Ordinance 3389 CITY OF ALAMEDA ORDINANCE NO. 3389
New Series
AMENDING THE ALAMEDA MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT THE NEW 2025
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODES AND LOCAL AMENDMENTS
IMPLEMENTING THE ALAMEDA 2040 GENERAL PLAN BY REPEALING
ORDINANCE NO. 3338 AND ADDING: (1) ARTICLE I (UNIFORM CODES
RELATING TO BUILDING, HOUSING AND TECHNICAL CODES) TO
CHAPTER XIII (BUILDING AND HOUSING), TO ADOPT CHAPTER 1,
DIVISION II SCOPEANDADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING
CODE, 2025 EDITION AS THE ALAMEDA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, THE
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE VOLUMES 1 AND 2 AS AMENDED, THE
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CODE AS AMENDED, THE
2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE, THE
2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, THE 2025
EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE AS AMENDED, THE 2025
EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, THE 1997 UNIFORM
HOUSING CODE, THE 2024 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY
MAINTENANCE CODE AS AMENDED AND THE 1997 EDITION OF THE
UNIFORM CODE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS;
ADOPTING (2) THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE,
INCLUDING APPENDIX CHAPTERS 4, B, BB, C, CC, D, E, F, G, H, I, K, L, N
AND P WITH NECESSARY ADDITIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO SECTION
15-1 OF CHAPTER XV (FIRE PREVENTION) DUE TO LOCAL CLIMATIC,
GEOLOGICAL, OR TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS; ADOPTING (3) THE
2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDINGS STANDARDS
CODE AND THE 2025 EDITION OF THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE WITH
NECESSARY ADDITIONS AND AMENDMENTS TO SECTION 13-10 OF
CHAPTER XIII (BUILDING AND HOUSING) DUE TO LOCAL CLIMATIC,
GEOLOGICAL, OR TOPOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS.
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 18938 provides that the triennial edition of
the California Building Standards Code establishes building standards for all occupancies
throughout the State and requires that these standards incorporate the latest editions of the
Technical Codes with necessary California amendments; and
WHEREAS, on July 1, 2025, the State Building Standards Commission approved and
published the 2025 edition of the California Building Standards Code which incorporated the
various editions of the Technical Codes by reference with necessary California amendments; and
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Sections 18938 and 17958 make the California
Building Standards Code applicable to all cities and counties throughout California, including the
City of Alameda, 180 days after publication by the State Building Standards Commission, which
is January 1, 2026; and
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958.7 and 18941.5 provide
that the City may make changes or modifications to the building standards contained in the
California Building Standards Code based upon express findings that each such change or
modification is reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical
conditions; and
WHEREAS, from October 1, 2025 to June 1, 2031, AB 130 prohibits a city from making
changes or adopting more restrictions to the State Housing Law and Building Code standards
applicable to residential units unless one of the following conditions is met: (1) The change is
substantially equivalent to a change previously filed by the city/county and was in effect as of
Sept. 30, 2025; (2) The Commission deems the change necessary as an emergency standard to
protect health and safety; (3) The change relates to home hardening; (4) The building standard
relates to home hardening and is proposed for adoption by a fire protection district; (5)The change
is necessary to implement a local code amendment that is adopted to align with a general plan
approved on or before June 10, 2025, and that permits mixed-fuel (i.e., electric and natural gas,
etc.) residential construction consistent with federal law while also incentivizing all-electric
construction as part of an adopted greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategy; or (6) Where
the change is a modification rather than an additional restriction, the change is related to
administrative practices; and
WHEREAS, The proposed amendments establish minimum standards for utilities,
facilities, and other physical conditions, essential to ensure that all structures are safe, sanitary,
and suitable for human occupancy and use. This adoption also includes provisions for the
condemnation and demolition of buildings unfit for occupancy, as well as the issuance of permits
and the collection of related fees. Further, the purpose of these changes is to preserve the existing
housing stock in a safe, sanitary, and habitable condition.
WHEREAS, on or about September 20, 2016, the State of California enacted Senate Bill
(SB) 32, which added Health and Safety Code Section 38566 to require greenhouse gas
emissions to be reduced to 40 percent below 1990 levels by no later than December 31, 2030;
and
WHEREAS, on November 30, 2021, the City Council adopted the City of Alameda's
General Plan which includes climate-related targets and policies CC-13, CC-14, and CC-15 that
intend to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas combustion in Alameda's private
building stock and public facilities by encouraging electrification and energy efficiency; and
WHEREAS, on April 1, 2025, the City Council adopted the City of Alameda's update to its
2019 Climate Action and Resilience Plan which included the target to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by 50% below 2005 levels by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2045 through
strategies and actions including BE-1 and BE-2 that encourage building decarbonization through
electrification and energy efficiency upgrades; and
WHEREAS, Public Resources Code Section 25402.1(h)2 and Section 10-106 of the 2025
California Administrative Code establish a process which allows local adoption of energy
standards that are more stringent than the statewide Standards, provided that a determination
that the standards are cost effective is adopted at a public meeting and subsequently filed with
the California Energy Commission, and the California Energy Commission finds that the
standards will require buildings to be designed to consume no more energy than permitted by the
2025 California Energy Code; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the Health and Safety Code,
the proposed amendments to the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code and 2025
Energy Code meet the following conditions to demonstrate local amendments are necessary: the
changes are necessary to align local building codes with General Plan and CAP goals while
permitting mixed-fuel residential construction and incentivizing electric construction; and
WHEREAS, consistent with the Climate Action and Resilience Plan, the local amendments
to the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code and California Energy Code establish
requirements for single-family duplex, and townhome residential structures that will reduce
demands for local energy resources, reduce regional pollution, and promote a lower contribution
to greenhouse gas emissions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Alameda has determined the cost effectiveness
studies prepared by the California Energy Codes & Standards Statewide Utility Program and
associated study data are sufficient to illustrate that the standards contained in this ordinance are
cost effective and will require buildings to be designed to consume no more energy than permitted
by the 2025 California Energy Code; and
WHEREAS, local amendments to the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code and
2025 Energy Code were the subject of public stakeholder engagement efforts conducted as part
of the Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) update (2025) and development on the
Equitable Building Decarbonization Plan (2023), as well as a City Council workshop on October
15, 2024 and CARP adoption hearing on April 1, 2024; and
WHEREAS, the most cost-effective time to integrate electrical infrastructure into existing
buildings is during significant alterations and additions, allowing for electrical infrastructure to be
installed alongside other significant building improvements; and
WHEREAS, the local amendments to the 2025 California Energy Code and 2025
California Green Buildings Standards Code support City of Alameda's future compliance with the
Bay Area Air Quality Management District's amendments to Rule 9-4 and Rule 9-6, which limit the
sale of nitrous oxide emitting water and space heating appliances; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the 2025 edition of the California Building
Standards Code, which incorporates by reference the various editions of the Technical Codes,
and all of the referenced standards, tables, matrices and appendices of each of these codes
therein; and
WHEREAS, based on the findings adopted concurrently with this Ordinance, the City
Council has determined that the proposed changes to the Fire Code are substantially equivalent
to those previously adopted by the City of Alameda and in effect as of September 30, 2025; and
WHEREAS, modifications and additions to the California Building Standards Code and
Fire Code are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geological, and topographical
conditions specific to Alameda's island geography and older, historical building stock; and
WHEREAS, changes to the California Building Standards Code and the International
Property Maintenance Code relate to administrative practices proposed for adoption during the
interim period pursuant to Section 18942, and are intended solely to reduce internal operational
costs for the Permit Center, as well as to support the establishment, modification, or removal of
local programs addressing the enforcement of building code violations or complaints, in
accordance with California Assembly Bill 130.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Alameda does hereby ordain as
follows:
