.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1201.3
Administrative
Rationale — The City believes that it is necessary that it
approves the testing agency to ensure that it is competent in
its workmanship and methodology.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Mechanical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
104.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findin s - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 114.1
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule based on
the actual cost of service.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
- 37 -
Plumbing Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
104.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 104.5
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its
own based on the actual cost of service.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 422.1
Administrative
Rationale — This amendment bases the number of plumbing
fixtures required to be installed within a building should be
based on the actual amount of individuals occupying the
building rather than the total area occupied by a certain type
of use. The will ensure that a sufficient number toilets and
lavatories are provided to ensure a sanitary environment.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1101.2
Administrative
Rationale — The City of Vernon is subject to a municipal
NPDES permit issued by the Los Angeles Regional Water
quality control board. This MS4 permit requires certain to
establish certain requirements on storm water runoff. The
City has adopted these requirements in Chapter 21 of the
City code. This amendment requires storm water runoff
from the site to comply with the requirements of Chapter 21
of the City Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
- 38 -
Plumbing Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
2015 International
Existing Building
Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
202
Administrative
Rationale — This amendment makes it clear that the City
utilizes the Construction Codes as adopted by the State of
California as its Buildings Codes, not the International Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Appendix A Chapter
Administrative
Rationale — This amendment utilizes Chapter Al as adopted
Al
by the State of California as the design criteria for
Unreinforced Masonry Buildings rather than the provision
contained in the International Existing Building Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
R105.8
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
R108.7
Administrative
Rationale — This section permits the City to charge a
reinspection fees for specific instances where the permittee
- 39 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created
the need for an additional site inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
R301.1.3.2
Geological
Rationale — After the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, the
Wood Frame Construction Joint Task Force recommended
that the quality of wood frame construction need to be
greatly improved. One such recommendation identified by
the Task Force is to improve the quality and organization of
structural plans prepared by the engineer or architect so that
plan examiners, building inspectors, contractors and special
inspectors may logically follow and construct the
presentation of the seismic force -resisting systems in the
construction documents. For buildings or structures located
in Seismic Design Category Do, D1, D2 or E that are subject
to a greater level of seismic forces, the requirement to have
a California licensed architect or engineer prepare the
construction documents is intended to minimize or reduce
structural deficiencies that may cause excessive damage or
injuries in wood frame buildings. Structural deficiencies
such as plan and vertical irregularities, improper shear
transfer of the seismic force -resisting system, missed details
or connections important to the structural system, and the
improper application of the prescriptive requirements of the
California Residential Code can be readily addressed by a
registered design professional.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R301.1.4
Topographical,
Rationale - Due to the difficulty of fire suppression vehicles
Geological
accessing winding and narrow hillside properties and the
probabilities for future earthquakes in the Los Angeles
region, this technical amendment is required to address the
special needs for buildings constructed on hillside locations.
A joint Structural Engineers Association of Southern
California (SEAOSC) and both the Los Angeles County and
Los Angeles City Task Force investigated the performance
of hillside building failures after the Northridge earthquake.
Numerous hillside failures resulted in loss of life and
- 40 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
millions of dollars in damage. These criteria were developed
to minimize the damage to these structures and have been in
use by both the City and County of Los Angeles for several
years with much success. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles.
Findings - The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow
access to buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon
could potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
Items 1, 3 and 5 of
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
Section R301.2.2.2.5
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result by limiting the type of irregular conditions
specified in the International Residential Code. Such
limitations are intended to reduce the potential structural
damage expected in the event of an earthquake. The cities
and county of the Los Angeles region has taken extra
measures to maintain the structural integrity of the framing
of the shear walls and all associated elements when designed
for high levels of seismic loads.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R301.2.2.3.8
Geological
Rationale - There is no limitation for weight of mechanical
and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the International
Residential Code. Requirements from ASCE 7 and the
International Building Code would permit equipment
weighing up to 4001bs. when mounted at 4 feet or less
above the floor or attic level without engineering design.
Where equipment exceeds this requirement, it is the intent
of this proposed amendment that a registered design
professional be required to analyze if the floor support is
adequate and structurally sound.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R401.1
Climatic,
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood foundation is effective in supporting buildings and
structures during a seismic event while being subject to
- 41 -
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and FindinEs
deterioration caused by the combined detrimental effect of
constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Wood foundation, when they are not properly
treated and protected against deterioration, have performed
very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most contractors
are typically accustomed to construction in dry and
temperate weather in the Southern California region and are
not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result in using wood foundation that
experience relatively rapid decay due to the fact that the
region does not experience temperatures cold enough to
destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. However, an exception is made for
non -occupied, single -story storage structures that pose
significantly less risk to human safety and may utilize the
wood foundation guidelines specified in this Chapter. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles for the
California Residential Code.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
R403.1.2,
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
R403.1.3.6 and
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
R403.1.5
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result for under -reinforced footings located on sloped
surfaces. Requiring minimum reinforcement for stepped
footings is intended to address the problem of poor
performance of plain or under -reinforced footings during a
seismic event. Furthermore, interior walls can easily be
called upon to resist over half of the seismic loading imposed
on simple buildings or structures. Without a continuous
foundation to support the braced wall line, seismic loads
would be transferred through other elements such as non-
structural concrete slab floors, wood floors, etc. The
proposed change is to limit the use of the exception to
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C
- 42 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
where lower seismic demands are expected. Requiring
interior braced walls be supported by continuous
foundations is intended to reduce or eliminate the poor
performance of buildings or structures. This proposed
amendment is consistent with an amendment adopted during
previous code adoption cycles for the California Residential
Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R404.2
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood foundation wall is effective in supporting
buildings and structures during a seismic event while being
subject to deterioration caused by the combined detrimental
effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Wood foundation walls, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
performed very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most
contractors are typically accustomed to construction in dry
and temperate weather in the Southern California region and
are not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result in using wood foundation walls that
experience relatively rapid decay due to the fact that the
region does not experience temperatures cold enough to
destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. This proposed amendment is
consistent with an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles for the California Residential Code.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
R501.1
Geological
Rationale - There is no limitation for weight of mechanical
and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the International
Residential Code. Requirements from ASCE 7 and the
International Building Code would permit equipment
weighing up to 400 lbs. when mounted at 4 feet or less above
- 43 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
the floor or attic level without engineering design. Where
equipment exceeds this requirement, it is the intent of this
proposed amendment that a registered design professional is
required to analyze if the floor support is adequate and
structurally sound.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R503.2.4
Geological
Rationale - Section R502.10 of the Code does not provide
any prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum floor
opening size nor does Section R503 provide any details to
address the issue of shear transfer near larger floor
openings. With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is important to
ensure that a complete load path is provided to reduce or
eliminate potential damages caused by seismic forces.
Requiring blocking with metal ties around larger floor
openings and limiting opening size is consistent with the
requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Lines 35 and 36 of
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Table R602.3(1)
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
- 44 -
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, D1 and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
Findings - This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
Footnote "b" of
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Table R602.3(2)
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, D1 and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
- 45 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.3(3)
Geological
Rationale - Due to the high geologic activities in the
Southern California area and the expected higher level of
performance on buildings and structures, this proposed local
amendment increase the length and limits the location where
shear walls sheathed with lath, plaster or gypsum board are
used in multi -level buildings. In addition, shear walls
sheathed with other materials are prohibited in Seismic
Design Category Do, Di and D2 to be consistent with the
design limitation for similar shear walls found in the
California Building Code. The poor performance of such
shear walls in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake was
investigated by the Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Task Force and formed the basis for this proposed
amendment. Considering that shear walls sheathed with lath,
plaster or gypsum board are less ductile than steel moment
frames or wood structural panel shear walls, the cities and
county of the Los Angeles region has taken the necessary
measures to limit the potential structural damage that may be
caused by the use of such walls at the lower level of multi-
level building that are subject to higher levels of seismic
loads. This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.4
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
- 46 -
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, Di and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.1
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
- 47 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.2
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.5
Geological
Rationale - It was observed by the Structural Engineer
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Task Force that high aspect ratio shear walls
experienced many failures during the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. This proposed amendment provides a uniform
standard of construction for designers and buildings to
follow. This is intended to improve the performance level
of buildings and structures that are subject to the higher
seismic demands and reduce and limit potential damages to
property. This proposed amendment is consistent with an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle for the California Residential Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R602.10.2.3
Geological
Rationale - Plywood shear walls with high aspect ratio
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. This proposed amendment specifies a
minimum braced wall length to meet an aspect ratio
- 48 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and FindinLys
Section
consistent with other sections of the Residential Code as to
provide a uniform standard of construction for designers
and buildings to follow. This is intended to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands and reduce and limit
potential damages to property. This proposed amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is consistent with an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles for the
California Residential Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.4
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R606.4.4
Geological
Rationale - The addition of the word "or" will prevent the
use of unreinforced parapets in Seismic Design Category Do,
D1 or Dz, or on townhouses in Seismic Design Category C.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
- 49 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R606.12.2.2.3
Geological
Rationale - Reinforcement using longitudinal wires for
buildings and structures located in high seismic areas are
deficient and not as ductile as deformed rebar. Having
vertical reinforcement closer to the ends of masonry walls
help to improve the seismic performance of masonry
buildings and structures.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R602.3.2 and Table
Geological
Rationale - The cities and county of the Los Angeles region
602.3.2
have taken extra measures to maintain the structural integrity
of the framing of the shear wall system for buildings and
structures subject to high seismic loads by eliminating single
top plate construction. The performance of modern day
braced wall panel construction is directly related to an
adequate load path extending from the roof diaphragm to the
foundation system. A single top plate is likely to be over
nailed due to the nailing requirements at a rafter, stud, top
plate splice, and braced wall panel edge in a single location.
