Chapter 6.15
BUILDING REGULATIONS

Sections:

Article I. In General

6.15.010    Applicability, purpose and authority.

6.15.020    Building, etc., permits generally.

6.15.030    Design review.

6.15.040    Moving of buildings and structures – Relocation permit required.

6.15.050    Moving of buildings and structures – Building permit required.

6.15.060    Drainage requirements for building construction, etc.

6.15.070    Electrical power for construction purposes.

6.15.080    Penalties.

6.15.090    Jobsite sanitary facilities.

6.15.100    Construction site requirements.

6.15.110    Criteria for prevention of flood damage.

6.15.120    Liability of city.

6.15.130    Severability.

Article II. Technical Codes

Division 1. Generally

6.15.140    Where filed – Availability of codes.

6.15.150    Conflicts with state law.

Division 2. Local Amendments to Adopted Codes

6.15.155    Purpose.

6.15.160    Amendments, additions and deletions to the adopted codes.

Article III. Underground Utilities

6.15.170    Definitions.

6.15.180    Service required – New buildings.

6.15.190    Service required – Remodeling or repairs.

6.15.200    Exemptions from article.

Article IV. Numbering of Buildings

6.15.210    Adoption by reference of building number maps.

6.15.220    Designation of numbers by building official.

6.15.230    Numbers to be affixed to buildings – Manner of affixing numbers.

6.15.240    Responsibility for placing of numbers.

6.15.250    Display of number – Prerequisite to issuance of business license.

Article V. Board of Appeals

6.15.580    Established.

Article VI. Underground Storage Tanks

6.15.590    Removal/replacement of underground storage tank.

Article VII. Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling

6.15.600    Title/purpose.

6.15.610    Definitions.

6.15.620    Findings.

6.15.630    Threshold applicability.

6.15.640    Requirements.

6.15.650    Standards, guidelines, and criteria.

6.15.660    Inspections.

6.15.670    Severability.

Article VIII. Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program

6.15.675    Purpose.

6.15.680    Definitions.

6.15.690    Application.

6.15.700    Transient occupancy tax.

6.15.710    SRO permits.

6.15.720    Fees.

6.15.730    Design and development standards.

6.15.740    Maintenance standards.

6.15.750    Inspections.

6.15.760    Violations.

6.15.770    Tourist accommodation units.

For state law authorizing city to regulate the construction, alteration and repair of buildings and the materials used therefor, see Gov. C. § 38660. As to the authority of city to prescribe restrictions on buildings used for human habitation, equal to or greater than state law, see H. and S.C. § 17951. As to community antenna television systems, see Chapter 3.40 SLTCC. As to fire protection, see Title 5 SLTCC. As to plan line setbacks, see Chapter 6.35 SLTCC. As to signs and advertising structures, see Chapter 6.40 SLTCC. As to subdivision of land, see Chapter 6.45 SLTCC. As to zoning, see Chapter 6.55 SLTCC.

Prior legislation: Ords. 890, 958 and 959 and Code 1997 §§ 8-13, 8-14.1 – 8-24.3, 8-27 – 8-32 and 8-33 – 8-33.2.

Article I. In General

6.15.010 Applicability, purpose and authority.

The purpose of this chapter is to adopt by reference the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Code, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, subject to the clarifications and amendments set forth in this chapter. The purpose of this chapter is also to provide minimum requirements and standards for the protection of public safety, health, property and welfare of the City of South Lake Tahoe. The following adopted codes prescribe regulations for erecting, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, improving, removal, conversion, moving, demolition, occupancy, equipment use, height and area of buildings and structures:

A. Building Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Building Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 2, incorporating the 2021 Edition of the International Building Code, published by the International Code Council, including Appendix C, Group U, Agriculture Buildings, Appendix F, Rodent-proofing, Appendix H, Signs, and Appendix I, Patio Covers, is hereby adopted by reference.

B. Residential Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Residential Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 2.5, incorporating the 2021 Edition of the International Residential Code, published by the International Code Council, including Chapter 1, is hereby adopted by reference.

C. Electrical Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Electrical Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 3, incorporating the 2020 Edition of the National Electrical Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association, including Article 89, and Annex H is hereby adopted by reference.

D. Mechanical Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Mechanical Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 4, incorporating the 2021 Edition of the Uniform Mechanical Code, including Chapter 1, CMC Appendices A, B, C and D, is hereby adopted by reference.

E. Plumbing Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Plumbing Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 5, incorporating the 2021 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code, including appendices and installation standards, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, is hereby adopted by reference.

F. Energy Code Adopted. The 2022 California Energy Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 6, published by the California Energy Commission, is hereby adopted by reference.

G. Historical Building Code Adopted. The 2022 California Historical Building Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 8, published by the International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference.

H. Fire Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Fire Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 9, incorporating the 2021 Edition of the International Fire Code, published by the International Code Council, including Chapter 1, is hereby adopted by reference.

I. Green Building Standards Code Adopted. The 2022 Edition of the California Green Building Standards Code, known as the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 Part 11, published by the International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference.

J. Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code Adopted. The 2021 Edition of the International Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code, published by the International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference.

K. International Property Maintenance Code Adopted. The 2021 Edition of the International Property Maintenance Code, published by the International Code Council, is hereby adopted by reference. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-1)

6.15.020 Building, etc., permits generally.

The building official shall check the application, plans and specifications for any building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing permit and the energy efficiency standards for residential and nonresidential buildings. No permit shall be issued unless the plans and specifications have been reviewed and approved by each of the other departments of the city concerned as being in conformance with pertinent laws and ordinances under their jurisdiction. If the building official is satisfied that the work described in an application for a permit and the plans and specifications filed therewith conform to the requirements of this chapter and other pertinent laws and ordinances and that the fee specified has been paid, such official shall issue a permit therefor to the applicant. Reversed plans will not be accepted. No final inspection or approvals by the building division, for use or occupancy of any structure permitted by this chapter, shall be granted until final inspections and approvals are obtained from all other city and county departments which have imposed requirements for the project. (Ord. 926; Ord. 1003 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-2)

6.15.030 Design review.

A. Applicability. In general, the standards and guidelines contained in this title are to be applied to new construction, major remodeling more specifically.

B. All applicable projects are subject to the city’s design review process. Contact the city planning department for specific process requirements. Some projects may also require approval by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. Applicants shall also contact the TRPA for their processing requirements.

1. All newly constructed or exterior remodeled buildings or structures proposed for any use other than single-family residential units.

2. Newly constructed or exterior remodeled residential units or structures which are located within 200 feet of the high water line of the lake.

3. All prefabricated or factory built buildings or structures.

4. All existing buildings or structures to be relocated within the city, regardless of proposed use.

5. Any structures proposed or located within a floodplain, as defined within the city code.

6. New or modified parking areas containing four or more parking spaces.

7. Other proposals without buildings or structures which could potentially affect the general appearance of the city, including public projects, such as erosion control projects.

C. No permit shall be issued in any case set forth herein until the plans therefor have been approved through the design review process and all buildings, structures and grounds shall be in accordance with the plans as approved. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-3)

6.15.040 Moving of buildings and structures – Relocation permit required.

No person shall move any buildings or structures from one location within or outside the city to another location within the city without having first obtained a relocation permit therefor from the city building division.

A. Written application for a relocation permit shall be made stating the contemplated uses of the building at the new location. The applicant shall also furnish a map showing the exact route on which the building is to be moved. Such route shall be approved by the public works director, together with the time within which the building is to be moved. A reasonable fee equal to the costs of processing the application shall be paid at the time of making the application, no part of which shall be refunded.

