Chapter 15.04
TECHNICAL BUILDING CODES
Sections:
15.04.020 Adoption of building codes by reference.
15.04.030 Amendments to the California Building Standards Codes.
15.04.060 Safety assessment placards.
15.04.070 Small residential rooftop energy systems.
15.04.080 Expedited permit process for electric vehicle charging stations.
15.04.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this title, Buildings and Construction, is to enact the adopting definitions, rules and regulations pursuant to applicable sections of the California Code of Regulations—Title 19, Public Safety, Title 24, Building Standards, and Title 25, Housing and Community Development, and to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 2), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 2), 2020)
15.04.020 Adoption of building codes by reference.
Subject to the amendments provided for in Section 15.04.030, the following building code publications, certain appendix chapters and the references therein are hereby adopted by reference and incorporated into what shall be known as the county of Alpine building code and contained herein is comprised of the following elements:
The specified portions of the California Building Standards Codes known as California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Parts 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12:
A. The California Administrative Code, 2022 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24.
B. The International Building Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2, of the California Code of Regulations (California Building Code, 2022 Edition), including only the following appendices:
1. Appendix A—Employee Qualifications;
2. Appendix C—Group U—Agricultural Buildings;
3. Appendix J—Grading;
4. Appendix O—Emergency Housing.
C. The International Residential Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 2.5, of the California Code of Regulations (California Residential Code, 2022 Edition), including only the following appendices:
1. Appendix AH—Patio Covers;
2. Appendix AJ—Existing Buildings and Structures;
3. Appendix AQ—Tiny Houses;
4. Appendix AS—Strawbale Construction;
5. Appendix AX—Swimming Pool Safety Act;
6. Appendix AZ—Emergency Housing.
D. The National Electrical Code, 2020 Edition, as published by the National Fire Protection Association, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 3, of the California Code of Regulations (California Electrical Code, 2022 Edition).
E. The Uniform Mechanical Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 4, of the California Code of Regulations (California Mechanical Code, 2022 Edition), including only the following appendix:
Appendix F—Geothermal Energy Systems.
F. The Uniform Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 5, of the California Code of Regulations (California Plumbing Code, 2022 Edition).
G. The California Energy Code, 2022 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations.
H. The California Historical Building Code, 2022 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 8, of the California Code of Regulations, including only the following appendix:
Appendix A—Table 1—Provision Applicability.
I. The International Fire Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the National Fire Protection Association, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission and the California State Fire Marshall, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 9, of the California Code of Regulations (California Fire Code, 2022 Edition), including only the following appendices:
1. Appendix B—Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings;
2. Appendix C—Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution.
J. The International Existing Building Code, 2021 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California State Fire Marshall, California Department of Housing and Community Development, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 10, of the California Code of Regulations (California Existing Building Code, 2022 Edition).
K. The California Green Building Standards Code, 2022 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11, of the California Code of Regulations.
L. The California Referenced Standards Code, 2022 Edition, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the California Building Standards Commission, California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 12, of the California Code of Regulations.
Said codes and secondary codes adopted by reference and the amendments therein are on file and available for public inspection in the office of the building official. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 3), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 3), 2020)
15.04.030 Amendments to the California Building Standards Codes.
The 2022 California Building Code (Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2), hereafter “CBC,” and the 2022 California Residential Code (Part 2.5), hereafter “CRC,” are hereby amended as follows:
CBC 105.5 and CRC R105.5, Expiration, are amended as follows:
On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. Unless specifically approved by the building official, the maximum validity of an open permit shall not exceed four years. Before any work can be recommenced on an expired permit, a new permit shall first be obtained. The building official is authorized to charge a fee for the recovery of expenses associated with the re-issuance of an expired permit and estimated expenses related to remaining inspections associated with the project. An extension of the permit shall not be valid until the prescribed fees have been paid. On permits expired for more than 3 calendar years, the CA Title 24 codes in effect at the time a new permit is issued shall be the codes which apply to that permit through the point of completion or expiration. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
CBC 111.3 and CRC R110.4, Temporary occupancy, are amended as follows:
The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid. The time period of temporary occupancy is limited to 90 days. Any requested extension of term shall be made in writing to the building official showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from being taken. A fee for additional extensions may be applicable. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
CRC R301.1.1.1. Alternative provisions for limited-density owner-built rural dwellings. Subsection R301.1.1.1 is not adopted by the county of Alpine. Subsection R301.1.1.1 is not deemed to be appropriate for adoption due to local climatic and geological conditions requiring compliance with resiliency standards. CRC R301.1.1.1 is superseded by adopted provisions of the building code of Alpine County. EXPRESS FINDINGS (all)
CBC 1003, 1027, 1028, 3201.4 and CRC R311, Means of egress, Exit discharge, Roof drainage, Exterior exit stairways and ramps, are amended as follows:
1. For elevations above 6200 feet, the roof and eaves of all newly constructed buildings, including roof alterations and additions to existing structures, shall be designed such that snow/ice-shedding impact areas will not occur in or on required exits for R-3 occupancies, and all entries/exits, stairways, walkways, ramps, vehicle parking areas, and LPG storage tanks serving all other occupancies.