In addition, notching on a single top plate for plumbing,
ventilation and electrical wiring may reduce the load transfer
capacity of the plate without proper detailing. Majority of
buildings and structures designed and built per the California
Residential Code with a single top plate may not need
structural observation and special inspections. The potential
construction mistakes mentioned above could not be caught
and corrected by knowledgeable engineers and inspectors,
and could jeopardize structural performance of buildings and
structures located in high seismic areas.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
- 50 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R803.2.4
Geological
Rationale - Section R802 of the Code does not provide any
prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum roof opening size
nor does Section R803 provide any details to address the
issue of shear transfer near larger roof openings. With the
higher seismic demand placed on buildings and structures
in this region, it is important to ensure that a complete load
path is provided to reduce or eliminate potential damages
caused by seismic forces. Requiring blocking with metal
ties around larger roof openings and limiting opening size
is consistent with the requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R1001.3.1
Geological
Rationale - The performance of fireplace/chimney without
anchorage to the foundation has been observed to be
inadequate during major earthquakes. The lack of anchorage
to the foundation can result in the overturning or
displacement of the fireplace/chimney.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
101.12
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its
own based on the actual cost of service. This section also
permits the City to charge a reinspection fees for specific
instances where the permittee has caused additional work for
the City inspector and created the need for an additional site
inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
- 51 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findines
Standards Code
Section
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
202
Administrative
Rationale — CALGreen contains the word "sustainable" but
does not define it. Although it is a term used in association
with green building, the word "sustainability" is often
confused to mean the same as green building. The proposed
amendment allows clarity and distinguishing understanding
while providing for a general definition.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
301.1
Administrative
Rationale — The proposed editorial change to the indicated
section provides clarity and consistency for the application
of the CALGreen code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
301.1.1
Administrative
Rationale - This proposed amendment simplifies the
language and increase the scope of application that requires
- 52 -
Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
the CALGreen Code to be applied to all residential
projects. This section, as written, can only be applied to an
existing dwelling if the volume or size of the condition
space is increased and does not encompass interior
remodels. This proposed amendment modifies the State
language to require additions, alterations, and interior
remodels to comply with applicable sections of the
CALGreen Code that are relevant to the scope of work.
Studies have shown that new dwellings built equal to less
than 10% of the total housing stock in the State. Although
new dwellings have complied with the CALGreen Code,
the larger challenge is with existing dwellings.
The bulk of California's energy is generated by aging
power plants. Increasingly, the development and
application of alternate energy methods such as
photovoltaics has gained market adoption. Coupling these
new energy generation processes with energy saving
measures in the California Energy Code will allow
jurisdictions, states or the federal government to potentially
offset the need to construct new power plants, which would
equate to a savings of billions of tax -payer dollars.
Water conservation is addressed by the CALGreen Code by
implementing more restrictive requirements for landscape
irrigation and plumbing fixtures.
Indoor air quality is addressed by the CALGreen Code by
implementing multiple limits for VOC (volatile organic
compounds) in paints, sealants and construction adhesives
and formaldehyde contents in composite wood products.
These new standards that restricts VOC and formaldehyde
contents have shown to improve indoor air quality and
minimize or eliminate occupant health issues related to sick
building syndrome.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
- 53 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
5.408.3
Administrative
Rationale - On occasions, projects are proposed on sites
where the soil is contaminated and falls outside the scope of
a designated authority. The addition of Note #3 provides a
mechanism for a jurisdiction to require the removal or
remediation of contaminated soils within guidelines
established by that jurisdiction or method developed by the
applicant and approved by that jurisdiction.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.105.2
Administrative
Rationale - This section provides no guidelines for the
percentage of materials to be recycled or reused to achieve
compliance with this section. The proposed editorial
change provides a minimum percentage of material that
must be recycled or reused for the applicant to obtain
compliance.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
- 54 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.106.5. Table
Administrative
Rationale - Tables A4.106.5.1.1, A4.106.5.1.2,
A4.106.5.1(1), Table
A4.106.5.1.3 and A4.106.5.1.4 are indicating new values
A4.106.5.1(2), Table
for Cool roof rating. These new values for cool roof rating
A4.106.5.1(3) and
are higher than the standards being proposed by the
Table A4.106.5.1(4)
California Energy Commission and have been shown to be
cost-effective through studies previously conducted.
Research has shown that the greater Los Angeles region
suffers from heat island with the temperature having
increased as the region became more urban. The higher
temperatures are closely related to air pollution.
Additionally, raising temperatures increase the overall and
peak energy consumption for cooling creating additional air
pollution from the increased power production.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.303.4
Administrative
Rationale - The proposed code does not stipulate the number
of fixtures to be installed to achieve compliance. The
proposed editorial change clarifies the quantity of fixtures to
be installed to comply with this code section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
- 55 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.404.3
Administrative
Rationale - The proposed code does not stipulate the amount
of premanufactured components to be installed to achieve
compliance. The proposed editorial change clarifies the
quantity to be installed to comply with this code section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.405.1
Administrative
Rationale - The application statement allows for the
applicant to stipulate that pre -finished materials are not
possible and still achieve compliance with the requirement.
The editorial change removes the condition and requires
compliance to achieve credit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
- 56 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.405.4
Administrative
Rationale - This section provides no guidelines for the
percentage of materials to be used from rapidly renewable
sources. The proposed editorial change provides a minimum
percentage of material from a rapidly renewable source that
must be use for the applicant to obtain compliance and
receive credit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administraive standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.407.1
Administrative
Rationale — This section does not take into consideration the
requirements of other codes or ordinances. The proposed
editorial change addresses the requirements of other codes
or ordinances and eliminates an applicant ability to achieve
credit while complying with the requirement of another
code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
- 57 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
A5.106.4.1
Administrative
Rationale - This section for bicycle parking only requires 5
percent of the motorized vehicle parking capacity which is
equal to mandatory requirement in section 5.106.4.1. The
editorial change to 15 percent increases the requirement
and removes an applicant's ability to obtain compliance in
two different sections.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
Table A5.106.4.3
Administrative
Rationale — This table permits an applicant to obtain credit
for installing zero changing rooms. By modifying the
requirement in the table, an applicant is required to install at
least one changing room to receive credit for this section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A5.106.6.1
Administrative
Rationale - This section does not establish a minimum
number of reduced parking spaces to achieve compliance,
only that the local authority approves the proposed
reduction. The editorial change establishes a minimum
percentage to achieve a credit for this section.
- 58 -
Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A5.406.1
Administrative
Rationale - The section does not provide any guidelines for
a quantity of materials to achieve compliance. The editorial
change establishes a minimum percentage for the different
categories located within the section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
Energy Code
Section
Local
Condition
Explanation and Findings
100
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its own based
on the actual cost of service. This section also permits the City to
charge a reinspection fees for specific instances where the permittee
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created the
need for an additional site inspection.
Findings — This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards pursuant to
- 59 -
Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the California Health and
Safety Code. This amendment establishes administrative standards
for the effective enforcement of buildings standards.
TRANSNIITTAL COMMUNICATION
CITY CLERK'S OFFICE
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
DATE: November 21, 2016
TO: Derek Wieske, Director of Public Works, Water & Development Services
FROM: Deborah Juarez, Records Management Assistant '
RE: Resolution No. 2016-64 — A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon Making
Express findings and Determinations that Modifications to the Following California
Buildings Standards Codes
Transmitted herewith is a copy of Resolution No. 2016-64 referenced above, which was approved by City
Council on November 15, 2016.
Thank you.
Attachment
c: Resolution No. 2016-64
CERTIFICATE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES)
I, Maria E. Ayala, City Clerk of the City of Vernon, County
of Los Angeles, State of California, hereby certify that the
attached is a full and complete copy of:
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-64 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF VERNON MAKING EXPRESS FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS
THAT MODIFICATIONS.TO THE FOLLOWING CALIFORNIA BUILDINGS
STANDARDS CODE: THE 2016 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE, 24 CCR PART 9;
THE 2016 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, 24 CCR PART 2; THE 2016
CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 24 CCR PART 3; THE 2016
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 24 CCR PART 4; THE 2016
CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE, 24 CCR PART 5; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
EXISTING BUILDING CODE, 24 CCR PART 10; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
RESIDENTIAL CODE, 24 CCR PART 2.5; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA GREEN
BUILDING STANDARDS CODE ALSO CALLED THE CALGREEN CODE, 24 CCR
PART 11, AND; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 24 CCR PART 6;
AND THE 2006 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
ELECTRICAL CODE ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS; AND THE 2015
INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE ARE REASONABLY NECESSARY
BECAUSE OF LOCAL CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL OR TOPOGRAPHICAL
CONDITIONS
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed
the official Seal of the City of Vernon, County of Los Angeles,
State of California, on this --141- day of December 2016.
SEAL:
Mari E. Ayala
City Clerk
STAFF REPORT
�IZY COWS QFf10E
STAFF REPORT
RECEIVED
NOV 0 8 2016
CITY ADMINISTRATION
PUBLIC WORKS, WATER & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
DEPARTMENT AND FIRE DEPARTMENT
DATE: November 15, 2016
TO: Honorable Mayor a City Council
FROM: Derek Wieske, irector of Public Works, Water & Development Services
Andrew Guth, Interim Fire Chief
RE: Resolution Adopting the Findings Supporting Amendments to the California
State Buildings Codes, the International Code Council Electrical Code
Administrative Provisions, and the International Existing Building Code
Recommendation
A. Find that the action proposed herein is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) as the resolution is not considered a "project" under CEQA which is defined as an
action directly undertaken by a public agency which has the potential for resulting in either a
direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change
in the environment. CEQA Guidelines section 15378(a); Cal. Pub. Res. Code section 21065.
Under the proposed resolution, no such activity is being undertaken. Even if the resolution were
to be considered a "project" under CEQA, which is not the case, the resolution would be covered
by the general rule set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) which provides that
CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the
environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in
question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.
Here, the resolution involves making express findings and determinations that modifications to
each Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, or topographical
conditions and will not have any effect on the environment; and
B. Adopt the proposed resolution making express findings and determinations that
modifications to each Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, or
topographical conditions.
Background
The Public Works, Water & Development Services Department in conjunction with the Fire
Department (hereinafter referred to as "Departments") are proposing to adopt the 2016 California
Fire, Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing Building, Residential, Green Buildings
Standards and Energy Codes. In addition it is also proposed to adopt the 2006 Edition of the
International Code Council Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015 International
Existing Building Code (hereinafter referred to as the "Codes"). The Departments have
recommended that these Codes be modified by adding, deleting or amending certain provisions.
California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 requires that local code
amendments to the Codes and other regulations, including but not limited to green building
standards, be enacted only when an express finding is made that such modifications or changes are
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions.
The City has determined that due to the local conditions listed below modifications to the Codes
are necessary:
A) Climatic Conditions. Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds such as those
in existence in the City of Vernon increase the likelihood of fire spreading
(conflagration) from one building to another.
B) Geological Conditions. Geological conditions in the City of Vernon are affected
by the nearby location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life
and structures in the City.
C) Topographical Conditions. Topographical conditions of the City of Vernon
coupled with the density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to buildings
and narrow streets potentially create a problem for governmental agencies to
respond to emergency conditions.
In addition City staff have determined that modifications are necessary to administrative portions
of the Codes for clarification. These modifications are not subject to Health and Safety Code
Section 17958.5 since they do not modify a building standard.
