Chapter 11
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
Sections:
8-11.02 Sections amended, added or deleted.
8-11.03 Appendix chapters adopted.
8-11.01 Adopted by reference.
The California Fire Code, Part 9, 2025 Edition, is hereby adopted as the fire code for the City of Watsonville, establishing the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and premises, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
(§ 1, Ord. 1483-25, eff. January 1, 2026)
8-11.02 Sections amended, added or deleted.
California Fire Code (CFC) Chapter 1
CFC Section 101.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 101.1—Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Watsonville, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
CFC Section 102.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 102.1—Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
1. Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code.
2. Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions where required in Chapter 11.
4. Existing structures, facilities and conditions that, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
5. Existing Structures, Alterations and Repairs. All new work performed in alterations and/or repairs to existing structures shall comply with the current provisions of this Chapter. When alterations and/or repairs result in the removal, alteration, modification, replacement and/or repair of fifty percent or more of the external walls of a building, or result in the removal, modification, replacement and/or repair of fifty percent or more of the existing internal structural and/or non-structural framework, independently or in combination thereof, within a five year period, the entire building shall be made to conform to the current provisions of this chapter. The determination under this section of the requirement for upgrading any existing structure to full conformance with current provisions of this Chapter shall be at the sole discretion of the Fire Code Official.
CFC Section 102.9 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 102.9—Matters not provided for. Requirements that are essential for the public safety of an existing or proposed activity, building or structure, or for the safety of the occupants thereof, which are not specifically provided for by this code shall be determined by the fire code official.
The fire chief is authorized to render interpretations of this code and to make and enforce rules, supplemental regulations and standards in order to carry out the application and intent of its provisions. Such interpretations, rules, regulations and standards shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code and shall be available to the public during normal business hours. Those standards promulgated by the Santa Cruz County Fire Chiefs Association shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with this code.
Section 103.4 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section 103.4—Law enforcement powers. The fire code official and his/her deputies shall have the powers of law enforcement officers in performing their duties under this code. When requested to do so by the fire code official, the chief of police or county sheriff of the jurisdiction is authorized to assign such available law enforcement as necessary to assist the fire code official with enforcing the provisions of this code.
CFC Section 105.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 105.1—General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.6.25 or other provisions of this code as required by the jurisdiction having authority. When required by the fire code official, a permit shall be obtained. Permit fees, if any, shall be paid prior to issuance of the permit. Issued permits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be readily available for inspection by the fire code official.
CFC Sections 112.1 through CFC Section 112.4 are hereby deleted and replaced as follows:
Section 112—Means of Appeals
Section 112.1 General. Means of Appeals shall be as set forth in City of Watsonville Municipal Code Chapter 1 Title 8.
CFC Section 113.4 is hereby deleted and replaced to read as follows:
Section 113.4 Violation penalties. Violations of this code shall be adjudicated in accordance with Title 8 Section 1.114 of the City of Watsonville Municipal Code.
CFC Section 113.4.1 is hereby deleted and replaced to read as follows:
Section 113.4.1—Abatement of violation. Abatement of violations of this code shall be as required by Title 8 Section 1.116 of the City of Watsonville Municipal Code for unsafe structures and equipment.
Section 113.4.2 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section 113.4.2—Enforcement. The fire code official and her/his delegated subordinates, pursuant to the provisions of Section 836.5 of the Penal Code of the State of California, are hereby authorized to arrest a person without a warrant whenever they have reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed a violation of any of the provisions of this Code in their presence.
Upon making such an arrest, the fire code official or her/his delegated subordinate shall prepare a citation and release the person arrested pursuant to Section 853.6 of the Penal Code of the State of California, the provisions of which are hereby adopted by reference as part of this Section.
CFC Section 114.4 is hereby deleted and replaced to read as follows:
CFC Section 114.4—Failure to comply. No person shall violate any provision or fail to comply with any of the requirements of this Code. Any person violating any of the provisions or failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of this Code shall be guilty of an infraction, unless a Code section specifically provides for a violation to be a misdemeanor as outlined in Title 1 Chapter 2 of the City of Watsonville Municipal Code.