2. The snow-shed impact area may be deferred, provided an engineered snow restraint system, designed in accordance with this code, is effectively attached to the roof structure.
3. Property owners shall maintain snow-shed impact areas to prevent snow from encroaching beyond the impact area boundaries. EXPRESS FINDING (1c-1e)
4. Drainage water collected from a roof, awning, canopy or marquee, and condensate from mechanical equipment shall not flow over a public walking surface.
|
GROUND SNOW LOAD: CS TABLE |
|
WIND DESIGN: CS TABLE |
|
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY: D |
|
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM: CONCRETE: SEVERE WEATHERING CONCRETE FROST LINE DEPTH: BELOW 6200 FT. = 18 INCHES / ABOVE 6200 FT. = 24 INCHES TERMITE: NO/CARPENTER ANTS: YES |
|
WINTER DESIGN TEMP: -15 DEGREES F |
|
ICE BARRIER UNDERLAYMENT REQUIRED: YES |
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FLOOD HAZARDS: FLOOD ZONE MAP: D (UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED) |
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AIR FREEZING INDEX: BELOW 6200 FT. = 334 / ABOVE 6200 FT. = 827 |
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MEAN ANNUAL TEMP.: BELOW 6200 FT. = 49.4 / ABOVE 6200 FT. = 42.9 |
|
RAIN INTENSITY: REFER TO ACSE HAZARD TOOL |
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CLIMATE ZONE: 16 |
CBC 1608 and CRC R301.2.3, Snow Loads, are amended as follows:
Site specific Case Studies designated as “CS”. Design snow loads shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 7 of ASCE 7-16. See amended CBC Table 1608.2 for regional snow loads.
*Snow loads for areas that are not specified shall be determined by the Building Official.
**For areas with a roof snow load of 150 psf or greater, no stress increases are allowed per CBC 2306. (Reference National Design Specifications for Wood Construction, Section 2.3.2, Load Duration Table 2.3.2.)
***Snow load reductions are not permitted if eave heights are less than or equal to hg.
|
REGION |
pg |
pf |
hg |
|---|---|---|---|
|
River Ranch (5000' - 5200') |
65 |
50 |
- |
|
Mesa Vista & Fredricksburg (5200' - 5800') |
98 |
75 |
- |
|
Woodfords/Hawkins Ranch Area (5500' - 5950') |
130 |
100 |
- |
|
Markleeville (5400' - 5600') |
130 |
100 |
- |
|
Markleevillage/Shay Creek (5600' - 5900') |
163 |
125 |
- |
|
Crystal Springs (above 5900') |
163 |
125 |
- |
|
West Carson Canyon (above 6800') |
260** |
200 |
9 ft.*** |
|
Hope/Faith/Charity Valleys (7000' - 7800') |
325** |
250 |
15 ft.*** |
|
Leviathan/Upper Monitor Pass (7500' and above) |
325** |
250 |
15 ft.*** |
|
Clarks Fork (6400') |
325** |
250 |
15 ft.*** |
|
Bear Valley/Kirkwood/Caples Lake (7000' - 7800') |
390** |
300 |
15 ft.*** |
|
Lake Alpine (7500' - 7900') |
455** |
350 |
20 ft.*** |
|
Mt. Reba (8000' and above) |
488** |
375 |
20 ft.*** |
Roof covering materials that are not considered as being “slippery”: wood shakes, tile, composition shingles & roll roofing. EXPRESS FINDING (1c)
The importance factor multiplied by the ground snow load shall be used as the balanced snow load for snow accumulation surfaces, such as decks, balconies, and other near-ground level surfaces or roofs of subterranean spaces, when height above the ground surface is less than the depth of the ground snow, hg. ASCE 7-16, 7.2
|
Region |
Mesa Vista & River Ranch-Exposure C |
Other Alpine County Regions-Exposure B* |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Risk Category |
V |
Vasd |
Risk Category |
V |
Vasd |
|
CBC 1609.3 |
I |
110 |
85 |
I |
110 |
85 |
|
|
II |
120 |
93 |
II |
120 |
93 |
|
|
III |
130 |
101 |
III |
130 |
101 |
|
|
IV |
135 |
104 |
IV |
135 |
104 |
|
CRC R301.2.1 |
II |
120 |
93 |
II |
120 |
93 |
TOPOGRAPHIC EFFECTS: NO
WINDBORNE DEBRIS ZONE: NO
Table Notes:
a. Linear interpolation is permitted.