The City Attorney's Office has reviewed and approved as to form, the attached resolution. It is
recommended that the attached resolution be adopted setting forth the findings for each Code
section modification. The resolution shall be forwarded to the California Building Standards
Commission after adoption.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact with the City Council making express findings and determinations that
modifications to each Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, or
topographical conditions.
Attachment(s)
1. Resolution
Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON MAKING EXPRESS FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS
THAT MODIFICATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING CALIFORNIA
BUILDINGS STANDARDS CODE: THE 2016 CALIFORNIA FIRE
CODE, 24 CCR PART 9; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA BUILDING
CODE, 24 CCR PART 2; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL
CODE, 24 CCR PART 3; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL
CODE, 24 CCR PART 4; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING
CODE, 24 CCR PART 5; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA EXISTING
BUILDING CODE, 24 CCR PART 10; THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
RESIDENTIAL CODE, 24 CCR PART 2.5; THE 2016
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE ALSO
CALLED THE CALGREEN CODE, 24 CCR PART 11, AND; THE
2016 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 24 CCR PART 6; AND THE
2006 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL
ELECTRICAL CODE ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS; AND THE
2015 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE ARE
REASONABLY NECESSARY BECAUSE OF LOCAL CLIMATIC,
GEOLOGICAL OR TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958 provides that
the City of Vernon may adopt ordinances and regulations imposing the
same or modified requirements as are contained in the regulations
adopted by the State pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17922;
and
WHEREAS, the State of California is mandated by Health and
Safety Code Section 17922 to impose the same requirements as are
contained in the most recent edition of the California Fire Code, the
California Building Code, the California Electrical Code, the
California Mechanical Code, the California Plumbing Code, the
California Existing Building Code, the California Residential Code, the
California Green Building Standards Code, the California Energy Code,
the California Administrative Code, the California Historical Building
Code, and the California Reference Standards Code (hereinafter referred
to collectively as "Codes"); and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958.5 permits the
City to make modifications or changes to the Codes, which are
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or
topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7(a) requires
that the City Council, before making any modifications or changes to
the Codes, shall make an express finding that such changes or
modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic,
geological or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, modification to administrative sections of the Codes
are proposed to be made in order to clarify the responsibility of the
permittee, permit fees, Appeals Board and other provisions which do not
modify the Building Standards pursuant to Health and Safety Code
Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7; and
WHEREAS, the City of Vernon is also adopting the 2006 ICC
Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015 International
Existing Building Code with modifications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon desires to
express its finding that such changes or modifications to the Codes are
reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or
topographical conditions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon finds
that this action is exempt under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA), because it is not considered a "project" under CEQA which
is defined as an action directly undertaken by a public agency which
has the potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in
- 2 -
the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in
the environment. Guidelines section 15378(a); Cal. Pub. Res. Code
section 21065. Under the proposed resolution, no such activity is
being undertaken. Even if the resolution were to be considered a
"project" under CEQA, which is not the case, the resolution would be
covered by the general rule set forth in CEQA Guidelines Section
15061(b)(3) which provides that CEQA applies only to projects which
have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that
the activity in question may have a significant effect on the
environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Here, the resolution
involves making express findings and determinations that modifications
to each Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic,
geological, or topographical conditions and will not have any effect on
the environment.
SECTION 2: The Fire Department and the Public Works, Water
and Development Services Department have recommended that changes and
modifications be made to the Codes and have advised that certain said
changes and modifications to the 2016 Editions of the California
Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing Building,
Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and the 2006
ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions, and the 2015
International Existing Building Code are reasonably necessary to
clarify administrative provisions or due to local conditions in the
City of Vernon as described below:
A. Climatic Conditions. Adverse climatic conditions and
strong winds such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one building to
- 3 -
another.
B. Geological Conditions. Geological conditions in the
City of Vernon are affected by the nearby location of earthquake faults
that can create tremendous loss of life and property in the City.
C. Topographical Conditions. Topographical conditions of
the City of Vernon coupled with the density of buildings, limited
setbacks, narrow access to buildings and narrow streets potentially
create a problem for governmental agencies to respond to emergency
conditions.
SECTION 3: Amendments to the 2016 Editions of the
California Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing
Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and
the 2006 ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015
International Existing Building Code as contained in City of Vernon
Ordinance No. 1237, are found reasonably necessary based on the
climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions cited above in
Paragraphs A, B and C of Section 1 of this Resolution and for
administrative clarification are listed in Exhibit A of this
resolution.
SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
expresses its finding that such changes or modifications to the
California Fire Code, the California Building Code, the California
Electrical Code, the California Mechanical Code, the California
Plumbing Code, the California Existing Building Code, the California
Residential Code, the California Green Building Standards Code, the
California Energy Code, the California Administrative Code, the
California Historical Building Code, and the California Reference
- 4 -
Standards Code, are reasonably necessary because of local climatic,
geological or topographical conditions.
SECTION 5: This Resolution shall take effect upon the
effective date of Ordinance No. 1237.
SECTION 6: The City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the
City of Vernon shall certify to the passage, approval and adoption of
this resolution, and the City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the City
of Vernon shall cause this resolution and the City Clerk's, or Deputy
City Clerk's, certification to be entered in the File of Resolutions of
the Council of this City.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of November, 2016.
ATTEST:
City Clerk / Deputy City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brian ByNdn, Depul)
City Attorney
Name:
Title: Mayor / Mayor Pro-Tem
- 5 -
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
I,
ss
City Clerk / Deputy City Clerk of the City
of Vernon, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being
Resolution No. , was duly passed, approved and adopted by the City
Council of the City of Vernon at a regular meeting of the City Council
duly held on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, and thereafter was duly signed
by the Mayor or Mayor Pro-Tem of the City of Vernon.
Executed this day of November, 2016 at Vernon, California.
(SEAL)
City Clerk / Deputy City Clerk
- 6 -
EXHIBIT A
EXHIBIT A
FINDINGS AND JUSTIFICATIONS FOR AMENDMENTS TO THE 2016 CALIFORNIA
BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
The Fire Department and Public Works, Water and Development Services Department have recommended
that changes and modifications be made to the Codes and have advised that certain said changes and
modifications to the 2016 Editions of the California Fire, Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing,
Existing Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Code are reasonably necessary due
to local conditions in the City of Vernon as described below. Although findings are not necessary for the
2006 ICC Electrical Code Administrative Provisions and the 2015 International Existing Building Code,
they are also set forth herein to further clarify that they are reasonably necessary due to local conditions in
the City of Vernon.
Key to Justifications for Amendments to
The 2016 California Building Standards Code
A) Administrative. Amendments are necessary for administrative clarification. They do not modify a
Building Standard pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5, and 17958.7 of the California Health and
Safety Code. This amendment establishes administrative standards for the effective enforcement of
building standards throughout the City of Vernon.
B) Climatic. Amendments are justified on the basis of a local climatic conditions. The seasonal
climatic conditions during the late summer and fall create severe fire hazards to the public health
and welfare in the City of Vernon. The hot, dry weather in combination with Santa Ana winds
results in extreme fire conditions for the community and increase the likelihood of fire spreading
(conflagration) from one building to another. The aforementioned conditions combined with the
geological characteristics of the county and near the City create hazardous conditions for which
departure from the California Building Standards Code is required.
C) Geological. Amendments are justified on the basis of local geological conditions. The City of
Vernon is subject to earthquake hazards caused by its location in an active seismic activity area.
Faults which potentially cause seismic activity in the City include the Whittier Fault to the east, the
Raymond Fault to the north, and the Newport -Inglewood Fault to the west. Said faults are
generally considered major Southern California earthquake faults which may experience rupture at
any time. Such geological conditions can create tremendous loss of life and structures in the City.
Thus, because the City is within seismic area which includes the aforementioned earthquake faults
within the County of Los Angeles and near the City, the modifications and changes cited herein are
designed to better limit property damage as a result of seismic activity and to establish criteria for
repair of damaged property following a local emergency.
D) Topographical. This amendment is justified on the basis of local topographical conditions. The
City of Vernon is coupled with the density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings, narrow streets potentially create a problem for governmental agencies to respond to
emergency conditions. Additionally, long periods of dry, hot weather, combined with unpredictable
seasonal winds (Santa Ana wind conditions) result in increased exposure to fire risk. The heavy
rains tend to over -saturate the soil for a short time period during the year, having a detrimental
effect on in -ground structures affected by varying moisture conditions.
- 7 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
104.7.2
Administrative
This amendment provides investigation assistance
when the fire code official requires reinforcement and
validation of origin, cause, and circumstances of an
emergency event or explanations to the threat or risk of
an identified problem. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
104.12
Administrative
Fire apparatus and personnel respond to numerous
false alarm responses due to owner/occupants not
maintaining their fire alarm and/or fire protection
systems. The time taken to respond to these non -
emergency incidents can limit the ability of emergency
responders to be available for response to legitimate
emergencies and calls for assistance. The City should
have the ability to collect for this additional work with
the rationale that the owner or responsible party will
maintain their fire alarm and/or fire protection systems
if a penalty is incurred for the false alarm. This change
was previously adopted and included in ordinance
1217.
104.13
Administrative,
At times, vehicles are left positioned on thoroughfare
Climatic, Geological,
locations that restrict and block access to emergency
Topographical
vehicles. This act can impede the ability of emergency
responders to arrive, investigate, and function at the
scene of the incident on a timely basis, potentially
causing more harm, damage, and property loss.
Operators have the responsibility to position their
vehicles in locations that will not hamper emergency
responders from doing they're job. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
104.14
Climatic, Geological,
At times, stock, product, materials, and vehicles are
Topographical
left at sites that restrict and block access to emergency
vehicles or obstruct ingress/egress to emergency
personnel. This act can impede the ability of
emergency responders to safety and quickly function at
the scene of the incident, potentially causing more
harm, damage, and property loss. Owners, occupants,
and operators have the responsibility to position their
product, materials, and vehicles in locations that will
not hamper emergency responders from doing they're
job. This change was previously adopted and included
in Ordinance 1217.
104.15
Administrative
Occasionally scheduled activities endorsed by property
owners, their agents, and production companies occur
at locations and facilities in the City that require
guidance and service in the preservation of life and
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
property. Approving fire safety personnel, trained to
recognize and eliminate unsafe acts, prevent fires, and
other hazardous actions will save life and property in
the City. This change was previously adopted and
included in ordinance 1217.
105.1.7
Administrative
The City Council shall set forth the permit and plan
review fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient
funds are collected for services provided. From time
to time occupants construct and/or modify the
structure, building, facility or operation without
providing plans or obtaining a permit for the changes.