California Fire Code—Chapter 2—Amendments, additions or deletions
Section 202—Definitions
CFC Section 202 is hereby amended with the addition of the following definitions:
a) ALL WEATHER SURFACE. An all-weather surface shall be a minimum of 6" of compacted Class II base rock for grades up to and including 5%, oil and screened for grades up to and including 15%, and asphaltic concrete for grades exceeding 15%. No grade shall be allowed to exceed 16% in State Responsibility Area (SRA) or 20% in Local Responsibility Area (LRA).
b) BRIDGE. A bridge shall be defined as a structure designed to carry a roadway over a depression or obstacle.
c) DE NOVO. adj. Latin for “anew,” which means starting over, as in a trial de novo. For example, a decision in a small claims case may be appealed to a local trial court, which may try the case again, de novo.
d) GREENHOUSE. A greenhouse is a structure with walls and roof made chiefly of a non-combustible, transparent material, such as glass, in which plants requiring regulated climatic conditions are grown. Construction within the greenhouse is also of a non-combustible nature.
e) LOCAL RESPONSIBILITY AREA (LRA). Shall mean lands on which neither the state nor the federal government has any legal responsibility for providing fire protection. Local responsibility areas include incorporated cities and cultivated agriculture lands. Local responsibility area fire protection is typically provided by city fire departments, fire protection districts, special districts, counties, and by CAL FIRE under contract to local government.
f) STAGE. A space within a building utilized for entertainment or presentations, which includes overhead hanging curtains, drops, scenery or stage effects other than lighting and sound. Stage area shall be measured to include the entire performance area and adjacent backstage and support areas not separated from the performance area by fire-resistance rated construction. Stage height shall be measured from the lowest point on the stage floor to the highest point of the roof or floor deck above the stage.
g) STATE RESPONSIBILITY AREA (SRA). Shall mean lands that are classified by the Board of Forestry pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 4125-4127; and the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Article 1, Sections 1220-1220.5 where the financial responsibility of preventing and suppressing forest fires is primarily the responsibility of the State of California.
h) TURNAROUND. A roadway, unobstructed by parking, which allows for a safe opposite change of direction for emergency equipment. Maximum grade in all directions may not exceed 5% and maximum distance from the structure is 150 feet (45,720 mm) or as approved by the fire code official. Design of such area may be found in Santa Cruz County Fire Prevention Officers Standards.
i) TURNOUT. A widening in a roadway to allow vehicles to pass. Design of such area may be found in Santa Cruz County Fire Prevention Officers Standards.
California Fire Code—Chapter 3—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Section 304.1.3 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows:
Section 304.1.3—Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines or other growth that is capable of being ignited and endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the premises. Vegetation clearance requirements in urban-wildland interface areas shall be maintained around and adjacent to buildings and structures. A firebreak shall be made by removing and clearing away, for a distance of not less than 30 feet on each side of the building or structure or to the property line, whichever is nearer, all flammable vegetation or other combustible growth. This does not apply to single specimens of trees or other vegetation that is well-pruned and maintained so as to effectively manage fuels and not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other nearby vegetation to any building or structure.
When required by state law, or local ordinance, rule or regulation, an additional fire protection zone or firebreak may be made by removing all brush, flammable vegetation, or combustible growth that is located within 100 feet from the building or structure or to the property line. This section does not prevent an insurance company that insures a building or structure from requiring the owner of the building or structure to maintain a firebreak of more than 100 feet around the building or structure. Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet from the building or structure and less than 18 inches in height above the ground may be maintained where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. This does not apply to single specimens of trees or other vegetation that is well-pruned and maintained so as to effectively manage fuels and not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from other nearby vegetation to a dwelling or structure.
Vegetation clearance requirements in the wildland-urban interface areas shall be in accordance with Part 7 of Title 24 California Code of Regulations (California Wildland-Urban Interface Code).
CFC Section 305.4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 305.4 Deliberate or negligent burning. It shall be unlawful to deliberately or through negligence set fire to or cause the burning of combustible material in such a manner as to endanger the safety of persons or property. Any person or entity violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor; however, any violation of this section may, in the discretion of the City Attorney, be charged and prosecuted as an infraction.
CFC Section 307 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 307.1. A person shall not kindle or maintain or authorize to be kindled or maintained any open burning within the City of Watsonville. unless conducted and approved in accordance with Sections 307.1.1 through 307.
CFC Section 307.1.1 Prohibited Open Burning. Open burning shall be prohibited within the City of Watsonville. when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous.
