HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/16/1992, 4B - AMENDING TITLE 15, CHAPTER 15.08 OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT THE 1991 EDITION OF THE UNIFORM FIRE CODE. Meeting Date: 6/16/92
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Oftmo COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
FROM: Robert Neumann, Fire Chief
PREPARED BY: Ken McCool, Fire Marshal
SUBJECT: Amending Title 15, Chapter 15.08 of the San Luis Obispo Municipal Code to
adopt the 1991 edition of the Uniform Fire Code.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
Introduce ordinance to print repealing Chapter 15.08 of Title 15 of the San Luis Obispo Municipal
Code and creating a new Chapter 15.08 adopting the 1991 edition of the Uniform Fire Code with
amendments.
DISCUSSION:
Every three years the Uniform Fire Code is republished to incorporate all changes which have been
submitted, reviewed, and accepted by the Western Fire Chief s Association and the International
Conference of Building Officials. The State of California adopts the most recent edition of the code
which is, subsequently, published by the Building Standards Commission. State law mandates that
local jurisdictions enforce the most recently adopted code (known as the California Fire Code)
beginning 180 days following the date of publication by the Building Standards Commission. As a
result, the 1991 edition of the Uniform Fire Code will become effective July 1, 1992.
Because of the State mandate to enforce the California Fire Code, we will soon be faced with
enforcing two sets of codes: the 1988 code, which is currently adopted as City ordinance with
amendments, and the 1991 code which will become law on July 1, 1992. This has the potential to
create considerable confusion for designers, builders, and enforcement staff who are involved in
using and enforcing the codes. City adoption of the 1991 code will eliminate this confusion and
allow implementation of new amendments and a carry-over of existing amendments to the California
Fire Code which address situations unique to the City of San Luis Obispo.
Because some of the amendments to the 1988 code are now incorporated into the 1991 edition or
deemed no longer justified, the proposed ordinance begins by repealing the existing chapter of the
Municipal Code which adopts and amends the 1988 code. The ordinance then creates a new chapter
adopting the 1991 code with amendments and incorporating previously adopted regulations with
editorial and format changes only. Attachment 1 summarizes the content and justification for all the
proposed changes. Attachment 2 is a legislative draft for changes to the Uniform Codes.
Due to the State mandate requiring enforcement of the California Fire Code, the City really has no
choice other than adoption of the new code. However, the City can modify the code to suit unusual
local conditions, and the proposed ordinance contains necessary findings which justify the
recommended modifications.
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so COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Proposed amendments that are carry-over items from previous adoptions include:
1) A provision that allows the Fire Department to charge fees for permits and requires
that those fees be established by resolution of the City Council.
2) The Fire Sprinkler Ordinance (same as Building Code) and several provisions that
allow less restrictive requirements for access, fire-flow and hydrant placement when
sprinklers are used.
3) Fire-resistive construction in the commercial fire zone.
4) Clarification of requirements for occupancy changes.
5) A prohibition on the use of wood-shingle shake roof coverings.
6) Fire-resistive requirements for awnings.
7) Prohibition of open-burning in the City.
8) Limitation on LPG tank size.
Proposed amendments that are new changes to Chapter 15.08 include:
1) Defining the City of San Luis Obispo as a hazardous fire area.
2) Identification of equipment rooms for Fire Department use.
3) Clarification of requirements for occupancy changes.
4) Clarification on requirements for commercial-type food heat-processing equipment.
5) Accountability for knowledge and use of manually-operated extinguishing equipment.
6) Clarification on the posting of a bond, insurance policy or letter of credit for use of
explosives.
7) Clarification on standards for fire-alarm systems.
8) Clarification of requirements for the use of above-ground tanks for motor-vehicle
fuel.
The goal of this adoption is to incorporate the local and State fire codes into one document for the
convenience of designers, builders, building owners and enforcement officers. The adoption will
also meet the State's mandate.
CONCURRENCES:
The Building Department has reviewed the editorial and format changes and concurs with the
adoption of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code with proposed amendments.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are no significant fiscal impacts.
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Discussion and Summary of Amendments
2) Legislative Draft
3) Proposed Ordinance (on file in the City Clerk ' s Office)
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ATTACHMENT 1
DISCUSSION AND SUMMARY OF AMENDMENTS
PROPOSED FOR CHAPTER 15.08 OF THE
SAN LUIS OBISPO MUNICIPAL CODE
NOTE: For the purpose of this attachment, only those sections with significant changes will be
discussed. There will be no discussion of sections where only the article number has been changed
or minor editorial changes have been made. Additionally, any sections that have no changes in the
amendments to the 1988 UFC will also not be discussed.
Section 15.08.010 adopts the 1991 Uniform Fire Code (UFC) and appropriate appendices. As a
general note, the 1991 UFC with amendments by the State of California, known as the California
Fire Code, will automatically become effective as law throughout every jurisdiction in the State on
July 1, 1992. Municipalities such as San Luis Obispo are allowed to amend this code to meet their
needs as long as the amendments are not less restrictive than those set by the State.
Section 9.110 clarifies the jurisdictional limits of the City as being subject to the same provisions
set forth in the code for a hazardous fire area. This provides the Fire Chief the ability to regulate
conditions that are set forth in Appendix IIA. These conditions include such things as open burning,
open-flame devices, outdoor cooking fires, clearance of hazardous vegetation, dumping, and
attaching liability for damage that occurs from negligent fires.
Section 10.306 Provides requirements for identification of equipment rooms and rooms where fire
detection and suppression controls are located. This will allow Firefighters to more quickly identify
these rooms during emergencies.