The City should have the ability to collect for this
investigational work. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
105.1.1
Administrative
Certain activities historically have been hazardous at
work locations. Operational permits annually regulate
these activities to reduce or eliminate the risks,
whereas construction permits direct the building or
installation of specific operational systems or
functions. Permits must be posted conspicuously,
either permanently or for a limited time, for view by
inspectors. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
105.6.26
Climatic, Geological,
Large amounts of loose wood products are a fire
Topographical
hazard. Currently, this permit does not incorporate
pallet storage. This addition will standardize storage
practices at facilities that store substantial amounts of
pallets in the City. This change was previously adopted
and included in ordinance 1217.
105.6.50
Climatic, Geological,
Currently, some activities or operations occur at
Topographical
locations that increase the potential for loss of life or
property. This permit addresses these activities and
operations by regulating safer practices at facilities in
the City. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
105.7.19
Administrative,
Currently, this permit is not listed in the CFC. The
Climatic, Geological,
addition of this construction permit will standardize
Topographical
the installation of high -piled combustible storage in
racks along with the requirement of providing a floor
plan. The addition of this requirement will direct safer
storage within buildings and facilities. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
105.8
Administrative
The permittee and/or its agents shall be held
responsible to ensure its work complies with the code
and with other regulations or laws adopted by the State
- 9 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
and this responsibility should not be shifted in any way
to the City or its employees. This.change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.6
Administrative
This amendment provides the Fire Department with
administrative provisions for the establishment and
review of fees for services. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.7
Administrative
Certain business operations create additional potential
hazards at the workplace. These hazards are regulated
by the fire code, and may require a specialized
inspection. The City Council shall set forth the permit
fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient funds
are collected for services provided. The City should
have the ability to collect for this additional work. This
change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
113.8
Administrative
The City Council shall set forth the permit and plan
review fees by resolution in order to ensure sufficient
funds are collected for services provided. From time
to time permittees call for an inspection when the work
has not been completed or is not performed in
conformance with the plans causing the City to re-
inspect the work. The City should have the ability to
collect for this additional work. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
113.9
Administrative
From time to time permittees call for an inspection
when the work has not been completed or is not
performed in conformance with the plans causing the
City to re -inspect the work. The City should have the
ability to collect for this additional work. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
114
Administrative,
The owner, occupant and/or its agents shall be held
Climatic, Geological,
responsible to ensure that safety and preventative
Topographical
measures are provided for employees, visitors, and
emergency responders by maintaining fire prevention
within its buildings, facilities, storage and processes.
If the owner or occupant does not comply with the
established codes and regulations, fees and/or penalties
can be imposed. The City should have the ability to
recover the costs of these expenses from the
violator(s). This change was previously adopted and
included in ordinance 1217.
202
Administrative
Definitions for fire chief and fire code official are
imprecise. These modifications are specific to Vernon
Fire Department. The definitions for awning, false
- 10 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
alarm, fire safety officer and safety container were not
included in section 2 of the CFC and are referenced in
the adoptions, so by including them, the terms are
identified. This change was previously adopted and
included in Ordinance 1217.
304.1.1.1
Administrative,
Unregulated installations of solar photovoltaic
Climatic, Geological,
systems, garden, and landscaping located on the roofs
Topographical
of buildings can create conditions which severely
hinder firefighting ventilation operations. Firefighting
ventilation allows the escape of heat, smoke, and gases
from the interior compartments of a building, reduces
the chances of flashover condition, and greatly helps
restore and maintain a tenable interior environment in
a building during a fire.
In many firefighting situations, roof top vertical
ventilation is the only form of ventilation that can be
employed to meet the need to quickly and effectively
ventilate a building's interior. Rapid ventilation is
often a critical element in allowing firefighters to enter
a burning building to search for and rescue occupants,
control the spread of fire, and create a tenable
environment to extend the time a person could survive
within a burning building.
In order to traverse a roof to place an effective
ventilation opening near a fire, it is required that
firefighters have access to the roof surface of a
building. Firefighters utilize techniques including
"sounding" roofs with tools such as a rubbish hook,
cutting small inspection holes with power saws in
roofs to check for extension, and by using infrared
cameras to check for heat concentrations on the
surface of a roof. Installing roof obstructions without
regard for firefighting ventilation operations may
prevent firefighters from safely traveling along strong
underlying roof structural members. Installing layers
of waterproofing, building material, soil, and
vegetation to the surface of a roof will very likely
delay or preclude firefighting roof top ventilation
operations unless consideration for ventilation
operations were incorporated into the layout design of
the roof obstruction. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
311.2.2
Climatic, Geological,
Vacant premises that have fire protection systems
Topographical
installed must be required to maintain the systems to
function in case of a fire. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
312.2
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
trucks, tractor -trailers, and heavy equipment moving
on public and private roadways and property.
Occasionally large vehicles strike protective guard
posts bending, breaking and pushing them against fire
protection equipment, hazardous materials containers,
and other specialized appliances the posts are designed
to protect. This code modification increases the
requirements of the guard posts, thus providing better
protection of the equipment. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.3
Climatic, Geological,
Large amounts of loose wood products are a fire
Topographical
hazard. This addition will standardize storage
practices at facilities that store substantial amounts of
pallets in the City, and provide the fire department
avenues to access the product piles if a fire occurs.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4
Climatic, Geological,
Significant volume pallet storage increases the
Topographical
potential for loss due to the increased fire load.
Keeping pallet stacks organized and orderly will assist
in limiting the potential for pallets falling over and
restricting fire spread. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4.1
Climatic, Geological,
Combustible rubbish tends to accumulate around pallet
Topographical
stacks. These light fuels allow combustion to occur
more readily if not cleaned up. Large amounts of
pallet materials add to the fire hazard. This addition
will standardize storage practices at facilities that
stockpile substantial amounts of pallets in the City, and
provide the fire department avenues to access the
product piles if a fire occurs. This change was
reviously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
315.4.4.2
Climatic, Geological,
Climatic, geologic, and topographic events or
Topographical
conditions may cause pallets to fall onto a
structure/awing potentially causing serious injury or
death & extensive property damage. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
503.2.1
Administrative,
The Fire Department emergency vehicles are very
Topographical
large and difficult to maneuver when restrictions are
placed on them during incidents. Additionally, some
vehicles have outrigger supports that extend the
footprint of the vehicle beyond the prescribed access
road dimensions in the current fire code. This code
modification increases the requirements of the fire
apparatus access roads, thus providing sufficient space
- 12 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
for movement and placement of emergency equipment.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
505.1
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
industrial building which may be set back from the
public right-of-way, also with large trucks, tractor -
trailers and heavy equipment moving on public and
private roadways and on property. The increase in the
address numbers will provide better visibility for
emergency response. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
507.5
Administrative,
The City of Vernon has established standards for the
Climatic, Geological,
spacing of fire hydrants. This change was previously
Topographical
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
507.5.5
Administrative,
The City of Vernon has established standards for
Climatic, Geological,
regulating the clear space around fire hydrants. This
Topographical
spacing standard assists in providing fire department
apparatus direct access to fire hydrants. This change
was previously adopted and included in Ordinance
1217.
901.4.7
Administrative,
The City of Vernon is an industrial city, with large
Topographical
trucks, tractor -trailers, and heavy equipment moving
on public and private roadways and property.
Occasionally large vehicles strike protective guard
posts bending, breaking and pushing them against fire
protection equipment, hazardous materials containers,
and other specialized appliances the posts are designed
to protect. This code modification increases the
requirements of the guard posts, thus providing better
protection of the equipment. This change was
previously adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
2404.2
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to include regulations for
Topographical
spray finishing operations that may occur outside. This
change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
5601.1
Climatic, Geological,
Allowing explosive materials in or near densely
Topographical
positioned structures along with a sizeable general
population creates an untenable potential for the City
and its business activities. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
5604.2.9.6.1
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to address storage and the
Topographical
separation from schools, and to define the volume of
product stored. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
6101.4
Climatic, Geological,
Inside storage or use of LP -gas creates problems that
Topographical
can compromise workplace safety and potentially
- 13 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
cause or add to the danger of fire department personnel
fighting fires. LP -gas cylinders have been struck,
fallen over and been damaged, leaked and rocketed
around, and exploded when exposed to heat and fire.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
6103.2.2.1
Climatic, Geological,
Inside storage or use of LP -gas creates problems that
Topographical
can compromise workplace safety and potentially
cause or add to the danger of fire department personnel
fighting fires. LP -gas cylinders have been struck,
fallen over and been damaged, leaked and rocketed
around, and exploded when exposed to heat and fire.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
6104.1
Climatic, Geological,
This code was amended to address storage and the
Topographical
separation from schools, and to define the volume of
product stored. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
6104.3.3
Climatic, Geological,
Improperly positioned containers of pressurized
Topographical
flammable gas pose a significant fire and safety hazard
to facilities, employees, and emergency responders.
This change was previously adopted and included in
Ordinance 1217.
Table B 105.2 of
Administrative,
Appendix B of the California Fire Code provides fire
Appendix B
Topographical
flow requirements for buildings. The City of Vernon as
an industrial city, density of buildings and narrow
streets, the modification of the code increases the fire
flow requirements, thus providing, better protection for
an industrial city, therefore it is recommended that
Table B 105.2 of Appendix B of the California Fire
Code be amended.
Appendix C
Administrative
Appendix C of the California Fire Code provides
requirements for the locations and distribution of fire
hydrants. The City of Vernon currently establishes
standards for Fire Hydrant Location and Distribution.
The requirements within the Fire Code would conflict
with the City's requirements; therefore it is
recommended that Appendix C of the California Fire
Code be deleted. This change was previously adopted
and included in Ordinance 1217.
D 103.1
Administrative
Appendix D of the California Fire Code provides
requirements for fire apparatus access roads. Previous
City Codes have been amended to establish City
regulations for Fire Access Road Turnarounds. The
requirements within the Fire Code would conflict with
the City's requirements; therefore it is recommended
- 14 -
Fire Code Section
Justification
Rationale
that Section D103.1 of Appendix D of the California
Fire Code be amended to be in accordance with the
City of Vernon standard. This change was previously
adopted and included in Ordinance 1217.