The application shall be accompanied by a photograph of the building or structure in its present location, a plot plan of the site on which the building or structure is to be located, a foundation plan and details, and, if the building or structure is to be altered in any way, architectural drawings showing floor plans and elevations in its new location.

B. In addition to the specified fee, any person who seeks a permit to move a building within the city shall first have executed and delivered to the city a good and sufficient surety bond in the penal sum of $10,000 or a rider of the same amount on the permittee’s insurance policy, in favor of the city as obligee conditioned to guarantee payment to the city for any damage that may result to city streets or other public improvements or trees and overhanging wires caused by the moving of such building.

C. The application, along with comments from the building division and the public works division, shall then be reviewed by the city planning division and processed through the design review process to determine whether the architectural and general appearance of the building or structure, as relocated, will improve the character of the neighborhood and such as not to be detrimental to the orderly and harmonious development of the city nor to impair the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood.

D. The building division shall not issue a relocation permit unless the design review process is complete.

E. Removal and relocation of a building pursuant to a relocation permit must be completed within 60 days from the issuance of the permit.

F. Within 10 days after the completion of the moving of any building within the city, the city shall cause an inspection to be made by the public works director of the route taken in the moving of such building to ascertain the damage, if any, to all streets or other public improvements or trees and overhanging wires and property, of any nature whatsoever within the city, and the building official shall present to the permittee a claim in the amount necessary to repair such damage, if any. Thereupon, the permittee shall cause such claim to be paid or, in the event of a failure or refusal to pay such claim, the bond heretofore filed shall be forfeited in the amount necessary to pay such claim and if any amount of damage insured shall exceed the penal amount of such bond, such deficiency shall be paid by the permittee to the city without further demand therefor. (Ord. 901; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-4)

6.15.050 Moving of buildings and structures – Building permit required.

No person shall move any building from one location in or outside the city to another location within the city unless a building permit has been first obtained to permanently install such building or structure in its new location. Such building permit shall be required in addition to a relocation permit. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-5)

6.15.060 Drainage requirements for building construction, etc.

A. It is the purpose of this section to safeguard adjoining properties and public streets and ways from damage by unnatural flows of surface waters and to prevent the construction of homes and other buildings in areas likely to become flooded.

B. This section applies to all persons engaged in construction within the city, whether as owner, lessee, contractor, or otherwise.

C. No building permit shall be issued for any new construction or any additions or remodeling resulting in new structures at or below ground level unless this section shall have been complied with.

D. Every building permit application for new construction or any additions or remodeling resulting in new structures at or below ground level other than single-family or duplex structures shall be accompanied by the following information and documents, in addition to those otherwise required by this chapter:

1. A grading plan, showing the present contours of the land, the proposed final grade and location of improvements.

2. Profile sections at the rear, middle and front of the property, showing existing contours, the proposed final grade and the location of improvements.

3. Details of drainage structures, walls, cribbing, surface protection and landscaping.

E. No building permit shall be issued if the drainage information required by this section reveals any of the following facts:

1. Drainage from the property after construction will apparently result in physical damage directly or indirectly to another lot or to any public street or public property.

2. Natural drainage from the property will be changed to the detriment of surrounding property.

3. The first floor level of any improvement will be in danger of flooding from surface runoff. Permits, however, may be issued when foundations are raised above the flooding level as determined by the city.

In those instances where existing structures that are located in floodplains, as defined by the flood insurance rate map (FIRM), are reconstructed or have substantial improvements done to them (over 50 percent of replacement costs prior to damage having occurred), permits may be issued provided the lowest floor elevation is raised one foot above the defined 100-year floodplain per applicable FEMA requirements.

F. A grading plan may be required by the building division for single-family or duplex structures where an on-site inspection indicates that any fact mentioned in subsection (E) of this section may exist.

G. The building official, with the concurrence of the city engineer, may waive any or all of the requirements of subsection (D) of this section whenever an on-site inspection satisfies such officers that the facts described in subsection (E) of this section do not exist or that the requirements in question would not reveal any such facts. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-6)

6.15.070 Electrical power for construction purposes.

Temporary electric power for construction can be provided by a temporary power pole that complies with the requirements of the California Electric Code and Liberty Utilities Company specifications. Or, temporary power can be arranged from the permanent main service panel using the permanent grounding electrode. The main service panel shall be framed into the permanent wall section of the structure. This wall section shall have a shear panel on it and be braced to the satisfaction of the jurisdiction. There can be a maximum of two quadruple ground faulted outlet locations. The wiring to each location shall be in conduit. Any connection of power to the building’s permanent outlet wiring prior to authorization by the building division will result in a disconnect order to the providing utility.

Prior to any reconnection of electric to the site of a disconnect order, penalty fees in accordance with SLTCC 6.15.080 shall be paid.

Prior to energizing the permanent outlet wiring from the main panel, all nail or screw-applied wall finishes must be completed; all electric work for the permanent circuits to be energized must be completed; and the building must be able to be secured against entry by unauthorized persons. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-7.1)

6.15.080 Penalties.

It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish, equip, use, connect electric power or gas, occupy or maintain any building or structure in the city, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this code shall be deemed guilty of an infraction. Penalties for a violation of this chapter shall be as outlined in Chapter 2.30 SLTCC for each and every subsequent offense. Each separate day or any portion thereof, during which any violation of this code occurs or continues, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense. The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans and specifications shall not be deemed or construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code. (Ord. 901; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-7.2)

6.15.090 Jobsite sanitary facilities.

Temporary sanitation facilities shall be provided on all construction sites. Failure to maintain such facilities will result in a stop work order until such facilities are provided.

Exception: Remodels which contain an operable on-site toilet facility. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-7.3)

6.15.100 Construction site requirements.

A. All trash, temporary BMP elements related to construction, site security elements, and construction debris shall be disposed of in an approved manner on a regular basis. Prior to any final inspection, all construction trash and debris shall be removed from the site. No debris or construction materials may be stored in the public right-of-way.

B. Building permit must be posted in public view and visible from street or closest possible to passersby.

C. Construction site must have address posted at all times.

D. Approved construction documents must be on site at all times.

E. Access to areas must be provided to inspector at his or her request.

F. All construction activities that include impact equipment and activities such as pile driving, soil compaction, or vibratory hammers could potentially affect nearby structures. Where these activities occur within 200 feet of existing structures, an analysis shall be conducted of potential vibration levels based on the criteria contained in Table 436-12 of the City General Plan Update EIR (September 2010). Construction operations shall be designed to avoid or mitigate for vibrations above 0.02 inches/second (0.5 mm/second).

G. All required exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during alterations, repairs, or additions to any building or structure.

H. Fire safety during construction shall comply with the applicable requirements of this code and the applicable provisions of the California Building Code and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.