Section 10.507(b) deals with the requirements for fire sprinkler systems. Editorial changes have
been made so that verbiage in the Fire Code will be the same as that in the Building Code.
Additionally, changes have been made to this section to clarify grey area and redundancies that
have been identified since the adoption of the 1988 UFC.
Number 1 of Section 10.507(b) deletes verbiage that has been subject to interpretation. It also adds
verbiage that clarifies the requirement for sprinkler systems when an occupancy change occurs in a
building. The Building Department and the Fire Department have worked to clarify this section and
we both concur that it will save many hours of staff time in the future.
The exception to Number 4 of Section 10.507(b) is less restrictive and more clear than in the prior
code. It allows conversions of existing garages to dwelling space without the requirement for a
sprinkler system, provided there is no increase in floor area. This will relieve some financial
impact to these types of conversions.
Section 10.513(a) clarifies requirements that are already set forth in the Mechanical Code for
commercial fire-suppression and hood systems for cooking facilities. In this amendment we have
spelled out the types of occupancies, other than restaurants, that are required to have hood systems.
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Section 10.513(1) was amended to attach accountability to restaurant owners making them
responsible for education of their employees in the use of fire extinguishing equipment. This was
generated by numerous incidents in the past where larger restaurant cooking fires could have been
averted if employees had known proper techniques for the use of fire-extinguishing equipment.
Section 10.605 has had the verbiage changed so that both the Building Code and the Fire Code read
the same. The intent has not changed.
Section 13.203 was amended on the advice of the City Attorney to re-state the intent of the Penal
Code with respect to false alarms.
Section 77.104 was amended to add a provision for the use of a letter of credit in lieu of a bond for
using explosive materials. This was done on the advise of the City Attorney.
Section 79.501 was amended to give the Chief the option of allowing certain types of above-ground
fuel tanks when they meet standards set by the City. In the past a prohibition on above-ground
tanks has prevented their use. In recent years, however, technology has greatly improved both the
fire and environmental safety of these tanks. The new Fire Code has responded with an appendix
which allows use of these tanks under certain conditions. The California Fire Chiefs has also
developed a set of standards to address safety issues. These standards should be adopted by the
State Fire Marshal in the near future.
Section 79.902(c) has been amended to allow special enclosures for above-ground tanks outside of
buildings also. Special enclosures provide an extra margin of environmental and fire-safety. In
addition, Number 5 of Section 79.902 has also been amended to reduce the amounts of flammable
liquids allowed in above-ground tanks.
Section 79.903(e)2. has been amended to meet a State regulations for hold-open devices on fuel
dispensers that will be effective July 1, 1992.
Appendix IA, Life safety requirement for existing buildings other than high-rise, has had two
sections added on the advise of the City Attorney. Both new sections re-state regulations already
existing in the code that address requirements for alarm-system and sprinkler-system retro-fits in
some buildings.
Appendix IIA has an addition that clarifies the term "hazardous fire area" with respect to the City.
This allows the Fire Chief to regulate the conditions that were discussed in Section 9.110 of this
attachment.
Appendix IIF was modified to restrict the use of above-ground fuel-dispensing tanks to private,
non-resale use and to reduce the allowable size of these tanks.
In summary, all of the amendments to the 1991 Uniform Fire Code are relatively minor in nature.
The adoption of this code will carry over regulations that now exist in the Municipal Code and also
meet the requirements for State Law.
Al NHMENT #2
ORDINANCE NO. (1992 Series)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO, AMENDING TITLE 15, CHAPTER 15.08 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT THE LATEST EDITION OF THE
UNIFORM FIRE CODE AND MAKE EDITORIAL AND MINOR
CHANGES AND DELETIONS TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE AND
ADOPTING FINDINGS OF FACT TO SUPPORT THE IMPOSITION
OF REQUIREMENTS WHICH ARE GREATER THAN THE
REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY OR PURSUANT TO THE
STATE BUILDING CODE.