b. Vasd = allowable stress design wind speed applicable to methods specified in 1609.1.1, Exceptions 1-6.
c. V = basic design wind speeds determined from case studies.
d. The conversions from V to Vasd are based on CBC Table 1609.3.1.
* = In certain areas, such as mountain tops and canyons, the design wind speed may be higher.
CBC 1609.3, Basic design wind speed, and CRC R301.2.1, Wind design criteria, are amended as follows:
Alpine County is designated to be within a Case Study (CS)-Special Wind Region. Refer to CBC Table 1609.3.1 as adopted and amended by the County of Alpine. *In certain areas, such as mountain tops and canyons, the design wind speed may be higher, as determined by case studies and the approval of the building official. Refer to CBC Table 1609.3.1 for wind speed conversions for basic design wind speed and allowable stress design wind speed. EXPRESS FINDING (3a)
CBC 1613 Earthquake Loads. Determination of seismic design category, is amended as follows:
Alpine County is predominately within a Seismic Design Category “D” region. Site specific category determination shall be in accordance with USGS spectral response acceleration mapping.
CBC 1803.1.1.1 and CRC R401.4.1.1.1, Preliminary soil reports, are amended as follows:
Each city, county, or city and county shall enact an ordinance which requires a preliminary soil report, prepared by a civil engineer who is registered by the state. The report shall be based upon adequate test borings or excavations, of every subdivision, where a tentative and final map is required pursuant to Section 66426 of the Government Code.
The preliminary soil report may be waived if the building department of the city, county, or city and county, or other enforcement agency charged with the administration and enforcement of the provisions of CBC Section 1803.1.1 & CRC Section R401.1.1, shall determine that, due to the knowledge such department has as to the soil qualities of the soil of the subdivision or lot, no preliminary analysis is necessary.
For all subject projects, the project architect or engineer of record shall indicate on the construction documents the Presumptive Load-Bearing Values, including, but not limited to, the Class of Materials and the Vertical Foundation Pressure (Load-Bearing Pressure). Proposed Load-bearing pressures exceeding 1500psf are subject to geotechnical investigation. EXPRESS FINDING (1a, 2d)
CBC 1809.4, Depth and width of footings, is amended as follows:
The minimum depth of exterior footings shall be 18 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. The minimum depth of interior footings shall be 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. For areas above the 6200 feet elevation level, the minimum depth of exterior footings shall be 24 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. The minimum depth of interior footings shall be 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. The minimum width of footings shall be 12 inches. EXPRESS FINDING (1a, 2d)
CRC R403.1.4, Minimum depth, is amended as follows:
The minimum depth of exterior footings shall be 18 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock.