I. All construction activities shall be performed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjoining properties and public rights-of-way. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-7.4)

6.15.110 Criteria for prevention of flood damage.

Prior to the issuance of any building permit for new construction or substantial improvements, the building official, after such consultation as the building official deems necessary with the city engineer, shall:

A. Review the application to determine whether the proposed building site will be reasonably safe from flooding. If a proposed building site is in a location that has a flood hazard, the proposed new construction or substantial improvement, including prefabricated and mobile homes, shall:

1. Be designed or modified and anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the structure.

2. Be constructed of materials and utility equipment that are resistant to flood damage.

3. Be the result of construction methods and practices that will minimize flood damage.

4. Comply with all FEMA requirements for buildings constructed within a designated floodplain.

B. Require new or replacement water supply systems or sanitary sewage systems to be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the systems into flood waters. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-8)

6.15.120 Liability of city.

The building official or any employee, within the course and scope of his or her employment, charged with the enforcement of this code, acting in good faith on behalf of the city, and without malice, shall not thereby be rendered liable personally and such person is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of such person’s duties. Any suit brought against the building official or employee, because of such act or omission performed by such person in the enforcement of any provisions of the codes adopted in Articles I and II of this chapter, shall be defended by the city until final termination of the proceedings. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-9)

6.15.130 Severability.

If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this chapter is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter. The city council hereby declares that it would have passed the ordinance codified in this chapter and each section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-10)

Article II. Technical Codes

Division 1. Generally

6.15.140 Where filed – Availability of codes.

One copy of each of the codes adopted by reference in Article I of this chapter is on file in the office of the building official for use and examination by the public. Ordering information for obtaining copies of such codes may be obtained at the city services center public counter. (Ord. 926; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1107 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-11)

6.15.150 Conflicts with state law.

Wherever the provisions of the state housing law (Division 13, Part 1.5, beginning with Section 17910 of the Health and Safety Code of the state) shall impose requirements more stringent than those established by this article, the provisions of the state housing law shall be applied by the building division. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1107 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-12)

Division 2. Local Amendments to Adopted Codes

6.15.155 Purpose.

The purpose of this division is to identify local amendments to the adopted codes, consistent with Health and Safety Code Section 17958 based on express findings relative to local climatic, topographical or geological conditions. (Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.160 Amendments, additions and deletions to the adopted codes.

A. California Building Code Section 105.5.1, California Residential Code Section R105.5.1, California Plumbing Code Section 104.4.3.1, California Mechanical Code Section 104.4.3.1 and California Electrical Code Article 89, Section 108.4.1 are hereby amended to read as follows:

Every permit issued by the building official under the provision of this code shall become invalid and expired unless the work 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. In order to renew action on an invalid permit after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit fee and be accompanied with updated construction documents to reflect compliance with the most recent applicable codes based on the new submittal date.

B. Any permittee holding an unexpired permit for a new structure or addition may apply for an extension of the time for which work may be completed under that permit when the permittee is unable to complete work within the time required by this section for good and satisfactory reasons. The building official may extend a permit for a period not exceeding 180 days on written request by the permittee. The written request shall be submitted to the building official prior to the expiration date of the original permit. The request for an extension of an existing permit shall show that circumstances beyond the control of the permittee have prevented completion of the work authorized by the permit. No permit may be extended more than three years cumulatively.

C. California Building Code Section 109.2, California Fire Code Section 106.2, California Residential Code Section R108.2, California Plumbing Code Section 104.5, California Mechanical Code Section 104.5 and California Electrical Code Article 80.19(H)(4) are hereby amended to read as follows:

The fee for each permit shall be as set forth in this section and by city council resolution. The determination of value or valuation under any of the provisions of this code shall be made by the building official/fire code official. The value to be used in computing the building permit and building plan review fees shall be the total value of all construction work for which the permit is issued, as well as all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire extinguishing systems, and any other permanent equipment. Fees shall be determined by the valuation as shown for good construction on the valuation table as published annually in the November/December issue of Building Standards magazine. Values shall be 100 percent of the valuation given in the basic valuation table. Fees shall be adjusted on the first day of January each year. The fee shall be as specified through adoption of resolution by the city council.

EXCEPTION: Major projects for which the city contracts for inspection and/or plan review services shall be charged permit fees in accordance with the above section. Costs of additional plan review and/or overtime inspections required for project fast-tracking, or contractor scheduling, or due to changes in plans, shall be paid by the owner on a monthly basis. The fees shall be equal to the cost of service plus a 25 percent administrative fee.

The owner shall provide on-site office space for the resident inspector. Such office space shall be private and under the exclusive control of the resident inspector. Electric power, heat and phone service shall be provided to the office. Such office shall be maintained on-site until the final certificate of occupancy is issued.

For work requiring a permit not described on the valuation table, the valuation shall be determined by contract price for the work, subject to review by the building official.

The minimum permit fee under this section shall be as specified through adoption of resolution by the city council. Additional plan review as a result of incomplete submittals or changes to plans after approval of such plans will be charged a plan review fee.

A reinspection fee shall be charged for scheduled inspections when the work, for which an inspection was requested, is not ready for inspection. A reinspection fee shall also apply to additional inspections after the initial inspection for verifying correction of items noted in a correction notice.

Special inspection fees shall be charged with a one-hour minimum charge. Any inspections requested outside of regular work hours will be charged a three-hour minimum charge.

D. California Building Code Section 115.4, California Fire Code Section 107.4, and California Residential Code Section R114.4 are hereby amended to read as follows:

When a stop work order is issued an investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The permit fee for work without a permit shall be twice the normal permit fee. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.

E. International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) Section 107, Notices and Orders. Add the following text at the end of subsection 107.2, Item 4:

The maximum time limit shall be determined by the city building official based upon the condition of the structure and the potential hazard involved. Once such determination has been made, the building official shall serve a copy of a notice and order which specifies the dangerous condition to be remedied, together with the timeline for correction, as determined by the building official. Prior to the expiration date specified in the notice and order, the property owner shall perform either the rehabilitation, renovation or removal, as set forth in the notice and order.

Abatement of abandoned or substantially damaged non dwelling unit structures shall be subject to the provisions contained in Chapter 4.60 SLTCC.

F. Authority to Utilize Alternate Method of Recovery of Cost of Demolition. In any case where the city has found it necessary to undertake an abatement process to demolish a structure which has been found by the building official to be unsafe, as defined within Section 108 of the International Property Maintenance Code, the city may elect, at its discretion, to recover costs of such abatement using the methods prescribed in subsection (G) of this section as an alternative to the procedure outlined in Sections 110.3 and 109.4 et seq. of the aforementioned code.

G. Alternate Method of Recovery of Cost of Demolition.

1. Prior to commencement of any demolition activity undertaken as part of the abatement of an unsafe structure, the city shall take all necessary steps to ensure that all development rights which may be present on the parcel are appropriately banked with the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the South Tahoe Public Utility District. All such rights, which may include, but not be limited to, development rights, allocations, commercial square footage, hard and soft coverage rights, and sewer units, shall be banked to remain on the parcel upon which the demolition activity will be completed.

2. Upon completion of all demolition activities, an accounting of expenses shall be completed by the administrative services director and a public hearing to consider confirmation of the costs of the abatement shall be scheduled, noticed and conducted in accordance with Section 107 et seq. of the International Property Maintenance Code.

The notice mailed to the owner of record for the property which is the subject of the abatement process shall contain a statement which substantively reads as follows:

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE PROPERTY OWNER

Development rights attributable to your property and recognized by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency have been banked with that agency. These rights have considerable value. In order to retain ownership of these development rights, you must pay any and all costs of the abatement process which may be confirmed by the City Council at the scheduled hearing no later than sixty-five (65) days following the date of said hearing.

Your failure to pay the confirmed costs of said abatement within sixty-five (65) days of the date of the hearing will result in FORFEITURE OF THE DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS ASSOCIATED WITH YOUR PROPERTY.

SUCH FORFEITURE MAY ULTIMATELY PROHIBIT YOU OR ANYONE IN THE FUTURE FROM REDEVELOPING YOUR PROPERTY.

3. Upon completion of the hearing process to confirm the costs of the abatement process, the owner of the property subject to the abatement shall have 65 days from the date of the hearing to pay all costs of the abatement which have been confirmed by the city council. In the event all costs are not paid within the specified time period, the city shall notify the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency of the city council’s confirmation of costs of the abatement process and the failure of the property owner to pay said costs, and shall request that the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency approve forfeiture of all development rights banked to be vested with the city of South Lake Tahoe. Such forfeiture and vesting shall become effective 21 days after such approval is granted.

