TITLE
Adopt resolution making findings and determinations relating to the adoption of more restrictive Code provisions, where appropriate; and
Accept the Categorical Exemption (CE-13-059). (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
Every three years, the State of California adopts new construction codes, known collectively as the California Building Standards Code, to establish uniform standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings, electrical systems, plumbing systems, mechanical systems, and fire and life safety systems. Sections 13143,5, 17922, 17958, and 18941.5 of the California Health and Safety Code require that the latest edition of the California Building Standards Code and Uniform Housing Code apply to local construction 180 days after publication. The 2013 Edition of the California Building Standards Code was adopted by the California Building Standards Commission and published on July 1, 2013, The 1997 Edition of the Uniform Housing Code, which is the last edition, was adopted by the California Department of Housing and Community Development as provided for in the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1 , Article 5, Section 32. Therefore, State law requires that these codes become effective at the local level on January 1,2014,
Prior to adoption, State law permits local jurisdictions to amend the State mandated Code in certain circumstances. Pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code, such amendments can only be enacted when an express finding and determination is made that such amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions that affect the jurisdiction.
Staff from the Building and Safety Bureau, Fire Prevention Bureau, Code Enforcement Division, and the Office of Sustainability have reviewed the State codes and are recommending a number of local amendments in order to address concerns of a local nature. The proposed amen...
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