SECTION 1: FINDINGS
A. Incorporation of Recitals. The above recitals are incorporated as findings into this Ordinance.
B. Statutory Findings. In enacting this Ordinance, City Council finds that each of the changes or
modifications to measures referred to therein are reasonably necessary because of local
climatic, geological, or topographical conditions in the area encompassed by the boundaries
of the City of Alameda, and the City Council adopts the following findings in support of local
necessity for the changes or modifications:
1. Climatic: The City is located in Climate Zone 3 as established in the 2025 California Energy
Code. Climate Zone 3 incorporates mostly coastal communities from Marin County to
southern Monterey County including San Francisco. The City experiences an average
precipitation of approximately 23 inches per year. Ninety-five percent of precipitation falls
during the months of November through April, leaving a dry period of approximately six months
each year. Relative humidity remains moderate most of the time. Temperatures in the summer
average around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and in the winter in the mid 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prevailing winds in the area come from the west with velocities generally in the 12 miles per
hour range, gusting from 25 to 35 miles per hour. These climatic conditions along with the
greenhouse emissions generated from structures in both the residential and nonresidential
sectors requires exceeding the energy standards for building construction established in the
2025 California Buildings Standards Code. The City Council also adopted a Climate Action
and Resiliency Plan that has a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% below 2005
levels by 2030. In order to achieve and maintain this goal, the City needs to adopt policies
and regulations that reduce the use of fossil fuels that contribute to climate change, such as
natural gas in buildings, in new development. Human activities, such as burning natural gas
to heat buildings, releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and causes an overall
increase in global average temperature. This causes sea levels to rise, affecting the City's
shoreline and infrastructure.
2. Geologic: The City of Alameda is subject to earthquake hazard caused by its proximity to both
the Hayward and San Andreas faults. The San Andreas fault runs from Hollister, through the
Santa Cruz Mountains, the epicenter of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, up the San
Francisco Peninsula, where it diverges offshore at Daly City near Mussel Rock. This is the
approximate location of the epicenter of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The Hayward
fault is about 74 mi long, situated mainly along the western base of the hills on the east side
of San Francisco Bay. Both of these faults are considered major Northern California
earthquake faults which may experience rupture at any time. The USGS estimates that an
earthquake greater than magnitude 6.7 has a 72 percent chance of occurring in the Bay Area
within the next 30 years. The Hayward fault is the most likely to produce a large earthquake
with a 28% chance within the next 30 years. Reducing the reliance on natural gas appliances
in homes will decrease the risk of fires when gas lines rupture and break or gas appliances
topple in earthquakes. Restoring full natural gas service following a major earthquake is
expected to take up to six months, compared to about a week for electricity.
3. Topociraphic: The City of Alameda is a low-lying island in the San Francisco Bay, resulting in
high groundwater table, particularly during winter storms. Also, the City is located in an area
that is relatively high liquefaction potential given its proximity to the Bay and significant
proportion of filled land. Liquefaction can damage gas pipelines and cause ruptures and fires.
The aforementioned conditions within the City create hazardous conditions for which
departure from California Building Standards Code is warranted.
4. Compliance with California Assembly Bill 306: The changes and modifications to the 2025
California Fire Code are substantially equivalent to those previously adopted by the City of
Alameda under the 2022 Codes adoption and in effect as of January 1, 2023. The proposed
changes to the 2025 California Building, Residential, Plumbing, and Property Maintenance
Codes address administrative procedures and are being adopted during the intervening
period in accordance with Section 18942 of the California Health and Safety Code. These
amendments aim to streamline internal processes related to code enforcement, permit
issuance, plan review, inspections, and the maintenance of safe, habitable housing.
Additionally, the ordinance promotes public safety by requiring the installation of earthquake
shutoff valves, as outlined in Section 13-6.3 — Modifications, Amendments, and Deletions to
the California Plumbing Code.
SECTION 2: ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION. The City Council finds adoption of this
Ordinance not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines Section 13578, and as a separate and independent basis, adoption of these local code
amendments is exempt under CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because it can be shown
with certainty that this action will not have any significant environmental impact.
SECTION 3:Alameda Municipal Code Article I Uniform Codes Relating to Building, Housing and
Technical Codes of Chapter XIII: Building and Housing of the Alameda Municipal Code is hereby
amended as follows:
13-1 ALAMEDA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE
13-1.1 —Adoption of the Alameda Administrative Code.
Chapter 1, Division II Scope and Administration of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition,
published by the California Building Standards Commission, is adopted by reference and made a
part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Administrative
Code.
13-1.2 — Copy of Alameda Administrative Code
A copy of the Alameda Administrative Code shall be maintained by the Building Official for use
and examination by the public.
13-2—ALAMEDA BUILDING CODE
13-2.1 —Adoption of California Building Code, as amended.
The California Building Code, 2025 Edition, published by the California Building Standards
Commission, including Appendix Chapters H, I and G, are adopted by reference and made a part
hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Building Code.
13-2.2— Copy of California Building Code.