H. Expedited Permit Process for Photovoltaic and Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. To California Building Code Section 107.3 the following subsection shall be added:

1. Definitions. As used in this section:

“Electronic submittal” means the utilization of one or more of the following:

a. Electronic mail or email

b. The internet

“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 Chapter, and delivers electricity from a source outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in electric vehicle.

“Reasonable restrictions” on a solar energy system are those restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or significantly decrease its efficiency or specified performance, or that allow for an alternative system of comparable cost, efficiency, and energy conservation benefits.

“Specific, adverse impact” means a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified, and written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete.

“Restrictions that do not significantly increase the cost of the system or decrease its efficiency or specified performance” means:

For water heater systems or solar swimming pool heating systems: an amount exceeding ten (10) percent of the cost of the system, but in no case more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or decreasing the efficiency of the solar energy system by an amount exceeding ten (10) percent, as originally specified and proposed.

For photovoltaic systems: an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) over the system cost as originally specified and proposed, or a decrease in system efficiency of an amount exceeding ten (10) percent as originally specified and proposed.

“Small residential rooftop solar energy system” means all of the following:

a. A solar energy system that is no larger than ten (10) kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty (30) kilowatts thermal.

b. 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 paragraph (iii) of subdivision (c) of Section 714 of the Civil Code, as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or designated from time to time.

c. A solar energy system that is installed on a single- or duplex-family dwelling.

d. A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction.

“Solar energy system” has the same meaning set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 801.5 of the Civil Code, as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or designated from time to time.

“Specific adverse impact” means a significant, quantifiable, direct, unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified, and written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete.

2. Small Residential Rooftop Solar Systems

a. All solar energy systems shall meet applicable health and safety standards and requirements imposed by the state and the City of South Lake Tahoe.

b. All solar energy systems shall be certified by an accredited listing agency.

c. All energy systems for producing and or supplying electricity shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories and, where applicable, rules of the Public Utilities Commission regarding safety and reliability.

d. Proof of approval by local utility must be presented with application.

3. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

a. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Chapter is to promote and encourage the use of electric vehicles by creating an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations while promoting public health and safety and preventing specific adverse impacts in the installation and use of such charging stations. This Chapter is also purposed to comply with California Government Code Section 65850.7.

b. EXPEDITED PERMITTING PROCESS. Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall implement an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations, and adopt a checklist of all requirements with which electric vehicle charging stations shall comply with in order to be eligible for expedited review. The expedited, streamlined permitting process and checklist may refer to the recommendations contained in the most current version of the “Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist” of the “Zero-Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook” as published by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The City’s adopted checklist shall be published on the City’s website.

c. PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESSING.

(i) Prior to submitting an application for processing, the applicant shall verify that the installation of an electric vehicle charging station will not have specific, adverse impact to public health and safety and building occupants. Verification by the applicant includes but is not limited to: electrical system capacity and loads; electrical system wiring, bonding and overcurrent protection; building infrastructure affected by charging station equipment and associated conduits; areas of charging station equipment and vehicle parking.

(ii) A permit application that satisfies the information requirements in the City’s adopted checklist shall be deemed complete and be promptly processed. Upon confirmation by the Building Official that the permit application and supporting documents meets the requirements of the City adopted checklist, and is consistent with all applicable laws and health and safety standards, the Building Official shall, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, approve the application and issue all necessary permits. Such approval does not authorize an applicant to energize or utilize the electric vehicle charging station until approval is granted by the City. If the Building Official determines that the permit application is incomplete, he or she shall issue a written correction notice to the applicant, detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance.

(iii) Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall allow for electronic submittal of permit applications covered by this Ordinance and associated supporting documentations. In accepting such permit applications, the Building Official shall also accept electronic signatures on all forms, applications, and other documentation in lieu of a wet signature by any applicant.

d. TECHNICAL REVIEW

(i) It is the intent of this Ordinance to encourage the installation of electric vehicle charging stations by removing obstacles to permitting for charging stations so long as the action does not supersede the Building Official’s authority to address higher priority life-safety situations. If the Building Official makes a finding based on substantial evidence that the electric vehicle charging station could have a specific adverse impact upon the public health or safety, as defined in this Chapter, the City may require the applicant to apply for a use permit.

(ii) In the technical review of a charging station, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall not condition the approval for any electric vehicle charging station permit on the approval of such a system by an association, as that term is defined by Civil Code Section 4080.

e. ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

(i) Electric vehicle charging station equipment shall meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories, and rules of the Public Utilities Commission or a Municipal Electric Utility Company regarding safety and reliability.

(ii) 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.

(iii) 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.

(iv) 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.

I. Fire Watch. California Fire Code Section 403.11.1, Fire Watch Personnel, is hereby amended to read as follows:

When, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety in a place of assembly or any other occupancy, because of the number of persons, or the nature of the noncompliance with the California Fire Code and/or the nature of the performance, exhibition, display, contest or activity, the fire code official may require the owner, agent or lessee, to provide one or more fire watch personnel to perform fire watch duties during the times such places are open to the public, or when such activity requiring a fire watch is being conducted.

J. Building Address. Section 502.1 of the California Building Code, California Fire Code Section 505.1 and Section R319.1 of the California Residential Code are hereby amended to read as follows:

Approved numbers or addresses shall be provided for all new buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property. Address numbers and internal illumination shall be maintained. The addresses for new dwellings shall be posted with a minimum of four inch (4") high numbers with proportionate width that are plainly visible from the street. During hours of darkness, the numbers shall be internally illuminated. Posted numbers shall be placed on a contrasting background. Where building setbacks exceed one hundred feet (100’) from the street or road fronting the property, additional contrasting six inch (6") high numbers shall be displayed at the property entrance. The addresses for new multi-family, new commercial and new industrial buildings shall be posted with a minimum of six-inch (6") high by three-quarters inch (3/4") stroke numbers. During the hours of darkness, the numbers shall be electrically illuminated. New multi-family, new commercial and new industrial buildings shall display address/suite numbers or letters six-inch (6") high by three-quarters inch (3/4") stroke placed on a contrasting background on the front and rear doors of each suite/unit.

K. Fire Access Grade. California Fire Code Section 503.2.7 is hereby amended to read as follows:

503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus. Where driveways serving one- and two- family dwelling units have a driveway gradient exceeding eight percent (8%), a separate emergency egress path of travel from the primary entrance of each dwelling unit to the public way shall be provided. All components of the separate emergency egress path of travel shall comply with all applicable provisions of the California Building Code.

L. Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). California Building Code Chapter 7A, California Fire Code Chapter 49 and California Residential Code Section R337 are adopted in their entirety with the amendments to read as follows:

CITY OF SOUTH LAKE TAHOE IS DESIGNATED AS VERY-HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE. For purposes of clarification and enforcement of the following shall be added to each chapter preface: The City of South Lake Tahoe has adopted Ordinance 2019-1131 which designates all areas within the City of South Lake Tahoe a Very High Fire Severity Zone.

M. Freeze Protection. California Building Code and California Fire Code Section 903 are hereby added to the California Building Code and the California Fire Code to read as follows:

All sprinkler systems shall be suitably freeze-protected for climatic conditions as prescribed by the fire code official.

N. Roof Fire Rating. California Building Code Section 1505.1.1 and California Residential Code Section R902.1.1 are written here for emphasis and clarity:

The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area 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 Class A.

O. Snowshed Impact Areas. Add to California Building Code Section 1608.1 and to California Residential Code Section R301.2.3:

Snow shed Impact Areas Protection of Required Entries/Exits, Parking, and Driveways.