Amendments to the 2016 Editions of the California Building, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Existing
Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, and Energy Codes, and the 2006 ICC Electrical Code
Administrative Provisions and the 2016 International Existing Building Code, are found reasonably
necessary based on the climatic, geological and/or topographical conditions cited above and for
administrative clarification are listed as follows:
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
105.8
Administrative
Rationale — Section 105.8 establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
110.7
Administrative
Rationale — This section permits the City to charge a
reinspection fees for specific instances where the permittee
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created
the need for an additional site inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
111.1
Climatic,
Rationale — Many buildings within the City are left in unsafe
Geological,
condition when they are vacated by the prior tenant. In order
Topographical
to ensure the safety of the next occupant the City must
inspect the building to determine if is safe to occupy in its
current condition or if illegal work has been performed that
must be properly permitted. In addition due to the
uniqueness of business that operate in Vernon the City must
ensure that the structure complies with the requirements of
the code for the proposed occupancy. This may include
proper number of plumbing fixtures, appropriate storage
heights, proper fire systems and appropriate facilities to store
- 15 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
or utilize hazardous materials. Because of these factors the
City requires each new occupant to obtain a certificate of
occupancy for its specific use.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
1505.1
Climatic
Rationale — Section 1505.1 is amended to allow only certain
classes of roofs to be installed to the City. Due the tight
spacing of large industrial buildings it appropriate that only
roofs with fire resistive properties be installed in the city to
reduce the potential of the spread of fire in a wind storm.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
1507.3.1
Geological
Rationale - Section 1507.3.1 is amended to require concrete
and clay tiles to be installed only over solid structural
sheathing boards. The change is necessary because there
were numerous observations of tile roofs pulling away from
wood framed buildings following the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. The SEAOSC/LA City Post Northridge
Earthquake committee findings indicated significant
problems with tile roofs was due to inadequate design and/or
construction. Therefore, the amendment is needed to
minimize such occurrences in the event of future significant
earthquakes.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.2
Geological
Rationale - The inclusion of the importance factor in this
equation has the unintended consequence of reducing the
minimum seismic separation distance for important facilities
such as hospitals, schools, police and fire stations from
adjoining structures. The proposal to omit the importance
- 16 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
factor from Equation 12.12-1 will ensure that a safe seismic
separation distance is provided. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.3
Geological
Rationale - Observed damages to one and two family
dwellings of light frame construction after the Northridge
Earthquake may have been partially attributed to vertical
irregularities common to this type of occupancy and
construction. In an effort to improve quality of construction
and incorporate lesson learned from studies after the
Northridge Earthquake, the proposed modification to ASCE
7-10 Section 12.2.3.1 Exception 3 by limiting the number
of stories and height of the structure to two stories will
significantly minimize the impact of vertical irregularities
and concentration of inelastic behavior from mixed
structural systems. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous
loss of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.4
Geological
Rationale — A joint Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC), Los Angeles County and
Los Angeles City Task Force investigated the performance
of concrete and masonry construction with flexible wood
diaphragm failures after the Northridge earthquake. It was
concluded at that time that continuous ties are needed at
specified spacing to control cross grain tension in the
interior of the diaphragm. Additionally, there was a need to
limit subdiaphragm allowable shear loads to control
combined orthogonal stresses within the diaphragm.
Recognizing the importance and need to continue the
recommendation made by the task force while taking into
consideration the improve performances and standards for
diaphragm construction today, this proposal increases the
continuous tie spacing limit to 40 ft in lieu of 25 ft and to
use 75% of the allowable code diaphragm shear to
determine the depth of the subdiaphragm in lieu of the 300
plf and is deemed appropriate and acceptable. Due to the
frequency of this type of failure during the past significant
earthquakes, various jurisdictions within the Los Angeles
- 17 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
region have taken this additional step to prevent roof or
floor diaphragms from pulling away from concrete or
masonry walls. This proposed amendment is a continuation
of an amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.5.5
Geological
Rationale — Amendment in the California Building Code is
made to be consistent with ASCE 7-16 and is further
amended herein to be consistent with ASCE 7-16
Supplement 1. The modification is necessary to avoid
misinterpretation on the intent of the five story limit for
which the SDs cap is applicable where there is flexible
structure above a rigid podium base. The addition of "grade
plane" clarifies the intent that the base is measured from the
lowest structure in those instances where there is a vertical
combination of two systems. Many of such combinations of
systems will not satisfy exclusion 1, in which the structure
must meet the definition of "regular" based on ASCE 7
Section 12.3.2. This modification provides safe design
requirements in the selection of building period to calculate
seismic base shear in building design accounting for
dynamic story mass distribution throughout the inelastic
range of ground motion. This amendment does not prevent
designing of five levels of light frame wood construction on
top of a concrete podium by using the calculated SDs
without the 70% cap.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1613.8
Geological
Rationale - The California Building Code has little to no
information regarding the safe design and construction
requirements for ceiling suspension systems subject to
seismic loads. It is through the experience of prior
earthquakes, such as the Northridge Earthquake, that this
amendment is proposed so as to minimize the amount of
bodily and building damage within the spaces in which this
type of ceiling will be installed. This proposed amendment
complements ASCE 7-10 Chapter 13 Section 13.5.6.2.2 and
the cited reference to ASTM E580. The amended
requirements retained herein are a continuation of portions
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
of an amendment adopted during the previous code
adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1704.6
Geological
Rationale — The language in Section 1704.6 of the
California Building Code permits the owner to employ any
registered design professional to perform structural
observations with minimum guideline. However, it is
important to recognize that the registered design
professional responsible for the structural design has
thorough knowledge of the building he/she designed. By
requiring the registered design professional responsible for
the structural design or their designee who were involved
with the design to observe the construction, the quality of
the observation for major structural elements and
connections that affect the vertical and lateral load resisting
systems of the structure will greatly be increased.
Additional requirements are provided to help clarify the
role and duties of the structural observer and the method of
reporting and correcting observed deficiencies to the
building official. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1704.6.1
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, the language in
Section 1704.6.1 of the California Building Code would
permit many low-rise buildings and structures with
complex structural elements to be constructed without the
benefit of a structural observation. By requiring a registered
design professional to observe the construction, the quality
of the observation for major structural elements and
connections that affect the vertical and lateral load resisting
systems of the structure will greatly be increased. An
exception is provided to permit simple structures and
buildings to be excluded. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1705.3
Geological
Rationale — Results from studies after the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake indicated that a lot of the damage was attributed
to a lack of quality control during construction resulting in
poor performance of the building or structure. Therefore,
the proposed amendment requires special inspection for
concrete with a compressive strength greater than 2,500
pounds per square inch. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1705.12
Geological
Rationale - In Southern California, very few detached one -
or two-family dwellings not exceeding two stories above
grade plane are built as "box -type" structures, especially
those in hillside areas and near the oceanfront. Many steel
moment frames or braced frames and/or cantilevered
columns within buildings can still be shown as "regular"
structures by calculations. With the higher seismic demand
placed on buildings and structures in this region, the
language in Section 1705.12 Exception 3 of the California
Building Code would permit many detached one- or two-
family dwellings not exceeding two stories above grade
plane with complex structural elements to be constructed
without the benefit of special inspections. By requiring
special inspections, the quality of major structural elements
and connections that affect the vertical and lateral load
resisting systems of the structure will greatly be increased.
The exception should only be allowed for detached one- or
two-family dwellings not exceeding two stories above
grade plane assigned to Seismic Design category A, B and
C.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1807.1.4
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to
Geological
show that wood foundation systems are effective in
supporting buildings and structures during a seismic event
while being subject to deterioration caused by the combined
- 20 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
detrimental effects of constant moisture in the soil and
wood -destroying organisms. Wood foundation systems not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
performed very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most
contractors are typically accustomed to construction in dry
and temperate weather in the Southern California region
and are not generally familiar with the necessary
precautions and treatment of wood that makes it suitable for
both seismic events and wet applications. The proposed
amendment takes the precautionary steps to reduce or
eliminate potential problems that may result in using wood
foundation systems that experience relatively rapid decay
due to the fact that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth
and proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1807.1.6
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is deemed necessary
to take precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result by following prescriptive design
provisions that does not take into consideration the
surrounding environment. Plain concrete performs poorly in
withstanding the cyclic forces resulting from seismic events.
In addition, no substantiating data has been provided to show
that under -reinforced foundation walls are effective in
resisting seismic loads and may potentially lead to a higher
risk of failure. It is important that the benefit and expertise of
a registered design professional be obtained to properly
analyze the structure and take these issues into consideration.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.3
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
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Building Code Local Condition Explanation and Findings
Section
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result for under reinforced footings located on sloped
surfaces. Requiring minimum reinforcement for stepped
footings is intended to address the problem of poor
performance of plain or under -reinforced footings during a
seismic event. This proposed amendment is a continuation of
an amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.7 and Table
Geological
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
1809.7
that under -reinforced footings are effective in resisting
seismic loads and may potentially lead to a higher risk of
failure. Therefore, this proposed amendment requires
minimum reinforcement in continuous footings to address
the problem of poor performance of plain or under -
reinforced footings during a seismic event. With the higher
seismic demand placed on buildings and structures in this
region, precautionary steps are proposed to reduce or
eliminate potential problems that may result by following
prescriptive design provisions for footing that does not take
into consideration the surrounding environment. It was
important that the benefit and expertise of a registered design
professional be obtained to properly analyze the structure
and take these issues into consideration. This amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1809.12
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that timber footings are effective in supporting buildings and
structures during a seismic event, especially while being
subjected to deterioration caused by the combined
detrimental effects of moisture in the soil and wood -
destroying organisms. Timber footings, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
- 22 -
Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
performed very poorly. Most contractors are typically
accustomed to construction in dry and temperate weather in
the Southern California region and are not generally familiar
with the necessary precautions and treatment of wood that
makes it suitable for both seismic event and wet applications.
The proposed amendment takes the precautionary steps to
reduce or eliminate potential problems that may result by
using timber footings that experience relatively rapid decay
due to the face that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth and
proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1810.3.2.4
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that timber deep foundation is effective in supporting
buildings and structures during a seismic event while being
subject to deterioration caused by the combined detrimental
effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Timber deep foundation, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, has
performed very poorly. Most contractors are typically
accustomed to construction in dry and temperate weather in
the Southern California region and are not generally familiar
with the necessary precautions and treatment of wood that
makes it suitable for both seismic event and wet applications.
The proposed amendment takes the precautionary steps to
reduce or eliminate potential problems that may result by
using timber deep foundation that experience relatively rapid
decay due to the face that the region does not experience
temperatures cold enough to destroy or retard the growth and
proliferation of wood -destroying organisms. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
- 23 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
1905.1.7
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment requires minimum
reinforcement in continuous footings to address the
problem of poor performance of plain or under -reinforced
footings during a seismic event. This amendment reflects
the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
1905.1 and 1905.1.9
Geological
Rationale — This amendment is intended to carry over critical
thru 1905.1.11
provisions for the design of concrete columns in moment
frames from the legacy 1997 Uniform Building Code.
Increased confinement is critical to the integrity of such
columns and these modifications ensure that it is provided
when certain thresholds are exceeded.