The minimum depth of interior footings shall be 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. For areas above the 6200 feet elevation level, the minimum depth of exterior footings shall be at least 24 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. The minimum depth of interior footings shall be at least 12 inches below the undisturbed ground surface or erected on solid rock. EXPRESS FINDING (1a, 2d)
CBC 1505.1.2 and CRC R902.1.2, Roof coverings within state responsibility areas, are amended as follows:
The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least a Class A Fire Rated assembly. EXPRESS FINDING (1b)
CBC 1505.1.3 and CRC R902.1.3, Roof coverings within all other areas, are amended as follows:
The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least a Class “A” Fire Rated assembly. EXPRESS FINDING (1b)
CBC 1507.1.2, 1507.2.7, 1507.2.8.2, 1507.5.4, 1507.6.4, 1507.7.4, 1507.8.4, 1507.9.4, 1507.17.4.2 and CRC R905.1.2, Ice barriers, are amended as follows:
In areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup of water as designated in Table R301.2, an ice barrier shall be installed for asphalt shingles, metal roof shingles, mineral-surfaced roll roofing, slate and slate-type shingles, wood shingles, wood shakes, metal roof panels and photovoltaic shingles. The ice barrier shall consist of not fewer than two layers of underlayment cemented together, or a self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line of the building. On roofs with slope equal to or greater than 8 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (67-percent slope), the ice barrier shall also be applied not less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured along the roof slope from the eave edge of the building. Exception: Detached accessory structures not containing conditioned floor area. For areas above the 6200 feet elevation level, a self-adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point at least 60 inches inside the interior wall line of the building, and for the entire length of all valleys. For areas above the 6200 feet elevation level, a cricket or saddle-type diverter shall be installed upslope of any chimney, flue or vent that is adjacent to, or penetrates the roof. Crickets or saddle coverings shall be a minimum 24-gauge sheet metal or the same material as the metal roof covering. Plumbing vents through the barge rafter shall be subject to the approval by the Building Official prior to installation. Vent termination clearances of such vents shall be in accordance with CPC 906.2. EXPRESS FINDING (1c)
The 2022 California Mechanical Code (Part 4), hereafter “CMC,” is hereby amended as follows:
CMC 303.7.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Appliances [HCD 1 & HCD 2], is amended as follows:
Liquefied petroleum gas-burning appliances shall not be located in a pit, basement or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. Appliances so fueled shall not be installed in an above-grade under-floor space or basement unless such location is provided with an approved means for removal of unburned gas. When replacement of LP-Gas appliances located in underfloor locations is performed, an LP-gas detector/alarm shall be provided on the lowest floor level of the building. LP-gas alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring and shall be equipped with a battery back-up. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnect switch other than as required for overcurrent protection. A sounding device that is audible (min. 85db) to sleeping areas or occupied area shall be installed. Detectors shall be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer’s instructions and the detectors shall be listed with a recognized testing agency. EXPRESS FINDING (1g-1h)
The 2022 California Plumbing Code (Part 5), hereafter “CPC,” is hereby amended, as follows:
CPC 609.1, Water Supply and Distribution, Installation, “…Building supply yard piping shall be not less than 12 inches (305mm) below finish grade,” hereby shall be struck and replaced with:
1. Building supply yard piping and fullway valve shall be not less than 36 inches below final grade.
2. For elevations above 6200', a secondary water fullway valve shall be installed inside of the primary structure, or, protected by a structure with a back drain and a main fullway valve placed outside of the structure with a gate valve, in accordance with CPC 606.6.
CPC 609.12.2, Pipe Insulation Wall Thickness, is amended as follows:
Hot and cold water and hydronic supply/return piping installed in unconditioned spaces shall have insulation with a minimum wall thickness not less than the diameter of the pipe for a pipe up to 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter. Appropriate pipe wrapping per manufacturer specifications and in accordance with the requirements of the California Energy Code. EXPRESS FINDING (1a, 1g)
CPC 901.2, Vents required, is amended as follows:
The installation of air admittance valves shall require the prior approval of the building official. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
CPC 906.1, Roof termination, is amended as follows:
A cricket or saddle-type diverter shall be installed on the upslope side of any chimney, flue or vent that is adjacent to, or penetrates the roof. Crickets or saddle coverings shall be a minimum 24 gauge sheet metal or the same material as the roof covering. Plumbing vents through the barge rafter shall first be approved by the Building Official prior to installation, provided clearances are maintained from openable windows, doors vents, air intake or vent shafts in accordance with CPC 906.2. EXPRESS FINDING (1c)
The 2022 California Fire Code (Part 9), hereafter “CFC,” is hereby amended as follows:
CFC 202, General Definitions: Fire Code Official, is hereby amended as follows:
The fire chief, fire code official or chief building official charged with the administration and enforcement of the code, or duly authorized representative. EXPRESS FINDING (4a-4c)
CFC 901.4.7, Pump and riser room size, is hereby amended as follows:
A Fire sprinkler riser room shall be provided for NFPA 13 systems, as determined to be required by the Fire Code Official.