1. Roof surfaces and photovoltaic panels that are susceptible to rooftop avalanche risk shall be designed so that snow shed impact areas will not occur in or on entries/exits (required exits only for R-3 occupancies), vehicle parking areas, driveways, LPG storage tanks, gas meters, electrical meters, walkways, and public ways.

2. The minimum snow shed impact area shall have a setback of ten feet measured horizontally from a vertical line projecting from the roof eave to the other constructed elements such as fences, sheds, and patio covers.

3. The snow shed impact area may be eliminated provided an engineered snow restraint system, designed in accordance with this code, is incorporated into the roof design and, in other than R-3 occupancies, an approved roof drainage system (e.g., heated gutter and downspout) is installed to prevent ice formation/accumulation at the grade or access level.

4. Property owners shall maintain snow shed impact areas to prevent snow from encroaching beyond the impact area boundaries.

5. Existing structures may use engineered snow slide restraint devices without an approved roof drainage system to reduce hazards associated with the existing roof design.

P. Ice Dam Membrane. Add Section 1507.1.2 to the California Building Code and Section R9045.1.2 to the California Residential Code as follows:

Title 15-10: An “Ice Guard” is required on roofs of heated areas of buildings. Roofs, regardless of covering, with a pitch of less than 8 in 12 shall be protected against leakage (caused by ice and snow) using an approved manufactured membrane installed per the manufacturer’s specifications and as approved by the building official. This application shall extend from the eave edge of the roof up the roof slope measured 5 feet beyond the wall line separating the conditioned and unconditioned space, and up 30 inches along each side of a valley. This “Ice Guard” shall be in addition to any other required underlayment.

Q. Local Design Criteria. Amend California Building Code Section 1603 and California Residential Code Table R301.2, Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria, by adding the following design criteria values as listed below in items 1 through 8 to read as follows:

1. Ground Snow Load: 150 PSF

2. Wind Design Speed: (Based on the ASCE 7-10 code cycle)

Risk Category 1: 110 mph

Risk Category 2: 120 mph

Risk Category 3: 130 mph

Risk Category 4: 130 mph

3. Seismic Design Category: D

4. Subject to Weathering from Weathering: Negligible

5. Frost Line Depth: 18 inches

6. Termites: Yes

7. Climate Zone: 16

8. Ice Barrier Underlayment Required: Yes

R. Snow Loads. Add Section 1608.4 to the California Building Code and Section R301.2.3.1 to the California Residential Code as follows:

All of the City of South Lake Tahoe shall be declared a snow area with a Ground Snow Load of 150 Pounds Per Square Foot. This pertains to all structures, modular buildings, and factory-built houses. The building official may permit deviations from the snow loading standard, provided the snow load and conditions in each individual case are derived and certified by a registered civil or structural engineer with demonstrated experience in snow load evaluation.

S. Protection of Piping from Freezing. Add Section 312.13 to the California Plumbing Code as follows:

a. All water supply piping shall be protected from freezing by a minimum of 42 inches of earth covering.

b. All water piping shall be installed in such a manner to allow for the system to be drained.

c. Water piping shall not be installed or concealed in unheated walls, ceilings and attics.

T. Exhaust Vent Protection. Add Section 802.3.3.5 to the California Mechanical Code as follows:

a. Exhaust terminals and combustion air intakes shall not be located in areas in which could be sealed off around the perimeter with snow accumulation.

U. Electrical Installations. Add Article 80.13(a) and (b) to the California Electric Code as follows:

a. All electrical systems that are over 400 amps shall be designed by a California-licensed electrical engineer.

b. When changing out or adding a new electrical main panel, the subpanel, if so equipped, shall also be changed out to a breaker subpanel. No residential fuse panels will be allowed.

(Ord. 891 § 1; Ord. 901; Ord. 926; Ord. 983 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1107 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-14; Ord. 1173 § 2. Formerly 6.15.170)

Article III. Underground Utilities

6.15.170 Definitions.

For the purpose of this article, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

“Communication service” means the transmission of intelligence by electrical means, including, but not limited to, telephone, telegraph, messenger call, clock, police, fire alarm and traffic control circuits and circuits for the transmission of standard television or radio signals.

“Electrical service” means the distribution of electricity for heat, light or power. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-34. Formerly 6.15.490)

6.15.180 Service required – New buildings.

It shall be a condition of permits issued for the construction of new homes and other buildings which will require electrical or communications services provided by cables and wires that facilities necessary to receive utility cables and wires be installed underground by the permittee from the building to the service point to be determined by the utility company.

If the serving utility pole is located on the same side of the street as, and between, the extended side lot lines of the property involved, the utility service shall thereafter be connected underground.

If the serving utility pole is located elsewhere, underground connection of the utility service shall be made at the time the aerial lead of the serving utility is removed and replaced by an underground lead. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-35. Formerly 6.15.500)

6.15.190 Service required – Remodeling or repairs.

It shall be a condition of any permit for the repair or remodeling of a building or sign requiring communication service or electric service, which repair or remodeling shall be in an amount exceeding 50 percent of the market value of the property, as determined by applying the last available assessment ratio to the last available assessment by the county assessor, that facilities necessary to receive such services be placed underground from the building to the serving point designated by the utility company.

If the serving utility pole is located on the same side of the street as and between the extended side lot lines of the property involved, the utility service shall be connected underground upon the completion of the work authorized by the building permit.

If the serving utility pole is located elsewhere, the utility service shall be connected underground at the time the serving utility aerial lead is removed and replaced with an underground lead. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-36. Formerly 6.15.510)

6.15.200 Exemptions from article.

The provisions of SLTCC 6.15.180 and 6.15.190 shall not apply to the following types of facilities and situations:

A. Poles without overhead lines used exclusively for fire or police alarm boxes, lighting purposes or traffic control.

B. Overhead wires attached to the exterior surface of a building by means of a bracket or other fixture and extending from one location on the building to another location on the same building.

C. Radio antennas, their associated equipment and supporting structures, used by a utility or person for furnishing communication services.

D. Equipment appurtenant to underground facilities, such as surface-mounted transformers, pedestal-mounted terminal boxes and meter cabinets and concealed ducts. Such facilities shall be so located as to harmonize with the area or screened and landscaped. The city council may, after hearing with the utility companies and affected property owners, by resolution, require that all or part of the transformers and service terminals be flush with or below the surface of the ground at the point of installation.

E. Where the city engineer expressly finds that topographical or soil conditions make such application unreasonable or impractical.