WHEREAS, the City of San Luis Obispo has numerous fires in structures which causes extensive
property and possible life loss; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Luis Obispo has limited fire-fighting resources; and
WHEREAS, automatic fire-sprinkler systems have been found to be an efficient and effective means
of combatting fire; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire and intent of the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo to provide
the citizens with the greatest degree of fire and life-safety in the most cost-effective manner; by
adopting that body of regulations generally referred to as the Uniform Fire Code with amendments
specific to the City of San Luis Obispo; and
WHEREAS, the California Health and Safety Code, Chapter 4, Part 1.5, Division XIII, Section
17958, Section 17958.5 and Section 17958.7 requires the Council, before making any modifications
or changes pursuant to Health and Safety Code, Section 17958.5, to make an express finding that
each such modification or change is needed; and,
WHEREAS, the California J. .th and Safety Code Section 17958.5 _ 4uires that such changes must
be determined to be reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or topographical
conditions; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo found by Ordinance No. 1170 (1990
Series), adopted on the June 6, 1990, that the Uniform Fire Code as adopted should be changed or
modified by amendments which have been previously approved by the Department of Housing and
Community Development of the State of California; and,
WHEREAS, Sec. 4.108, 9.108, 9.121, 10.202, 10.207(b,m), 10.301(b,c), 10.303(a),
10.306(b,c,d,e,f,g,h), 10.307, 10.501, 10.501(x), 10.502, 11.101, 11.210, 14.105, 14.105(a,c),
14.106, 16.106, 79.301(b), 79.501, 81.102, 82.104 of the 1988 Uniform Fire Code have had
previous findings made for their modification and said findings as contained in Ordinance No. 1170
(1990 Series) have been transmitted to the Department of Community Development and have been
accepted; and,
WHEREAS, such findings must be made available as a public record and a copy thereof with each
such modification or change shall be. filed with the Department of Housing and Community
Development, State of California;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED that the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo affirms
the findings justifying the previous changes and modifications as contained in Ordinance No. 1170
(1990 Series);
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo that said Council
hereby determines that Sections 4.108, 4.108.a.2.1, 9.108, 9.1109 9.121, 10.104(b), 10.203,
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10.2059 10.3069 109401, 10.4029 10.501(b), 10.505(a), 10.507(b), 10.507(c), 10.502(d,e,f,g,h),
10.508, 10.513(a,f), 10.604, 10.604(a), 10.605, 11.103(a), 11.203(b), 11.303(f), 13.2039 14.1052
14.108(a), 61.105(e), 77.104, 77.107(a), 79.301(b), 79.501, 79.902(c), 79.903(e), 82.102(c),
82.104(b) of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code are required to be modified due to the findings contained
herein to greater requirements than those set forth in the California State Building Standards Code;
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the City Council that each of the changes or modifications to
measures referred to therein are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geographical, or
topographical conditions in the area encompassed by the boundaries of the City of San Luis Obispo,
and the City Council further finds that the following findings support the local necessity for the
changes or modifications:
FINDING 1
That the City of San Luis Obispo is situated at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains with drainages
from San Luis, Chorro, Stenner, Old Garden, and Brizzolara Creeks, which flood with resulting
conditions rendering fire department vehicular traffic unduly burdensome or impossible as witnessed
in major floods that occurred in 1952, 1961, 1969, 1973, 1978, 1982. Further, flood conditions,
described above, carries with it a potential for overcoming the ability of the fire department to aid
or assist in fire control, evacuations, rescues and their emergency task demands inherent in such
situations. Further, the potential for the aforementioned flooding conditions to result in limiting fire
department emergency vehicular traffic with resulting overtaxed fire department personnel, may
further cause a substantial or total lack of protection against fire for the buildings and structures
located in the City of San Luis Obispo. Furthermore, the afore-described conditions support the
imposition of fire protection requirements greater than those set forth in the State Building Standards
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Code and in particular, support the imposition of the greater requirements than set forth in Articles
4, 91 10, 119 13, 14, 61, 77, 79, and 82 of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code.
FINDING 2
That the City of San Luis Obispo is situated near three major faults each capable of generating
earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.5. These are the San Andreas to the east of the City, the
Nacimiento-Rinconada that crosses Hwy 101 north of the City then parallels the City to the east, and
the Hosgri to the West. Other faults of importance are the Huasna and West Huasna to the
Southeast of the City; the San Simeon to the Northwest; Edna, and the Edna Extended faults which
enter the southern areas of the City. In as much as these faults are included as major California
earthquake faults, which are subject to becoming active at any time, the City of San Luis Obispo is
particularly vulnerable to devastation should such an earthquake occur. The potential effects include
isolating the City of San Luis Obispo from the North and South due to the potential of collapsing of
freeway overpasses or a slide on both the Cuesta and Ontario Grades; and the potential for
horizontal or vertical movement of the Edna fault, rendering surface travel across the southern
extremities of the City unduly burdensome or impossible. Additional potential situations inherent in
such an occurrence include: loss of the City's two main water sources, the Salinas and Whale Rock
reservoirs, broken natural-gas mains causing structure and other fires, leakage of hazardous
materials, the need for rescues from collapsed structures, and the rendering of first aid and other
medical attention to large numbers of people. The protection of human life and the preservation of
property in the event of such an occurrence support the imposition of fire protection requirements
greater than those set forth in the State Building Standards Code and in particular, support the
imposition of the greater requirements than set forth in Articles 4, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 61, 77, 79,
and 82 of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code.
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FINDING 3
That the particular geographical status of the central commercial area in the City of San Luis Obispo
consists of mixed conditions which hold forth the potential for possible conflagration. This situation
includes congested streets during the business day, numerous older buildings without adequate
internal fire resistiveness and contemporary low-rise buildings, which taken together actually exceed
the fire suppression capabilities of regional firefighting personnel. The continued development of
the San Luis Obispo commercial area and the current and potential development of high-rise
buildings will pose a substantial threat to human life and public safety and to the preservation of
property against fire and support the imposition of fire protection requirements greater than those set
forth in the California State Building Standards Code as adopted by the City of San Luis Obispo,
California, in 1982, 1985, 1988 and in particular, support the imposition of the requirements set
forth in the State Building Standards Code and in particular, support the imposition of the greater
requirements than set forth in Articles 4, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 61, 77, 79, and 82 of the 1991 Uniform
Fire Code.
FINDING 4
That the City of San Luis Obispo is bisected by a major freeway (Hwy 101), traversing in the
north/south direction and a major highway (Hwy 1) traversing in an east/west direction. The City is
also transected by a mainline railroad which traverses in the north/south direction. It is a frequent
occurrence for the aforementioned highways and railway to support the transportation of hazardous
materials. The potential for release or threatened release of a hazardous material along one of these
routes is highly probable given the volume transported daily. Incidents of this nature will normally
require all available emergency response personnel to prevent injury and loss of life, and to prevent
as far as practicable, property losses. Emergency personnel responding to such aforementioned
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incidents, may be unduly impeded and delayed in accomplishing an emergency response as a result
of this situation with the potential result of undue and unnecessary risk to the protection of life and
public safety and in particular, endangering residents and occupants in buildings or structures
without the protection of automatic fire sprinklers. The afore-described problems support the
imposition of fire protection requirements greater than those set forth in the State Building Standards
Code and in particular, support the imposition of the greater requirements than set forth in Articles
4, 99 10, 11, 139 14, 61, 77, 79, and 82 of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code.