Exception: Prescribed burning for the purpose of reducing the impact of wildland fire when authorized by the fire code official.
Section 307.2 Permit Required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.5 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land on which the fire is to be kindled.
Section 307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed.
CFC Section 307.3 Extinguishment Authority. Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of the open burning operation.
Section 307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall be not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.
Exceptions:
1. Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
2. The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height.
Section 307.4.1 Section Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
Section 307.4.2 Recreational Fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
CFC Section 307.4.3 Portable Outdoor Fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one-and two-family dwellings.
CFC Section 307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use Use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
CFC Section 311.5 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 311.5—Placards. When required by the fire code official, any any building or structure determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 115 of this code relating to structural or interior hazards shall be marked as required by Sections 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
California Fire Code—Chapter 5—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Section 503.6 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 503.6—Gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
All Gates providing access from a road to a driveway, or within any access road, shall be located at least 30 feet from the roadway and shall open to allow a vehicle to stop without obstructing traffic on the road. Gate entrances shall be at least 2 (two) feet wider than the access road being secured, but in no case shall the width be less than 14 (fourteen) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance and unobstructed vertical clearance of 15 (fifteen) feet. When gates are to be locked, the installation of a key box or other acceptable means for immediate access may be required as in Section 506.1.
CFC Section 505.2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 505.2—Street and road signs. Streets and roads shall be identified with approved signs. Temporary signs shall be installed at each street intersection when construction of new roadways allows passage by vehicles. Signs shall be of an approved size, weather resistant and be maintained until replaced by permanent signs. Posting of any road names and numbers not authorized by the Department of Public Works of the City of Watsonville, and the fire code official is prohibited.
CFC Section 507.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 507.3—Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method, Appendix B, or Appendix BB (for school buildings as scoped in BB 101.1)
Parcels not within the boundaries of a public or private water purveyor shall have a minimum water supply capable of supplying a flow of 500 gallons per minute for 20 minutes (10,000 gallons) for all new fire sprinklered (NFPA 13D) dwellings, residential additions in excess of 500 square feet, and other structures classified as a residential accessory uses such as garages, storage buildings, barns, etc.
Privately owned water that is not supplied by a licensed water purveyor shall:
1. serve no more than two dwellings and no more than 10,000 square feet of habitable dwelling space, and;
2. be provided pursuant to a recorded covenant that runs with the land if the water supply originates from another parcel. If a water purveyor supplies the water, the applicant must submit with the building plan written verification from the licensed purveyor that the water supply meets the flow requirement.
Exception: A 2% reduction will be allowed for flow supplied by approved stationary water tanks, to account for the nominal standardized capacity of such tanks.
Section 507.5.7 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section 507.5.7—Painting. When required by the fire code official, fire hydrants shall be painted in accordance with NFPA 291.
Section 509.1.2 is hereby added to read as follows:
Section 509.1.2.—Alternate power sources. All permanent installations of electrical generators, wind generators, solar photovoltaic cells, or other power sources shall be approved by the building code official. In addition to all applicable provisions of Title 24 CCR for any such installation, a sign reading:
“WARNING—This premise is provided with an Alternate Power Source. Disconnection of commercial power may not disable the electrical power source”
shall be permanently affixed. Sign shall be red in color with a minimum of ½” tall contrasting lettering and shall be permanently affixed on each electrical panel subject to back-feed from alternate power sources. Any and all power disabling switches shall be clearly labeled.
California Fire Code—Chapter 9—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Sections 903.2 through 903.2.10.2 are deleted and replaced to read as follows:
Section 903.2—Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this section.
Section 903.2.1—New structures. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided in all new occupancies as defined in Chapter 3 of the California Building Code, regardless of type of construction and/or floor area, unless otherwise pre-empted by the California Health and Safety Code. Any occupancy not specifically mentioned shall be included in the group that it most nearly resembles based on the proposed life and fire hazard;
Exceptions:
1. Private garages, carports, sheds not more than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) of total floor area shall not require fire sprinklers where they are detached and separate from other structures and provided with exterior wall and opening protection as per the California Building Code.
2. Sheds exceeding 1,000 square feet, (93 m2) but not exceeding 3,000 square feet (278 m2) shall not require fire sprinklers at the discretion of the fire chief when the applicant demonstrates that the applicant’s proposal does not increase the fire hazard or fire load.