F. Where the city engineer, upon application of the applicant for a building permit, expressly finds that application of such sections cannot be accomplished feasibly and practically within pertinent safety regulations and other laws applying to the installation and that such application will cause unnecessary or unusual hardship. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-37. Formerly 6.15.520)

Article IV. Numbering of Buildings

6.15.210 Adoption by reference of building number maps.

There is hereby adopted a building number index map and sectional building number district maps which are on file with the building division of the city and are made part of this article by reference. Maps showing the streets hereafter constructed within the city or streets in areas hereafter annexed to the city shall be added to such map from time to time and the building numbers shall be indicated thereon and, upon filing with the building division, such maps shall constitute a part of the building number maps. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-38. Formerly 6.15.530)

6.15.220 Designation of numbers by building official.

It shall be the duty of the building official to designate and assign the respective numbers for buildings fronting on streets as set forth upon the building number map or as determined by the building official. (Ord. 983 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-39. Formerly 6.15.540)

6.15.230 Numbers to be affixed to buildings – Manner of affixing numbers.

It shall be the responsibility of the owners or occupants to affix the property numbers to their respective buildings in any style or device; provided, that each figure of a number shall be plainly visible and legible from the public way. The main entrance to commercial buildings shall be numbered such that the numbers are plainly visible from the street fronting the property. All entrances to residential buildings from the public streets of the city shall be numbered, either on the street fronting the property, or as designated by the building official. The number of every entrance shall be placed upon, immediately above, or immediately adjacent to the door or gate closing of such entrance. Multi-unit buildings shall also have each unit numbered with an individual unit number placed upon, immediately above, or immediately adjacent to the door of each unit. Building numbers shall be a minimum of four inches in height, and of a contrasting color to that of the background on which they are placed. On newly constructed and/or altered buildings where building setbacks exceed 100 feet from the street or road fronting the property, additional contrasting six-inch-high numbers shall be displayed at the property entrance. The addresses for new multifamily, new commercial and new industrial buildings shall display address/suite numbers with a minimum of six-inch-high by three-quarters-inch stroke numbers and placed on a contrasting background on the front and rear doors of each suite/unit. (Ord. 946 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-40. Formerly 6.15.550)

6.15.240 Responsibility for placing of numbers.

The appropriate number of any entrance to any building shall be placed thereon within five days after the receipt by the owner, occupant, lessee, tenant or subtenant of the building of a notice from the building official of the number designated for such building; and all numbers other than the numbers provided for in this chapter for the respective entrances shall be removed from every building by the owners, occupants, lessees, tenants or subtenants thereof, within five days from the service of the notice, designating the appropriate numbers to be placed thereon. It shall be the duty of the building official upon request from any owner, occupant, lessee, tenant or subtenant of the building to provide such owner, occupant, lessee, tenant or subtenant the proper building number of the building occupied by such person. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-41. Formerly 6.15.560)

6.15.250 Display of number – Prerequisite to issuance of business license.

No business license shall be issued to any person unless such person shall certify that the premises upon which such business is conducted are numbered in the manner required by this article and that the building numbers are displayed in the manner provided in this article. (Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1134 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-42. Formerly 6.15.570)

Article V. Board of Appeals

6.15.580 Established.

This section establishes the building board of appeals. The functions of the building board of appeals shall be set forth by resolution of the city council. (Ord. 884 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-43)

Article VI. Underground Storage Tanks

6.15.590 Removal/replacement of underground storage tank.

Any removal or replacement of an underground storage tank on property visible from Highways 50 or 89, or both, is required to obtain a demolition permit from the city prior to such removal or replacement. The demolition permit and inspections are proposed to impose a minimum of the following:

A. If the area is to be fenced:

1. Fence will only encompass excavation area;

2. Fence shall conform with existing city fence ordinance, except:

a. Fence will be constructed only of wood unless finding can be made by staff that chain link fencing is necessary for security purposes,

b. Staff may allow encroachment into required street/side yard setbacks if determined necessary.

B. In addition to all of the above, the following standards will also be imposed:

1. Building will be secured (windows, doors and other openings) through the use of plywood or other material to match exterior. The plywood will be painted to match the building exterior;

2. If tank is being removed and not replaced, island overhang will be removed prior to, or simultaneously with, tank removal (see SLTCC 6.10.460, Conditions).

C. If on-site or in-place aeration is proposed to treat contaminated soil, aeration plan is subject to city staff review as part of the demolition permit to ensure appropriate screening of equipment, machinery and aeration pile.

D. All other usual and customary requirements of a demolition permit will also be imposed.

E. Stations which remain fenced or secured and inoperative and/or in a dilapidated or unsightly condition in excess of 180 days will be declared by staff as abandoned and/or a nuisance affecting the visual and aesthetic health and welfare, and as such, subject to nuisance abatement proceedings contained in Chapter 4.40 SLTCC, Article II. If due diligence can be documented, an extension not to exceed an additional 180 days may be granted. (Ord. 901; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-49)

Article VII. Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling

6.15.600 Title/purpose.

This article shall be known as the “construction and demolition debris recycling ordinance.” The purpose of this article is to achieve reduction and/or recycling of debris generated by projects, thereby diverting the debris from disposal facilities, saving landfill space, and conserving natural resources consistent with the goals of Section 40000 et seq. of the Public Resources Code. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.1)

6.15.610 Definitions.

Except where the context or particular provisions require otherwise, the following definitions shall govern the construction of this article:

A. “Building official” means the building official of the building department or his/her authorized representative.

B. “Construction and demolition debris” means solid waste generated by or resulting from construction or demolition-related activities including, but not limited to, building, construction, deconstruction, demolition, excavation, grading, improvement, land clearing, reconstruction, remodeling, and renovation.

C. “Debris recycling acknowledgment” means a written statement signed by the permittee, in the form prescribed by the building official, to acknowledge the actions planned to be taken or administered by or on behalf of the permittee to achieve reduction or recycling of, at minimum, 50 percent by weight of debris resulting from a project. This minimum 50 percent reduction or recycling may be increased by the building official to reflect any such higher percentage that may hereafter be mandated by state law.

D. “Debris recycling report” means a written summary signed by the permittee, in the form prescribed by the building official, for reporting the amount of debris reduced and/or recycled for a project and the amount of debris from that project disposed of at a disposal facility.

E. “Performance security” means any performance bond, surety bond, letter of credit, or certificate of deposit submitted to the city pursuant to SLTCC 6.15.650.

F. “Permit” means a permit other than a grading permit issued by the building department for construction or demolition-related activities including, but not limited to, building, construction, deconstruction, demolition, excavation, grading, improvement, land clearing, reconstruction, remodeling and renovation.

G. “Permittee” means any individual, firm, limited liability company, association, partnership, political subdivision, government agency, municipality, industry, public or private corporation, or any entity or person whatsoever that applies for a permit.

H. “Project” means any activity which occurs within the incorporated areas of the city that either (1) requires a permit that specifies any demolition work or activity that exceeds 5,000 square feet in area, or (2) requires a permit that authorizes construction-related activities including, but not limited to, building, construction, excavation, grading, improvement, land clearing, reconstruction, remodeling, and renovation for improvements that exceed 5,000 square feet in area. One single development of multiple residential units, multiple commercial units, or multiple industrial units within any subdivided parcel will be considered as a single project regardless of the number of permits required for the development. The provisions of this article shall not apply to single-family and/or two-family residential units and associated accessory structures that are not part of a multiple-unit subdivision or development. Projects that directly result from emergency demolitions to protect public health or safety are excluded from the definition of “project.”

I. “Recycle” or “recycling” means the process of collecting, sorting, cleaning, treating, and reconstituting materials that would otherwise become solid waste, and returning them to the economic mainstream, as defined in Section 40180 of the Public Resources Code.

J. “Recycling facility” means a facility that collects specific types of construction and demolition debris for reuse or recycling. Recycling facilities are identified in the California Integrated Waste Management Board’s C&D Recyclers Database (available on the worldwide web at http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/ConDemo/Recyclers/).

K. “Reduce” or “reduction” means any action that causes a net reduction in the generation of solid waste, as further defined by Section 40196 of the Public Resources Code.

L. “Solid waste” means all putrescible and nonputrescible solid, semisolid, and liquid wastes, as further defined in Section 40191 of the Public Resources Code.

M. “Solid waste landfill” means a disposal facility that accepts solid waste for land disposal, as further defined by Section 40195.1 of the Public Resources Code. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.2)

6.15.620 Findings.

A. The city finds that the state of California, through its California Waste Management Act of 1989, Assembly Bill 939 (AB 939), requires that each local jurisdiction in the state divert 50 percent of discarded materials from the landfill by December 31, 2000.