A copy of the California Building Code, 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13-2.3—Modifications,Amendments and Deletions to the California Building Code Chapter
1, Division II, Scope and Administration:
a. New Section 105.3.2.1 is added as follows:
105.3.2.1 Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180
days following the date of last plan review correspondence by either the City or the applicant
will expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be
destroyed by the Building Official.
b. New Section 105.5.2 is added as follows:
105.5.2 Completion of work after permit expiration. Before work on an expired permit can
be recommenced, a new permit shall first be obtained and the fee for such new permit shall
be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work or as deemed by the
Building Official, provided no changes have been made or will be made in the original plans
and specifications for such work; and provided further that such suspension or
abandonment has not exceeded one year. Any suspension or abandonment in excess of
one year shall be treated as a new permit and subject to all the provisions thereof.
c. New Section 109.4.1 is added as follows:
109.4.1 Investigation fee for work without permit. Whenever any work for which a permit is
required has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, an investigation shall be
made before a permit may be issued for such work. An investigation fee, in addition to the
permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investigation fee shall be as set forth in the City's adopted fee schedule. The payment of
such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions
of either this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law.
d. Section 109.6 is amended to read as follows:
109.6 Refunds. The Building Official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid except
upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date
of fee payment.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of any fee paid hereunder which was
erroneously paid or collected.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit
fee paid when no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this
chapter.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of not more than 80 percent of the plan
review fee paid when an application for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid
is withdrawn or canceled before any plan checking is done.
e. New Section 109.7 is added as follows:
109.7 Reinspection fee. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or
reinspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or
when corrections required by the Building Official are not made.
This section does not require reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of the codes. Subsequent inspections or the practice of calling
for inspections before the job is ready for such inspection or reinspection may be subject to
reinspection fees.
To obtain a reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing upon a
form furnished for that purpose, and pay the reinspection fee in accordance with the fee
schedule adopted by the City.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of the
work will be performed until the required fees have been paid.
13-3 -ALAMEDA RESIDENTIAL CODE.
13-3.1 —Adoption of California Residential Code, as amended.
The California Residential Code, 2025 Edition, published by the California Building Standards
Commission, including Appendix Chapters BF and BG, are adopted by reference and made a
part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Residential
Code.
13-3.2 — Copy of California Residential Code
A copy of the California Residential Code, 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13-3.3 — Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the California Residential Code
Chapter 1 Division II Scope and Administration:
a. New Section R105.3.2.1 is added as follows:
R105.3.2.1 Expiration of Plan Review. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180
days following the date of last plan review correspondence by either the City or the applicant
will expire by limitation, and plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be
destroyed by the Building Official.
b. New Section R105.5.2 is added as follows:
R105.5.2 Completion of work after permit expiration. Before work on an expired permit can
be recommenced, a new permit shall first be obtained and the fee for such new permit shall
be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work or as deemed by the
Building Official, provided no changes have been made or will be made in the original plans
and specifications for such work; and provided further that such suspension or
abandonment has not exceeded one year. Any suspension or abandonment in excess of
one year shall be treated as a new permit and subject to all the provisions thereof.
c. Section R108.5 is amended to read as follows:
R108.5 Refunds. The Building Official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid
except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after
the date of fee payment.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of any fee paid hereunder that was
erroneously paid or collected.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit
fee paid when no work has been performed under a permit issued in accordance with this
chapter.
The Building Official may authorize the refunding of not more than 80 percent of the plan
review fee paid when an application for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid
is withdrawn or canceled before any plan checking has commenced.
d. New Section R108.6.1 is added to read as follows:
R108.6.1 Investigation fee for work without permit. Whenever any work for which a permit
is required has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, an investigation shall
be made before a permit may be issued for such work. An investigation fee, in addition to
the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued.
The investigation fee shall be as set forth in the City's adopted fee schedule. The payment
of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with any provision
of this code or from any penalty prescribed by applicable law.
e. New Section R108.7 is added as follows:
R108.7 Reinspection fee. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or
reinspection when the portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or when
corrections previously required by the Building Official are not made.
This section does not require reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of the codes. Subsequent inspections or practice of calling
for inspections before the job is ready for such inspection or reinspection may be subject to
reinspection fees.
To obtain a reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing using a
form furnished for that purpose, and pay the reinspection fee in accordance with the fee
schedule adopted by the City.
In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of the
work will be performed until the required fees have been paid.
13-4 —ALAMEDA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE.
13-4.1 —Adoption of California Historical Building Code.
The California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition, published by the California Building
Standards Commission, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein
at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Historical Building Code.
13-4.2— Copy of California Historical Building Code.
A copy of the California Historical Building Code, 2025 Edition, shall be maintained by the Building
Official for use and examination by the public.
13-5 -ALAMEDA ELECTRICAL CODE.
13-5.1 -Adoption of California Electrical Code.
The California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition, published by the National Fire Protection
Association, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length,
and shall be known as the Alameda Electrical Code.
13-5.2— Copy of California Electrical Code.
A copy of the California Electrical Code, 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13.6 —ALAMEDA PLUMBING CODE.
13-6.1 —Adoption of California Plumbing Code, as amended.
The California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition, published by the International Association of
Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, including Appendix Chapters A, B, D through G, I and L, is
adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be
known as the Alameda Plumbing Code.Any conflicts between the requirements contained in the
Current Alameda Plumbing Code Chapter I, Division II Administration and the 2025 Alameda
Administrative Code shall be controlled by the latter.
13-6.2— Copy of California Plumbing Code.
A copy of the California Plumbing Code, 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13-6.3 — Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the California Plumbing Code
Chapter 12, Section 1211.8:
a. Section 1211.8 of the California Plumbing Code is hereby amended in its entirety as
follows:
1211.8 Gas Shut-off Devices.
1211.8.1 Purpose
This Article is intended to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death,
injury, or property damage that may result from gas leaks following seismic events. The
minimum standards for automatic gas shut-off valves contained in this Article shall
substantially improve the safety of residential and commercial structures in Alameda
during and after earthquakes by preventing potential gas-related fires and explosions.
While these standards will significantly reduce the risk of gas-related hazards during
seismic events, they may not prevent all potential damage. When properly implemented,
these standards will provide critical protection during the period immediately following an
earthquake when structures are most vulnerable to gas-related incidents.
1211.8.2 Definitions.
For the purpose of this section, certain terms shall be defined as follows:
a. Downstream of gas utility meter means all customer owned gas piping.
b. Residential building means any single-family dwelling, duplex, multi-family dwelling,
apartment building, condominium building, townhouse building, lodging house,
congregate residence, hotel, or motel.
c. Seismic gas shut-off device means a system consisting of a seismic sensing means
and actuating means designed to actuate automatically a companion gas shut-off
means installed in a gas piping system in order to shut-off the gas downstream of the
location of the gas shut-off means in the event of a severe seismic disturbance. The
system may consist of separable components or may incorporate all functions in a
single body. The device shall be certified by the State Architect and the operational
and functional design of the device shall meet or exceed the device certified by the
Office of the State Architect. The determination of whether the operational and
functional design of the device is at least equal to the device certified by the State
Architect may be made by one of the following: the Independent Laboratory of the
International Approval Services (IAS), Underwriter's Laboratory (UL), International
Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), or other recognized listing
and testing agency.
d. Excess flow gas shut-off device means those valves or devices that are not actuated
by motion, but are activated by significant gas leaks or over-pressure surges, which
can occur when pipes rupture inside the structure. The design of the device shall
provide a proven method to provide automatically for expedient and safe gas shut-off
in an emergency. The design of the device shall provide a capability for ease of
consumer or owner resetting in a safe manner. The device shall be certified by the
State Architect or the operational and functional design of the device shall meet or
exceed the device certified by the Office of the State Architect. The determination of
whether the operational and functional design if the device is at least equal to the
device certified by the State Architect may be made by one of the following: the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), the
Independent Laboratory of the International Approval Services (IAS), Underwriter's
Laboratory (UL), or other recognized listing and testing agency.
e. Upstream of gas utility meter means all gas piping installed by the utility up to and
including the meter and the utility's bypass tee at the connection to the customer
owned piping.
f. Gas shut-off device means either a seismic gas shut-off device or excess flow gas
shut-off device.