3. Agricultural buildings as defined in Appendix Chapter C, of the California Building Code having a clear unobstructed side yard exceeding 60 feet (18,280 mm) in all directions, not exceeding 25 feet (7620 mm) in height and located within an Agricultural zoned district.
a. Not exceeding 2,000 square feet (186 m2) or as exempted by the fire chief, shall not require fire sprinklers.
b. Exceeding 2,000 square feet (186 m2) but not exceeding 5,000 square feet, shall not require fire sprinklers at the discretion of the fire chief when the applicant demonstrates the applicant’s proposal does not increase the fire hazard or fire load.
c. Greenhouses of non-combustible construction shall not require fire sprinklers.
4. Group B and Group M Occupancies not more than 500 square feet (46.5 m2) shall not require fire sprinklers where they are detached and separate from other structures and provided with exterior wall and opening protection as per the California Building Code, Table 508.3.3.
5. For public school state-funded construction projects see CFC Section 903.2.19.
Section 903.2.1.4—Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exceptions:
1. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies not housing bedridden clients, not housing non-ambulatory clients above the first floor, and not housing clients above the second floor.
2. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies housing only one bedridden client and complying with section 425.8.3.3 of the California Building Code.
3. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13113 occupancies housing ambulatory children only, none of whom are mentally ill or mentally retarded, and the buildings or portions thereof in which such children are housed are not more than two stories in height, and buildings or portions thereof housing such children have an automatic fire alarm system activated by approved smoke detectors.
4. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.6 occupancies licensed for protective social care which house ambulatory clients only, none of whom is a child (under the age of 18 years), or who is elderly (65 years of age or over).
When not used in accordance with Section 504.2 or 506.3 of the California Building Code an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed in Group R-2.1 occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.5—Group R-3 congregate residences. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer residents.
Section 903.2.1.6—Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with 5 or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.
Section 903.2.2—Existing buildings and structures except for one- and two-family dwellings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in existing buildings and structures, except One- and Two-Family Dwellings, after the effective date of this code, when a building permit is issued to allow additions to be made, as follows:
1. For existing buildings less than 6,000 square feet in gross floor area when an addition to the building causes the structure to exceed 6,000 square feet, the entire structure shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system.
2. For existing buildings larger than 6,000 square feet in gross floor area when an addition is equal to or greater than 10% of the existing square footage or when extensive renovation or remodeling is done to more than 50% of the gross floor area, the entire structure shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system.
For the purposes of this section, extensive renovation or remodeling shall be defined as any change, addition or modification in construction or occupancy or structural repair or change in primary function to an existing structure made by, on behalf of or for the use of a public accommodation or commercial facility that affects or could affect the usability of the building or facility or part thereof. Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of walls and full-height partitions.
All new work performed in alterations and/or repairs to existing structures shall comply with the current provisions of this Chapter. When alterations and/or repairs result in the removal, alteration, modification, replacement and/or repair of fifty percent or more of the external walls of a building, or result in the removal, modification, replacement and/or repair of fifty percent or more of the existing internal structural and/or non-structural framework, independently or in combination thereof, within a five year period, the entire building shall be made to conform to the current provisions of this chapter. The determination under this section of the requirement for upgrading any existing structure to full conformance with current provisions of this Chapter shall be at the sole discretion of the Fire Code Official.
Exceptions to Section CFC Section 903.2.2 (1 and 2)
(a) Group A2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided through-out stories containing Group A-2 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-2 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
4. The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m2), contains more than one fire area containing a Group A-2 occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.
(b) Group A-5. Occupancies exceeding 1,000 square feet in the following areas: concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory use areas shall have an automatic sprinkler system installed.
(c) Assembly occupancies on roofs. Where an occupied roof has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2 and 300 for other Group A occupancies, all floors between the occupied roof and the level of exit discharge shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exception: Open Parking garages of Type I or Type II construction.
(d) Multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components, and the combined occupant load of these fire areas is 300 or more.
(e) Group B. Regardless of square footage, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group B occupancies as follows:
1. Ambulatory Care Facilities. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility where either of the following conditions exist at any time:
a. Four or more care recipients are incapable of self-preservation.
b. One or more care recipients that are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.
In buildings where ambulatory care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor as well as all floors below where such care is provided, and all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit discharge, the level of exit discharge, and all floors below the level of exit discharge.