B. The city finds that every city and county in California, including the city of South Lake Tahoe, could face fines up to $10,000 a day for not meeting the above mandated goal.

C. The city finds that reusing and recycling construction and demolition debris is essential to further the city’s efforts to reduce waste and comply with AB 939.

D. The city finds that construction and demolition debris waste reduction and recycling have been proven to reduce the amount of such material that is landfilled.

E. The city finds that, except in unusual circumstances, it is feasible to divert an average of at least 50 percent of all construction and demolition debris from construction, demolition, and renovation projects.

F. The city finds that, to ensure compliance with this article without creating a competitive disadvantage, it is necessary to impose a performance security requirement. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.3)

6.15.630 Threshold applicability.

As further defined in SLTCC 6.15.610(H), this article applies to demolition and construction projects within the city of South Lake Tahoe in which the footprint of the structure exceeds 5,000 square feet in area. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.4)

6.15.640 Requirements.

A. All permittees for projects as defined by this article and within the incorporated areas of the city shall submit a debris recycling acknowledgment to the building official for review and approval at the time of submitting an application for a permit.

B. If set forth by resolution of the city council, the permittee shall pay a nonrefundable administrative fee sufficient to compensate the city for all expenses incurred in administering this article.

C. No permit will be issued by the building official for a project unless and until the building official has approved the debris recycling acknowledgment and, if applicable, the performance security and administrative fee have been submitted.

D. Within 60 days after the final and/or occupancy approval of the project by the building official, the permittee shall submit a debris recycling report to the building official for the building official’s approval.

E. The building official shall approve the debris recycling report only if the report validates that the permittee either reduced or recycled at minimum 50 percent by weight of the total debris generated by the project. Upon approval of the debris recycling report, the full performance security, if applicable, shall be released to the permittee within 10 business days.

F. In the event that a permittee fails to submit an approved debris recycling report within two years of the date of the current debris recycling acknowledgment, the permittee shall thereafter be required to submit with the debris recycling acknowledgment a performance security. The amount of the performance security shall be calculated as the lesser of three percent of the total project cost calculated by the building official or $10,000. Acceptable forms of performance security include the following: performance bonds, surety bonds, letters of credit, and certificates of deposit.

G. Noncompliance shall be defined as failure to meet the requirements of this article. Specifically, noncompliance means (1) failure to submit a debris recycling acknowledgment pursuant to this article, (2) failure by the permittee to achieve reduction or recycling of a minimum of 50 percent by weight of debris resulting from the project, except as provided in subsection (H) of this section, and/or (3) failure by a permittee to submit a debris recycling report within 60 days of final and/or occupancy approval of the project by the building official. Permittees determined by the building official to be noncompliant will be subject to forfeiture of the performance security, if applicable, in its entirety. Performance security deposits forfeited to the city shall be used only for the cost of programs whose purpose is to divert the city’s solid waste from landfill disposal. Any person violating any provision of this article is guilty of an infraction and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine not to exceed the value of twice the performance security for a project.

H. If the building official determines upon review of the debris recycling report that the permittee has not achieved reduction or recycling of a minimum of 50 percent by weight of debris resulting from the project, then the building official shall determine if the permittee has made a good faith effort to comply with this article. In making this determination, the building official shall consider the documented efforts of the permittee to reduce and/or recycle debris, the availability of markets for the debris disposed, the size of the project, and any circumstance beyond the control of the permittee. If the building official determines that the permittee has made a good faith effort to comply with this article, then the full performance security, if applicable, shall be released to the permittee. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.5)

6.15.650 Standards, guidelines, and criteria.

The building official may establish and/or adopt standards, guidelines, and criteria consistent with this article and reasonably necessary to achieve the objectives of this article. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.6)

6.15.660 Inspections.

The building official may make such inspections as he/she may deem necessary to determine permittee’s compliance with this article. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.7)

6.15.670 Severability.

If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this article or any part thereof is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid or ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or effectiveness of the remaining portions of this article or any part thereof. The city council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this article irrespective of the fact that one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional or invalid or ineffective. To this end the provisions of this article are declared to be severable. (Ord. 951 § 1; Ord. 1024 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1064 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A). Code 1997 § 8-50.8)

Article VIII. Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program

6.15.675 Purpose.*

The purpose of this article is to address the shortage of decent, safe, sanitary and affordable rental housing options for low-income persons in the city. Hotels have historically provided affordable rental options of last resort for low-income persons. This article enables hotels to rehabilitate units that do not meet minimum building, housing and property maintenance code standards so as to provide safe, habitable rental units for low-income persons. This article establishes development, design and maintenance standards so as to preserve and enhance the quality of life for residents of the city living within such units. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

*Code reviser’s note: Ordinance 1088 adds the provisions of this section as Section 6.15.670. The section has been editorially renumbered to prevent duplication of numbering.

6.15.680 Definitions.

“Habitable floor area” includes living rooms, bedrooms, entryways and other common areas, but does not include bathrooms, kitchens, storage spaces or mechanical/electrical areas.

“Lodging property” includes hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, lodging houses, lodging facilities, or similar properties.

“Single room occupancy property” or “SRO property” means any building with one or more rooms which are (1) intended or designed to be used, or which are used, rented, or hired out, to be occupied, or which are occupied, for sleeping purposes by tenants, which is or may be the primary residence of such tenants, or (2) intended or designed to be used, or which are used, rented, or hired out, to be occupied, or which are occupied, for periods greater than 29 days.

“SRO unit” means any room, rooms, or units of a lodging property used for SRO property purposes.

“Transient lodging” is the use of a lodging property by guests of such lodging property who stay, sleep and/or occupy any rooms within said lodging property for 29 days or less. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.690 Application.

This article applies to lodging properties with at least one SRO unit and does not apply to lodging properties used entirely for transient lodging purposes. Pursuant to this article, all lodging properties are either required to obtain a South Lake Tahoe SRO permit or pay the South Lake Tahoe transient occupancy tax (“TOT”) based upon all gross receipts and monies collected for the letting of rooms within said lodging property. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.700 Transient occupancy tax.

SRO units shall be exempt from TOT except that SRO units subject to this article but in use as transient lodging are subject to South Lake Tahoe TOT and shall comply with all TOT reporting requirements as set forth in the South Lake Tahoe City Code. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.710 SRO permits.

A. All lodging properties with SRO units shall obtain from the city of South Lake Tahoe development services department a South Lake Tahoe SRO permit (SRO permit).

B. SRO permits shall be obtained prior to use of any room, rooms or units of lodging properties for SRO purposes.

C. Lodging properties with SRO units existing upon the effective date of the ordinance codified in this article shall have until 30 days after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this article to submit a completed SRO permit application. Lodging properties without existing SRO units upon the effective date of the ordinance codified in this article may apply for an SRO permit at any time, but no less than 30 days prior to letting SRO units.

D. Permit applications shall include the following properly completed forms and materials:

1. South Lake Tahoe SRO permit application which shall include a development design and maintenance plan.

2. Proof that lodging property is in compliance with its business and professions tax and TOT obligations.

E. SRO permits shall provide a 12-month period within which permittees may complete all development, design and maintenance standards required by this article. The building official or his or her designee (referred to herein as the building official) may grant extensions to this 12-month period where he/she deems such extensions appropriate. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.720 Fees.

A. SRO Permit Fee. A one-time fee in an amount set forth by separate resolution of the city council shall be required for the submission of all SRO permit applications.