FINDING 5
The seasonal climatic conditions during the late summer and fall create numerous serious difficulties
to the control and protection against fire situations in the City of San Luis Obispo. The hot, dry
weather in combination with Santa Ana winds frequently results in wildland fires in the thousands of
brush-covered slopes in the Santa Lucia Mountains, San Luis Mountain, and the Irish Hills area of
the City of San Luis Obispo. The aforementioned area completely surround the City. When a fire
occurs in such areas, such as occurred in 1985 when the Los Pilitas fire burned six days and entered
the City and damaged many structures, the entirety of local fire department personnel is required to
control, monitor, fight and protect against such fire situations in an effort to protect life and
preserve property and watershed land. The same climatic conditions may result in the concurrent
occurrence of one or more fires in the more populated areas of the City without adequate fire
department personnel to protect against and control such a situation. Further, the effect of Santa
Ana winds and extremely dry weather upon the upper floors of a multi-story building can create
situations which endanger life and property. Therefore, the above-described factual findings support
the imposition of fire-protection requirements greater than those set forth in the State Building
Standards Code and in particular, support the imposition of the greater requirements than set forth in
6
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Articles 4, 99 109 119 139 149 612 779 79, and 82 of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code.
FINDING 6
That the more-restrictive modifications requiring automatic fire-sprinkler systems in buildings
evidenced by the afore-described findings allow a trade-off for, and reduction of, other less effective
fire-resistive components of a building and support the acceptance of requirements lesser than those
set forth in State Building Standards Code and, in particular, support the imposition of lesser
requirements than those set forth in Article 10 of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code.
BE IT ORDAINED by the said Council that the State Building Standards Code, required to be
adopted by the City of San Luis Obispo, should be modified, changed and amended, as provided for
in the ordinance attached hereto, based upon the foregoing findings and that said Council takes the
afore-described action because of the public interest in protecting life and preserving public safety
and property.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that the City Clerk be and hereby is authorized and directed to
transmit a certified copy of this ordinance, adopting and modifying the Uniform Fire Code, to the
State of California Department of Housing and Community Development.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo as
follows:
SECTION 1: Chapter 15.08 of Title 15 of the San Luis Obispo the Municipal Code is hereby
repealed and replaced by a new Chapter 15.08 to read as follows:
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SECTION 2. CHAPTER 15.08
15.08.010 ADOPTION
ADOPTION OF UNIFORM FIRE CODE
There is hereby adopted by the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo for the purpose
of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire, hazardous
materials and explosion, that certain Code and Standards known as the Uniform Fire Code,
including Appendix Chapters IA, IB, IC, IIA, IIB, HC, IID, IIF, IIIA, IIID, IVA, IVB, VA, VIA,
VIE, VID, VIE, VIF and the Uniform Fire Code Standards published by the Western Fire Chiefs
Association and the International Conference of Building Officials, being particularly the 1991
editions thereof and the whole thereof, save and except such portions as hereinafter deleted,
modified or amended by Sections 15.08.040 through 15.08.480 of the San Luis Obispo Municipal
Code three (3) copies of which Code and Standards have been and are now filed in the office of the
clerk of the City of San Luis Obispo and the same are hereby adopted and incorporated as fully as if
set out at length herein, and from the date on which this ordinance shall take effect the provision
thereof shall be controlling within jurisdictional limits of the City of San Luis Obispo.
15.08.020 Bureau of fire prevention-Established-Duties of the chief of the fire department.
A. The fire prevention code shall be enforced by the bureau of fire prevention in the fire
department of the city which is hereby established and which shall be operated under
the supervision of the chief of the fire department.
B. The chief in charge of the bureau of fire prevention shall be the chief of the fire
department.
s
C. The chief of the fire department may detail such members of the fire department as
shall from time to time be necessary. The chief of the fire department shall
recommend to the city administrative officer the employment of technical inspectors,
who, when such authorization is made, shall be selected through an examination to
determine their fitness for the position.
15.08.030 Authority having jurisdiction defined
Whenever the word "jurisdiction" is used in the Uniform Fire Code, it shall be held to mean
the City of San Luis Obispo.
15.08.040 Amendments—Generally.
The provisions of the Uniform Fire Code, hereinafter referred to as UFC, 1991 Edition, are
amended, supplemented and repealed as set forth in Sections 15.08.050 through 15.08.480
15.08.050 SECTION 4.108. amended—Permit Required
Section 4.108 is amended to add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Permits are obtained from the San Luis Obispo City Fire Department (Fire Prevention
Bureau). A fee may be charged for Fire Department permits. The amount of these fees shall
be established by resolution of the City Council. The Chief may waive or reduce permit fees
so established when he determines that to do so would be consistent with the best interests of
the City and Fire Department.
15.08.060 SECTION 4.108.a.2.1. amended—Permit Required.
9
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Section 4.108.x.2.1 added to read as follows:
To install or modify any fire alarm equipment prior to starting work.
15.08.070 SECTION 9.108 amended—Sorority house defined.
Section 9.108 is amended to add a definition of Fraternity House to read:
FRATERNITY HOUSE (OR SORORITY HOUSE) means a building or buildings
occupied by six (6) or more college or university students who are members of a social or
educational association and/or where such an association holds gatherings. Fraternity House
and Sorority House shall be classified as R-1 occupancies as defined in the Uniform Building
Code.