Exception: Floors classified as an open parking garage are not required to be sprinklered.
2. Laboratories involving research and development or testing. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the fire areas utilized for the research and development or testing of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.
(f) Group F-1 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 6,000 square feet (1115 m2).
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet (2230 m2).
Group F-1 Woodworking Operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232 m2) in area that generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials. [SFM] A fire wall of less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings, or any fire wall with openings, shall not be used to establish separate fire areas.
Group F-1 Distilled Spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits.
Group F-1 Upholstered Furniture or Mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area that exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m2) used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses.
(g) Group H occupancies shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system.
(h) Group I occupancy fire areas shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system.
Exceptions:
(1) Those areas exempted by Section 407.6 of the California Building Code.
(2) Group I-2 occupancies, or any alterations thereto, located in Type IA construction in existence on or before March 4, 1972 as required in California Health and Safety Code Section 13113(d).
(i) Group I-2 occupancies. An existing, unsprinklered Group I-2, nurses’ stations open to fire-resistive exit access corridors shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system located directly above the nurses’ station. It shall be permitted to connect the automatic sprinkler system to the domestic water service.
(j) Group I-3 occupancies. Every building, or portion thereof, where inmates or persons are in custody or restrained shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system conforming to NFPA 13. The main sprinkler control valve or valves and all other control valves in the system shall be locked in the open position and electrically supervised so that at least an audible and visual alarm will sound at a constantly attended location when valves are closed. The sprinkler branch piping serving cells may be embedded in the concrete construction.
(k) Group M occupancy used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet.
(l) Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2).
2. A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m2).
4. [SFM] The structure exceeds 24,000 square feet (465 m2), contains more than one fire area containing a Group M occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.
(m) Group S-1 occupancies used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
(n) Group S-1 occupancies exceeding 2,500 square feet used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses shall have an automatic sprinkler system installed.
(o) Group S-1 fire areas exceeding 5,000 square feet used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles.
(p) Structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000 cubic feet shall be equipped throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
(q) Group U occupancies exceeding 1,000 square feet shall have an automatic sprinkler system installed. Group U occupancies not exceeding 1,000 square feet are exempt where they are detached and separate from other structures and provided with exterior wall and opening protection as per the California Building Code.
(r) Sheds exceeding 1,000 square feet but not exceeding 3,000 square feet shall not require fire sprinklers at the discretion of the fire chief when the applicant demonstrates that the applicant’s proposal does not increase the fire hazard or fire load.
(s) Agricultural buildings as defined in Appendix Chapter C, of the California Building Code having a clear unobstructed side yard exceeding 60 feet (18,280 mm) in all directions, not exceeding 25 feet (7620 mm) in height and located within an Agricultural zoned district.
1. Not exceeding 2,000 square feet (186 m2) or as exempted by the fire chief, shall not require fire sprinklers.
2. Exceeding 2,000 square feet (186 m2) but not exceeding 5,000 square feet, shall not require fire sprinklers at the discretion of the fire chief when the applicant demonstrates the applicant’s proposal does not increase the fire hazard or fire load.
3. Greenhouses of non-combustible construction shall not require fire sprinklers.
(t) Any alteration and/or repair within a building that contains an automatic fire sprinkler system requires that the automatic fire sprinkler system be extended/modified to the area of proposed work, this, creating fire sprinkler protection throughout the entire building.
(u) Any change in use or occupancy creating a more hazardous fire/life safety condition, as determined by the Fire Chief, requires that the entire structure be provided with an automatic sprinkler system.
(v) Any combination of addition, alteration, repair and/or change of use shall comply with Sections 903.2.11 through 903.6.
Exceptions to Section 903.2.2:
(a) Seismic or Accessibility improvements.
(b) Any exemption otherwise allowable under the Fire Code, if in the discretion of the Fire Chief, the safety of the public is not compromised.
(c) Exterior improvements and work not requiring permits as provided in the Building Code.
(d) Work requiring only a mechanical, electrical, plumbing and/or demolition permit.
Section 903.2.3—Existing one- and two-family dwellings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in existing one- and two-family dwellings, after the effective date of this code, when a building permit is issued to allow additions to be made, as follows:
1. Any addition is made which increases the total existing square footage by 50% or more.
Exception: Construction for the purpose of either an ADU or JADU.