B. SRO Annual Service Fee. An annual fee in an amount set forth by separate resolution of the city council shall be assessed for all SRO rooms. This annual service fee shall cover the operational costs of the periodic SRO health and safety inspections as set forth more fully in SLTCC 6.15.750. The annual service fee shall be collected at the same time as payment of the lodging property’s business and professions tax. Should the lodging property fail to timely pay its annual service fee, the city shall be permitted to recover it, plus accrued interest and penalties, utilizing any and all remedies provided by law including but not limited to nuisance abatement and municipal tax lien. Failure to pay the annual service fee shall be deemed a violation of this article.

C. Reinspection Fee. Upon any inspection of a lodging property subject to this article, the building official may instruct the owner of the lodging property to perform work, take action, or refrain from action to meet the development, design, and maintenance standards set forth in this article and by other applicable laws. If the building official determines that such work, action, or inaction has not been accomplished, the lodging property shall be assessed a reinspection fee in an amount set forth by separate resolution of the city council. Should the lodging property fail to timely pay said re-inspection fee, the city shall be permitted to recover it, plus accrued interest and penalties, utilizing any and all remedies provided by law including but not limited to nuisance abatement and municipal tax lien. Failure to pay the reinspection fee shall be deemed a violation of this article. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.730 Design and development standards.

SRO properties shall meet the following design standards:

A. SRO Units.

1. Designation. SRO property owner shall designate specific rooms as SRO units. Said designation cannot change without an amendment to SRO property’s SRO permit.

2. Bathroom. Shall contain a bathroom facility, with a door for privacy, a lavatory (sink), toilet and bathtub or shower.

3. Efficiency Kitchen. Efficiency kitchen facilities shall exist in each SRO unit that does not have access to a common kitchen (as set forth in subsection (B)(1) of this section). Kitchens shall contain:

a) A refrigerator with freezer.

b) A two burner stove and/or cook top and/or microwave.

c) A kitchen or bar sink.

d) Countertop space of at least 30 inches.

e) Sufficient electrical capacity to accommodate such facilities.

4. Habitable Floor Area.

a) For a single occupant a minimum habitable floor area of 120 square feet.

b) For two occupants a minimum habitable floor area of 170 square feet.

c) For three occupants a minimum habitable floor area of 220 square feet.

d) For four occupants a minimum habitable floor area of 270 square feet.

e) The permissible number of room occupants shall be capped at no more than four persons.

5. Exterior Doors. Exterior doors of SRO units shall meet standards for exterior door rating.

B. SRO Properties.

1. Common Kitchen Facilities. Shared kitchen space shall exist to serve all SRO units that do not possess a kitchen. Common kitchens shall contain:

a) A full size range with four stove burners and an oven.

b) A full size refrigerator with freezer for every six SRO units.

c) A full size microwave oven.

d) A full size kitchen sink with garbage disposal.

e) At least 10 feet of countertop space for food preparation.

f) Lockable storage cabinets a minimum of two by two by two feet for each SRO unit that does not possess independent kitchen facilities.

2. Trash Enclosure. An SRO property shall provide a three-sided trash enclosure or solid screening of the dumpster from public view.

3. Sewage. All sewer units shall be verified and/or permitted by South Tahoe public utility district or the appropriate provider.

4. Electrical. All SRO properties shall meet electrical service requirements that comply with all applicable laws and are subject to approval of the building official.

5. ADA Compliance. All SRO properties that make alterations or additions shall comply with the California Building Code, Section 11 B-202, Existing Building and Facilities, and Section 11 B-224, Transient Lodging and Guestrooms.

C. Signage.

1. Proof of SRO permit shall be placed in a conspicuous place in the lobby or other common area of the lodging property such as a laundry room.

2. All SRO units must have an exterior placard containing the following information:

a) Statement that room or unit has been designated as an SRO unit.

b) Name of hotel/motel.

c) Address of hotel/motel.

d) Room number.

e) Approved number of occupants.

f) Contact information of city building department to which complaints may be directed.

D. SROs shall meet all other building requirements for residential building units as set forth in the South Lake Tahoe City Code and all other applicable laws. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.740 Maintenance standards.

In order to avoid a substantial risk to health and safety, affected residential rental dwellings shall meet the following interior/exterior and site maintenance standards:

A. All parking areas shall be well maintained, including striping and landscaping.

B. All landscaped and nonlandscaped areas shall be in compliance with standards set forth in this code or other applicable laws.

C. Common kitchen areas shall be kept clean and well maintained. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.750 Inspections.

A. Inspections. The building official may inspect all permitted SRO properties and SRO units to determine whether such facilities and units comply with conditions of approval and all other applicable laws. Inspections may be performed annually, or more frequently where the building official determines that the SRO property or SRO unit poses a substantial risk to health and safety or violations of this article exist.

B. Inspection Standards. When inspections are made, SRO properties and SRO units shall be required to be in conformance with the standards in effect at the time the facility or unit was permitted, as well as any additional standards mandated by law.

C. Notification and Access.

1. A letter of intent to inspect an SRO property shall be mailed and emailed, when possible, to the owner of the SRO property stating the date and time of inspection and shall provide 14 days’ notice of said inspection. An inspection checklist will be mailed with the letter.

2. It shall be the responsibility of the SRO property owner to notify the tenants, residents and inhabitants of the inspection. The city shall be ensured access to all SRO units and shared facilities throughout the inspection.

3. In the event an owner or tenant in possession of the property to be inspected refuses access to said property, the city attorney or district attorney is authorized to obtain from a court of competent jurisdiction any warrant necessary to cause the inspection to take place.

D. Voluntary Inspections. Nothing herein shall prevent an owner of a lodging property or a tenant, resident or inhabitant from requesting an inspection at any time for the purpose of determining whether any and all parts of the lodging property comply with this article. Voluntary inspections shall not be subject to the inspection fees set forth by SLTCC 6.15.720. Where violations of this article are discovered during a voluntary inspection, fines shall not be assessed if said violations are corrected within three months of the date of inspection.

E. Reduced Inspections. Lodging properties with SRO unit(s) that have been permitted under this article for a minimum of three successive years and which have complied with all elements of this article shall be eligible for reduced inspections and reduced SRO fees provided the lodging property meets the following standards and requirements set forth by the SLTCC or other agency standards:

1. Defensible space standards.

2. Dumpster enclosures.

3. Landscaping and drainage standards. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.760 Violations.

A  Any and all violations of this article shall be subject to the city’s administrative citation procedures as set forth in SLTCC Title 2.

B. Any/all practices intended to evade compliance with this article shall be deemed a violation thereof.

C. Residents and inhabitants of SRO units shall not be moved to another unit so as to deprive such residents, tenants and inhabitants of the rights conferred by this article.

D. Relocation of Tenants. If any SRO unit is found to be unsafe to occupy, due to imminent danger to health and safety of the resident(s), the costs and expenses of relocation of any tenant from that unit shall be the responsibility of the owner, pursuant to the provisions of Health and Safety Code Section 17975 et seq.

E. The following constitute violations of this article:

1. Verifiable complaints of noncompliance with the standards set forth in this article.

2. Failure to obtain an SRO permit where a permit is required.

3. Failure to pay SRO fees, TOT, and/or business and professions tax upon such fees and taxes becoming due.

4. Permissible use of rooms and/or units in a lodging property for a period greater than 29 days without having obtained an SRO permit and without meeting the design, development and maintenance standards set forth by this article.

5. Failure to accommodate inspections authorized by this article. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))

6.15.770 Tourist accommodation units.

All SRO units shall remain tourist accommodation units (TAUs) as set forth by TRPA’s Code of Ordinances, unless converted from a TAU by regulations or means other than this article. (Ord. 1088 § 1 (Exh. B); Ord. 1168 § 1 (Exh. A))