15.08.080 SECTION 9.121 amended—Sorority house defined.
Section 9.121 is amended to add a definition of Sorority House and read:
Sorority House (see Fraternity House Section 9.108 UFC).
15.08.090 SECTION 9.110 Hazardous Fire Area
Section 9.110 is amended as follows:
HAZARDOUS FIRE AREA is land which is covered with grass, grain brush or forest,
whether privately or publicly owned, which is situated or is of such inaccessible location that
a fire originating upon such land would present an abnormally difficult job of suppression or
would result in great and unusual damage through fire or resulting erosion. Such areas are
10
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15.08.100 SECTION amended - Tampering with Fire Hydrant or Fire Appliance
Section k ) is amended as follows:
No person shall remove from service, alter, tamper with or otherwise disturb any fire
hydrant, fire appliance, fire-alarm system or automatic sprinkler-system required to be
installed or maintained under the provisions of this code or by the Fire Department except
for the purpose of extinguishing a fire, training purposes, recharging, making necessary
repairs or when permitted by the Fire Department. Whenever a fire appliance or any of the
above systems is removed as herein permitted, it shall be replaced or reinstalled as soon as
the purpose for which it was removed has been accomplished.
15.08.110 SECTION 13; amended-
Sectionis amended to as follows:
Required Access. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building
or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction when
any portion of the facility or any portion of an exterior wall of the first story of the building
is located more than 150 feet from fire apparatus access as measured by an approved route
around the exterior of the building or facility.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When buildings are completely protected with an approved automatic fire sprinkler
system, this distance may be increased to 300 feet.
2. When access roadways cannot be installed due to topography, waterways, non-
negotiable grades or other similar conditions, the chief is authorized to require
additional fire protection as specified in Section 10.501.(b).
3. When there are not more than two Group R, Division 3 or Group M Occupancies, the
requirements of this section may be modified, provided, in the opinion of the chief,
fire-fighting or rescue operations would not be impaired.
More than one fire apparatus road may be required when it is determined by the chief that
access by a single road may be impaired by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic
conditions or other factors that could limit access.
For high-piled combustible storage, see Section 81.109(a).
For open yard storage, see Section 30.102.
For hazardous materials, see Article 80.
For fire safety during construction, alteration or demolition of a building, see Section
87.103(b).
15.08.120 SECTION MOW amended—Authority to have vehicles in violation of Sections
3211 removed. OBSTRUCTION.
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Section 1 -20 is amended as follows:
The required width of a fire apparatus access road shall not be obstructed in any manner,
including parking of vehicles. Minimum required widths and clearances under this section
shall be maintained at all times.
The Chief and his authorized representatives shall have the power and authority to remove or
cause to be removed, without notice, any vehicle, or object parked or placed in violation of
UFC. The owner of any item so removed shall be responsible for all towing, storage and
other charges incurred.
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15.08.130WKM. :lsAO
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is added to read as follows:
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15.08.140 SECTION 16.401 amended—Water supply.
Section is amended as follows:
Water Supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire-flow for
fire protection shall be provided to all premises upon which buildings or portions of buildings
are hereafter constructed. When any portion of the building protected is in excess of 150 feet
from a water supply on a public street, as measured by an approved route around the exterior
13
1,1,247
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of the building, there shall be provided, when required by the chief, on-site fire hydrants and
mains capable of supplying the required fire-flow.
EXCEPTION: For buildings not in a wildland interface area where the building is
protected by an approved fire-sprinkler system throughout, the distance
may be increased to 300 feet.
15.08.150 SECTION IMAM amended—Type of Water Supply.
Section
is amended as follows:
Water supply may consist of reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains or other
fixed systems connected to the municipal water system and capable of providing the required
fire-flow. In setting the requirements for fire-flow, the chief may be guided by the i;#69
............
Fire Suppression Rating Schedule published by the Insurance Services
Office, 4980.
EXCEPTION: For a building protected by an approved fire-sprinkler system
throughout, the required fire-flow may be reduced by 50%
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.............. .....
15.08.160 SECTION I Amended - Fire Hydrants
Section is amended to read as follows:
The location, number and type of fire hydrants connected to a water supply capable of
delivering the required fire-flow shall be provided on the public street or on the site of the
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premises to be protected as required and approved by the chief. All hydrants shall be
accessible to the fire department apparatus by roadways meeting the requirements of Section
10.203.
EXCEPTION: For areas not in the wildland interface where all buildings in the area
are protected by an approved fire-sprinkler system throughout, the
allowable distance between hydrants may be increased by 50%..
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15.08.170 SECTION 1 +" amended—Special Hazards
Section # { ) is amended as follows:
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In occupancies of an especially hazardous nature or where special hazards exist in addition to
the normal hazard of the occupancy, or where access for fire apparatus is unduly difficult, or
the location is beyond the four-minute response time of the Fire Department, or the location
is above the water-service height limit, additional safeguards may be required consisting of
additional fire-appliance units, more than one type of appliance, or special systems suitable
for the protection of the hazard involved. Such devices or appliances may consist of, but are
not limited to, automatic fire-alarm systems, automatic sprinkler or water-spray systems,
standpipe and hose, fixed or portable fire-extinguishers, Nomex blankets, breathing
apparatus, manual or automatic covers, carbon dioxide, foam, halogenated and dry chemical
or other special fire-extinguishing systems. Where such systems are installed, they shall be
in accordance with applicable Uniform Fire Code Standards or standards of the National Fire
Protection Association when the Uniform Fire Code Standards do not apply. Other
rs
improvements such as fire-rated construction or fire-retardant or non-combustible roof and/or
exterior coverings may also be required.