1211.8.3 Scope.
a. The following devices shall be installed at the following locations in the buildings
specified in subsection b.:An approved seismic gas shut-off device (motion sensitive)
or an approved excess flow gas shut-off device (non-motion sensitive) shall be
installed downstream of the gas utility meter at the beginning of each rigid gas piping
system that serves any of the buildings specified in subsection b.
b. The devices specified in subsection a. shall be installed in the following buildings and
structures:
1. In any new building construction (commercial, industrial, or residential)
containing fuel gas piping for which a building permit is first issued on or after
the effective date of this section.
2. In any existing residential building that is altered or added to, and the following
conditions are met:
(a) The building has fuel gas piping supplying the existing building or the
addition to the building; and
(b) A building permit for the work is first issued on or after the effective date
of this section; and
(c) The value of the alteration or addition is more than ten thousand
($10,000) dollars.
3. In any existing commercial or industrial building that is altered or added to,
and the following conditions are met:
(a) The building has fuel gas piping supplying the existing building or the
addition to the building; and
(b) A building permit for the work is first issued on or after the effective date
of this section; and
(c) The value of the alteration or addition is more than ten thousand ($10,000)
dollars.
4. Within ninety (90) days following the closing date of any sale, transfer, or
conveyance of a real property.
5. In any existing residential building identified as a soft-story building pursuant
to Ordinance 2989, Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Wood Frame
Residential Structures with Soft-Story, Weak, or Open Front Walls.
1211.8.4 Exceptions.
a. Gas shut-off devices are not required to be installed downstream of the gas utility
meter where gas shut-off devices have been installed by the gas utility or a contractor
authorized by the gas utility upstream of the gas utility meter and downstream of the
meter service regulator and the installations are in accordance with this section and
with the manufacturer's specifications.
b. Gas shut-off devices installed on a building before the effective date of this section
are exempt from the requirements of this section provided they remain installed on
the building or structure and are maintained for the life of the building or structure.
c. Gas shut-off devices installed on a gas distribution system owned or operated by a
public utility are not subject to the requirements of this section pursuant to Health and
Safety Code Section 19201(a).
1211.8.5 General requirements.
Gas shut-off devices installed either in compliance with this chapter or voluntarily, with a
building permit issued on or after the effective date of this section, shall comply with all of the
following requirements:
a. Be installed by a contractor licensed in the appropriate classification by the State of
California and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
b. In the case of seismic gas shut-off devices (motion sensitive) such devices must be
mounted rigidly to the exterior of the building or structure containing the fuel gas
piping. This requirement need not apply if the Building Official determines that the
seismic gas shut-off device (motion sensitive) has been tested and listed for an
alternate method of installation.
c. In the case of seismic gas shut-off devices (motion sensitive) only, be certified by the
State Architect and be listed by an approved listing and testing agency such as
IAPMO, IAS, UL or the Office of the State Architect. In the case of the excess flow gas
shut-off device (non-motion sensitive) only, be certified by the State Architect or be
listed by an approved listing and testing agency such as IAPMO, IAS, UL or the Office
of the State Architect.
d. Have a thirty (30) year warranty which warrants that the valve or device is free from
defects and will continue to operate properly for thirty (30) years from the date of
installation.
e. Where gas shut-off devices are installed voluntarily or as required by this section, they
shall be maintained for the life of the building or structure or be replaced with a valve
or device complying with the requirements of this section.
1211.8.6 List of approved valves and devices.
The Building Official shall maintain a list of gas shut-off devices which meet or exceed the
requirements of devices certified by the Office of the State Architect for installation in the State
of California and which comply with the standards and criteria set forth in Health and Safety
Code Section 19180.
1211.8.7 Enforcing agency.
The Building Official shall administer and enforce the provisions of this section. Any person
who violates any provision of this article may be subject to administrative citations issued
pursuant to Article 1-7 of the Alameda Municipal Code.
13-7 —ALAMEDA MECHANICAL CODE.
13-7.1 -Adoption of California Mechanical Code.
The California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition, including Appendix Chapter A, published by the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, is adopted by reference and made
a part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and
shall be known as the Alameda Mechanical Code. Any conflicts between the requirements
contained in the 2025 Alameda Mechanical Code Chapter I, Division II Administration and the
2025 Alameda Administrative Code shall be controlled by the latter.
13-7.2— Copy of California Mechanical Code.
A copy of the California Mechanical Code, 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13-8 —ALAMEDA HOUSING CODE.
13-8.1 —Adoption of Uniform Housing Code.
Except as hereinafter provided, the Uniform Housing Code, 1997 Edition, published by the
International Conference of Building Officials, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as
if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Housing Code. With respect
to residential structures, Health and Safety Code Division 13, 1.5, Section 17920.3, et seq., known
as the State Housing Law, supersedes the applicability of the Uniform Housing Code to the degree
of any conflict between the State Housing Law and either of the building standards.
13-8.2 —Copy of Uniform Housing Code.
Atrue copy of the Uniform Housing Code, 1997 Edition, shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination of the public.
13-9 —ALAMEDA CODE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS.
13-9.1 —Adoption of Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.
Except as hereinafter provided, the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings,
1997 Edition, published by the International Conference of Building Officials is adopted by
reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the
Alameda Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.
13-9.2— Copy of Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings.
A copy of the Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings, 1997 Edition shall be
maintained by the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
13-10—ALAMEDA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE.
13-10.1 —Adoption of California Green Building Standards Code as amended.
The California Green Building Standards Code, the 2025 Edition published by the California
Building Standards Commission, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully set
forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Green Building Standards Code
13-10.2 — Copy of California Green Building Standards Code.