1. Newly constructed fire sprinkler riser rooms shall be located within a perimeter wall at grade. Such rooms shall be a minimum of Type V-1-hour construction throughout and provided with a 45-minute rated door assembly, with a minimum opening of 36- inches directly to the exterior.
2. The riser room shall contain all sprinkler control valves, backflow assembly (unless prohibited by the water purveyor), fire pump, if provided, and the fire alarm control panel(s). No other uses or utilities including storage shall be allowed in the room. Note: Individual floor control valves may be located in other locations if approved by the Fire Code Official.
3. Riser rooms shall be of a size that will allow a minimum of 36-inch clearance on at least 3 sides of all of the sprinkler risers, around all portions of the fire pump assembly and its appurtenances, and in front of the fire alarm control panel(s).
4. Riser rooms shall be provided with a thermostatically-controlled heater capable of maintaining a minimum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent freezing. Adequate lighting shall be provided.
5. Increases in the square foot area of the structure or changes of use and/or occupancy of the structure shall be subject to the requirement to construct an exterior-accessible riser room, if not previously existing.
6. A red placard with minimum 2- inch height white lettering reading “FIRE CONTROL ROOM” shall be permanently installed on the exterior of the riser room door at a height of 72 inches.
7. A County of Alpine designated lock box shall be installed on the exterior of the riser room at a height of not less than 60 inches above ground level.
EXPRESS FINDING (4a-4c)
CFC 903.3.1.2, NFPA 13R Sprinkler Systems, is hereby modified and amended as follows:
Group R occupancies up to and including four stories in height in buildings not exceeding 60 feet (18 288mm) in height, that are not otherwise required by the 2019 California Fire Code to be protected by the installation of NFPA 13 or NFPA 13D systems, shall be required to be protected by the installation of an approved NFPA 13 automatic sprinkler system. EXPRESS FINDING (4a-4c)
CFC 903.4.1, Monitoring, is amended as follows:
Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station and shall sound an audible signal at the protected premises. EXPRESS FINDING (4a-4c)
CFC 6104, Location of LP-Gas Containers, is amended with the addition of CFC 6104.3.3:
New installations of LP-gas containers (propane tanks) are required to be placed on a minimum 3-inch thick concrete or masonry foundation and anchored with seismic restraints or utility supplied saddles. For elevations above 6200 feet, above-ground LP-gas containers shall have an approved protective structure constructed over the regulator, vent and gas piping at the container(s). Protective structures shall be constructed to meet the design criteria requirements for the specific location including non-combustible building materials. All exposed regulators, meters and gas lines entering the building shall be substantially protected from snow and ice damage. EXPRESS FINDING (1c, 1e, 1g)
(Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 4), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 5), 2020)
15.04.040 Violations.
It is unlawful for any persons, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish, connect electrical, fuel or gas services, or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order to the person(s) responsible under the provisions of this code. Any person who violates the provisions of the notice or order shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 5), 2023; Ord. 722 § 5, 2017)
15.04.050 Special conditions.
In accordance with Section 13.08.040, Building permit, the building official shall not issue a building permit for the construction of any new building or structure requiring the use of potable water and sewage in the county without the written approval of the county environmental health specialist or district having jurisdiction expressing that the water and sewage systems are approved in accordance with their respective standards. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 6), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 8), 2020)
15.04.060 Safety assessment placards.
A. Purpose. This section establishes standard safety placards to be used to indicate the condition of a structure for continued occupancy following any manmade or natural disasters such as an earthquake or other destructive event. This section further authorizes the building official and his or her authorized representatives to post the appropriate placard at each available entry point to a building or structure upon completion of a safety assessment.
B. Application. The provisions of this section are applicable to all buildings and structures of all occupancies regulated by the county of Alpine. The board of supervisors may extend the provisions as deemed necessary.
C. Definitions. The following words and phrases as used in this section are defined as follows:
1. “Safety assessment” is a visual, non-destructive examination of a building or structure for the purpose of determining the condition for continued occupancy.