15.09.180 SECTION 1t3 amended—Fire Extinguishers
Section is amended as follows:
General. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in occupancies and locations as set
forth in this code, or as may b determined by the chief.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with U.F.C. Standard No. 10-1.
The minimum fire extinguisher requirement shall be the installation of one (1) approved 2-
A:10-B:C
-A:10-B:C as rated by Underwriters Laboratories fire extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet
of floor area or 75 feet of floor travel; whichever ' o;';"' :' est>"drtC+
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........................
........................
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15.08.190 SECTION 1 Yl;M amended—Automatic Fire-extinguishing Systems
Section 7 ,``. is amended follows:
All Occupancies. An automatic fire extinguishing system irp """ vs``"`:`'
rdsfs National Fire Protection Association PA Standards
. ........ ................
and other standards adopted by the j s k p a shall
be installed:
1. In all new buildings regardless of floor area or occupancy type. Residentiel-er- quiek
Fespense stmdmd sprink4efs shall be used in dwelling units and guest meffi pemens
ofbuildiflgs.
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EXCEPTION: Detached Group M occupancies not exceeding 500 square feet in
floor area. at least 10 feet ftein Oneent buildings and 5 feet ftem oaeeat p
lines.
2. Existing buildings that are in the commercial fire-zone as established in Section
IM of the Uniform Fire Code as amended by the City of San Luis Obispo shall
have an automatic sprinkler system installed and operational throughout by January 1,
2000.
EXCEPTION:
Buildings of un-reinforced masonry construction shall have an automatic sprinkler
system installed and operational by the deadline set forth in the Building Code for
compliance with seismic retrofit standards.
3. Throughout existing and new sections of any existing building whenever total
additions result in an increase of more than 1,000 square feet in the total floor area,
including mezzanines or additional stories, or whenever alterations to existing
buildings exceed fifty percent (50%) of the replacement value, as determined by the
building official. Alteration values and additional floor area shall be cumulative with
each issuance of a building permit.
EXCEPTION:
1. Group R, Division 3 and Group M occupancies.
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2. Alterations limited to interior and exterior painting, carpeting, interior window
coverings, drapes, interior non-bearing partitions, sa re-roofing or
plumbing, mechanical or electrical repairs.
4. Throughout existing and new sections of an existing building for which there is an
occupancy classification change te a fner-e hazudetis use, as dewmined by the F
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5. At the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes extending
through three or more floors shall have additional sprinkler heads installed within
such chutes at alternate floors. Sprinkler heads shall be accessible for servicing.
6. In rooms where nitrate film is stored or handled.
7. In protected combustible fiber storage vaults as defined in the Fire Code.
15.08.200 SECTION0 amended—Automatic Fire-extinguishing Systems, floor
..
area.
Section is amended as follows:
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Floor Area. For the purpose of requiring the automatic fire-sprinkler systems specified in
this article the floor area within the surrounding exterior walls shall be considered as one
building. Area separation walls as set forth in the UBC shall not be used in calculating
allowable floor area for sprinkler requirements.
15.08.210 SECTION
amended—Automatic Fine-extinguishing Systems,
Notification.
Section " is amended as follows:
Notification. Whenever the Fire Department determines by inspection, that a building does
not conform to the minimum requirements of Subsection (c) I of this Section, it shall prepare
a fire/life-safety notice in writing that an automatic fire-sprinkler system be installed in the
building.
The notice shall specify in what manner the building fails to meet the minimum requirements
of Subsection (c) I of this Section. It shall direct that plans be submitted, and that necessary
permits be obtained not later than January 1, 1999 and that the automatic sprinkler system be
installed not later than January 1, 2000. The Fire Department shall serve the notice, either
personally or by certified or registered mail, upon the owner as shown on the last-equalized
assessment roll and upon the person, if any, in real or apparent charge or control of the
building.
EXCEPTION:
Buildings of un-reinforced masonry construction shall submit plans and obtain necessary
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NO-
permits no later than one (1) year prior to the date set forth by the Building Code for
compliance with seismic retrofit standards. Automatic Fire-sprinkler systems shall be
installed no later than the date set forth in the Building Code for compliance with seismic
retro-fit standards.
15.08.220 SECTION 1d ( amended—Automatic Fire-extinguishing Systems, Recordation.
..........
Section is amended as follows:
Recordation. At the time that the Fire Department serves the aforementioned order or
notice, the Fire Department shall file with the Office of the County Recorder, a certificate
stating that the subject building does not meet the minimum fire-safety requirements of
Subsection (c) I and that the owner thereof has been so notified.
After all necessary corrective work has been performed, the Fire Department shall file with
the Office of the County Recorder, a certificate terminating the status of the subject building
as non-conforming to the minimum fire-safety requirements of Subsection (c) 1 of this
Section.
15.08.230 SECTION 1 .7( amended—Automatic Fire-extinguishing Systems,
Enforcement.
Section is amended as follows:
Enforcement. If the owner or other person in charge and control of the subject
building fails to comply with the aforementioned order or notice within the time periods set
20
forth in Subsection (e) of this Section, the owner is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a
fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment for not more than
six months, or by both fine and imprisonment. A person is guilty of a separate offense each
day during which he commits, continues or permits a violation of Subsection (c) I of this
Section.