A copy of the California Green Building Standards Code, the 2025 Edition shall be maintained by
the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
13-10.3 — Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the California Green Buildings
Standards Code.
a. Section A4.204.1 is amended to add the following section as mandatory:
A4.204.1 Energy Efficiency. Alterations to existing residential buildings shall
comply with Sections A4.204.1.1
A4.204.1.1 Altered Space-Conditioning System Serving Existing Single-
Family, Duplex and Townhome Dwelling Units— Mechanical Cooling. When a
space-conditioning system serving an existing single-family dwelling, duplex or
townhome unit is altered in climate zones 1 through 14 and 16 by installation or
replacement of an air conditioner, the altered system shall comply with either a or
b below in addition to the requirements for installation specified by Title 24, Part 6,
Sections 150.2(b)1 E and 150.2(b)1F:
a. A heat pump shall be the primary heating source and sized according to the
system selection requirements specified by Title 24, Part 6 of Section
150.0(h)5. Supplemental heating may be provided by gas furnace or electric
resistance heating as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Sections 150.0(h)7 and
150.0(i); or
b. An air conditioner shall meet all the requirements in either subsection I or II
below:
I. Systems with Existing Duct Distribution Systems:
A. The duct system measured air leakage shall be equal to or less than
610 percent of the system air handler airflow as confirmed through
field verification and diagnostic testing, per the requirements in Title
24, Part 6, Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.1; and
Exception 1 to A4.204.1.1 blA. If it is not possible to meet the duct
sealing requirements, all accessible leaks shall be sealed and
verified through a visual inspection and a smoke test by a certified
ECC-Rater utilizing the methods specified in Reference Residential
Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.5.
Exception 2 to A4.204.1.1 blA: Existing duct systems, constructed,
insulated or sealed with asbestos.
B. Demonstrate, in every control mode, airflow greater than or equal to
300 CFM per ton of nominal cooling capacity through the return
grilles, and an air-handling unit fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.45
W/CFM. The airflow rate and fan efficacy requirements in this section
shall be confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing,
following the procedures outlined in Title 24, Part 6, Reference
Residential Appendix RA3.3; and
Exception 1 to A4.204.1.1 b1B: Systems unable to comply with the
minimum airflow rate and system efficacy requirements shall
demonstrate compliance by satisfying all of the following:
1. Following the procedures in Section RA3.3.3.1.5;
2. Installing a system thermostat that conforms to the specifications
in Section 110.12;
3. For standard ducted systems (without zoning dampers), meet the
applicable minimum total return filter grille nominal area
requirements in Table 150.0-B or 150.0-C as confirmed by field
verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the
procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Sections
RA3.1.4.4 and RA3.1.4.5. The design clean-filter pressure drop
requirements specified by Section 150.0(m)12D for the system air
filter(s) shall conform to the requirements given in Tables 150.0-B
and 150.0-C.
Exception 2 to Section A4.204.1.1 bIB: Multispeed compressor
systems or variable speed compressor systems shall verify air flow
(cfm/ton) and fan efficacy (Watt/cfm) for system operation at the
maximum compressor speed and the maximum air handler fan
speed.
Exception 3 to Section A4.204.1.1bIB: Gas furnace air-handling
units manufactured prior to July 3, 2019 shall comply with a fan
efficacy value less than or equal to 0.58 W/cfm as confirmed by field
verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures
given in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.
C. In all climate zones, refrigerant charge verification requirements shall
meet the requirements in Title 24, Part 6 Section 150.2(b)1 Fiib,
including the minimum airflow rate specified in Section 150.2(b)1 Fiia;
and
D. Vented attics shall have insulation installed to achieve a U-factor of
0.020 or insulation installed at the ceiling level shall result in an
insulated thermal resistance of R-49 or greater for the insulation
alone; luminaires not rated for insulation contact must be replaced or
retrofitted with a fireproof cover that allows for insulation to be
installed directly over the cover; and
Exception 1 to Section A4.204.1.1(b)ID: Dwelling units with at least
R-38 existing insulation installed at the ceiling level.
Exception 2 to Section A4.204.1.1(b)ID: Dwelling units where the
alteration would directly cause the disturbance of asbestos unless the
alteration is made in conjunction with asbestos abatement.
Exception 3 to Section A4.204.1.1(b)ID: Dwelling units with knob
and tube wiring located in the vented attic.
Exception 4 to Section A4.204.1.1(b)ID: Where the accessible
space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required
R-value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation
provided such installation does not violate Section 806.3 of Title 24,
Part 2.5.
E. Air seal all accessible areas of the ceiling plane between the attic and
the conditioned space including all joints, penetrations and other
openings that are potential sources of air leakage by caulking,
gasketing, weather-stripping or otherwise sealing to limit infiltration
and exfiltration.
Exception 1 to Section A4.204.1.1 bIE: Dwelling units with at least
R-38 existing insulation installed at the ceiling level.
Exception 2 to Section A4.204.1.1 blE: Dwelling units where the
alteration would directly cause the disturbance of asbestos unless the
alteration is made in conjunction with asbestos abatement.
Exception 3 to Section A4.204.1.1 bIE: Dwelling units with
atmospherically vented space heating or water heating combustion
appliances located inside the pressure boundary of the dwelling unit.
II. Entirely New or Complete Replacement Duct Systems:
A. R-8 duct insulation shall be installed for all new ducts located in
unconditioned space; and
B. The total duct system measured air leakage shall be equal to or less
than 5 percent of the system air handler airflow as confirmed through
field verification and diagnostic testing, per the requirements in Title
24, Part 6, Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.1; and
C. Demonstrate, in every control mode, airflow greater than or equal to
350 CFM per ton of nominal cooling capacity through the return
grilles, and an air-handling unit fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.35
W/CFM. The airflow rate and fan efficacy requirements in this section
shall be confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing,
following the procedures outlined in Title 24, Part 6, Reference
Residential Appendix RA3.3; and
D. In all climate zones, refrigerant charge verification requirements shall
meet the requirements in Title 24, Part 6 Section 150.2(b)1 Fiib; and
Exception 1 to Section A4.204.1.1: Where the capacity of the existing main
electrical service panel is insufficient to supply the electrical capacity of a heat
pump and where the existing main electrical service panel is sufficient to supply a
new or replacement air conditioner, as calculated according to the requirements of
California Electrical Code Article 220.83 or Article 220.87. Documentation of
electrical load calculations in accordance with Article 220 must be submitted to the
enforcement agency prior to permitting for both the heat pump and proposed air
conditioner.
Exception 2 to Section A4.204.1.1: Where the required capacity of a heat pump
to meet the system selection requirements of Section 150.0(h)5 is greater than or
equal to 12,000 Btu/h more than the greater of the required capacity of an air
conditioner to meet the design cooling load OR the capacity of the existing air
conditioner. Documentation of heating and cooling load calculations in accordance
with 150.0(h) must be submitted to the enforcement agency prior to permitting for
both the heat pump and proposed air conditioner.