2. The proposed total floor area exceeds the available fire flow as specified in Section 507.1 or APPENDIX B.
3. Any addition to a one- or two-family dwelling that contains an automatic fire sprinkler system requires that the automatic fire sprinkler system be extended/modified to the area of proposed work, thus, creating fire sprinkler protection throughout the entire dwelling.
Exceptions to Section 903.2.3:
(a) Additions of 500 square feet or less when the proposed total floor area does not exceed the available fire flow are exempt from fire sprinklers unless the dwelling is already protected by a fire sprinkler system.
Section 903.2.4 Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Accessory Dwelling Unit(s). The following is included for clarification of the requirements for newly constructed accessory dwelling units. All newly constructed ADUs are required to comply with the standards for fire protection such as water supply and fire department access contained in Chapter 5 of this code.
1. Accessory Dwelling Units constructed on lots with an existing sprinklered primary residence:
a) Attached to main residence—fire sprinklers required.
b) Detached from main residence, fire sprinklers required.
2. Accessory Dwelling Units constructed on lots with an existing non-sprinklered primary residence:
a) Fire sprinklers not required.
3. Accessory Dwelling Units are required to comply with the standards for fire protection such as water supply and fire department access set forth in Chapter 5 of this code.
a) Water supply for fire protection shall be a minimum of 1,000 gpm for 60 minutes as required in §507.3 and Appendix B Table 105.1(1) of this code.
b) Access for new ADUs and JADUs shall be within 150 feet of all portions of the structure in accordance with §503.1.1 of this code.
Where a newly constructed accessory dwelling unit does not meet these fire protection standards, an automatic residential sprinkler system may be utilized as an alternative to items 3(a) and, or 3(b) above.
CFC Section 903.3.1.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 903.3.1.3—NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 congregate living facilities and townhouses, non-habitable structures classified as accessory to a residential use and not intended for commercial usage or mercantile, shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D and installation guidelines as promulgated by the Santa Cruz County Fire Chiefs Association.
CFC Section 903.3.7 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 903.3.7—Fire department connections. Fire department connections for automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with Section 912. Buildings equipped with a fire sprinkler system in accordance with this chapter shall have a fire department connection located within 100 feet (183m). The location of the fire department connections shall be approved by the fire code official.
Exception: Single- and two-family dwellings protected by a fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3.
California Fire Code (CFC)—Chapter 39—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Section 3905.1.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 3905.1.1—Operation. Activation of the gas detection system shall result in all of the following:
1. Initiation of distinct audible and visual alarm signals in extraction room.
2. Deactivation of all heating systems located in the extraction room.
3. Activation of the mechanical ventilation system, where the system is interlocked with gas detection.
4. De-energize all light switches and electrical outlets.
5. For detection levels at or exceeding 25% of the LEL/LFL shall result in the activation of the building’s fire alarm system.
California Fire Code (CFC) Chapter 53—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Section 5303.5.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC SECTION 5303.5.3—Securing compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks. Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be secured to prevent falling caused by contact, vibration or seismic activity. Securing of compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be by one of the following methods:
1. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks to a fixed object with one two or more non-combustible restraints. The object used to anchor the restraint to shall be capable of withstanding the anticipated load(s) imposed. Anchor(s) shall be attached to a structural framing member or similar.
2. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks on a cart or other mobile device designed for the movement of compressed gas containers, cylinders or tanks.
3. Nesting of compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks at container filling or servicing facilities or in seller’s warehouses not accessible to the public. Nesting shall be allowed provided the nested containers, cylinders or tanks, if dislodged, do not obstruct the required means of egress.
4. Securing of compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks to or within a rack, framework, cabinet or similar assembly designed for such use.
Exception: Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks in the process of examination, filling, transport or servicing.
California Fire Code (CFC) Chapter 56—Amendments, additions or deletions
CFC Section 5601.1.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 5601.1.3—Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited within the City of Watsonville.
Exceptions:
1. The possession, storage, sale and handling of Safe and Sane fireworks as defined by Section 12529 of the California Health and Safety Code shall be in accordance with Title 4 Chapter 3 Section 3302 et al of the City of Watsonville Municipal Code.