15.08.240 SECTION " amended—Automatic Fire-extinguishing Systems, Standards.
Section WPM is amended as follows:
Standards. All automatic fire-sprinkler systems required by this Section, shall comply with
those standards and written policies established of the San Luis Obispo City Fire Department.
15.08.250 SECTION 10.507(h) is deleted completely.
15.08.260 SECTION If amended—Sprinkler System Supervision Alarms.
Section is amended as follows:
.... .... ..
All automatic sprinkler-systems shall be supervised by a Central Station listed by
Underwriters Laboratories for receiving fire alarms.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Isolated specialty systems such as spray paint-booth systems or isolated installations in
closets and storage spaces unless the entire occupancy is also equipped with an
automatic sprinkler-system.
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2. Residential sprinkler systems for single-family dwellings or duplexes.
15.08.270 SECTION 10.513.(a) Amended - Where Required Section 10.513(a) is amended as
follows:
........ ........ ........ ..............
-suppression systems
approved fire
cad shall be provided for the protection of commercial-type food heat-processing equipment
that produces grease-laden vapors.
WAR.
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15.08.280 SECTION 10.513(f) Posting Operation Instructions.
Section 10.513(f) is amended as follows:
Instructions for manually operating the fire extinguishing system shall be posted at a
conspicuous location within the kitchen. I ''iffi MV:Me.:>
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15.08.290 SECTION added—Fire resistive construction.
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Section added to read as follows:
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There is hereby established a commercial fire-zone established by the Chief, outlined on a
map of the City of San Luis Obispo, Exhibit A, copies of which are on file in the offices of
22
the City Clerk and the Fire Department.
15.08.300 SECTION WOMW added—Construction of interior walls, permanent partitions and
enclosures.
Section )€?;MM is added to read as follows:
All new construction within the commercial fire-zone established by the Chief shall hereafter
require interior walls, floors, ceilings and partitions to be constructed with 5/8" Type "X"
gypsum wall-board or its equivalent regardless of all other lesser minimum requirements to
the contrary. This requirement applies to all additions, and alterations, as defined in the
Uniform Building Code.
EXCEPTION: Buildings protected throughout by an approved fire-sprinkler system.
15.08.310 SECTION 1G added—Roof covering.
Section MW is added to read as follows:
It shall be unlawful to install or cause to be installed, wood-shake or wood-shingle roofs on
any building. In cases where buildings to be re-roofed have different roof coverings present,
the least combustible covering shall be used as the minimum standard of replacement.
EXCEPTION:
23
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not be emeeeded at fifne. Nip embidd.
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cxstg roof arm y beppe :C{ass: pres3 .sir
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15.08.320 SECTION 0 (taA added — Refuse burning.
Section W03W is added to read as follows:
efi? ti No waste matter, combustible material or refuse shall be burned in the
open air within the City except for agricultural, ceremonial or similar types of fires when
authorized by the Chief.
15.08.330 SECTION 11.203(b) Notification.
Section 11.203(b) shall be amended to read as follows:
Notification. Prior to commencement of open-burning the Fire Department shall be notified
mid' y erm t.. bet taul d frtnr# tlt De "# 1gti
15.08.340 SECTION 3Q (t'j added—Exterior awnings.
........ .... .. .
Section i is added to read as follows:
All exterior awnings connected or adjacent to buildings shall be made from either fabric
which has been flame-resistant treated with an approved exterior chemical process by an
approved application concern, or from inherently flame-resistant fabric approved and listed
by the State Fire Marshal for exterior use.
24
y,B-�8
Certificates of flame-resistance or other documentation acceptable to the Chief shall be
available on the premises to affirm the flame-resistance of all fabrics and materials used as
part of exterior awnings.
EXCEPTION: Single-family and small two-family dwellings not exceeding two stories in
height.
15.08.350 SECTION 13.203 - False Alarms.
Section 13.203 is-amended as follows:
False alarms shall not be given, signaled or transmitted or caused or permitted to be given,
mi in an manner.
signaled or transmitted
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s' eear #a <t�n:>SMI.IB.AM
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15.08.360 SECTION 14.105. amended—Mt
Section 14.105. is amended as follows:
All required fire detection systems installed in Group A through R-1 occupancies shall be
supervised by a central station listed by Underwriters Laboratories for receiving fire alarms
A U.L. "Central Station Signaling System
Certificate" shall be provided to the Fire Department upon request.
15.08.370 SECTION Mwamended—
Section -1. I is amended as follows:
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y8-�9
The installation, testing, inspection, monitoring and maintenance and repair of fire alarm systems
shall be in accordance with
this article and nationally recognized standards
O
15.08.380 SECTION 1 ( added—Unvented fuel-burning heaters—Display for sale.
..:.....:.........
Sections( is added to read as follows:
Any unvented fuel-burning room heaters on display for retail sale shall be accompanied by a
conspicuous warning sign readable from the display aisle stating:
"It is illegal to sell or use unvented fuel-burning heaters for residential use."
15.08.390 SECTION 77.104. Bond
Section 77.104 is amended as follows:
Before a permit is issued to use explosive materials, the applicant shall file with the qty:tsf
fi[sp a corporate surety bond in the principal sum of $100,000, eF a public
liability insurance policy v cwt for the same amount for the purpose of the
payment of damages to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct
of an act authorized by the permit upon which a judicial judgement results. << i
sfa .<. : .
The chief is authorized to
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specify a greater or lesser amount when, in the chief's opinion, conditions at the location of
26
use indicate a greater or lesser amount is required.