Exception 3 to Section A4.204.1.1: Hardship exemptions shall be provided at the
discretion of the Building Official for economic hardship or another infeasibility not
covered above.
13-11 —ALAMEDA ENERGY CODE.
13-11.1 —Adoption of California Energy Code.
The California Energy Code, the 2025 Edition published by the California Building Standards
Commission, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein at length,
and shall be known as the Alameda Energy Code.
13-11.2—Copy of California Energy Code.
A copy of the California Energy Code, the 2025 Edition shall be maintained by the Building Official
for use and examination by the public.
13-11.3 — Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the California Energy Code.
a. Section 100.0 is modified to add a new section (i) as follows:
(i) Single Family, Duplex and Townhome Building Remodel Energy Reach Code - Purpose and
Intent.
In addition to all requirements of the California Energy Code applicable to Single Family building
additions and alterations, the electric readiness measures specified in Sections 150.0(w) shall be
required for certain single family, duplex and townhome residential structures additions and
alterations.
b. Section 100.1(b) is modified by adding the following definitions:
LEVEL 2 ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING RECEPTACLE is a 208/240-volt 40-ampere
minimum branch circuit and a receptacle.
LOW POWER LEVEL 2 ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING RECEPTACLE is a 208/240-
volt 20-ampere minimum branch circuit and a receptacle
c. A new Section, (w), is added to Section 150.0 as follows:
(w) Electric Readiness for Alterations
1. Electric range. Where branch circuits or receptacles are added or altered in a
kitchen and the work requires an electrical permit, install electrical components
in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The electrical components
shall include either of the following:
A. A 125 volt, 20 amp electrical receptacle that is connected to the electric
panel with a 120/240 volt 3 conductor branch circuit rated at 50 amps
minimum, within 3 feet from the location of the appliance and accessible to
the appliance with no obstructions. Both ends of the unused conductor shall
be labeled with the word "spare" and be electrically isolated. Space shall
be reserved for a single pole circuit breaker in the electrical panel adjacent
to the circuit breaker for the branch circuit and labeled with the words
"Future Use".
B. A pathway for a future 240 volt 50 amp minimum branch circuit that shall
consist of either conductors or raceway from the main electrical service
panel. The main electric panel shall have space reserved to allow for the
installation of a double pole circuit breaker for a future electric range
installation. The reserved space shall be permanently marked as "For
Future 240V use". The raceway or conductors shall terminate at a junction
box within 3 feet of the appliance. The blank cover shall be identified as
"240V ready".
2. Electric dryer. Where a branch circuit is added or altered within 3 feet of a gas
or propane clothes dryer and the work requires an electrical permit, install
electrical components in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The
electrical components shall include either of the following:
A. A dedicated 125 volt, 20 amp electrical receptacle that is connected to the
electric panel with a 120/240 volt 3 conductor branch circuit rated at 30
amps minimum, within 3 feet from the appliance and accessible to the
appliance with no obstructions. Both ends of the unused conductor shall be
labeled with the word "spare" and be electrically isolated. Space shall be
reserved for a single pole circuit breaker in the electrical panel adjacent to
the circuit breaker for the branch circuit and labeled with the words "Future
Use"; or,
B. A pathway for a future 240 volt 30 amp minimum branch circuit that shall
consist of either conductors or raceway from the main electrical service
panel. The main electric panel shall have space reserved to allow for the
installation of a double pole circuit breaker for a future heat pump dryer
installation. The reserved space shall be permanently marked as "For
Future 240V use". The raceway or conductors shall terminate at a junction
box within 3 feet of the appliance. The blank cover shall be identified as
"240V ready".
3. Heat pump water heater.
A. If wall framing is removed or replaced within 3 feet of a gas or propane
water heating appliance, space suitable for the future installation of a heat
pump water heater (HPWH) shall be provided. The space shall be at least
2.5 feet by 2.5 feet wide and 7 feet tall and shall include a condensate drain
that is no more than 2 inches higher than the base of an installed water
heater and allows natural draining without pump assistance or installed
piping or tubing within 3 feet of the water heater location to a condensate
drain or exterior location. If pump assistance is needed, a receptacle on a
120 volt, minimum 15 amp branch circuit for a condensate pump must be
available within 3 feet of the water heater location.
B. Where branch circuits are altered or added within 3 feet of an existing gas
or propane water heater or within 10 feet of the designated future location
of a heat pump water heater as required under Section 150.0(w)3A, and
the work requires an electrical permit, install electrical components in
accordance with the California Electrical Code. The electrical components
shall include either of the following:
(i) A dedicated 125 volt, 20 amp electrical receptacle that is
connected to the electric panel with a 120/240 volt 3
conductor, 10 AWG copper branch circuit rated at 30 amps
minimum, within 3 feet from the water heater and accessible
to the water heater with no obstructions. Both ends of the
unused conductor shall be labeled with the word"spare"and
be electrically isolated. Space shall be reserved for a single
pole circuit breaker space in the electrical panel adjacent to
the circuit breaker for the branch circuit and labeled with the
words "Future 240V Use"; or
(ii) A pathway for a future 240 volt 30 amp minimum branch
circuit that shall consist of either conductors or raceway from
the main electrical service panel. The main electric panel
shall have space reserved to allow for the installation of a
double pole circuit breaker for a future HPWH installation.
The reserved space shall be permanently marked as "For
Future 240V use". The pathway shall terminate at a junction
box within 3 feet of the appliance. The blank cover shall be
identified as "240V ready".
4. Outdoor gas appliances. Where a gas line is added or extended to any pool
water heater, spa water heater, sauna, fireplace, outdoor cooking appliance,
or outdoor heating system, install infrastructure and reserve physical space to
accommodate future installation of an electric equivalent of that system that
serves the same function, as certified by a registered design professional or
licensed electrical contractor.
A. Install conduit designed to serve a future electric appliance(s) with the
same function, including the appropriate voltage, phase, minimum
amperage, and an electrical receptacle or junction box within five feet of
the appliance that is accessible with no obstructions, in accordance with
manufacturer requirements and the California Electrical Code. In lieu of or
in addition to conduit, electrically isolated branch circuit wiring may be
installed; and
B. Label both ends of the unused conduit or conductors "For Future Electrical
Appliance"; and
C. Reserve circuit breakers in the electrical panel(s) for each branch circuit,
appropriately labeled; and
D. Designate physical space for future electric appliances, including
equipment footprint, on the construction drawings. The footprint necessary
for future electric appliances may overlap with the location of currently
designed combustion equipment.
Exception to Section 150.0(w)4: Generator systems used for emergency
power generation.