D. Placards.
1. The following are verbal descriptions of the placards to be used to designate the condition for continued occupancy of buildings or structures.
a. “Inspected—Lawful Occupancy Permitted” is to be posted on any building or structure wherein no apparent structural hazard has been found. This placard is not intended to mean that there is no damage to the building or structure.
b. “Restricted Use” is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged wherein the damage has resulted in some form of restriction to the continued occupancy. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered and will clearly and concisely note the restriction on continued occupancy.
c. “Unsafe—Do Not Enter or Occupy” is to be posted on each building or structure that has been damaged such that continued occupancy poses a threat to life safety. Buildings or structures posted with this placard shall not be entered under any circumstances except as authorized in writing by the building official, or his or her authorized representative. Safety assessment teams shall be authorized to enter these buildings at any time. This placard is not to be used or considered as a demolition order. The individual who posts this placard will note in general terms the type of damage encountered.
2. The placard must display the ordinance number, name, address and phone number of the jurisdiction.
3. Once it has been attached to the building or structure, a placard is not to be removed, altered or covered until done so by an authorized representative of the building official. Pursuant to this section, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to alter, remove, cover or deface a placard unless authorized pursuant to this section. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 7), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 4), 2020; Ord. 713 §§ 1—4, 2015. Formerly 15.04.025)
15.04.070 Small residential rooftop energy systems.
A. Purpose. The California Government Code provides that it is the policy of the state to promote and encourage the installation and use of solar energy systems by limiting obstacles to their use and by minimizing the permitting costs of such systems. In furtherance of that objective, Section 65850.5(g)(1) of the California Government Code requires that, on or before September 30, 2015, every city, county, or city and county must adopt an ordinance that creates an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.
B. Definitions. The following words and phrases as used in this section are defined as follows:
“Electronic submittal” means the utilization of one or more of the following:
1. Email;
2. The internet;
3. Facsimile.
“Small residential rooftop solar energy system” means all of the following:
1. A solar energy system that is no larger than ten kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty kilowatts thermal.
2. A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the county and Civil Code Section 714(c)(3), as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or redesignated from time to time.
3. A solar energy system that is installed on the rooftop of a single- or duplex-family dwelling.
4. A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction.
5. “Solar energy system” has the same meaning set forth in Civil Code Sections 801.5(a)(1) and (2), as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or redesignated from time to time.
C. Regulations and Rules.
1. Section 65850.5 of the California Government Code provides that, on or before September 30, 2015, every city, county, or city and county shall adopt an ordinance that creates an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.
2. Section 65850.5 of the California Government Code provides that in developing an expedited permitting process, the city, county, or city and county shall adopt a checklist of all requirements with which small rooftop solar energy systems shall comply to be eligible for expedited review. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to develop and adopt such checklist. It is allowed for the county of Alpine to adopt an ordinance that includes the modification of the checklists and standards found in the California Solar Permitting Guidebook due to unique climactic, geological, seismological, or topographical conditions.
3. The checklist shall be published on the county’s internet website. The applicant may submit the permit application and associated documentation to the county’s building division by personal, mailed, or electronic submittal together with any required permit processing and inspection fees. In the case of electronic submittal, the electronic signature of the applicant on all forms, applications and other documentation may be used in lieu of a wet signature.
4. Prior to submission of an application, the applicant shall:
a. Verify to the applicant’s reasonable satisfaction through the use of standard engineering evaluation techniques that the support structure for the small residential rooftop solar energy system is stable and adequate to transfer all wind, seismic, and dead and live loads associated with the system to the building foundation; and
b. At the applicant’s cost, verify to the applicant’s reasonable satisfaction using standard electrical inspection techniques that the existing electrical system including existing line, load, ground and bonding wiring as well as main panel and subpanel sizes are adequately sized, based on the existing electrical system’s current use, to carry all new photovoltaic electrical loads.
5. For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner and may include a consolidated inspection by the building official and fire chief. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized; however the subsequent inspection need not conform to the requirements of this subsection.
6. An application that satisfies the information requirements in the checklist, as determined by the building official, shall be deemed complete. Upon receipt of an incomplete application, the building official shall issue a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance.