In addition, this amendment carries over from the legacy
1997 Uniform Building Code a critical provision for the
design of concrete shear walls. It essentially limits the use of
very highly gravity -loaded walls in being included in the
seismic load resisting system, since their failure could have
catastrophic effect on the building.
Furthermore, this amendment was incorporated in the code
based on observations from the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.
Rebar placed in very thin concrete topping slabs have been
observed in some instances to have popped out of the slab
due to insufficient concrete coverage. This modification
ensures that critical boundary and collector rebars are placed
in sufficiently thick topping slab to prevent buckling of such
reinforcements.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
- 24 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings — The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2304.10.1
Geological
Rationale - Due to the high geologic activities in the
Southern California area and the expected higher level of
performance on buildings and structures, this proposed local
amendment limit the use of staple fasteners in resisting or
transferring seismic forces. In September 2007, limited
cyclic testing data was provided to the ICC Los Angeles
Chapter Structural Code Committee showing that stapled
wood structural shear panels do not exhibit the same
behavior as the nailed wood structural shear panels. The test
results of the stapled wood structural shear panels appeared
much lower in strength and drift than the nailed wood
structural shear panel test results. Therefore, the use of
staples as fasteners to resist or transfer seismic forces shall
not be permitted without being substantiated by cyclic
testing. This proposed amendment is a continuation of a
similar amendment adopted during previous code adoption
cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2304.12.5
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood used in retaining or crib walls are effective in
supporting buildings and structures during a seismic event
while being subject to deterioration caused by the combined
detrimental effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -
destroying organisms. Wood used in retaining or crib walls,
when they are not properly treated and protected against
deterioration, have performed very poorly. Most contractors
are typically accustomed to construction in dry and
temperate weather in the Southern California region and are
not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result by using wood in retaining or crib
walls that experience relatively rapid decay due to the face
that the region does not experience temperatures cold enough
to destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles.
- 25 -
Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Due to the high geologic activities in the Southern California
area and the expected higher level of performance on
buildings and structures, this proposed local amendment
limit the use of staple fasteners in resisting or transferring
seismic forces. In September 2007, limited cyclic testing data
was provided to the ICC Los Angeles Chapter Structural
Code Committee showing that stapled wood structural shear
panels do not exhibit the same behavior as the nailed wood
structural shear panels. The test results of the stapled wood
structural shear panels appeared much lower in strength and
drift than the nailed wood structural shear panel test results.
Therefore, the use of staples as fasteners to resist or transfer
seismic forces shall not be permitted without being
substantiated by cyclic testing. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of a similar amendment adopted during
previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
2305.4
Geological
Rationale - The overdriving of nails into the structural wood
panel still remains a concern when pneumatic nail guns are
used for wood structural panel shear wall nailing. Box nails
were observed to cause massive and multiple failures of the
typical 3/8-inch thick plywood during the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. The use of clipped head nails as allowed in
Table Al of AFPA SDPWS footnote referencing to ASTM
F 1667, continues to be restricted from being used in wood
structural panel shear walls where the minimum nail head
size must be maintained in order to minimize nails from
pulling through sheathing materials. Clipped or
mechanically driven nails used in wood structural panel
shear wall construction were found to perform much less in
previous wood structural panel shear wall testing done at the
University of California Irvine. The existing test results
indicated that, under cyclic loading, the wood structural
panel shear walls were less energy absorbent and less ductile.
The panels reached ultimate load capacity and failed at
substantially less lateral deflection than those using same
size hand -driven nails. This amendment reflects the
- 26 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
recommendations by the Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the poor performance
observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2305.5
Geological
Rationale - ICC-ES AC 155 Acceptance Criteria for Hold-
downs (Tie -Downs) Attached to Wood Members is widely
used to establish allowable values for hold-down
connectors in evaluation reports. AC 155 uses monotonic
loading to establish allowable values. Yet, cyclic and
dynamic forces imparted on buildings and structures by
seismic activity cause more damage than equivalent forces
that are applied in a monotonic manner. However, the
engineering, regulatory and manufacturing industries have
not reached consensus on the appropriate cyclic or dynamic
testing protocols. This condition is expected to continue for
some time. In the interim, this proposed amendment
continues to limit the allowable capacity to 75% of the
evaluation report value to provide an additional factor of
safety for statically tested anchorage devices. Steel plate
washers will reduce the additional damage that can result
when hold-down connectors are fastened to wood framing
members. This amendment reflects the recommendations
by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern
California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task
Force that investigated the poor performance observed in
1994 Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is
a continuation of an amendment adopted during previous
code adoption cycles with additional editorial revisions for
clarification.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2306.2
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
- 27 -
Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category D, E and F unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2306.3
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
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Building Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with stapled nails
are based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with stapled nails would exhibit the same
behavior as the wood structural panels fastened with
common nails. The test result revealed that wood structural
panel fastened with stapled nails appeared to be much lower
in strength and stiffness than wood structural panels fastened
with common nails. It was recommended that the use of
stapled nail as fasteners for wood structural panel shear walls
or diaphragms not be permitted to resist seismic forces in
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E and F
unless it can be substantiated by cyclic testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2307.2
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
- 29 -
Building Code [ Local Condition I Explanation and Findings
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with stapled nails
are based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with stapled nails would exhibit the same
behavior as the wood structural panels fastened with
common nails. The test result revealed that wood structural
panel fastened with stapled nails appeared to be much lower
in strength and stiffness than wood structural panels fastened
with common nails. It was recommended that the use of
stapled nail as fasteners for wood structural panel shear walls
or diaphragms not be permitted to resist seismic forces in
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E and F
unless it can be substantiated by cyclic -testing.
Furthermore, the cities and county within the Los Angeles
region has taken extra measures to maintain the structural
integrity of the framing of shear walls and diaphragms
designed for high levels of seismic forces by requiring wood
sheathing be applied directly over the framing members and
prohibiting the use of panels placed over gypsum sheathing.
This proposed amendment is intended to prevent the
undesirable performance of nails when gypsum board
softens due to cyclic earthquake displacements and the nail
ultimately does not have any engagement in a solid material
within the thickness of the gypsum board.
This proposed amendment continues the previous
amendment adopted during the 2013 code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
- 30 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Table 2308.6.1
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment specifies minimum
sheathing thickness and nail size and spacing so as to
provide a uniform standard of construction for designers
and buildings to follow. This is intended to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands placed on buildings
or structure in this region. This proposed amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.5 and Figure
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick, 3 ply -plywood shear walls
2308.6.5.1
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail size
and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.5.2 and
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick, 3 ply -plywood shear walls
Figure 2308.6.5.2
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail size
and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
- 31 -
Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.8.1
Geological
Rationale — With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, interior walls can
easily be called upon to resist over half of the seismic
loading imposed on simple buildings or structures. Without
a continuous foundation to support the braced wall line,
seismic loads would be transferred through other elements
such as non-structural concrete slab floors, wood floors, etc.
The proposed change is to limit the use of the exception to
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C
where lower seismic demands are expected. Requiring
interior braced walls be supported by continuous
foundations is intended to reduce or eliminate the poor
performance of buildings or structures. This proposed
amendment is a continuation of an amendment adopted
during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
2308.6.9
Geological
Rationale - This proposed amendment is intended to improve
the performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands placed on buildings or
structure in this region. This proposed amendment reflects
the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
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Building Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
2609
Climatic
Rationale - Light transmitting roof panel are dangerous to
fire fighters. Given the large size of buildings in Vernon,
smoke from a fire during windstorm event may mask the
location of these roof panels that may have been weaken by
a fire causing them to collapse if they were to be stepped on.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
2610.9
Climatic
Rationale - Skylights can be dangerous to fire fighters.
Given the large size of buildings in Vernon, smoke from a
fire during windstorm event may mask the location of
skylights that may have been weaken by a fire causing them
to collapse if they were to be stepped on. Therefore the
proposed amendment provides additional protections to
resolve these concerns
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another.
J101
Administrative
Rationale - This proposed amendment sets forth
administrative provisions for the issuance of grading permits
and provides safeguards for neighboring properties and the
public. It also establishes that all grading permits must also
comply with the provisions of Chapter 21 of the City code.
Chapter 21 set forth the NPDES provisions that must be met
in order to comply with the City's MS4 permit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standard
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Electrical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
110.14(A)
Climatic,
Rationale — Aluminum conductors expand and contract with
Geological,
heat. In order to ensure that proper connections are
Topographical
maintained for the life of the service compression terminals
are required.
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Electrical Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon, increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
200.6
Climatic,
Rationale — Ground wiring coloring should be consistent to
Geological,
avoid confusion, potential hazards and permits electricians
Topographical
to easily recognize what type of system they are working on.
The color coding that is being amended is consistent with
industry standards.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
230.22
Climatic,
Rationale — The amendment increase's the physical integrity
Geological,
of the service entry greatly reducing the potential of a fire
Topographical
hazard from exposed cable.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
- 34 -
Electrical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
334.10(3), (4) and
Climatic,
Rationale — Romex is a substandard wiring method in
(5)
Geological,
commercial/industrial setting. The unprotected cable can
Topographical
easily be damaged creating a fire hazard. Therefore it should
only be permitted in dwelling occupancies.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase the
likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city;
The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow access to
buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon could
potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
2006 ICC Electrical
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
303.1
Administrative
Rationale - Many buildings within the City are left in unsafe
condition when they are vacated by the prior tenant. In order
to ensure the safety of the next occupant the City must
inspect the building to determine if is safe to occupy in its
current condition or if illegal work has been performed that
must be properly permitted. In addition due to the
uniqueness of business that operate in Vernon the City must
ensure that the structure complies with the requirements of
the code for the proposed occupancy. This may include
proper number of plumbing fixtures, appropriate storage
heights, proper fire systems and appropriate facilities to store
or utilize hazardous materials. Because of these factors the
City requires each new occupant to obtain a certificate of
occupancy for its specific use.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
- 35 -
2006 ICC Electrical
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.7
Administrative
Rationale — In order to ensure that the service connection has
sufficient power to supply to building and to avoid the
creation of hazardous condition, by overloading the service
entrance connection or transformer it is necessary for the
applicant to inform the utility of any load increase in load.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
402.8
Administrative
Rationale — In order to ensure that the electrical equipment
is safe to operate it should be inspected to ensure
conformance with the code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
404.2
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule based on
the actual cost of service.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1102
Administrative
Rationale — The City Council should establish the criteria for
members of the board of appeals and the terms of the
- 36 -
2006 ICC Electrical
Code
Administrative
Provisions Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
members. Therefore this conflicting section of the code
should be removed.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1201.3
Administrative
Rationale — The City believes that it is necessary that it
approves the testing agency to ensure that it is competent in
its workmanship and methodology.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Mechanical Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
104.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 114.1
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule based on
the actual cost of service.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
- 37 -
Plumbing Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
104.6
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 104.5
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its
own based on the actual cost of service.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Table 422.1
Administrative
Rationale— This amendment bases the number of plumbing
fixtures required to be installed within a building should be
based on the actual amount of individuals occupying the
building rather than the total area occupied by a certain type
of use. The will ensure that a sufficient number toilets and
lavatories are provided to ensure a sanitary environment.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
1101.2
Administrative
Rationale — The City of Vernon is subject to a municipal
NPDES permit issued by the Los Angeles Regional Water
quality,, control board. This MS4 permit requires certain to
establish certain requirements on storm water runoff. The
City has adopted these requirements in Chapter 21 of the
City code. This amendment requires storm water runoff
from the site to comply with the requirements of Chapter 21
of the City Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
- 38 -
Plumbing Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
2015 International
Existing Building
Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
202
Administrative
Rationale — This amendment makes it clear that the City
utilizes the Construction Codes as adopted by the State of
California as its Buildings Codes, not the International Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Appendix A Chapter
Administrative
Rationale — This amendment utilizes Chapter Al as adopted
Al
by the State of California as the design criteria for
Unreinforced Masonry Buildings rather than the provision
contained in the International Existing Building Code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
R105.8
Administrative
Rationale — This provision establishes the responsibilities of
the permittee ensuring that the work is carried out in
accordance with the approved plans, the code and any other
law or regulation.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
R108.7
Administrative
Rationale — This section permits the City to charge a
reins ection fees for specific instances where the permittee
- 39 -
Residential Code I Local Condition I Explanation and Findings
Section
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created
the need for an additional site inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the
California Health and Safety Code. This amendment
establishes administrative standards for the effective
enforcement of building standards.