15.08.400 SECTION 77.107 (a) Prohibited and limited acts
Section 77.107(a) is amended as follows:
Explosive materials shall not be manufactured without the authorization of the chief.
losive material shall not be stored within # stotta : t :t <� <; €s:tl ; i
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15.08.410 SECTION 79.501. amended-Stationary tanks for storage of Class I, 11, II-A
liquids-in buildings.
Section 79.301.(b) is amended as follows:
Where Allowed. Stationary tanks for the storage of Class I, II, or III-A liquids shall not be
installed inside buildings M
15.08.420 SECTION 79.501. amended—Storage of Class I and II liquids in aboveground
tanks outside of buildings.
Section 79.501 is amended as follows:
Storage of Class I and Class II liquids in aboveground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited
withintile:::: .:9fbCgt�tl I:::: t nits::: 1 ::t 1�*::::< :;:+D�>,�h :>I�.? ll...'..::;:i#T� :.. .::,.;:YE�,>�7:.<>:
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15.08.430 SECTION 79.902(c) Special Enclosures
Section 79.902(c) is amended as follows:
(c) Special Enclosures. When installation of tanks in accordance with Division Iv is
impractical or because of property or building limitations, tanks for Class 1, II or III-A
liquids are allowed to be installed kgs '< tilssQl "°. .Y': : as follows:
.»..............................Nl s! i S
1. Tanks shall be installed in an enclosure which is liquid tight, vapor tight and without
bacldill inside.
2. Sides, top and bottom of the enclosure shall be of reinforced concrete at least 6 inches
thick, with openings for inspection through the top only.
3. Tank connections shall be piped or closed such that neither vapors nor liquid can
escape into the enclosed space.
4. Means shall be provided whereby portable equipment can be employed to discharge to
the outside any vapors which might accumulate should leakage occur.
5. Tanks containing Class I, H or III-A liquids shall not exceed 6,AA9 gallons
individual or AAAACI gallons.aggregate.
15.08.440 SECTION 79M. 2. Nozzles.
Section 79.903(e) is amended as follows:
2s
7V
A listed automatic-closing-type hose nozzle valve with or- %ithev a latch-open device
shall be provided on island-type dispensers used for dispensing Class I, II, or III-A
liquids.
Overhead-type dispensing units shall be provided with a listed automatic-closing-type
hose nozzle valve withe a latch-open device.
15.08.440 SECTION c added—Plans for approval of Liquefied Petroleum Gases.
Section =" is added as follows:
Plans for approval of LPG tank installations must be approved by the Fire Department prior
to installation.
15.08.450 SECTION 82.104.(b) amended—Maximum capacity of liquefied petroleum gas
tanks.
Section 82.104.(b) is amended as follows:
Maximum Capacity Within Established Limits. The installation of any liquid-petroleum
gas tank over 500 gallons water capacity is prohibited
15.08.460 Appendix IA amended
LIFE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS OTHER THAN HIGH RISE
Sections 8 and 9 are added to read as follows:
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VAxV Ag
W-
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Wil
MS
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or
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15.08.470 Appendix IIA amended
SUPPRESSION AND CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS FIRE AREAS
Section 1. SCOPE is amended as follows:
The unrestricted use of grass-, grain-, brush- or forest covered land in hazardous fire 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
conducted in hazardous fire areas shall be in accordance with this appendix.
................
hazarauus 7i
......... ... . .......... YN
.... ....... j
..... .......... ......
15.08.480 Appendix IIF ABOVEGROUND STORAGE TANKS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE
FUEL-DISPENSING STATIONS
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1. SCOPE is amended as follows:
Storage and dispensing of motor fuels >" ry#1(tilwf [> into fuel tanks or motor
vehicles from aboveground tanks which are located outside of buildings, or as approved by
the chief, shall be in accordance with the policy of the City and this appendix as amended by
the City of San Luis Obispo.
2. INSTALLATION OF TANKS (d) is amended as follows:
Tanks containing motor fuels shall not exceed 6-,GN '2, gallon individual or AAAA
gallon aggregate capacity. Installations having the maximum allowable aggregate capacity
shall be separated from other such installations by not less than 100 feet, and
4. PLANS is amended as follows:
Plans shall be submitted with permit applications. The plans shall include the method of
storage and dispensing, quantities and types of liquids to be stored, distances from tanks and
dispensers to property lines and buildings, vehicle access, fire appliances, collision barriers,
design and construction of tank and tanks and tank supports, seismic design of tank supports,
secondary containment tank venting and vapor-recovery provisions, emergency controls, and
other information required by the chief.
SECTION 2: If any provision of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid by a court of,
competent jurisdiction, the City of San Luis Obispo hereby declares that it would have passed each
and every remaining provision irrespective of such holding in order to accomplish the intent of this
ordinance.
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SECTION 3: A summary of this ordinance, Approved by the City Attorney,,.,together with the ayes
and noes shall be published at least (5) days to its final.passage in the.Telegram Tribune, a
prior ram
newspaper published and circulated in said City, and the same shall go into effect.at the expiration
of thirty (30) days after its said final passage. A copy of the full text of this ordinance shall be on.
file dn the Office of the City Clerk on and after.the date following introduction and passage,to print
and shall be available to any interested member of the public.
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INTRODUCED AND PASSED TO PRINT by the Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo at a meeting held on the day of , 1992, on motion of
seconded by , and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES
ABSENT:
MAYOR Ron Dunin
CITY CLERK Pamela Voges
APPROYED BY:
e
CITY AD STRATTVE OFFICER p2 FINANCE 6IRECTOR
M1
,I
TT FIRE CHIEF
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