7. Upon confirmation by the building official of the application and supporting documentation being complete and meeting the requirements of the checklist, the building official shall administratively approve the application and issue all required permits or authorizations. Such approval does not authorize an applicant to connect the small residential rooftop energy system to the local utility provider’s electricity grid. The applicant is responsible for obtaining such approval or permission from the local utility provider. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 8), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 6), 2020; Ord. 711 §§ 1—2.1, 2015. Formerly 15.04.035)
15.04.080 Expedited permit process for electric vehicle charging stations.
A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to adopt an expedited, streamlined permitting process that complies with Section 65850.7 of the California Government Code to achieve timely and cost-effective installations of electric vehicle charging stations. The intent of this section is to encourage the use of electric vehicle charging stations by removing unreasonable barriers, minimizing costs to property owners and the county, and expanding the ability of property owners and agricultural and business concerns to install electric vehicle charging stations, while allowing the county to protect the public health and safety.
B. Applicability. This chapter applies to the permitting of all electric vehicle charging stations, as defined, within the county of Alpine. A construction permit is required to install utility interconnected electric vehicle charging stations.
C. Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the following definition shall apply:
“Electric vehicle charging station” or “charging station” means any level of electric vehicle supply equipment station that is designed and built in compliance with Article 625 of the California Electrical Code, as it reads on the effective date of this section, and delivers electricity from a source outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in electric vehicle.
D. Duties of the Building Official. The electric vehicle charging station permit process and checklist shall substantially conform to the recommendations contained in the most current version of the Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist contained in the Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook adopted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, as may be periodically revised, unless the board of supervisors modifies the checklist and standards by ordinance due to unique climatic, geological, seismological, or topographical conditions in the county.
The building official shall have the authority to revise the process checklist in substantial conformance to such revisions as may be made periodically to the Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook.
The building official shall make available on the publicly accessible county website, the county’s checklist, the permit application form, and such other permitting documentation as is required for electric vehicle charging stations.
E. Permit Review. An application and related documentation to install an electric vehicle charging station may be submitted electronically in the manner specified by the county.
An applicant’s electronic signature shall be accepted on all forms, applications, and other documents that are part of the electronic submittal in lieu of a wet signature.
An application for an electric vehicle charging station shall be deemed complete when the building official determines that the application satisfies all the information requirements in the checklist.
If an application is deemed incomplete, a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information or documentation required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance shall be sent to the applicant for resubmission.
Applications for electric vehicle charging stations shall be administratively reviewed and acted upon by the building official as a nondiscretionary permit within a reasonable time following receipt of a complete application that meets the requirements of the county’s checklist and payment of all required permit processing and inspection fees. The building official’s review shall be limited to whether the proposed electric vehicle charging station meets all health and safety requirements of local, state, and federal law. The requirements of local law shall be limited to those standards and regulations necessary to ensure that the electric vehicle charging station will not have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety.
The building official, in consultation with the planning director, may require an applicant to apply for a use permit if the building official finds, based on substantial evidence, that the electric vehicle charging station could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety. The building official’s decision to require a use permit may be appealed to the county planning commission.
If a use permit is required, the application for the use permit may be denied if the appropriate authority as designated in the applicable county zoning ordinance makes written findings based upon substantial evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact. Such findings shall include the basis for the rejection of potential feasible alternatives for preventing the specific, adverse impact. Such decisions may be appealed to the county planning commission, or if the planning commission was the appropriate authority, such decisions may be appealed to the board of supervisors.
Any condition imposed on an application to install an electric vehicle charging station shall be designed to mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety at the lowest possible cost.
The county shall not condition approval of an application on the approval of an electric vehicle charging station by an association.
F. Technical Review. An electric vehicle charging station permitted pursuant to this chapter shall meet all applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by state and county permitting authorities.
An electric vehicle charging station shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.
Installation of electric vehicle charging stations and associated wiring, bonding, disconnecting means and overcurrent protective devices shall meet the requirements of Article 625 and all applicable provisions of the California Electrical Code.
Installation of electric vehicle charging stations shall be incorporated into the load calculations of all new or existing electrical services and shall meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code. Electric vehicle charging equipment shall be considered a continuous load.
Anchorage of either floor-mounted or wall-mounted electric vehicle charging stations shall meet the requirements of the California Building or Residential Code as applicable per occupancy, and the provisions of the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Mounting of charging stations shall not adversely affect building elements.
G. Fees. Fees for processing permits for electric vehicle charging stations under this chapter shall be as established by the board of supervisors and as set forth in the Alpine County fee policies and resolution, pursuant to the Alpine County Code, as periodically amended. (Ord. 750 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 9), 2023; Ord. 733 § 2 (Exh. A Art. 10), 2020)