5. Electrical Power Upgrades. Increases in the electrical power infrastructure
capacity serving a building shall only be permitted when all the following are
documented and submitted to the building official:
A. Calculations in accordance with California Electrical Code Article 220.83
determine that future loads will exceed the capacity of the current electrical
power infrastructure.
B. Where data is available, calculations in accordance with California
Electrical Code Article 220.87 determine that future loads exceed the
capacity of the current electrical service infrastructure.
C. Calculations for item (A) and item (B) above shall include at least one of
the following:
i. At least one power management or circuit controlling device, serving
electric-only appliances such as:
a. Water heater(s)
b. Clothes dryer(s)
c. Range(s)
d. Level 2 EV Charging Receptacle or
e. Low Power Level 2 EV Charging Receptacle
ii. At least one of the following electric-only appliances operating on 120V:
a. Water heater(s)
b. Clothes dryers(s)
c. Range(s)
iii. Circuit control between whole home load and Level 2 EV Charging
Receptacle or Low Power Level 2 EV Charging Receptacle
13-11.4 - Exceptions:
a. Exception 1 to Section 150.0(w)5: The upgrade is solely the result of a project
proposing electrical improvements supporting loads related to devices and uses
not regulated by 150.0(w)5.
b. Exception 2 to Section150.0(w): The project is the result of a repair as defined
by Title 24 Part 2 Section 202.
c. Exception 3 to Section 150.0(w): If an electrical permit is not otherwise
required for the project other than compliance with this section.
d. Exception 4 to Section 150.0(w): Where upgrades to the existing electrical
panel or utility service are not proposed, electrical panel capacity shall not be
required to exceed the existing utility electrical service to the building to meet
compliance with this section. Capacity and overcurrent protection spaces shall
be reserved to the extent allowable under the existing electrical panel capacity
using the methodology in Section 150(w)5. Tandem overcurrent protection
devices shall be used to the extent permissible under the California Electrical
Code.
e. Exception 5 to Section 150.0(w): The project is the result of a safety
improvement to remove a known hazard.
f. Exception 6 to Section 150.0(w): Mobile Homes, Manufactured Housing, or
Factory-built Housing as defined in Division 13 of the California Health and
Safety 12 Code (commencing with Section 17000 of the Health and Safety
Code).
g. Exception 7 to Section 150.0(w): Emergency Housing pursuant to Appendix P
of the California Building Code.
h. Exception 8 to Section 150.0(w): Creation of a new accessory dwelling unit or
junior accessory dwelling unit that is within the existing space of a single-family
dwelling or accessory structure and includes an expansion of not more than 150
square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing accessory
structure. An expansion beyond the physical dimensions of the existing
accessory structure shall be limited to accommodating ingress and egress. Or,
if the project would not otherwise be a Covered Single-Family Project were it not
for the inclusion of an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit
that meets the criteria above.
i. Exception 9 to Section 150.0(w): Hardship exemptions shall be provided at
the discretion of the Building Official for economic hardship or another
infeasibility not covered above.
13-12 -ALAMEDA PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE.
13-12.1 Adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code.
The International Property Maintenance Code, the 2024 Edition published by the International
Code Council (ICC) including Appendix A, is adopted as amended and made a part hereof as if
fully set forth herein at length, and shall be known as the Alameda Property Maintenance Code.
13-12.2— Copy of International Property Maintenance Code.
A copy of the International Property Maintenance Code, the 2024 Edition shall be maintained by
the Building Official for use and examination by the public.
13-12.3 — Modifications, Amendments and Deletions to the International Property
Maintenance Code IPMC:
a. Section 102.3 of the IPMC is amended to read as follows:
IPMC 102.3 Application of other codes. Repairs, additions or alterations to a structure, or
changes of occupancy, shall be made in accordance with the procedures and provisions of
the City Municipal Code and the California Building Codes.
b. New Section 102.3.1 of the IPMC is added as follows:
IPMC 102.3.1 Reference to other codes. Whenever the International Property Maintenance
Code refers to other codes, those other codes shall mean the City Municipal Code and the
California Building Codes.
c. Section 302.4 of the IPMC is amended to read as follows:
IPMC 302.4 Weeds. Premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds
and other uncontrolled herbaceous growth in excess of eight (8) inches in height. Noxious
weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as ornamental and uncultivated grasses
and herbaceous vegetation that when mature bear wingy or downy seeds, or which
because of having attained such a height or extensiveness of growth and desiccation have
become a fire menace, or which are otherwise noxious or dangerous to health or safety.
d. Section 304.14 of the IPMC is amended to read as follows:
304.14 Insect screens. Every door, window and other outside opening required for
ventilation of habitable rooms, food preparation areas, food service areas or any areas
where products to be included or utilized in food for human consumption are processed,
manufactured, packaged or stored shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting screens of
minimum 16 mesh per inch (16 mesh per 25 mm), and every screen door used for insect
control shall have a self-closing device in good working condition.
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other approved means, such as air curtains
or insect repellent fans, are employed.
e. Section 304.16 is amended to read:
304.16 Under-Floor areas. Under-floor access doors and ventilation openings shall be
maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents, rain and surface drainage water. Doors
shall be tight fitting and ventilation openings shall be properly screened with corrosion-
resistant wire mesh having openings not exceeding 1/4 inch in any dimension or alternate
approved materials pursuant to current CBC 1203.4.1.
f. Section 308.2.1.1 is added to read:
308.2.1.1 Garbage Receptacles. An adequate number of appropriate receptacles with
close fitting covers for garbage and rubbish as may be considered necessary by the
enforcing agency shall be provided for the occupant of every dwelling unit by the owner
or operator of every apartment house, hotel, or combination thereof. Each receptacle shall
be kept in a clean condition and good repair.
g. Section 308.3.1 of the IPMC is amended to read as follows:
IPMC 308.3.1 Garbage facilities. The owner of every dwelling shall supply one of the
following: an approved mechanical food waste grinder in each dwelling unit or an approved
leakproof, covered, outside garbage container.
h. Sections 309.1 and 309.2 are amended to read:
309.1 Infestation. All structures shall be kept free from insect, rodent and vermin
infestation. When an insect, rodent or vermin infestation is brought to the attention of the
code official, he or she may require the owner or agent having charge or control of the
building, lot or premises to hire a licensed exterminator or other qualified professional to
inspect the building, lot or premises and provide a written report verifying the presence
and severity of such infestation including in the report a recommendation for proper
extermination of the infestation.All structures in which insect, rodent or vermin infestations
are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious
to human health. After the extermination of the infestation is complete, the code official
may request a written notice from the licensed exterminator or other qualified professional
attesting to the completion and success of the recommended extermination procedures.
After the infestation is eliminated, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent
reinfestation.