R301.1.3.2
Geological
Rationale — After the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, the
Wood Frame Construction Joint Task Force recommended
that the quality of wood frame construction need to be
greatly improved. One such recommendation identified by
the Task Force is to improve the quality and organization of
structural plans prepared by the engineer or architect so that
plan examiners, building inspectors, contractors and special
inspectors may logically follow and construct the
presentation of the seismic force -resisting systems in the
construction documents. For buildings or structures located
in Seismic Design Category Do, Di, D2 or E that are subject
to a greater level of seismic forces, the requirement to have
a California licensed architect or engineer prepare the
construction documents is intended to minimize or reduce
structural deficiencies that may cause excessive damage or
injuries in wood frame buildings. Structural deficiencies
such as plan and vertical irregularities, improper shear
transfer of the seismic force -resisting system, missed details
or connections important to the structural system, and the
improper application of the prescriptive requirements of the
California Residential Code can be readily addressed by a
registered design professional.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R301.1.4
Topographical,
Rationale - Due to the difficulty of fire suppression vehicles
Geological
accessing winding and narrow hillside properties and the
probabilities for future earthquakes in the Los Angeles
region, this technical amendment is required to address the
special needs for buildings constructed on hillside locations.
A joint Structural Engineers Association of Southern
California (SEAOSC) and both the Los Angeles County and
Los Angeles City Task Force investigated the performance
of hillside building failures after the Northridge earthquake.
Numerous hillside failures resulted in loss of life and
- 40 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
millions of dollars in damage. These criteria were developed
to minimize the damage to these structures and have been in
use by both the City and County of Los Angeles for several
years with much success. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles.
Findings - The density of buildings, limited setbacks, narrow
access to buildings and narrow streets in the City of Vernon
could potentially impact governmental agencies response to
emergency conditions.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
Items 1, 3 and 5 of
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
Section R301.2.2.2.5
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result by limiting the type of irregular conditions
specified in the International Residential Code. Such
limitations are intended to reduce the potential structural
damage expected in the event of an earthquake. The cities
and county of the Los Angeles region has taken extra
measures to maintain the structural integrity of the framing
of the shear walls and all associated elements when designed
for high levels of seismic loads.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R301.2.2.3.8
Geological
Rationale - There is no limitation for weight of mechanical
and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the International
Residential Code. Requirements from ASCE 7 and the
International Building Code would permit equipment
weighing up to 400 lbs. when mounted at 4 feet or less
above the floor or attic level without engineering design.
Where equipment exceeds this requirement, it is the intent
of this proposed amendment that a registered design
professional be required to analyze if the floor support is
adequate and structurally sound.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R401.1
Climatic,
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood foundation is effective in supporting buildings and
structures during a seismic event while being subject to
- 41 -
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
deterioration caused by the combined detrimental effect of
constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Wood foundation, when they are not properly
treated and protected against deterioration, have performed
very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most contractors
are typically accustomed to construction in dry and
temperate weather in the Southern California region and are
not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result in using wood foundation that
experience relatively rapid decay due to the fact that the
region does not experience temperatures cold enough to
destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. However, an exception is made for
non -occupied, single -story storage structures that pose
significantly less risk to human safety and may utilize the
wood foundation guidelines specified in this Chapter.. This
proposed amendment is a continuation of an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles for the
California Residential Code.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
R403.1.2,
Geological
Rationale - With the higher seismic demand placed on
R403.1.3.6 and
buildings and structures in this region, precautionary steps
R403.1.5
are proposed to reduce or eliminate potential problems that
may result for under -reinforced footings located on sloped
surfaces. Requiring minimum reinforcement for stepped
footings is intended to address the problem of poor
performance of plain or under -reinforced footings during a
seismic event. Furthermore, interior walls can easily be
called upon to resist over half of the seismic loading imposed
on simple buildings or structures. Without a continuous
foundation to support the braced wall line, seismic loads
would be transferred through other elements such as non-
structural concrete slab floors, wood floors, etc. The
proposed change is to limit the use of the exception to
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C
- 42 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
where lower seismic demands are expected. Requiring
interior braced walls be supported by continuous
foundations is intended to reduce or eliminate the poor
performance of buildings or structures. This proposed
amendment is consistent with an amendment adopted during
previous code adoption cycles for the California Residential
Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R404.2
Climatic and
Rationale - No substantiating data has been provided to show
Geological
that wood foundation wall is effective in supporting
buildings and structures during a seismic event while being
subject to deterioration caused by the combined detrimental
effect of constant moisture in the soil and wood -destroying
organisms. Wood foundation walls, when they are not
properly treated and protected against deterioration, have
performed very poorly and have led to slope failures. Most
contractors are typically accustomed to construction in dry
and temperate weather in the Southern California region and
are not generally familiar with the necessary precautions and
treatment of wood that makes it suitable for both seismic
event and wet applications. The proposed amendment takes
the precautionary steps to reduce or eliminate potential
problems that may result in using wood foundation walls that
experience relatively rapid decay due to the fact that the
region does not experience temperatures cold enough to
destroy or retard the growth and proliferation of wood -
destroying organisms. This proposed amendment is
consistent with an amendment adopted during previous code
adoption cycles for the California Residential Code.
Findings - Adverse climatic conditions and strong winds
such as those in existence in the City of Vernon increase
the likelihood of fire spreading (conflagration) from one
building to another;
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
R501.1
Geological
Rationale - There is no limitation for weight of mechanical
and plumbing fixtures and equipment in the International
Residential Code. Requirements from ASCE 7 and the
International Building Code would permit equipment
weighing up to 400 lbs. when mounted at 4 feet or less above
- 43 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findinjis
Section
the floor or attic level without engineering design. Where
equipment exceeds this requirement, it is the intent of this
proposed amendment that a registered design professional is
required to analyze if the floor support is adequate and
structurally sound.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R503.2.4
Geological
Rationale - Section R502.10 of the Code does not provide
any prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum floor
opening size nor does Section R503 provide any details to
address the issue of shear transfer near larger floor
openings. With the higher seismic demand placed on
buildings and structures in this region, it is important to
ensure that a complete load path is provided to reduce or
eliminate potential damages caused by seismic forces.
Requiring blocking with metal ties around larger floor
openings and limiting opening size is consistent with the
requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Lines 35 and 36 of
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Table R602.3(1)
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, Di and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
Findings - This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby location of
earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss of life and
structures in the city.
Footnote "b" of
Geological
Rationale - The Structural Engineers Association of
Table R602.3(2)
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Joint Task Force that investigated the damages to buildings
and structures during the 1994 Northridge Earthquake
recommended reducing allowable shear values in wood
structural panel shear walls or diaphragms that were not
substantiated by cyclic testing. That recommendation was
consistent with a report to the Governor from the Seismic
Safety Commission of the State of California recommending
that code requirements be "more thoroughly substantiated
with testing." The allowable shear values for wood structural
panel shear walls or diaphragms fastened with staples are
based on monotonic testing and does not take into
consideration that earthquake forces load shear wall or
diaphragm in a repeating and fully reversible manner.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, Di and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
- 45 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Finding s - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.3(3)
Geological
Rationale - Due to the high geologic activities in the
Southern California area and the expected higher level of
performance on buildings and structures, this proposed local
amendment increase the length and limits the location where
shear walls sheathed with lath, plaster or gypsum board are
used in multi -level buildings. In addition, shear walls
sheathed with other materials are prohibited in Seismic
Design Category Do, Di and D2 to be consistent with the
design limitation for similar shear walls found in the
California Building Code. The poor performance of such
shear walls in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake was
investigated by the Structural Engineers Association of
Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City
Task Force and formed the basis for this proposed
amendment. Considering that shear walls sheathed with lath,
plaster or gypsum board are less ductile than steel moment
frames or wood structural panel shear walls, the cities and
county of the Los Angeles region has taken the necessary
measures to limit the potential structural damage that may be
caused by the use of such walls at the lower level of multi-
level building that are subject to higher levels of seismic
loads. This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.4
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
Residential Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake.
In September 2007, limited cyclic testing was conducted by
a private engineering firm to determine if wood structural
panels fastened with staples would exhibit the same behavior
as the wood structural panels fastened with common nails.