2. The display of fireworks, including proximate audience displays and pyrotechnic special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical, and group entertainment productions, shall comply with all provisions of Chapter 6 of Division 1 of Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, commencing with Section 975 and Title 4 Chapter 3 Section 3308 et al.
CFC Section 5601.2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 5601.2—Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth in 105.5 and regulated in accordance with this section. Permits for explosives as contained within this chapter, with the exception of display fireworks, shall be obtained from the City of Watsonville Police and Fire Departments.
CFC Section 5601.2.2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
CFC Section 5601.2.2—Sale and retail display. Persons shall not construct a retail display nor offer for sale explosives, explosive materials or fireworks on highways, sidewalks, public property or in Group A or E occupancies. except as provided for in Title 4 Chapter 3 Section 3302 et al of the City of Watsonville Municipal Code.
Fire Code Chapter 90
Chapter 90 is hereby added in its entirety to read as follows:
Chapter 90—SUPPRESSION AND CONTROL OF FIRE IN WILDFIRE RISK AREAS
Section 9001—SCOPE. The unrestricted use of grass-, grain-, brush- or forest-covered land in wildfire risk areas is a potential menace to life and property from fire and resulting erosion. Safeguards to prevent the occurrence of fires and to provide adequate fire-protection facilities to control the spread of fire which might be caused by recreational, residential, commercial, industrial or other activities shall be in accordance with Chapter 90.
Section 9002—RESTRICTED ENTRY. The fire code official shall determine and publicly announce when wildfire risk areas shall be closed to entry and when such areas shall again be opened to entry. Entry on and occupation of wildfire risk areas, except public roadways, inhabited areas or established trails and camp sites which have not been closed during such time when the wildfire risk area is closed to entry, is prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Residents and owners of private property within wildfire risk areas and their invitees and guests going to or being upon their lands.
2. Entry, in the course of duty, by peace or police officers, and other duly authorized public officers, members of a fire department and members of the United States Forest Service.
Section 9003—TRESPASSING ON POSTED PROPERTY.
Section 9003.1—General. When the fire code official determines that a specific area within a wildfire risk area presents an exceptional and continuing fire danger because of the density of natural growth, difficulty of terrain, proximity to structures or accessibility to the public, such areas shall be closed until changed conditions warrant termination of closure. Such areas shall be posted as hereinafter provided.
Section 9003.2—Signs. Approved signs prohibiting entry by unauthorized persons and referring to §9002 shall be placed on every closed area.
Section 9003.3—Trespassing. Entering and remaining within areas closed and posted is prohibited.
Exception: Owners and occupiers of private or public property within closed and posted areas, their guests or invitees, and local, state and federal public officers and their authorized agents acting in the course of duty.
Section 9004—USE OF FIRE ROADS AND FIREBREAKS. Motorcycles, motor scooters and motor vehicles shall not be driven or parked upon, and trespassing is prohibited upon, fire roads or firebreaks beyond the point where travel is restricted by a cable, gate or sign, without the permission of the property owners. Vehicles shall not be parked in a manner which obstructs the entrance to a fire road or firebreak.
Exception: Public officers acting within their scope of duty.
Radio and television aerials, guy wires thereto, and other obstructions shall not be installed or maintained on fire roads or firebreaks unless located 16 feet (4877 mm) or more above such fire road or firebreak.
Section 9005—USE OF MOTORCYCLES, MOTOR SCOOTERS AND MOTOR VEHICLES. Motorcycles, motor scooters and motor vehicles shall not be operated within wildfire risk areas, without a permit by the fire code official, except upon clearly established public or private roads. Permission from the property owner shall be presented when requesting a permit.
Section 9006—LIABILITY FOR DAMAGE. The expenses of fighting fires which result from a violation of this chapter shall be a charge against the person whose violation caused the fire. Damages caused by such fires shall constitute a debt of such person and are collectable by the fire code official in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under a contract, expressed or implied.
(§ 1, Ord. 1483-25, eff. January 1, 2026)
8-11.03 Appendix chapters adopted.
(a) Appendix D—Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
(b) Appendix I—Fire Protection Systems—Noncompliant Conditions.
(c) Appendix N—Indoor Trade Shows and Exhibitions.
(d) Appendix O—Valet Trash and Recycling Collection in Group R-2 Occupancies.
(e) Appending P—Temporary Haunted Houses, Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement Uses.
(§ 1, Ord. 1483-25, eff. January 1, 2026)