309.2 Owner. The owner of any structure shall be responsible for extermination within the
structure prior to renting or leasing the structure. The owner of a structure or premises
containing a dwelling unit, multiple occupancy, rooming house or a nonresidential structure
shall be responsible for maintaining the structure and premises in a rodent or pest-free
condition. If an infestation is caused by an occupant substantially failing to properly
maintain their occupied area of the structure or premises as clean and sanitary as the
condition of the structure or premises permits, the occupant and owner shall be
responsible for pest elimination. For as long as the occupant's failure either substantially
causes an unlivable condition to occur, or substantially interferes with the owners' ability
to remedy the condition, the owner does not have to remedy the condition. Where the
infestation is caused by defects in the structure, the owner shall be responsible for
extermination.
i. Section 309.6 is added to read:
309.6 Bedding. In every room for rent, apartment house or hotel every part of every bed,
including the mattress, sheets, blankets, and bedding shall be kept in a clean, dry and
sanitary condition, free from filth, urine, or other foul matter; and from infection of lice, bed-
bugs, or other insects. The bed linen shall be changed before a new guest occupies the
dwelling unit.
j. Section 311 is amended to read:
311 Facilities Caretaker
k. Section 311.11 is amended to read as follows:
311.1 Caretaker.A manager,janitor, housekeeper, or other responsible person shall reside
upon the premises and shall have charge of every apartment house in which there are
sixteen (16) or more apartments and of every hotel in which there are twelve (12) or more
guest rooms, in the event that the owner of any such apartment house or hotel does not
reside upon said premises. If the owner does not reside upon the premises of an apartment
house in which there are more than four(4) but less than sixteen (16) apartments, a notice
stating his name and address, or name and address of his agent shall be posted in a
conspicuous place on the premises.
I. Section 602.4 of the IPMC is amended to read as follows:
IPMC 602.4 Amended - Occupied Work Spaces. Indoor occupiable work spaces shall be
supplied with heat during the entire year to maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F
(18°C) during the period the spaces are occupied.
Exceptions:
1. Processing, storage and operation areas that require cooling or special
temperature conditions.
2. Areas in which persons are primarily engaged in vigorous physical activities.
Section 4: Section 15-1 (ALAMEDA FIRE CODE) of Chapter XV (FIRE PREVENTION) of the
Alameda Municipal Code, is hereby amended as follows (in redline; otherwise, no change):
15-1.1 —Adoption of the California Fire Code.
Except as hereinafter provided, the 2025 Edition of the California Fire Code, including Appendix
Chapters 4, B, BB, C, CC, D, E, F, G, H, I, K, L, N and P, and the International Fire Code
published by the International Code Council, being particularly the 2022 Edition thereof and the
whole thereof, is adopted by reference and made a part hereof as if fully herein at length, and
shall be known as the Alameda Fire Code.
15-1.2 —Modifications,Amendments and Deletions to the California Fire Code.
Notwithstanding any provisions of the California Fire Code, California Building Standards Code,
State Housing Law or other codes adopted by any Chapter in Article VI II of the Municipal Code
to the contrary, the following local amendments shall apply.
a. California Fire Code, 2025 Edition, Section 1103.8.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
Additions to Existing R-3 Occupancies. Notwithstanding the provisions of the California
Residential Code, additions to R-3 occupancies performed within a 5-year cumulative
period shall be required to provide an automatic fire extinguishing system (AFES)
throughout the entire building if the proposed project includes the addition of 50% percent
or more of the structure's floor area for purposes other than damage repair or
reinforcement as defined in California Existing Building Code Section 202. For clarification,
an addition shall be defined as the act of increasing the residence's square footage and
does not include the conversion of existing non-conditioned, non-habitable space into
habitable space. Additionally, for purposes of floor area calculations, the conversion of
Group U (attached private garages, basements or similar) occupancies shall not be
included in the floor area calculation.
b. Section 108 is amended to add the following new section:
New section 108.1.1- Fees for other services and excessive false alarm
responses. Fees listed in the Fire Department section of the City of Alameda's Master
Fee Schedule—inclusive of fees for permits, inspections, excessive false alarm
responses, and all other listed fees—shall be levied against and paid by the owner of the
property. All fees shall be based on the actual cost of the service provided. A false alarm
response occurs when the Fire Department responds to a false alarm or nuisance alarm,
as defined by the Fire Code. False alarm responses impose substantial costs on the City
of Alameda. The Fire Chief or the Fire Chief's designee is therefore authorized to impose
fees for excessive false alarm responses ("False Alarm Fees") based on the Master Fee
Schedule. False Alarm Fees shall be imposed starting with the second false alarm
response and each subsequent false alarm response made to a property during the same
calendar year. The Fire Chief or the Fire Chief's designee shall issue a monthly invoice
for all unpaid fees accrued during the prior month and all prior periods. Such invoices
shall be due and payable within thirty days of the billing date. All remedies for unpaid fees
shall be cumulative, and the use of one or more remedies by the City shall not bar the use
of any other remedy for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this Chapter. The
amount of any fee shall be deemed a debt to the City. An action may be commenced in
the name of the City in any court of competent jurisdiction for the amount of any delinquent
debt thirty days after it becomes due and payable. Payment of any fee shall not prohibit
criminal prosecution for the violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter.
SECTION 5. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance is held by a court of competent
jurisdiction to be invalid, this invalidity shall not affect other provisions of this Ordinance that can
be given effect without the invalid provision and therefore the provisions of this Ordinance are
severable. The City Council declares that it would have enacted each section: subsection,
paragraph, subparagraph and sentence notwithstanding the invalidity of any other section,
subsection, paragraph, subparagraph or sentence.
SECTION 6. Repeal. Any provision of the Alameda Municipal Code inconsistent with the
provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby
repealed or modified to the extent necessary to effect the provisions of this Ordinance.
Ordinance No. 3338 is repealed upon the effective date of this ordinance.
SECTION 7. Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective as of January 1, 2026, upon
approval of the California Energy Commission, or upon the date the California Building Standards
Commission (CBSC) accepts the ordinance for filing, whichever is later.
SECTION 8. Authority. This Ordinance is enacted pursuant to the City of Alameda's general police
powers, Section 1-2 of the Charter of the City of A eda, and Article XI of the California
Constitution.
Presiding is r he City Cou cil
Attest:
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
City of Alameda
I, the undersigned, hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was duly and regularly
adopted and passed by Council of the City of Alameda in regular meeting assembled on the 21 St
day of October, 2025, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Councilmembers Boller, Daysog, Jensen, Pryor and Mayor Ezzy
Ashcraft—5.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTENTIONS: None.
IN WITNESS, WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of
said City this 22nd day of October, 2025.
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
City of Alameda
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Yibin Shen,,-C ty Attorney
City of Alameda