The test result revealed that wood structural panel fastened
with staples appeared to be much lower in strength and
stiffness than wood structural panels fastened with common
nails. It was recommended that the use of staples as fasteners
for wood structural panel shear walls or diaphragms not be
permitted to resist seismic forces in structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category Do, Di and D2 unless it can be
substantiated by cyclic testing.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.1
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
- 47 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.2
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property, This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Table R602.10.5
Geological
Rationale - It was observed by the Structural Engineer
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Task Force that high aspect ratio shear walls
experienced many failures during the 1994 Northridge
Earthquake. This proposed amendment provides a uniform
standard of construction for designers and buildings to
follow. This is intended to improve the performance level
of buildings and structures that are subject to the higher
seismic demands and reduce and limit potential damages to
property. This proposed amendment is consistent with an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle for the California Residential Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R602.10.2.3
Geological
Rationale - Plywood shear walls with high aspect ratio
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. This proposed amendment specifies a
minimum braced wall length to meet an aspect ratio
- 48 -
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
consistent with other sections of the Residential Code as to
provide a uniform standard of construction for designers
and buildings to follow. This is intended to improve the
performance level of buildings and structures that are
subject to the higher seismic demands and reduce and limit
potential damages to property. This proposed amendment
reflects the recommendations by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and the Los
Angeles City Joint Task Force that investigated the poor
performance observed in 1994 Northridge Earthquake. This
proposed amendment is consistent with an amendment
adopted during previous code adoption cycles for the
California Residential Code.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Figure R602.10.6.4
Geological
Rationale - 3/8" thick 3 ply -plywood shear walls
experienced many failures during the Northridge
Earthquake. Box nails were observed to cause massive and
multiple failures of the typical 3/8" thick 3-ply plywood
during the Northridge Earthquake. This proposed
amendment specifies minimum sheathing thickness, nail
size and spacing so as to provide a uniform standard of
construction for designers and buildings to follow. This is
intended to improve the performance level of buildings and
structures that are subject to the higher seismic demands and
reduce and limit potential damages to property. This
proposed amendment reflects the recommendations by the
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California
(SEAOSC) and the Los Angeles City Joint Task Force that
investigated the poor performance observed in 1994
Northridge Earthquake. This proposed amendment is a
continuation of an amendment adopted during the previous
code adoption cycle.
Finding s - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R606.4.4
Geological
Rationale - The addition of the word "or" will prevent the
use of unreinforced parapets in Seismic Design Category Do,
D1 or Dz, or on townhouses in Seismic Design Category C.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R606.12.2.2.3
Geological
Rationale - Reinforcement using longitudinal wires for
buildings and structures located in high seismic areas are
deficient and not as ductile as deformed rebar. Having
vertical reinforcement closer to the ends of masonry walls
help to improve the seismic performance of masonry
buildings and structures.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R602.3.2 and Table
Geological
Rationale - The cities and county of the Los Angeles region
602.3.2
have taken extra measures to maintain the structural integrity
of the framing of the shear wall system for buildings and
structures subject to high seismic loads by eliminating single
top plate construction. The performance of modern day
braced wall panel construction is directly related to an
adequate load path extending from the roof diaphragm to the
foundation system. A single top plate is likely to be over
nailed due to the nailing requirements at a rafter, stud, top
plate splice, and braced wall panel edge in a single location.
In addition, notching on a single top plate for plumbing,
ventilation and electrical wiring may reduce the load transfer
capacity of the plate without proper detailing. Majority of
buildings and structures designed and built per the California
Residential Code with a single top plate may not need
structural observation and special inspections. The potential
construction mistakes mentioned above could not be caught
and corrected by knowledgeable engineers and inspectors,
and could jeopardize structural performance of buildings and
structures located in high seismic areas.
This proposed amendment is a continuation of an
amendment adopted during the previous code adoption
cycle.
Residential Code
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Section
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R803.2.4
Geological
Rationale - Section R802 of the Code does not provide any
prescriptive criteria to limit the maximum roof opening size
nor does Section R803 provide any details to address the
issue of shear transfer near larger roof openings. With the
higher seismic demand placed on buildings and structures
in this region, it is important to ensure that a complete load
path is provided to reduce or eliminate potential damages
caused by seismic forces. Requiring blocking with metal
ties around larger roof openings and limiting opening size
is consistent with the requirements of Section R301.2.2.2.5.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
R1001.3.1
Geological
Rationale - The performance of fireplace/chimney without
anchorage to the foundation has been observed to be
inadequate during major earthquakes. The lack of anchorage
to the foundation can result in the overturning or
displacement of the fireplace/chimney.
Findings - The City of Vernon is affected by the nearby
location of earthquake faults that can create tremendous loss
of life and structures in the city.
Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
101.12
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its
own based on the actual cost of service. This section also
permits the City to charge a reinspection fees for specific
instances where the pennittee has caused additional work for
the City inspector and created the need for an additional site
inspection.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
- 51 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
202
Administrative
Rationale — CALGreen contains the word "sustainable" but
does not define it. Although it is a term used in association
with green building, the word "sustainability" is often
confused to mean the same as green building. The proposed
amendment allows clarity and distinguishing understanding
while providing for a general definition.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
301.1
Administrative
Rationale — The proposed editorial change to the indicated
section provides clarity and consistency for the application
of the CALGreen code.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
301.1.1
Administrative
Rationale - This proposed amendment simplifies the
language and increase the scope of application that requires
- 52 -
Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
the CALGreen Code to be applied to all residential
projects. This section, as written, can only be applied to an
existing dwelling if the volume or size of the condition
space is increased and does not encompass interior
remodels. This proposed amendment modifies the State
language to require additions, alterations, and interior
remodels to comply with applicable sections of the
CALGreen Code that are relevant to the scope of work.
Studies have shown that new dwellings built equal to less
than 10% of the total housing stock in the State. Although
new dwellings have complied with the CALGreen Code,
the larger challenge is with existing dwellings.
The bulk of California's energy is generated by aging
power plants. Increasingly, the development and
application of alternate energy methods such as
photovoltaics has gained market adoption. Coupling these
new energy generation processes with energy saving
measures in the California Energy Code will allow
jurisdictions, states or the federal government to potentially
offset the need to construct new power plants, which would
equate to a savings of billions of tax -payer dollars.
Water conservation is addressed by the CALGreen Code by
implementing more restrictive requirements for landscape
irrigation and plumbing fixtures.
Indoor air quality is addressed by the CALGreen Code by
implementing multiple limits for VOC (volatile organic
compounds) in paints, sealants and construction adhesives
and formaldehyde contents in composite wood products.
These new standards that restricts VOC and formaldehyde
contents have shown to improve indoor air quality and
minimize or eliminate occupant health issues related to sick
building syndrome.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
- 53 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
5.408.3
Administrative
Rationale - On occasions, projects are proposed on sites
where the soil is contaminated and falls outside the scope of
a designated authority. The addition of Note #3 provides a
mechanism for a jurisdiction to require the removal or
remediation of contaminated soils within guidelines
established by that jurisdiction or method developed by the
applicant and approved by that jurisdiction.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.105.2
Administrative
Rationale - This section provides no guidelines for the
percentage of materials to be recycled or reused to achieve
compliance with this section. The proposed editorial
change provides a minimum percentage of material that
must be recycled or reused for the applicant to obtain
compliance.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
- 54 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.106.5. Table
Administrative
Rationale - Tables A4.106.5.1.1, A4.106.5.1.2,
A4.106.5.1(1), Table
A4.106.5.1.3 and A4.106.5.1.4 are indicating new values
A4.106.5.1(2), Table
for Cool roof rating. These new values for cool roof rating
A4.106.5.1(3) and
are higher than the standards being proposed by the
Table A4.106.5.1(4)
California Energy Commission and have been shown to be
cost-effective through studies previously conducted.
Research has shown that the greater Los Angeles region
suffers from heat island with the temperature having
increased as the region became more urban. The higher
temperatures are closely related to air pollution.
Additionally, raising temperatures increase the overall and
peak energy consumption for cooling creating additional air
pollution from the increased power production.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.303.4
Administrative
Rationale - The proposed code does not stipulate the number
of fixtures to be installed to achieve compliance. The
proposed editorial change clarifies the quantity of fixtures to
be installed to comply with this code section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
- 55 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.404.3
Administrative
Rationale - The proposed code does not stipulate the amount
of premanufactured components to be installed to achieve
compliance. The proposed editorial change clarifies the
quantity to be installed to comply with this code section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.405.1
Administrative
Rationale - The application statement allows for the
applicant to stipulate that pre -finished materials are not
possible and still achieve compliance with the requirement.
The editorial change removes the condition and requires
compliance to achieve credit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
- 56 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.405.4
Administrative
Rationale - This section provides no guidelines for the
percentage of materials to be used from rapidly renewable
sources. The proposed editorial change provides a minimum
percentage of material from a rapidly renewable source that
must be use for the applicant to obtain compliance and
receive credit.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
fmding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administraive standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A4.407.1
Administrative
Rationale — This section does not take into consideration the
requirements of other codes or ordinances. The proposed
editorial change addresses the requirements of other codes
or ordinances and eliminates an applicant ability to achieve
credit while complying with the requirement of another
code.
Findings_ - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
- 57 -
Green Building
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Standards Code
Section
A5.106.4.1
Administrative
Rationale - This section for bicycle parking only requires 5
percent of the motorized vehicle parking capacity which is
equal to mandatory requirement in section 5.106.4.1. The
editorial change to 15 percent increases the requirement
and removes an applicant's ability to obtain compliance in
two different sections.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
Table A5.106.4.3
Administrative
Rationale — This table permits an applicant to obtain credit
for installing zero changing rooms. By modifying the
requirement in the table, an applicant is required to install at
least one changing room to receive credit for this section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A5.106.6.1
Administrative
Rationale - This section does not establish a minimum
number of reduced parking spaces to achieve compliance,
only that the local authority approves the proposed
reduction. The editorial change establishes a minimum
percentage to achieve a credit for this section.
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Green Building
Standards Code
Section
Local Condition
Explanation and Findings
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
A5.406.1
Administrative
Rationale - The section does not provide any guidelines for
a quantity of materials to achieve compliance. The editorial
change establishes a minimum percentage for the different
categories located within the section.
Findings - This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification. It does not modify a Building Standards
pursuant to Sections 17958 and 18941.5 of the California
Health and Safety Code and does not require an express
finding to be made pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and
17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code. This
amendment establishes administrative standards for the
effective enforcement of green building standards and
therefore need to be incorporated into the code to assure that
new buildings and structures and additions or alterations to
existing buildings or structures are designed and constructed
in accordance with the scope and objectives of the California
Green Building Standards Code.
Energy Code
Section
Local
Condition
Explanation and Findings
100
Administrative
Rationale — The City has established a fee schedule of its own based
on the actual cost of service. This section also permits the City to
charge a reinspection fees for specific instances where the permittee
has caused additional work for the City inspector and created the
need for an additional site inspection.
Findings — This amendment is necessary for administrative
clarification and does not modify a Building Standards pursuant to
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Sections 17958, 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the California Health and
Safety Code. This amendment establishes administrative standards
for the effective enforcement of buildings standards.